Student Nurse Teacher

In my first two nursing interviews, we got to know a Pediatric ICU nurse and a Labor and Delivery Nurse . This interview features Rachel, a nurse who works for a federally qualified health center , where she provides care to a variety of patients who may not be able to find the healthcare they need anywhere else. Rachel is a compassionate nurse who uses her skills to serve her patients on a daily basis. Thanks for sharing with us, Rachel! What type of nursing do you do?  I work in family practice at a federally qualified health center. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and why you chose that specialty?  I am a 2016 nursing grad. Being in church every Sunday is important to me. I chose this job because it allows me to have weekends off. How is your specialty unique to other types of nursing? What are some of its challenges and rewards? A FQHC has some differences from other family practices, because of the population with which we work....

I see you walking into your shift. Coffee in hand, bag slung over your shoulder. You casually glance at the assignment board as you go to clock in and set your things down. It seems in that moment, you already know how your shift will go. A few minutes later you are on the computer, flying through your charts while waiting to get report. You know more about your patients than the off-going nurse, and know exactly what questions to ask as she gives you report.  As I begin my night, I am anxious; I grab some supplies to fill my pockets, and have to stop and think about what patient I should assess first. I am calculating how to most effectively pass meds when you pass me in the hall. Your eyes meet mine. "Your patient in room 201 just called asking for water, do you want me to get it for him?" you ask. I say no, I will be in there soon and don't want to put you out. But, I wonder how you seem to know more about my patients than I do. Your confidence is intimidating and ...