Nurses — their commitment, contributions, compassion, and care — play a critical role in our health care system. With over 4 million registered nurses in the United States, it’s likely that we all have someone in our lives who has answered the call to care for others. In honor of National Nurses Day, we spoke with a few nurses who are close to our hearts here at Jumo Health. We asked them to answer some questions about what led them to nursing and what being a nurse means to them. Here’s what they had to say…
Amanda Altieri
What made you become a nurse?
I wanted to become a nurse after many summers volunteering at a pediatric cancer camp. I felt that the bond between our campers and the nurses that took care of them were so important and I wanted to help people in that same special way. One of my aunts who was a part of the original medical staff at the camp was a major cheerleader in my career path too!
What do you love about being a nurse?
Even though I am not a pediatric nurse which was the driving force for my second degree and career change, what is so amazing about nursing is that there are so many different avenues for one career. I ended up in the Operating Room and am on the cutting edge of technology and innovation in the medical field. I’m responsible for so much and the patients put their trust in our team while they are on the operating room table. During this COVID-19 crisis, I was able to help deliver babies in labor and delivery, and assisted on a C-section for my longest friend from kindergarten — it was amazing!
What are 3 words you would use to describe the work you do?
Transformative, healing, and innovative.
What is a phrase or quote that keeps you going during difficult times?
Have some fire, be unstoppable, be a force of nature.
Kristie Heimerle
What made you become a nurse?
I wanted to help people.
What do you love about being a nurse?
I love taking care of people and their families.
What 3 words would you use to describe the work you do?
Rewarding, compassionate, and challenging.
What is a phrase or quote that keeps you going during difficult times?
When it rains look for rainbows, when it’s dark look for stars.
Kristi Pfohl
What made you become a nurse?
I started in retail management and my three sisters were all nurses. I liked to hear their stories and wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, so I went to night school and got my degree.
What do you love about being a nurse?
I love working with patients and helping people. I also enjoy the flexible hours when raising a family and being able to schedule around my children’s activities.
What are 3 words you would use to describe the work you do?
Challenging, rewarding, and important.
What is a phrase or quote that keeps you going during difficult times?
I always feel that the “difficult times will pass” and the camaraderie with my fellow nurses will pull us through.
Want to learn more about the hospital team? Check out this resource from our team!
