Q: WHAT/WHO INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE AN ADVANCED DEGREE IN NURSING?
A: I was working as a charge nurse on a very busy floor and having a discussion with another RN who was having a really rough day. We were coming up with a plan for her when she looked at me and said, “my daughter is a CRNA, you should do that.” Up until that point, I had not had any exposure to this particular field. That piqued my interest, I investigated, shadowed a CRNA, and then started the long process of readying myself for a career in anesthesia.
Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE UPON YOUR SPECIALTY FIELD?
A: I really love the emphasis on science and chemistry which is a big part of anesthesia. Blending that together with my nursing background and focus on the patient as a whole person is what makes being a CRNA really unique.
Q: GIVEN YOUR SETTING AND ROLE, WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR PRIMARY ACTIVITIES ON A TYPICAL DAY?
A: While we do spend quite a bit of time in the OR doing routine surgeries, we are also involved in many aspects of patient care and comfort. A large part of our day is spent evaluating patients for anesthesia and ensuring that our patients are ready to have a safe anesthetic experience. We also have a large focus on pain control and comfort, performing regional anesthetics before or after surgery and coming up with plans to best suit each individual.
Q: Where are you from originally and how did you end up on the Western Slope?
A: I grew up in beautiful Minnesota, but always had an eye for adventure, and moved to Colorado right after high school. I lived in Denver for 16 years, where I went to nursing school and started working as an RN. After working as an RN in various roles for 8 years, I made the decision to go back to school for Anesthesia. We moved to Salt Lake City, Utah for my master’s program. I then lived briefly in Pheonix, El Paso, Chicago, and Montpilier, Idaho for residency. After graduation, I took a job in western Nebraska at a critical access hospital and gained a lot of knowledge and experience. The pull to come back to Colorado never faded and we are very excited to be back and on the western slope. My husband and I love all the outdoor activities and beauty that the western slope has to offer, and are happy to call this area home.
Q: What is your care philosophy when it comes to your patients?
A: My mission is to provide each patient with an individualized care plan that emphasizes both safety and comfort. I take the time to listen to my patient’s concerns and answer questions thoroughly and thoughtfully. I want my patients to feel comfortable with their care plan and know that their input matters.
Q: Tell us more about your home life: any hobbies, or things you enjoy doing on the weekend? Family, children, pets?
A: I live with my husband of 8 years, Grant, our two dogs and a cat. In the summer we love to hike and paddleboard and in the winter we are avid skiers.