Her Story
About Charlene
I've been in the medical field for 30 years. I was inspired to become a nurse by the amazing nurse who cared for me during my three deliveries. She gave me the best care and I wanted to be just like her. I love working with elderly patients in an office setting where I can really get to know them. I'm currently finishing my Bachelor's in healthcare administration next month and starting the LPN program on August 12th, then plan to get my RN within two years. I follow my heart in my career choices.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Charlene
01What do you attribute your success to?
Following my heart and what I wanted to do. I worked ER and ICU but my heart always wanted to work with elderly patients because I was close to my grandparents, and I followed that dream.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Follow your heart and do what you want to do, not for the money.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Go with your heart. Experience different areas like cardiology, nephrology, ER, ICU before deciding. Treat people how you want to be treated, with care and respect as if they were your own family. If you don't have the heart for it, don't do it.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Insurance companies have taken over and dictate what can and cannot be done. Care is not as personal anymore. Value-based care requires meeting quality measures like colonoscopies and follow-ups within 48 hours, adding to nurses' workload with non-compliant patients.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Treating people the way you want to be treated. Having a clear mind. Life's too short.
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