Q&A with Brenna
What motivated you to become a nurse?
I am very passionate about helping others. Ever since I was very young, I have always been interested in anything medical. I was that kid that would print fake “admission forms’ off the internet, take my toy nursing kit and get my parents to take turns being my patient.
What are some of your proudest moments in health care?
I am proud of my work managing a floor with 25 patients to myself, and making sure that all tasks got completed. Another achievement is working with families while their loved one is palliative, and making sure they all feel comforted within the process.
I also ran a program called ‘Heart Park' at one of the senior facilities that allowed loved ones to see their family during the pandemic. It was very rewarding as some residents had not seen their families in months or even years.
What qualities do you bring to your role at Pinnacle?
I have very extensive knowledge working with seniors, thanks to previous careers. This includes being a care aide for 2 years at home care companies/long term care prior to nursing school. I am also very good at time management, and can adapt quickly to unfamiliar situations.
As I've worked at Pinnacle Pharmacy they first opened, I am able to be a role leader for new employees who join our team and can answer questions they have due to my experience with Pinnacle Plus.
What values influence your work?
I want my patients to feel respected and heard. They should always have their dignity protected and be able to place their trust in me while I am providing care at all times.
What challenges do you face as a nurse? How do you overcome them?
In previous roles I have had to work at not letting others disrespect me. Although I may be a younger nurse, we are all working towards our patients' care together. I also have to be careful to not take on too much work at once, and keep myself healthy in order to provide the best care I can to my patients.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Spending time with friends and family, taking Ernie, my Pomeranian, for a walk, and going for day trips and vacations to explore our island and beyond.
What do you find most rewarding about nursing?
Getting to know my patients, hearing their stories, sitting down for a few minutes at each visit, and really making them feel heard. Whether they have a question about their health or want to tell me what their plans are for the day, it's great to leave someone's home knowing you have made their day!
What is your educational and professional background?
I graduated as an LPN in 2022 after completing rotations in both long-term care and acute care settings. Prior to that, I worked in various departments of long-term care facilities as a care aide. I also have extensive experience working in a home care setting both as a care aide and LPN.
I believe that after working in both acute and long-term care, patients seem so much more willing to accept care when they are in the comfort of their own home.
What message do you hope readers will take away from your bio?
I hope that family members and friends of our patients will have full trust in me to always care for their loved ones to the best of my ability.
