Q&A with Paige
What motivated you to become a nurse?
When I was trying to find what inspired me most, I volunteered at a hospital near my university. Once I started to connect with people and see how much I loved helping them, I knew I wanted to be a nurse and become the reason my patients feel heard.
What are some of your proudest moments in health care?
Working with patients who have been unheard, or who are scared to be in hospital, and allowing them to feel a sense of safety. They have trusted me and are so grateful, which brings me joy.
What qualities do you bring to your role at Pinnacle?
I have been an LPN for 4 years and I have worked in different areas including complex surgery and acute care. I am currently continuing my education to pursue my Registered Nursing Degree. I have a bubbly, caring personality, and absolutely love working with all patients.
What values influence your work?
Compassion, integrity, and communication.
These values influence my work in that I approach every patient with kindness and a gentle attitude. I give each person respect, and ensure I remain accountable for all my actions. When assisting my patients I am honest, and communicate everything clearly.
What challenges do you face as a nurse? How do you overcome them?
Burnout during my first year as a new nurse, which was also during the pandemic, was challenging. It was so difficult watching my patients and fellow nurses struggle due to staffing shortages, and I took on too much. This led to me having to learn to say no, and focus on what makes me the happiest. Being a nurse makes me happy, but I found other joys in life that weren’t work. I wanted to be the best version of myself so I could support my patients in the best way possible.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I enjoy walking in nature and finding new trails in my neighbourhood. I also recently started pickle ball and golfing with my partner. I was born in Ontario and moved with my family to the West Coast 18 years ago, and I am so grateful we chose to live in such a beautiful place (which also allows me to live near my family and see them often). I also have a sweet little cat at home!
What do you find most rewarding about nursing?
When I get to see our patients remain living independently in their homes with our support!
What is your educational and professional background?
I graduated in 2020 with a diploma in Practical Nursing, in the midst of a global pandemic. I took a leap of faith and moved to Victoria to work within a complex surgical ward, where I learned so much from my patients and fellow nurses. Working on that floor pushed me to pursue further education and learn other areas where I could make a difference. Being able to be a student again has made me learn so much about the different stages in life and how to meet each person where they are at in their journey.
What message do you hope readers will take away from your bio?
I hope that readers will see how important it is to me that they feel heard and comfortable with me. I take the time and effort to get to know each patient, and want them to value the service we provide as something they look forward to each day.
