Jennifer, BSN, RN, is a registered nurse in the medical surgical and cardiac step-down units as a float pool nurse, and also works in the administration office as a nursing supervisor at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. With a mix of connecting with patients and lifelong learning, Jennifer gives insight into what you should know in this employee spotlight.

Registered Nurse and nursing supervisor Jennifer likes to connect with people of all age groups, especially patients who have a lot of life experience. She shares what a typical day looks like as a float pool nurse and shares why she likes connecting and caring for people.

What does a typical day as a nurse look like for you?

Jennifer says, “A typical day in the float pool. I come into the nursing office and I get my assignment for the day. So I’m sent to one of the medical surgical units that need nursing support, and then I get my patient assignment and I go from there. I work with the team on whatever unit I’m on.”

What is the most memorable moment you’ve experienced so far?

“Memorable moments for me as a nurse have been: I really enjoy working with the elderly population. I love finding out people’s stories and what they’ve done in their life. And I just think it’s so valuable to connect with people of all age groups really, but people that have a lot of life experience and just to help them to heal and be in the best health that they can be. So I really cherish those times.”

What inspired you to become a nurse?

“I was inspired to pursue a career in health care for two reasons. I really love connecting with people and taking care of people. I’ve always loved caregiving and I really like science and math. So I like how being a nurse kind [of has both of those] things intersect and you get to really be with people, but also do a lot of clinical things that are very challenging mentally.”

As an experienced nurse and nursing supervisor, do you have any career advice?

“My advice to you, if you would want to consider a nursing career or work in a hospital is don’t be afraid to try new things. Nursing is all about learning, [and] always being lifelong learners. It’s always good to be the person [who’s] asking questions, so don’t be afraid to try new things. If you’re offered an opportunity to go into a different area in nursing — or maybe even enter a hospital when you never have before — don’t be afraid of it because there is so much to be learned and every person here is always learning. It’s a great place to be to just better who you are and learn new things.”

To find more spotlight posts and insights on working in Maryland health care, check out the JoinMdHealth blog.