National Nurses Week clinician of the day: Melissa Tabor, LPN
Throughout National Nurses Week 2019, we’re recognizing WellSky’s more than 100 nurses who make the impactful work we do possible. Their dedication and expertise are invaluable as we strive to achieve our mission to elevate care across our communities.
Clinicians at WellSky work tirelessly to advocate on behalf of patient and clinician needs promoting a healthier health care system for all. We’re honored that these nurses contribute their time, talent, and innovation at WellSky.
Today, we’re highlighting Melissa Tabor, LPN, product owner/manager for WellSky Long-Term Care in this impactful Q&A:
What motivated you to become a nurse?
I chose nursing as a career because I love learning new things. As a nurse, I am always challenging myself to stay updated on the latest medical trends and training, so that I can provide the best care to my patients. Every day as a nurse, I learn something new from my colleagues and patients, which inspires me to explore deeper knowledge of the techniques and procedures I use. I believe that nursing is one of the most interesting and exciting careers available today, and I enjoy making a difference in my patients’ care experiences. I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of medical settings, and I’ve enjoyed learning the different routines in each type of facility. It gives me great satisfaction to invest my time in an industry that is expanding and enriching patients’ lives every day.
Can you tell us more about your background in nursing?
I’ve worked in the medical field for over 10 years, and long-term care has been the major, primary focus of my career. I’ve held every position from certified nursing assistant (CNA) to assistant director or nursing (ADON). Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with and learn from many industry leaders. I’m currently a licensed practical nurse (LPN), and I’m also actively working to obtain my registered nurse (RN) and bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees, with an anticipated graduation in 2020. I’m also a licensed CPR instructor, a level one medication aide instructor, and I also hold certifications in diabetic/nutrition, intravenous (IV) therapy, and wound care.
Can you share a particular moment or story from your nursing career when you knew you’d chosen the right profession?
In my career, I’ve had the benefit of learning from several inspiring health care leaders. I remember the very first time I was in a nursing situation, and I didn’t know what to do. I was swamped, overworked, and also training a brand-new nurse. Fortunately, my direct supervisor took the time to walk me through step by step and reassured me that I was making right decisions. Shortly after that experience, I moved into a supervisor role, and I worked with a new nurse who was facing a similar situation. Because I’d been through it before, I was able to take the time to teach the new nurse what I had previously learned. It was from that moment that I realized I was born to be a nurse and born to help educate nursing on how to improve patient outcomes.
Why do you think nursing is such an important profession?
Nurses play a dynamic and crucial role in health care. A nurse is usually the first person a patient interacts with. Nurses are responsible for assessing patients’ needs and diagnosing illnesses. As such, nurses are an integral part of ensuring that patients receive high-quality care.
How does your clinical background contribute to WellSky’s vision of realizing care’s potential?
The diversity of working in multiple nursing environments has allowed me to join WellSky’s team and bring new innovative ideas to the health care and human services industries.
What made you decide to work at WellSky?
Deciding to join WellSky was initially a difficult decision because I’ve directly cared for patients for so long. It was almost puzzling to change and become a “tech nurse.” I would have never envisioned myself moving into this role. However, when the opportunity arose, and I was able to see just how much of my nursing expertise I could contribute, the role really intrigued me. The WellSky vision was spot-on with the approach I’ve taken in my career, and I knew that this was a job I was meant to do.