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 Nicole Chu, RN, BSN, MSN, HCS-D, COQS, clinical informatics specialist for Fazzi Associates, a WellSky company, in this impactful Q&A:
What motivated you to become a nurse?
When I was 12, my mother slipped on ice getting off the bus. She said she was fine, but I believed she had a fracture, so I insisted she see the doctor. Later, she was diagnosed with a hairline fracture, and it was my job to help take care of her. I loved the idea of caring for someone and helping them get better. Eventually, she was walking without crutches, and I felt like I had made a difference.
Tell us more about your background in nursing.
Currently, I’m a quality assurance and compliance consultant for Fazzi Associates. Before joining Fazzi’s compliance team, I started my career in nursing by becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). I later worked in a nursing home during college to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). I also worked at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut, for both pediatrics and the maternity ward. Because I wanted to continue my nursing education and try something new, I went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree at Quinnipiac University in forensic nursing. While I was earning my MSN, I started working in home health, and I decided to switch my focus from forensics to home health instead. From there, I started working as a case manager at a small home health agency, but I still wanted a way to learn more about home health. I later joined a larger home health agency, where I had the opportunity to work in a broad range of roles and gain a deeper understanding of the home health industry. After getting married and having kids, I wanted to switch from an office to a remote work environment. That’s when I applied for a job in Fazzi’s compliance department.
Can you share a particular moment or story from your nursing career when you knew you’d chosen the right profession?
I took care of a young man who badly injured his face on the steering wheel after he fell asleep while driving. He was worried that after surgery, he wouldn’t look like himself anymore. I spent a great deal of time getting to know him and helping him work through all that had happened. He successfully underwent surgery, and he was ultimately very happy with how he looked. Before he left, he thanked me for taking the time to get to know him as not only a patient, but a person.
Why do you think nursing is such an important profession?
Nurses are the biggest support that doctors and other staff have. We get the most information and at times know the patient the best. When someone is in pain or suffering, that’s when we as nurses can make a difference in that patient’s life. Like with all medical health professionals, we take pride in our work and enjoy working together with others as a team. I have also been a patient in the hospital, and the nurses were always there to help me get ready, make sure I was walking the halls and had everything I needed. If I was unhappy or needed more information, the nurses were there for me. They ensured that I had all the information I needed no matter how busy they were.
How does your clinical background contribute to WellSky’s vision of realizing care’s potential?
I love our compliance department, and I’m excited to see it grow. We have such great potential to really help clients who are struggling. WellSky’s forward-thinking vision drives our department’s expansion and growth. Like WellSky as a company, our department continues to improve and go the extra mile. I’ve worked in quality assurance for several years, and I really know my regulations. I’ve also worked in multiple different departments. This cross-departmental experience allows me to provide multilevel support for my clients, coworkers, and our team. With new health care changes on the horizon, we can truly help clients of all levels and ensure they’re successful.
What made you decide to work at WellSky?
I decided to work at WellSky because I wanted to take my career to a different level. I wanted to expand my knowledge and work at a company that would support me.
What’s one thing you want others to know about you?
I cannot do this job alone. I have fantastic coworkers and team members. Together, we form a team that I am incredibly proud of. Working with the compliance team is the best part of the job. I can ask them for help, and they’re always there for me.