Nursing Profiles

Dee Ann P.

Alexandria, VA
RN; Emergency Room

After I finished college I worked as a cardio tech but always admired the nurses because they were extremely professional and knowledgeable and offered so much to the hospital. My mother-in-law is a nurse and was the one who finally convinced me that I should be one too! I knew what I was getting myself into because I had worked in a hospital after I finished my first degree. However, I didn’t realize just how many doors a nursing degree would open. There are so many paths I can take. Although nursing is traditionally seen as a woman’s profession, many more men are choosing it as a career. I love the harmony and balance men add to the nursing staff. They are just as compassionate as the female nurses and add a different perspective of patient care to the team. The bonds I form with my Air Force co-workers and with my patients are the most rewarding parts of the job. When patients are discharged and a family member comes back to tell me “thank you”, I feel like I’ve really made a difference. I think nursing is a great profession. I’m so glad I chose it as my career path — I only wish I’d done so sooner!