Our weekly Alumni Spotlight series features updates on the outstanding graduates of the UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing. Thalía Hernandez shares her experiences.
Where do you currently work?
What is your title?
Surgical intensive care unit (ICU) nurse
How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted your life?
COVID-19 has impacted us all. From stress to fear, it has been an ongoing cycle. Not only at work but also at home.
Now more than ever, it has become so important to manage stress and stay focus. Focusing on the good and moving forward each and every day for a better tomorrow.
What initially drew you to the nursing profession?
Nursing is really a job that gives you the opportunity to care for people during their most vulnerable times.
I first witnessed this when a very close friend was in an accident and she lost the ability to use her extremities. This life-changing moment was surrounded by family members and medical staff that really helped in adjusting to the new changes.
The support and love received from staff really drive me to want to help and care for those who need it. To care for your patient when they need you and to care for their family that need guidance and education to navigate through such difficult times in their life.
What do you love most about being a nurse?
When a patient or their families member tells you thank you. It’s not always a verbal thank you but it can be a smile or a gesture.
You can just feel it when you know you’re doing your best and it’s impacting your patient and/or their family in a positive way. It’s a regarding feeling to be there for them and know that they trust you and are putting their faith in you. That feeling, it’s priceless.
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