Our weekly Alumni Spotlight series features updates on the outstanding graduates of the UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing. Andrea Kutcher, class of ’17, shares what it was like to be a nurse working in a pandemic.
Where do you work?
CHOC Children’s Hospital
What is your title?
Clinical nurse III, Cardiovascular ICU registered nurse
How has COVID-19 impacted your life?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, CHOC Children’s, like many other hospitals, has seen both a surge in COVID patients (winter months) and an incredibly low hospital census (current state). Both extremes have impacted me greatly this past year as a nurse, and through the many seasons of the pandemic I have been able to adapt quickly to my surroundings.
What initially drew you to the nursing profession?
My mom was the driving force for me to enter the nursing profession. Her encouragement is what led me to nursing school, and when she subsequently fell ill herself, this motivated me even more to be the best nurse I could be.
What do you love most about being a nurse?
Getting to know the patients on a more personal level (e.g., their family, hobbies, etc.) and putting a smile on their face.
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