Caylee is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at our Buffalo location. She recently celebrated one year at Aveanna. She reflected on her journey in our New Grad program, her growth in confidence, and the impact she makes every day working with her patient.
How long have you worked as an LPN, and what drew you to the field?
I have been working as an LPN for a little over one year. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to help people and make a difference in some way. I just never knew exactly what that meant for me. I gave nursing a try, and it grew on me more and more as time went on. I now realize that taking care of people selflessly heals a part of me, and that's what continues to draw me in.
What brought you to Aveanna?
I began working as a home health aide throughout nursing school and fell in love with the one-on-one setting. Working one-on-one with a patient really bonds you with them in a different way than other healthcare settings. You learn more about your patients, and you can focus 100% on them, which I believe is extremely important in this career. It's different and unique. I saw the job posting for Aveanna, and I did some research about the mission and what the company is about. I was a little intimidated at first, being a new grad, but I knew it was what I wanted to do. Now, a year later, I wouldn't want it any other way.
What was your experience like in the New Grad program?
The New Grad program is an amazing teaching strategy for new nurses. The in-office training was a great opener for the case and a good way to get your feet wet so you know what you're walking into. Then, the meet and greet with the patient before the training started made me feel so much more comfortable and confident. By the time I completed my training, I was fully confident working with my patient. Aveanna made sure I was completely comfortable before starting. They ease you into it and provide support during the whole process, even after training.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day consists of walking into a warm, welcoming work environment. For my patient, it's the same schedule almost every day, so I have it memorized. When I'm there, I'm his nurse and his friend at the same time. There's always room for both there, and that's what I love.
What do you love most about your job?
I love walking into work and seeing my patient's face light up with a smile. Every time, it makes my day.
What do your patients mean to you?
To me, patients are more than just patients. Each and every one has their own unique story and personality. Human connection has always been important to me, as I believe it allows us nurses to provide better care. What my patients means to me is unexplainable. It's something that only nurses will understand. I give my all to my patient every single day, and I'll choose to do it again and again and again. The word "patient" is just an underrated label. My patient is a part of my life. He is why I am who I am and why I do what I do.
How have you grown while part of the Aveanna team?
Working with Aveanna for a year now, I've completely grown into the nurse role, and I continue to learn and grow more every day spent with my patient. Aveanna didn't hire a nurse, they made one. I have grown into a completely different nurse and person during my time with Aveanna.
What have you found at Aveanna?
At Aveanna, I have found purpose and inspiration. I can wholeheartedly say walking in and out of work every day, I feel like I am making a difference in my patient's life, and that warms my heart like nothing else. Being a nurse isn't just a career, it's a personality trait. It's who I am. I have found that at Aveanna.
If you're in the Buffalo area and are ready to make a difference in the lives of others, learn more here.