Elisabeth Garrison, R.N.

Nursing is a career where you never stop learning and you are always on your toes.

Why did you choose nursing as a career?

I chose to become a nurse at the age of nine when I was hospitalized with three facial fractures from a collision at recess.  I was admitted to the hospital for surgery, which was very scary for me at that age.  The nurses were so nice and supportive, I decided then that I wanted to be a nurse.

What makes nursing at Rush-Copley so special?

I enjoy working at Rush-Copley because there are so many great people within all the departments.  You feel like part of a team here.  There are also many opportunities for nurses to advance their knowledge and career.  The nurses are well supported by people who truly value the nursing staff.

What’s the greatest challenge nurses face today?

A challenge nurses face today is the ever increasing and changing complexity of patients.  Nurses manage a broad range of patient situations and diagnoses, prioritizing each situation, organizing their shift, and delegating to support staff.  Nursing is a career where you never stop learning and you always have to be on your toes.

What is your favorite aspect of nursing?

My favorite aspect of nursing is that it is constantly changing so there is always more to learn.  Nursing is a career of opportunity with multiple areas that a nurse can specialize in.

Do you have any advice for those interested in a nursing career?

Always keep your options open, there is so much you can do and learn as a nurse.