Meet a CHRISTUS Nurse: Ella, LPN

I'm ELLA and this is MY HOSPITAL

Ella is a member of the Unit 33 Inpatient Oncology Team. Ella’s dedication and compassion toward the cancer patients she cares for is inspiring. Ella is one of nearly 450 nurses at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital working together to deliver excellence in patient care day in and day out. She shares some of her thoughts below.

How long have you been a nurse at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital?
I’ve been here for nearly 20 years—my entire career as a nurse.

Describe your role as a nurse on the inpatient oncology unit?
As a staff nurse on the oncology unit I am assigned 5-6 patients each shift. During my time with the patients I care for them as if they were my own family members. I give medications, change dressings and assist in all aspects of daily living.

Why did you choose to go into the nursing field?
It has always been a dream of mine to become a nurse—ever since I was a young girl. When my husband died of cancer in 1985 I became the sole support person for my two daughters. I went back to school, earned my LPN degree and became a nurse. I am currently participating in the CHRISTUS St. Patrick “LPN to RN Bridge” Program. I’m proud to say I will earn my RN degree in 2009.

What do you like most about your job at
CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital?
I love my patients. I enjoy taking care of them. I often feel like I’m giving back to humanity. Cancer is a tough disease to battle. I hope that the care I am able to provide my patients and their loved ones helps sooth them and guide them during the trying times.

How do you make patients and their loved ones more comfortable during cancer treatment and/or diagnosis?
I feel it is so important to explain everything to the patient and family members and let them know what to expect. By educating them and assuring them that I personally understand what they are going through due to my own experience I am able to connect with them on a different level. My goal is to never let them feel alone. We are committed to be there for them every step of the way.

Tell us about your co-workers:
My co-workers are my extended family members. We work together as a team to give the very best care to each and every patient that comes through our door. We laugh together and we cry together. I wouldn’t trade them for the world!

What do you think makes CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital the best place to receive care?
We’re the only faith-based hospital in the Southwest Louisiana region. We strive to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to every person we are privileged to serve.
That, coupled with our advanced technology and quality care, makes this hospital the best place to receive medical services.

What is your motto or words to live by?
Life is not promised, it’s a gift, so enjoy it!
You only have one chance at life!

What do you like to do in your spare time?
My family is my heart and soul. We enjoy getting together and doing fun stuff. Twice a month I get together with my two daughters and three granddaughters for movie night. We sit around in our pajamas, watch movies, eat snacks and tell “remember when” stories. I really look forward to our “girl nights.” My girls keep me young at heart!

To learn about nursing opportunities available at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital, click on the nurse recruitment link or call (337) 491-7572.

See a video of Ella's story

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