How did you first learn about Signallamp?

I never considered being able to work from home as a nurse, but I had a neighbor who was a nurse and she worked from home. So, I started looking into whether there were opportunities for LPN’s too, and that’s when I stumbled on a job listing for Signallamp. It seemed like the perfect fit since I have always preferred long term care and getting to know my patients.

What do you like the most about your job?

I love working from home. I live in the sticks and was so tired of driving in the snow. On several occasions I couldn’t make it up the hill in the snow after working second shift, so I would leave my car at the bottom of the hill and walk home – in scrubs! At midnight! Brrrr! So, I love that I get to work from home in my sweats and fuzzy socks, as well as being able to throw in a quick load of laundry.

What is the best career lesson you have learned so far?

Probably the thing I try to remember always is to just listen. Most of the time patients simply want to feel heard and be believed. Everyone wants someone to pay attention. I have had several patients mention they are glad to have someone outside their family to discuss their concerns with, and I am always amazed by how well I have gotten to know them. I never would have thought that was possible over the phone, but I recognize their voices and that can help me realize when something might be wrong.

Compared with day one, how has Signallamp grown?

Well, it certainly has grown! Many things have improved, such as the amount of information and resources available to assist us with our patients. Our staff has grown, and we now have someone to assist us with insurance, computers, prescriptions, and so much more. All the improvements are geared to be a helpful service.

If you could select one co-worker to mentor you, who would you pick and why?

I really have to say Monique! She has helped me so many times over the past few years with my computer/phone issues. She’s always prompt and pleasant when helping me out. She could surely teach me a few things.

What do you like to do when you are not working?

Most of my time is spent with my daughters, they are 20 and 16, as well as with my husband, Nate. We enjoy gardening, kayaking, fishing, boating, shopping, and going to concerts or to the beach. We also have many pets – 3 dogs, a cat, ducks, and chickens. They can also keep me pretty busy.

What is a fun fact about you many people may not know?

I met my husband on a blind date set up by a mutual friend. We dated for about 6 months before getting engaged, and we will be married for 22 years next month.

Tell us about the craziest experience you have had with a patient:

Well, I can’t think of any really crazy experiences with my patients. I worked in a dementia unit for many years so nothing that happens now seems so crazy. However, I could write a book about all those experiences.