Elizabeth Watkins

As an RN on a stroke-certified floor, I care for a wide variety of patients, many with acute neurological needs. I have a lot of experience using the NIH Stroke Scale and recognizing stroke symptoms early, which is critical on my unit. I work night shift on weekends, so I often have limited in-person provider access and rely heavily on my critical thinking, clinical judgment, and support from virtual hospitalists. I've also taken on the charge nurse role, where I manage admissions, discharges, and medication reconciliations, while coordinating with doctors, therapists, and other team members. It’s a high-pressure environment, and I’ve learned how to juggle multiple issues at once, stay calm under stress, and keep patient care and safety as a priority.

As a new grad LPN, I worked night shift as the unit charge nurse in a small, rural nursing home. I was responsible for a unit of 20–30 residents, often as the only nurse on the floor alongside a team of CNAs. Because of the limited access to providers and management overnight, I quickly developed strong critical thinking and decision-making skills. My responsibilities included performing skilled assessments, passing medications, monitoring vital signs, managing tube feedings, and coordinating care with the aides to ensure residents received the support they needed. It was a challenging but valuable experience that helped me build confidence and independence early in my nursing career.

As a pharmacy technician, I gained valuable experience handling medications, calculating dosages, and working directly with both patients and healthcare providers. I became comfortable using electronic health records and regularly communicated with insurance companies and providers to help resolve issues with prescriptions. This role helped me build a strong foundation in medication safety, attention to detail, and customer service kills that continue to support me in my nursing practice today.