This is my first month featuring inspiring nurses from around the world. As most of you may already know, I live in Sweden. I felt it only right to start here in my second home. Meet Lena ❤ She is a nurse from Gothenburg, Sweden. She is one of my hero nurses. Her skill, experience, and kindness are unending. I always feel safe knowing she is there for reference and advice.
How long have you been a Nurse?
I graduated in 1987. I worked for a few years in an infection clinic before I specialized in pediatric nursing in 1992.
In what area of Nursing do you work?
I have worked in neonatal intensive care since I finished my pediatric nurse specialty. I even worked in the NICU as a nursing assistant from 1982-1984 so this area has always been close to my heart.
What inspired you to be a nurse?
Not sure, but I remember even at age five telling my mom that I wanted to be a nurse. When I was twelve I borrowed a nursing uniform from the 1940’s to wear to a costume party. It just felt right.
What advice would you give to a new nurse?
Listen to both your heart and intuition, but also listen to your experienced coworkers. Be open to advice, look, and actively learn. Last but not least, you have a whole career ahead of you, you can’t possible do/know everything all at once.
What advice would you give a tired nurse?
Take a break. Sometimes it even takes changing your workplace for a while. Take advice from older coworkers, find a mentor. You are rarely alone in your thinking and tiredness.
What Do You Do in Your Spare Time?
I am a super energetic woman. I work probably too much, but I like so much what I do. Otherwise I love working out. I am a spinning instructor. I hike with my beloved father, hang with my grown twin sons as much as possible, and shop way too much. I love finding a bargain at the flea market!! I am obsessed with shoes. Hate to cook, hate to clean even though I am detail oriented. I am not a winter, snow loving person. I love the sun and basking in it by the sea at home or abroad. I have been married to my husband Anders for fifteen years and he is number two in my life. I love my fourteen year old cat, Caesar, almost more 😉
To see the rest of my interview with Lena, click here……
Neonurse 