There are nurses. And then there are Cooper nurses.
Meet Kiesha Shields, RN.
Q: What unit do you work on and for how long?
I have been working in the cardiac catheterization lab as my specialized operation unit for the past 12 years, but I have been with Cooper for 21 years. During this entire period, I have had the opportunity to work in the progressive care unit, intensive care unit, and the coronary care unit.
Q: Why did you become a nurse?
I became a nurse because I wanted to foster quality care skills to enhance the well-being of patients. I was motivated to instill change in health care by translating my theoretical insights into practice.
Q: What do you love most about being a Cooper nurse?
Becoming a nurse was my life-long aspiration, which granted me personal satisfaction and fulfillment while facilitating my career growth. I love various aspects of being a nurse, but my most standout aspect is being able to save lives and make a difference in someone’s life. Helping a patient during an acute illness and seeing them regain health stability when all hope was lost is my best nursing moment. I love seeing patients reunited with their families after a hard time and help them transition to their normal life smoothly.
Q: What do you need to get through your shift?
All I need to get through my 10-hour day is a healthy working environment, and clearly defined and structured objectives. A peaceful workplace that offers conducive and flexible working conditions will always make my shift go smoothly. I work well under set guidelines that offer directions on how, when, and what to do so that my mindset aligns with my expectations.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love reading real-world news in my free time to stay afloat with current updates. With my busy schedule, I may be so immersed in health care operations that I forget about the other world. Therefore, when free, I prefer to read or watch the news to catch up with political affairs, spend time with family, and travel the world.
Thank you, Kiesha!
Learn more about what sets our #CooperNurses apart at CooperHealth.org/Nurses.
