Maya Reed has recently been hired as an RN at Kootenai Health. Here is some insight into her career path and advice for those considering a career in nursing.
What was your education path to get to this point?
I began my educational journey at a small university in Montana where I took all of my pre-nursing prerequisites. I took a short break from school during the peak of the pandemic. During that time, I obtained my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license while working in an extended care facility. This experience convinced me that I undoubtedly wanted to become a nurse. This led me to look into North Idaho College (NIC). I am now about to graduate as a Registered Nurse (RN) from NIC, and I will also obtain my Bachelors in Nursing (BSN) from Lewis and Clark State College (LCSC) this summer.
Why do you want to work in health care?
I want to work in health care because I am intrigued by the intricacies of the human body, but more than that, I love people. Working in health care gives me the opportunity to simply help. It gives me the opportunity to come alongside patients during their hard times – to be an overall support.
How valuable has your time training at Kootenai Health been?
My clinical experiences at Kootenai Health have far exceeded my expectations. I have felt completely supported and encouraged by each nurse preceptor I’ve had the privilege of learning from. They gave me just the right amount of room to learn while maintaining high standards of practice. I couldn’t have asked for a better training experience.
Have you worked at other hospitals? If so, what sets Kootenai apart?
I have had clinicals in other hospitals. Although no facility is perfect, Kootenai Health maintains high standards of care. They are always looking to implement best practices. Additionally, from an employee standpoint, it is a very supportive environment.
What are your long-term career goals?
At this point, I am open to various nursing paths. I have yet to be able to fully narrow down my interests. All I know with certaintly is that I want to set the foundation for my career in a hospital – Kootenai – where I am confident I will grow and learn and be able to contribute to the good of the community.
What are some of the ways student nurses can get the most out of their time with their preceptor?
Show up prepared. Demonstrate that you want to help. Ask good questions. Everyone has good days and bad days. Show up open-minded and look for a learning opportunity in everything.
What is one thing you wish you knew starting your nurse education journey?
A nurse’s job description is far more extensive than I realized – knowing and respecting your interdisciplinary team is crucial.
Do you have any advice for nursing students getting ready to start nursing school and/or clinical rotations?
You don’t know what you don’t know. Take it day by day, assignment by assignment. Be prepared to extend lots of grace to yourself, your instructions, and your preceptors. Nursing is a career that focuses on humans. Practice patience and kindness now – not limited to your patient.
