Meet HCA Healthcare's Elizabeth Ross, RN
HCA Healthcare is pleased to introduce and spotlight nursing colleague, Elizabeth Ross, RN, MSN, CNOR. Elizabeth is the surgical services manager at affiliate St. David's South Austin Medical Center in Austin, TX. Please take a few moments to read about her nursing career and pathway below.
1. Why did you choose to be a nurse?
One of my best friends growing up had Cystic Fibrosis. I spent countless days hanging out in the hospital spending time with him.
2. When and where did you begin your career with HCA Healthcare?
I started as a new grad in the SNAP program in the OR at St. David's SAMC in 2012.
3. Have you taken on new roles since being hired?
I helped start the Surgical Oncology program in 2014. In June 2015, I took on the role of evening shift supervisor and charge nurse. As of February 2018, I began my current position as manager of surgical services.
4. Which national certification (if applicable) did you choose and why?
The CNOR, Certified Nurse in the Operating Room, is the standard for recognizing quality nursing care in the surgical arena. It validates the specialized knowledge and skills that is necessary for a nurse in the operating room. I wanted to advance as a nurse and become an expert in my field.
5. What have you learned about nursing during your career?
There are so many directions that a nursing degree can take you. I am fortunate to have started my career in a great place such as Austin at South Austin Medical Center and in a specialty that I love. They have also offered me the opportunity to grow and advance my career into management.
6. If you weren’t a nurse, what would be your profession?
I honestly can't imagine another career. However, if I had to choose, I would probably work with animals in some way.
7. What does caring for and improving life mean to you?
I think caring for and improving life means that we come to work every day with a positive attitude and try our very best to give our patients the best care that we possibly can.
8. Tell us about a significant moment that made you proud to be a nurse.
In surgery, the success of our work depends heavily on teamwork. I still recall a specific trauma patient that came to us in critical condition after a road traffic accident and the way our nurses and techs pulled together and cared for that patient and their family during one of the worst experiences imaginable made me proud to be a part of this South Austin team.
9. What is your advice to nurses starting out?
There will be long hours and sleepless nights but if you put in the hard work, the rewards and possibilities are endless.