Geriatrics
Patient care and education for older adults Helping people maintain a high quality of life in an independent setting Reducing the risk of common geriatric concerns, such as falls, urinary incontinence, foot care and physical disabilities Developing advanced directives (durable power of attorney for health care) Helping with use of medications in age-appropriate doses Ordering diagnostic tests, treatments and medications Evaluating and treating dementias and memory loss, particularly Alzheimer's Disease
I chose to go into nursing because of my interest in helping people achieve and maintain wellness. Also, I wanted to help patients and their families cope with acute and chronic illnesses. Throughout my entire career, I have found it rewarding to work with older adults. I enjoy their varied life experiences, their sincerity and their sense of humor. Nursing involves more extensive contact with people and a deeper knowledge of their physical, emotional, and spiritual assets. I feel that it’s important to work together with people and their families to maintain the highest quality of life in the most independent setting possible. Knowledge of the whole person and their family dynamics promotes a more individual plan of lifelong care, and I consider it a privilege to be a part of it.I speak Spanish and welcome Spanish-speaking older adult patients.In addition to my career, I’m married and have three children. When I am not working, I am involved in giving time to a variety of community service organizations. I’m a tutor and instructor in the English as a Second Language program for the Literacy Council of Brown County. I’m an active member of the local, state and national Alzheimer's Association. I also serve as an instructor and a trainer of new instructors in CPR, First Aid, and Emergency Response for the American Red Cross Lakeland Chapter.