Hometown (where you live now): Springfield
Job title: Communicable Disease Nurse
Where do you work: Clark County Combined Health District
Describe what your day is like/what you do: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, my day-to-day routine was to investigate communicable diseases in Clark County. Since the beginning of this pandemic, all my focus has switched to COVID-19 investigations. On a typical day, I review cases of confirmed COVID-19 that are reported to the Clark County Combined Health District. Once reviewed for any information we may already have on the case, I review it with a nurse or contact tracer. The nurse or contact tracer will then interview the client and obtain signs and symptoms, start date of any symptoms, close contacts, where the individual works, and if they have had contact with anyone who has been sick in the last 14 days. Education is then provided to the case about isolation. The nurse or contact tracer then calls the close contacts that were identified during the investigation to find out if the contact is experiencing any symptoms. Education is proved to the contact about their 14-day quarantine and what to do if they do start to experience symptoms. Once the lab confirmed case and the contacts have been interviewed, the nurse or contact tracer and I review the case together to ensure all appropriate actions have been taken and that there is nothing that needs followed up on.
Health Care Hero: ‘I became a nurse to make a difference’
While the contact tracers and nurses are busy with interviews, I am trouble shooting any issues that may arise with the different cases that are being interviewed on that particular day. I also work closely with any Clark County businesses and partners that may be experiencing an outbreak by providing them with guidance or any assistance they may need.
What inspired you to get into health care? I have always had a passion for helping others. I felt that there was no better way to help others than to show compassion and understanding to someone when they are in a time of need.
What's a memorable experience you've had in health care? I have a lot of memories in health care, some good and some break my heart. But I think that the memories that I am making right now, during this pandemic, will be the most valuable ones.
Health Care Hero: ‘I really love my job’
What do you want readers to know about your job right now? I want people to know that public health departments are working around the clock to help keep our communities safe and trying to prevent the spread of COVID-19. I would ask that everyone do their part as well. If you are sick, please stay home, wash your hand frequently and maintain social distancing.