Emergency Nurses Week: Two Nurses Reflect on ER Experience

It’s no secret that the emergency room is a busy, sometimes hectic place. Our dedicated staff works together to quickly and efficiently provide the care you need in an emergency situation. This week, we celebrate our amazing emergency nursing staff in honor of Emergency Nurses Week, Oct. 11-17. Two of our hardworking nurses in the emergency room Tyler Lowrimore and Morgan Mayes sat down to reflect on their careers at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center.

Where are you from?

TL: Maryville

MM: Maryville

How long have you worked at the Fort Sanders Regional emergency department?

TL: Two and a half years

MM: One year

How is working in the ER different from other nursing positions?

TL: In the ER, we have to be like jacks of all trades. You never know what’s coming in, so we have to be flexible and to be willing to think outside the box. We also have to keep up on our education so we’re ready for the patients that we see. Plus, there is a special kind of teamwork that is necessary in the ER.

MM: You have to have the ability to adapt to different situations as an ER nurse. Because of the changing nature of the job, we get to be a lot more autonomous in our work too. We also see a lot of doctor-nurse collaboration in the ER.

Why did you pursue a career in the ER?

TL: I love the teamwork aspect of working in the ER. I also get to use all of what I learned in school in my job now. I think we’re just a different breed, and my personality fits with being able to work in this type of environment.

MM: I’m kind of an adrenaline junkie…but seriously, I get to make an impact on people’s lives through different situations and a variety of patients who differ in age, race and more.

What’s the best part of your job?

TL: I’m always learning new things, and I use all of my skills every day. The people here are also a huge factor for why my job is so great.

MM: I like getting to be there for someone on their worst or their best day.

Why do you work at Fort Sanders Regional/Covenant Health?

TL: We have fantastic managers and coworkers including lots of strong nurses. I also like working in a comprehensive stroke center because I get the hands-on experience that comes along with that distinction.

MM: Covenant has a great reputation for career development, and this hospital is really great. I don’t have any desire to leave.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

TL: I love taking my dog to the park and going to the gym.

MM: I like to be active and walk my dogs with my husband, but we also like to be couch potatoes too.

What’s your favorite food?

TL: Sushi

MM: Mexican, specifically tacos

What’s your favorite movie/TV show/singer?

TL: My favorite band is the Dave Matthews band, and my favorite TV show is the Great British Baking Show.

MM: My favorite movie is the Fox and the Hound.