Sacramento Infusion Nurse Advocates For A Varied Education
A steady hand, the proper qualifications and experience are essentially what it takes to be a good nurse. But a passion for your profession as well as a clear understanding why you've chosen your line of work after years "working in the field" is what is takes to make a great nurse. And Megan Ober is a great one. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in child development & family studies from Purdue University and working ten years in social services, Ober returned to school to Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis to obtain her Bachelor of Science in nursing. Ober now practices as an infusion nurse in the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center.
What does your job entail?
"I am an infusion nurse in the UC Davis Comprehensive Center. I work with many different patients every day. Most of them are receiving therapy for cancer, while others are receiving treatment for other diseases or conditions. I administer those treatments through several different routes. My role is to educate the patient and family and friends regarding the treatment and all that goes with it. I also assess for side effects and symptoms and work with the patient to manage those symptoms. I work to assess for hypersensitivity reactions and drug toxicities. I also strive to meet the patients' emotional needs. My overall goal is to make this difficult time in their lives as enjoyable and pleasant as possible."
What parts of your job do you enjoy?
"I am so blessed and lucky to work with the patients that I do. We have THE best patients - ever. Our patients are the most kind, generous, positive and graceful people I have ever met. No matter how much I help them during these difficult times, I feel that I get more than I give. I have learned so much from these amazing people. They have taught me how to truly live each day. And they have touched my life."
Has your education helped?
"Absolutely. I wouldn't change a thing. I feel that my extensive and varied education at both universities, along with my life experiences, have better prepared me for nursing. I am a more skilled nurse today due to the path that I have chosen. "
Any advice for someone seeking a similar career?
"I would highly recommend that anyone interested in pursuing a nursing career takes time to obtain a varied education. It is important to not only become educated in nursing specific courses, but also in human development and interpersonal relations. Obtaining a more global health and human sciences education, in addition to their nursing core, will aid them in becoming a more well-rounded and prepared nurse. Being a nurse is a gift. Go into nursing for the right reasons."
Paulo Acoba is a California native raised in the Bay Area and living in the Central Valley. He enjoys distance running, cycling and grassroots motorsports. He holds a degree in management from the University of California Merced. Paulo has been writing for Examiner.com since 2012 and covering the Fresno area.
