by Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer

Eileen Everett, RN is the house supervisor at Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital, located in northwest Oklahoma City. She grew up in Oklahoma City, OK. When she was little, she wanted to be an actress. “I realized that an actress would not be the best choice,” Eileen said with a laugh. “I attended Southern Methodist University for my Bachelors’ degree in English. I worked with my father-in-law in his clinic and realized how much I would like working the the medical field. Then I attended OSUOKC, got my nursing degree and have enjoyed being a nurse ever since.”
“I love being a nurse and working in rehab. I look forward to coming to work, watching the progress and collaborating with the nurses, physicians and therapists, and seeing the good for the patients,” Eileen explained. It was clear to see how Eileen enjoyed her job as a nurse; her bright smile and outgoing personality reflected her joy. “I am sure this is the right job for me,” she commented. “I have been a nurse for six years now and have worked here for the whole time,” Eileen said.
Asking Eileen what her favorite part of her job is, she replied, “I really like being house supervisor. I like being able to go all through the building, talking with all of the patients and seeing them often. Here at Mercy Rehab, we have a unique dining room facility. This is where I have the opportunity to share pleasantries with the patients and walk around the halls; making rounds in various rooms. In general, if I meet people with a smile, it makes them feel more comfortable.”
What advice would you give to someone going into the medical field? “I would tell them that being a nurse is the most rewarding job they could ever have. Yes, it might be overwhelming at times, but if they stay focused and give it their best, they will know that being a nurse will be well worth it in the long run,” Eileen said.
Asking Eileen to describe herself, she said, “I am definitely a leader. I guess you could say that I tend to contradict myself more often than I would like to admit. I am very outgoing but I can also be shy at times. I stepped up to a leadership role here because I do feel comfortable here. I always give it my all and try to do the best job I can.”
What qualities make a good nurse? “First of all, a nurse need to be compassionate. They need to have a good time skills and be detail oriented. They need to realize there may be times things will seem impossible- due to being bogged down to things going on. Yet, they will survive. Being a nurse is the most rewarding job there is,” Eileen replied.
Eileen is motivated by her patients. “I know that every time I come to work, I am motivated by knowing that I am doing my best and I see my patients getting better. They are reaching their goals. One thing about the patients that always makes me feel good is when they have been here; gone through rehabilitation and they come back to visit us and in a sense; show off for me. Of course, when they do, I give them the praise they deserve.”
Where do you see yourself in five years? Without hesitation, Eileen answered, “I have an aspiration of going to school and getting my BSN and my Masters. Right now, it is hard to do with small children but I plan on going farther with my education. I want to continue learning and absorb as much knowledge as I can. The more I know, the happier I am. I want to continue my education and continue working here at Mercy Rehab. This is a wonderful place and I want to grow as a nurse.”
Eileen is married to a wonderful man, Josh. Together they have two children who keep them on their toes. Their daughter, Isabella is eight years old and son, Asa is four years old. The last part of the family is Lucy. She is the family’s white Lab. Between work and spending time with family and friends, Eileen likes reading, weight training, attending spin class and working out.
What is one word that would sum up your life: Eileen replied with, “In Progress.”

BRADFORD VILLAGE HEALTHCARE CENTER

FULL TIME DIRECTOR OF NURSING SERVICES

In conjunction with the Medical Director, the DON ensures that resident care objectives are established and met and the standards, policies, and procedures of the Department of Nursing Services are consistent with the standards, policies and procedures of the facility, our Principals of Respect and Statement of Commitment, and current standards of care and practice.
The DON’s job is multifaceted to promote and include a focus on resident’s quality of life issues while ensuring optimal quality of care is delivered to each resident.

Qualifications/Education:
· Oklahoma State RN license required
· 2 years experience in direct resident care preferred.

Please contact: Mary Peacock, Administrator at 405-341-0810

Bradford Village 906 North Blvd Street. Edmond, Oklahoma 73034