Grady Emergency Room Nurse Reflects on Her First Year

Holly Watkins

“I’ve been a nurse resident in the Emergency Department here at Grady for almost a year now. I graduated from Georgia Baptist College of Nursing in May 2018, and Grady is the first nursing job I’ve ever had. People ask me: ‘What’s it like being a brand new nurse working at Grady?’ Let’s be honest, being a new nurse at a hospital that sees such a large volume of patients with such high acuity levels can be overwhelming.

I knew starting my nursing career at Grady was going to be a challenge, but I had no idea how rewarding it would also be! I get to work with such a diverse patient population, every person I see has unique needs and every interaction I have with them allows me the chance to make a difference in their lives. I can confidently say that I learn something new every single shift I work. Grady continually teaches me and pushes me to be a stronger, better nurse.

One of the things I value most about being a Grady nurse is the teamwork. No matter how many questions I need answered or how much assistance I may need in completing a task, there is always someone there for me, without even being asked. Grady is truly a unique place and I cannot imagine a better facility to start my nursing career. I’m looking forward to seeing what else is in store for my career here at Grady!”