Nikki Kachmarchyk, a licensed practical nurse, never imagined working in a rural community.
Afterall, she didn’t mind practising in the city. But 10 years ago, she felt ready for an exciting new challenge.
She accepted a nursing position at the Edson Healthcare Centre. Little did she know then the abundance of opportunities rural nursing presents.
“Rural is great because you can dabble in everything and find something that you really like to do,” cheers Nikki.
New experiences
Prior to Edson, Nikki had never witnessed a baby being born. But not long after her arrival, she shared the joy of bringing new life into the world, a testament to the unique experiences rural nursing can offer.
I really like being a rural nurse. I like all the challenges of it. I’m very lucky, actually. – Nikki Kachmarchyk, LPN
Embracing challenges became a catalyst for Nikki’s growth.
Learning opportunities
She had a vision of working in the operating room. So, she enhanced her skills by completing a 3-month Perioperative Nursing Course at MacEwan University, providing her with the expertise to work alongside surgeons.
When RhPAP visited her, she was preparing the OR in Edson for a full day of cataract surgeries, 24 in all.
She also works with other surgeons who perform carpel tunnel, gynecological and urogynecological procedures.
Job satisfaction
Nikki feels a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing she’s contributing to the health of patients who travel from distant places for surgeries they might have waited years for.
“We have patients that drive from Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, High Level, very far away, to come and have surgeries. And you’re able to provide the services that people would wait years or months to have.”
The two operating rooms in Edson aren’t used every day, allowing Nikki to work across various hospital departments. Her full scope practice includes contributing to emergency, and acute care.
“I really like being a rural nurse. I like all the challenges of it. I’m very lucky, actually.”
Become a rural nurse
If you’re ready to follow in Nikki’s footsteps and explore the enriching world of rural nursing, discover nursing opportunities in Edson and other rural Alberta locations at https://careers.albertahealthservices.ca.