A Journey of Compassion: Corina’s Dedication to Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Patients
September 20, 2023
In the world of healthcare, there are individuals who stand out not just for their expertise but for their unwavering commitment to the well-being of their patients. Meet Corina, a Registered Nurse with a remarkable journey that spans over three decades. Her story is one of compassion, resilience, and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.
From her beginnings as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in 1989, to 15 years in long-term care leadership roles, to her recent return to a patient care role in 2020— Corina’s dedication to serving drug and alcohol rehabilitation patients has been a constant thread in her career. In this special Addiction Professionals Day Q&A, we delve into her experiences, insights, and the impact she’s had on the lives of those she cares for.
Q: Addiction treatment can be emotionally challenging. How do you find strength and maintain your own well-being while providing care to others?
A: Healthcare workers in mental health and drug rehabilitation have their own strengths and weaknesses. We all confide, consult, and support each other through every shift. On a personal level, I find myself spending quality family time and exercise as my way of coping with the challenges I face in the workplace.
Q: In your role, you must witness remarkable transformations. Could you tell us about a success story that touched your heart?
A: I’ve experienced many moments of gratitude in the field of drug addiction treatment. From the moment a patient enters the door, in a severe detox state to experiencing severe depression or anxiety, as a nurse it is my duty to ensure for their safety and well-being. Watching over them, assessing them, and taking care of their physical and psychological needs. When it is time for their discharge and you receive a patient-to-staff recognition stating how kind, caring, and excellent the care was that I provided, and how I was able to help them during their stay touches my heart. At those moments I know what I was born to do, and that is what I am best at…being a nurse.
Q: What inspired you to choose a career in nursing, particularly in the field of addiction treatment?
A: I was inspired to be a nurse at a very early age, seeing my grandfather have a stroke and spending many days at a rehab facility with my grandmother. Once my grandfather came home, he needed continued care, and I watched my mother help and care for him. That’s when I first started thinking about becoming a nurse. When I was 18 years old my very first job was at a state hospital and it was how I became introduced to the nursing profession of mental health and drug rehabilitation.
Q: What’s one thing you wish others knew about working with patients who suffer from addiction?
A: One thing I wish others knew about working with patients who suffer from addiction is know it is a true disease that needs to be treated, just like any other disease process.
Thank you to Corina and all addiction professionals making a difference in the lives of so many patients. Happy Addiction Professionals Day!
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