In honor of National Nurses Week, we will be highlighting a few of our nurses and CNAs. Today’s spotlight is on Frances Gieseke, a Registered Nurse in Magee’s Brain Injury and Stroke Unit.
Frances Gieseke, RN, ACLS
Please tell me a little bit more about your background.
I have been a nurse for 16 years. I started as a nursing assistant, then received my LPN (1996), and have been an RN since 1999. I came to Magee as a traveling nurse and started on the 5th floor. I have been at Magee on the 4th floor going on 5 years now. I work weekend nights and 3-11 during the week. I received my education at the College of the Albermarle in North Carolina.
Why did you decide to become a nurse?
I wanted to care for those who needed it. I knew that I wanted to be a nurse when I was 5 and use to help my grandmother. I feel that it takes something special in order to be a nurse. I always say that God chose this career for me before I was born.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Making my patients laugh and smile to take their minds off of their disability, if only briefly.
Tell us about an experience that solidified for you that you made the right career choice.
I had the opportunity to take care of a stroke patient with expressive aphasia. I remember watching American Idol with him after finishing with the rest of my patients’ care. It was amazing how well he and I communicated. His wife asked me once how I did it. My only response was that I took the extra time that it need and never made him feel rushed. This patient predicted the winner of American Idol that season, and I was able to understand who that was. This may seem small, but it made me feel good about choosing to become a nurse. He and his family hold a special place in my heart, years later.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
In the past 2 years, I have become addicted to the gym after being a couch potato most of my life. I enjoy reading a good book (romance and mysteries are my favorite), and needlepoint. Walking outdoors. I also love walking outdoors and taking nature photographs. I also love pets. Currently, I have a Cocker Spaniel and a orange tabby. I love all types of music, but country is my favorite.
