Linda Q. Everett, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN

Abstract

Nurse Leader 15 FAS: Please share about your decision to pursue a nursing career. LQE: Throughout high school, I had my sights set on becoming a history teacher. I was enrolled at The Ohio State University (OSU) as an education major. Over one summer, I joined a group of friends who sought employment at a local hospital as nursing assistants. I was given the “float” position on night shift. Over the next several months, I observed the nurses at work. I witnessed my first labor and delivery mother, battered and bleeding automobile accident victims in the ER [emergency room], and the dying and death of many patients. I developed a deep appreciation and respect for how the nurses responded to each situation. When I asked any nurse, “Why do you do what you do?” she or he responded, “Because I love my work.” That response oddly stuck with me—I had to reflect upon whether my career aspirations would be what I would “love to do.” I wasn’t certain. Long story short, I too fell in love with patient care. I actually enjoyed the work so much that I dropped my plans to attend OSU; instead, I ended up working a full year as a nursing assistant, then attended Riverside-White Cross School of Nursing in Columbus, Ohio the following fall. And I have never regretted that decision. FAS: As a nurse leader, what skill sets came naturally to you? Which qualities have you eventually developed throughout your leadership roles? LQE: I have always enjoyed reading and learning. I was an excellent student. I consumed books to the point that I was often accused by my family for being a “professional student.” So, I’d say the thirst for knowledge and lifelong learning has always been one of my innate skills. Listening to others is also a skill I would claim as a strength. I learned early in life from my mother—“Stop waiting to talk and listen to me!” The woman was wise beyond her own admission. A third skill I developed would be the ability to identify talent: assessing strengths and potential in others. This attribute has served me well in my leadership role to attract and hire the right people for the right position at the right time. Leader to Honor Linda Q. Everett, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN