"Kathy looks out for patients' welfare and comfort," said the
anonymous co-worker who nominated Hopwood for the honor. "She is
always busy, whether assisting a patient, asking staff if they need
help, or even straightening shelves in the storage area. She gives
constant attention to our patients and the Acute Care staff."
Hopwood's association with ALMH began early as she was born at
ALMH when it was located on Eighth Street. She started her career at
ALMH in Acute Care.
Hopwood found the right calling in nursing as it provides her the
opportunity to help people and meet a lot of people.
"I really enjoy interacting with everyone who comes through the
doors of ALMH. I love spending time with patients and their
visitors, working next to skilled employees, and providing a great
experience," said Hopwood.
Hopwood is also grateful to ALMH for the educational
opportunities she has had available to her from the beginning of her
career.
"I've been lucky to work in health care for most of my life.
After graduating from high school I took a career path that afforded
me many on-the-job training opportunities. After completing my
certified nursing assistant certification, I remain committed to
higher education in my field. Part of the spirit of ALMH has always
been providing the best care, and they give us the knowledge and
skills to make that happen," said Hopwood.
[to top of second column] |
As a nurse technician, Hopwood spends the majority of her days
working directly with patients. She also coordinates with the
nursing staff to provide medical and personal care to all the ALMH
patients.
Hopwood would recommend a career in nursing and offered this
advice to those interested in the field:
"CNAs are vital to a hospital and are always needed. Earn your
CNA certification and look into nursing school," she said. "If you
love being a CNA, like I do, then stick with the job and take
advantage of educational opportunities. Helping people is a great
career choice, and I would seriously encourage anyone interested to
fully explore all of the great things about becoming a CNA. Also, I
would tell them to invest in a pair of really comfortable shoes!"
said Hopwood.
ALMH, at 200 Stahlhut Drive in Lincoln, is a 25-bed
critical-access hospital affiliated with Memorial Health System. The
hospital employs 315 in a variety of roles. For more information,
visit www.almh.org.
[Text from file received from
Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital]
|