A Career Path Rooted in Growth and Opportunity

“I started at South County Hospital in Spring 2021, completing the Nurse Residency Program before beginning my journey on Frost 1, the Orthopedic Unit. In April 2023, I transitioned to the PACU/Surgical Services and completed the Peri-Anesthesia Nurse Fellowship Program in October 2023. Since then, I have been part of the Surgical Services team and have enjoyed the many learning opportunities available on this unit. Most recently, I participated in the hospital’s nursing student preceptorship program, where I mentored a senior-level student through their clinical internship.”

Guidance and Mentorship on the Path to Success

“From program educators to my preceptors on different units, many individuals have played a role in my career development. Learning from their personal stories and experiences has given me valuable insight into furthering my education and career. I have also received great advice from providers, including NPs, PAs, anesthesiologists, and CRNAs, about different career paths in nursing. Working in the PACU has allowed me to build relationships with team members who have guided me in determining where and how to advance my career.”

The Benefits of Professional Development at SCH

“At SCH, we have numerous resources that help build a strong foundation in nursing. Many of our nurses have been here for years and serve as excellent educators and mentors. We also have access to various courses to advance our careers, such as the Peri-Anesthesia program, which accelerated my critical care skills.”
 

Education and Certifications That Made a Difference

“I graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology Health Science. To gain experience in the medical field, I worked at Ortho Rhode Island for a few years before returning to school to complete my associate’s degree in nursing. Since joining SCH, I have completed BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications, as well as the Nurse Residency and Peri-Anesthesia Residency programs.”
 

The Reason, The People

“My coworkers from both Frost 1 and PACU are the reason I have stayed at SCH and want to continue working here. They never hesitate to help, whether in an emergency or a personal situation. The community bond within the hospital has allowed me to form friendships that I am truly grateful for.”

Advice for Those Interested in a Similar Career Path

“Go for it! You will never regret furthering your education or meeting new people. As nurses, we learn so much on the job. Pick a unit where you can absorb all the information possible and then advance your career by specializing after mastering the basics.”
 

Life Outside of Nursing

“I have been married for almost two years, and my husband and I celebrated my daughter’s first birthday in October. She is my biggest inspiration for furthering my education—I want to show her that we can achieve anything we set our minds to! In our free time, we enjoy going to the playground, attending music classes at the local library, and cooking and baking together. I also play soccer in an adult league in North Kingstown.

Alexandra’s journey at SCH reflects the hospital’s commitment to professional growth, mentorship, and community. We are grateful for her dedication and excited to see where her career takes her next!