April 1, 2019
After a poor personal experience with a nurse, Danielle Kinnetz went back to school so she could make a difference and provide superior care for others. As a current LPN charge nurse at Hubbard Care Center in Hubbard, Iowa, she has a chance to care for those no longer able to care for themselves.
Hubbard Care Center is thankful for Danielle’s abilities, as well as the fact that she recruited both her son, Owen, and mother, Marilyn, to work at the facility as CNAs. They have made long-term care a family affair. Way to go, Danielle!
How did you get started in the long-term care profession?
I started out working in factories that did not have steady hours. I then had a bad personal experience with a nurse and decided to go back to school. I wanted to go back to school to prove to myself that I could be a better nurse than the one “bad” nurse experience I had, plus I wanted to find a job with a steady income to support my growing family.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
I like working with the same residents every day. You get close with those residents and their families. They become family.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
It is very rewarding to work in long-term care. You get the chance to care for the elderly who are no longer able to care for themselves. You are given the chance to assist the elderly with enjoying the remainder of their lives.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also helps you outside of work?
I have learned compassion. You reach out a helping hand to those in need. I have learned to multitask. You do multiple things at one time to get everything done. I have learned to prioritize what is important. Life is about making choices and figuring out what you need to do first.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
Outside of work I keep myself busy by taking my kids to their extracurricular activities. When I am not spending time with my family, I enjoy being creative. My newest hobby is applying vinyl to things after I cut out designs with my Cricut.
What is your favorite quote and why?
My favorite quote is, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” by Mahatma Gandhi. You cannot sit back and expect other people to do all the work. You have to step up, take charge and work hard for what you want for yourself and those around you.