September 23, 2021
Elizabeth Reynolds entered the long-term care profession in 2018 when she was looking for a career that would allow her to work plenty of hours while still being able to care for her five children. As a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at Humboldt County Memorial Hospital Long-Term Care, she enjoys building relationships with her residents and their families. Elizabeth was a recipient of the John W. & Kimberly D. Grubb Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) scholarship through the IHCA Foundation. She is currently working toward her LPN degree at Iowa Central Community College and plans to continue her education and pursue a registered nurse (RN) degree.
How did you get started in the long-term care profession?
I started working in the long-term care setting after my divorce. I had been married for over 11 years and we had five children within that union. After the divorce, I needed a job that would allow me to be with my children when they were in my care. Additionally, I wanted to be able to put in a lot of hours when I did not have my children.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
Every time I walk by a resident or leave from helping them with cares, I feel as though I have made a difference. The residents are not just patients or customers to me, they are my family.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
Long-term care is a different kind of care and nursing, as it allows you to not only care for patients, but develop long-term relationships with the residents and with their families.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help you outside of work?
It is important to step outside your comfort zone! It is okay to sing to a resident, show them signs of affection as you would a family member, pray with them, laugh with them, cry with them and love them!
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I am the mother to five children between the ages of seven and 14. We enjoy time together with family and with my significant other. I enjoy playing piano at church, teaching piano and playing golf. My favorite times are with my parents, seven siblings and their spouses, as well as my 17 nieces and nephews. I am now a college student as well!
What is your favorite quote and why?
“I’ll sleep when I die!” and “One more and we’ll all go home.”
More about the Member Spotlight
Recognize your best employees! Select an employee to complete this form and return it to communications@iowahealthcare.org. Photos of the selected employee are also encouraged, but not required. The photo release form can be found here.
We will feature the Member Spotlights in the Weekly Bulletin, the IHCA Facebook page and the IHCA website.