May 12, 2022
Malinda Shultice entered the long-term care profession as a dietary aide. She immediately gained a passion for long-term care and later became an administrator. As the executive director of Pivotal Healthcare in West Des Moines, she enjoys that every day is different and says that her career brings her “daily happiness.”
How did you become interested in the long-term care profession?
I stumbled into long-term care by accident. We had just moved to Northwest Iowa for my husband’s job and I needed a part-time position, so I applied to become a dietary aide. I had never walked into a long-term care community, so had no idea what I was in for. I loved my first shift and couldn’t imagine working in any other industry. I then completed schooling to become an administrator after that experience.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
The aspect I like the most is never knowing what to expect of my day. I always try to come in with some sort of a game plan, but usually that changes by the time I reach my office. Monotony is never a concern in long-term care.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
Long-term care is a career that provides you with instant gratification and satisfaction. To see a resident smile, a family member connect with their loved one or a staff member learn a new skill set is truly a gift. Very few careers offer daily happiness to the level that long-term care does.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help outside of work?
The biggest lesson that I have learned is to always be honest with people. Being honest with the staff, residents and families is the best route and will always lead to the most ideal outcomes.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
When I am not at work, I enjoy running, reading the classics and celebrating anything Halloween-related.
What is your favorite quote and why?
“Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” This quote hits home with me, because long-term care is ever-changing and fast-paced, and it is easy to lose yourself or your identity. But staying true to your character and being who you are is what will keep you motivated and sane in this industry.
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