Striving for excellence

From a teenage mom, to a future RN graduate, Misty McSwiney of Emerald Shores Health and Rehabilitation in Callaway, FL has come a long way. Her journey to this point has been a long one, and she has worked tremendously hard to get here. She began her career nine years ago and has since worked her way up to her current role as a unit manager. In total, Misty has spent 10 years at Emerald Shores, and in that time she has learned a lot about what it takes to be a nurse.

Misty realized early on that being a nurse was her calling in life. She was passionate about helping people and really wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. Misty’s great aunt was a nurse during the war, and because her grandmother spoke of her so fondly she grew up believing that being a nurse was everything. Because of this, she enrolled in school and then became a licensed practical nurse.

Misty and one of her friends both got a jobs at Emerald Shores, and knew instantly that this was home. We asked Misty what she likes most about working at Emerald Shores and she said, “It feels like being at home. I have been here for so long, and I have great friends here.” Misty never has a bad day of work because to her, it isn’t just a job. The people that she works with feel like family and she can’t imagine working anywhere else.

Misty is motivated by the people she works with and the residents that she cares for. We asked Misty what motivates her to come to work each day and she said, “I want to make my family proud, and to be able to provide for them.” Not only does Misty love what she does, but she is proud of her work and she feels good knowing that she is also able to take care of her family.

There have been several people who have impacted Misty’s life and her career over the years. Her very first patient while she was in nursing school changed her life. She was a young woman who had suffered a stroke, and Misty felt empathy for her. She wanted to be able to provide her the help that she needed so that she could become self-sufficient. Working with this patient completely changed Misty’s view of what a “nursing home” is, and what it means to be a nurse.

Misty’s compassion towards others comes from her belief that integrity is by far the most important core value. We asked her why she feels this way and she said, “You should do the right thing all of the time no matter who is watching.” This says a lot about Misty’s character and her willingness to always put others first.

Misty’s hard work and dedication are about to pay off. On May 4th, 2017 Misty finally graduated from her RN program and walked the stage. After years of putting in time and effort, Misty is finally getting to follow her dreams. Even though she is now a registered nurse, Misty’s aspirations do not stop there. She dreams of becoming an assistant director of nursing, and one day, a director of nursing.

Many would say that Misty is unstoppable. She charges on no matter the challenge, and never loses sight of what’s important. But despite that, Misty wants to be remembered for her “kindness, fairness, and her ability to get the job done.” Congratulations Misty on becoming an RN. Your Consulate family is beyond proud of you, and we wish you the best in your future!