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Kendra Grelson’s journey in psychiatric nursing
Kendra Grelson, a dedicated psychiatric nurse, shares insights from her life, shaped by her diverse background and personal experiences. Raised in Hickory, North Carolina, her journey began in Peru, Indiana, a city often called ‘Circus City, USA.’ Frequent relocations due to her father’s service in the United States Air Force exposed her to various communities, including multiple tours at Offutt Air Force Base. This unique upbringing inspired her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Creighton University.
In her professional career, Kendra initially focused on psychiatry and behavioral health, where she honed her skills in mental health care. She later transitioned to home health and hospice care, providing compassionate support to patients and their families. After a brief two-year hiatus devoted to caring for her aging father, Kendra felt a strong pull to return to her roots in psychiatry at Nebraska Medicine.
Choosing a career in psychiatric nursing
Kendra Grelson’s journey in psychiatric nursing underscores the importance of personal experiences in shaping career choices. After a brief two-year hiatus devoted to caring for her aging father, Kendra felt a strong pull to return to her roots in psychiatry at Nebraska Medicine. She believed that her experiences could contribute significantly to her work, particularly in creating a supportive environment for patients facing mental health challenges.
Finding a home at Nebraska Medicine
At Nebraska Medicine, Kendra discovered a community committed to mental health advocacy. The organization emphasized the importance of understanding and empathy in patient care. Kendra appreciated the collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, which facilitated comprehensive treatment plans focused on the individual needs of patients.
Moreover, Kendra’s role as a psychiatric nurse allowed her to engage with patients on a deeper level. She drew on her father’s experiences, recognizing that many patients faced similar struggles with stigma and mental health issues. This connection enabled her to foster trust and open communication, crucial elements in psychiatric care.
Through her work, Kendra aims to challenge misconceptions surrounding mental health. She believes that education and advocacy play vital roles in reducing stigma and promoting understanding. By sharing her story and the lessons learned from her father’s journey, Kendra hopes to inspire others to consider careers in psychiatric nursing and contribute to a more compassionate healthcare system.
Upon returning to the psychiatric field, Kendra sought a PRN (pro re nata) position that would allow her to balance her work responsibilities with her home life. During her search, she reached out to former colleagues for insights about potential opportunities. Their positive remarks about Nebraska Medicine captured her attention. In her interview, Kerri Whitaker articulated a compelling vision for the future and growth of the clinic’s nursing team, which instilled in Kendra a strong sense of belonging.
Life at Nebraska Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry
Kendra values the strength of her nursing team, highlighting their exceptional talent and unwavering support for each other. This collaborative spirit extends beyond the psychiatric department, linking her team to the Emergency Department (ED), behavioral health clinic (BHC), and various primary and specialty care clinics, including the pharmacy. This interconnected network enhances her ability to deliver comprehensive care to patients and their families, creating a robust support system.
Balancing work and personal life
Outside her professional obligations, Kendra leads an active family life with her husband, Eric. With their four children now adults, they have embarked on adventures to explore their travel bucket list, with a trip to Prague standing out as a memorable highlight. Their two dogs have taken on the role of ‘replacement children,’ bringing additional joy to their home. As proud grandparents, Kendra and Eric enjoy attending their grandchildren’s activities, further enriching their family experience. Kendra is also engaged in assisting her eldest son with a home renovation project, highlighting her hands-on approach to family matters.
Both Kendra and Eric are passionate baseball fans, dedicating each spring to catching a game in Florida and aiming to attend regular-season games whenever possible. These shared interests not only strengthen their bond but also provide essential balance to their busy lives.
Kendra Grelson’s commitment to mental health
Kendra Grelson’s journey through nursing and her return to the psychiatric field highlight the significant role that personal experiences play in shaping a career. Her dedication to her patients and family, alongside her commitment to mental health awareness, reflects the profound impact of her life experiences.
At Nebraska Medicine, Kendra has emerged as a vital advocate for compassionate care in psychiatry. Her work emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in a field that demands not only clinical skills but also a deep connection with patients. This commitment to compassionate care is particularly crucial in today’s healthcare environment, where mental health issues are increasingly recognized and discussed.
As she navigates her professional responsibilities, Kendra also balances her personal life. Her passion for mental health advocacy is complemented by her experiences as a mother and wife, further enriching her perspective in the field. This duality enhances her ability to connect with patients and their families, fostering a supportive and understanding environment.
Through her journey, Kendra exemplifies how personal and professional lives can intertwine to create a more compassionate healthcare experience. Her continued efforts serve as an inspiration for both her colleagues and those seeking to improve mental health care in their communities.