It’s always a good thing when you see other people excelling in different areas of their lives, it’s also even more special when you know the person. This month’s feature is someone who grew up on the same Island as me and we even went to the same primary school together. Today I’m proud to feature her on my blog as a Nurse of the Month. Check out her story below. 

Tell me a little about yourself.

My name is Araby Ephraim. I was born in Bronx, New York. I am the second oldest of nine children. In 2015, I graduated from Tennesse College of Applied Technology as an LPN. While at the Tennesse College of Applied Technology, I acquired many new skills that have made me the hardworking and dedicated nurse that I am today. After graduating, I started working as a nurse in the psychiatric ward. This job made me aware of the mental issues that is prominent within the country. However, I also acquired many attributes such as patience due to caring for combative patients. My journey as a nurse has not stopped with being just an LPN. I am currently enrolled in an Advanced Program from LPN to RN. After acquiring my RN. I will continue my educational journey to become a Nurse Practitioner.

When did you realize nursing was your calling?

I had 3 dream jobs: a flight attendant, an accountant and a nurse. After reading an article back in high school about the shortage of nurses, that’s when I realized that was my calling

You’re a Licensed Practical Nurse(LPN), is there a specific reason why you chose that route instead of the traditional RN ?

The RN program at the time had a 4 year waiting list. So, I decided to go to LPN school while I waited.

For those who are not familiar with the difference between an LPN and RN, Can you explain?

The difference between an LPN and a RN is the education. RN’s typically have a 2 year degree or higher and LPN’s will complete a practical nursing diploma in 1 year. The duties performed by an RN are accurate charting, developing care plans, administering IV medications along with inserting intravenous catheters, updating the physician and more. The duties of an LPN are somewhat similar to a RN. LPN’s would administer medications but are not allowed to give IV medications. LPN’s change wound dressings, provide nasogastric feedings, care for tracheotomy, collect blood and urine samples, insert and care for urinary catheters and more.

What has been your biggest obstacle in nursing school and as a Nurse?

Do you plan on furthering your education and pursue your RN license?

Yes. I am currently enrolled in an advanced program to complete my RN. When I’m finished, I will complete my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree.

What is one thing you wished you wish you had been told when you decided to pursue a career in nursing?

One thing I wish I was told was how hard and intensive the classes were.

What specialty and where are you working now?

At the moment I am currently unemployed due to my husband changing duty stations. But my specialty area was a psychiatric LPN.

If you had 5 minutes to speak to a Group of people on one issue in the healthcare field what would you say?

If I had 5 minutes to speak to a group about one issue in the healthcare field, I would speak about the opioid crisis. Opioid overdoes caused more than 42,000 deaths across the country and the death toll is likely to rise over the years. People often misuse opioids because they’re trying to relieve physical pain and tension or they just want to feel a good high.