Hot Springs Nurses Share Their “Why”

Nurses at CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs share their “why” and what continues to fill their cup.

Allison Fitts, RN,  is a supervisor on 4 East Med/Surg Unit. She has been on the unit for 13 years, and a nurse for even longer. Allison said she was young, she took care of her grandma who battled dementia. It’s part of what inspired her to be a nurse.

“I have always known I wanted to be a nurse,” said Allison, “I’ve always had a passion to take care of others when they’re in a time of need.”

She believes it’s an honor and privilege to take care of someone who may feel scared or vulnerable. Allison said she tries her best to be a light to those patients. 

“We are the hands and feet of Jesus Christ. I feel that we are able to show people love, kindness and compassion through some of the most difficult times in their life,” said Allison. 

Even though there are difficult times in nursing, including COVID, she said she can’t imagine being anything other than a nurse.

“I love going to work. I love that I get to be part of this team that is so amazing at helping others, that shines light to our community. There’s not a place I’d rather be. Not only does our facility take awesome care of patients, but they value our coworkers and we have such a family environment,” said Allison.

Molly Burton, RN, found her way into nursing in young adulthood after realizing education wasn’t for her. Now, she works in the OR at CHI S.t Vincent Hot Springs.

“My favorite part about being a nurse is that full-on compassionate care that you get to give somebody. They’re in such a vulnerable state in their lives and they immediately trust nurses. Family members trust you,” said Molly.

Molly said the world needs people who truly care about others. 

“There’s just something about it that seems that is what Jesus called us to be. Being a nurse is kind of what Jesus did and it’s a way for me to show others Jesus and be like him,” said Molly.

For Molly, it was the values and missions that drew her to CHI St. Vincent, but it’s the people who keep her here.

“There’s a bond behind it and I definitely feel that in my department working with the surgeons I work with, the scrub techs, my managers, and nurse managers. It’s comforting. It’s easy,” said Molly.