“I would encourage new grad nurses to never be afraid to ask questions.”

A native to eastern North Carolina, Maira Sanchez, RN from ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital, shares her story of what motivates her as a nurse to care for her patients.

“At a young age, I had appendicitis. It took my parents awhile to find a doctor in Mexico and figure out what was going on with me. Because of that experience, I wanted to be more knowledgeable about different health conditions. It became a passion of mine to help educate others and it led me to health care. I started out studying public health and completed an internship at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital in Tarboro. As an intern, I fell in love with ECU Health Edgecombe. Everyone was so friendly and helpful, which was why I chose the hospital to start my nursing career.

As a new nurse, I completed my orientation with the education department. I was lucky to have two great mentors at the hospital who felt I could do anything. I would encourage new grad nurses to never be afraid to ask questions. You may think the question sounds dumb but it can actually save someone’s life.

I currently work on the Medical Intermediate Unit (MIU). I have learned so much from my colleagues and patients. They have taught me the importance of listening and also how to be patient. I truly enjoy working with my team. Everyone is willing to help out, especially when you have a lot on your plate. That is another reason why I enjoy working at ECU Health Edgecombe, the people. Your work family either makes you or breaks you. I can say that my colleagues make me a better nurse. Five years from now, I hope to be become a nurse practitioner and work more with the community.”