National Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week is January 19-25. To celebrate, the UNMC Department of Anesthesiology is shining the spotlight on a few of the CRNAs in the department.
Name: Julie Vaughan
Education background:
- Bachelor of Science, nursing, Creighton University,1982
- Masters, nurse anesthesia, Mount Marty College, 2000
What motivated you to pursue a career as a CRNA?
I became interested in nurse anesthesia as a teenager because my mom’s best friend was a nurse anesthetist, and I thought she had a really neat job. Even as an adult, I think I have a really cool job.
Why did you choose UNMC and Nebraska Medicine?
One of the things I enjoy most about working at UNMC is working with students. I’ve always thought I learn as much from my students as they do from me. Anesthesia practice changes rapidly; it’s impossible to keep up on all of the new information and practice changes. I found that it is helpful to work at a teaching hospital where new information is readily available and built into your daily practice. I also enjoy the practice setting and taking care of medically complex patients.
What is your greatest joy? Or what makes you proud?
My greatest joy in my life is my immediate and extended family. I have three grown children with their own families and seven grandchildren, so that’s fun. My late husband had 17 brothers and sisters, a big old slamming Irish clan, so there are always a lot of fun things going on.
What is your greatest challenge?
My greatest challenge besides anesthesia school was being widowed at 50 years old. It was a big adjustment, and living alone can still bring challenges.
Any words of encouragement for anyone thinking about a career as a CRNA?
For anyone who is considering anesthesia school, I would advise them to study hard, plan on working hard and try to squeeze in a little fun.
Where can we find you when you’re not at work?
When I am not at work, I spend time golfing, biking, paddleboarding, skiing and reading.
List three things people may not know about you:
- When I retire, I’m thinking about becoming a drone pilot.
- I own a lake home, which explains the outdoor hobbies.
- I recently moved back to the Iowa side of the river.