‘Vintage Nurse’ Laura Nordlum Finds Joy in Patient Care, Relationships
Laura Nordlum is proudly celebrating her 45th anniversary with RiverView Health!
She began her RiverView career as an admitting clerk when the department was located in the old emergency room. She earned the nickname “Radar” because she could always anticipate what the physicians and nurses needed before they asked. After working in that position for 10 years, she transferred to her current role as an LPN on the Inpatient Unit, a role she loves because of the people she encounters.
"I find complete joy in taking care of patients," she shared. "I also appreciate my co-workers; what an amazing team we have! I love the relationships I have developed with the physicians and the trust between us. I have been blessed with many co-workers, those that currently work here and my co-workers and physicians that have come and gone."
In addition to providing exceptional patient care, Laura serves as the lead/float, a preceptor to new employees, a float to the Emergency Department when extra hands are needed, and she participates in peer interviews. "Persistence paid off'' Laura said of her director, Annie Waldal, who finally convinced Laura to take more training to become part of the second obstetrics team, helping with deliveries and taking care of new mothers and babies postpartum.
Throughout her decades with RiverView, Laura has witnessed numerous changes. She considers the new building one of the most significant and positive changes over the years, though she has many fond memories from the days in the old facility. However, she does not miss the days when doctors and nurses smoked at the nurses' station.
"The most heartfelt changes I have experienced have come from my fellow co-workers who have come and gone - some retired and some left for personal reasons. I miss my co-workers who have passed away."
One of the co-workers Laura misses the most is longtime RiverView nurse Lynette "Pud" Joseph, who passed away on April 1, 2020. Laura is grateful to RiverView administrators for allowing her and Dr. Kanten to place a memorial bench and trees on the property in Pud's memory.
Reflecting on her milestone anniversary, Laura said, "I love patient care. I love being there for my patients and their families. I truly give my all and receive a great sense of purpose in doing my job.
"Thank you, RiverView, and everyone here for a great 45 years."