Avera nurse was ‘raised to respect and empathize’

This paid piece is sponsored by Avera Health.

1 West, the surgical-trauma floor of Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, is busy.

Ethan Gilbert, a licensed practical nurse — and the rest of the team — are fundamental to the action and care on the unit. It’s a challenging career, but adaptability, teamwork and a desire to make a positive impact transform the job into Gilbert’s purpose.

“I’m blessed with compassion and kindness, and I’m humbled that my patients put their trust in me,” Gilbert said. “I was raised to respect and empathize, which has always stuck with me.”

Job flexibility while earning nursing degree

Health has always been a part of Gilbert’s story. As a child and young adult, he excelled in sports and continues to place a healthy lifestyle as one of his priorities.

His love for nursing blossomed when he was a CNA caring for people in a nursing home. Gilbert’s best friend, an intensive care registered nurse, sparked his interest in hospital care. Gilbert applied for and received a position on 1 West, where he worked as a patient care technician while earning his LPN degree from Southeast Technical College.

Gilbert’s journey did not end there; he attends Southeast Tech and soon will be an RN with an associate degree in nursing. He has mastered the heavy load — working two 12-hour shifts a week, pursuing a full-time nursing program, nurturing his relationships with family and friends, and still caring for himself.

Gilbert appreciates Avera’s support and encouragement; the hospital has provided flexible hours and time off, which have assisted in ensuring his educational and personal success.

“The flexibility helped me stay on top of my studies as well as my career and personal responsibilities,” he said. “They were truly invested in me.”

Avera also provides a student loan reimbursement program. This opportunity offers a $167-a-m0nth repayment on federal student loan principals. The maximum overall contribution is $10,000 over five years.

Colleague support during difficult times

When patients’ well-being is at the forefront, staying on your toes as a nurse is an understatement. Gilbert is familiar with day-to-day demands of assessing patients, administering medications and communicating with care team members — but knows he can rely on his team at any time.

“There’s always someone there to have my back during stressful moments,” Gilbert said. “My colleagues give me a hand when patients need extra care or when helping patients’ families through a difficult time.”

In addition to his team, Gilbert has access to the Employee Assistance Program, as do all Avera employees. Avera EAP offers short-term counseling for employees and their families to address personal and workplace issues.

A job where you feel appreciated

One way Avera honors its employees is by showing them they are appreciated though its offerings of benefits and career planning.

And to Gilbert and other Avera employees, the atmosphere just feels special.

“It feels like Avera sincerely values its employees and strives to treat us well,” he said.

“Whether it’s caring for patients or maintaining relationships with employees, Avera has this consistency to do the right thing by people. That aligns with my values. Avera strives to make a positive impact in whatever they do, and that’s something I can appreciate.”

Search for careers at Avera.