For these adults, nurses truly ‘make the difference’

This paid piece is sponsored by DakotAbilities.

There’s no denying that a nurse enjoys plenty of career options with a growing need for more skilled professionals in the field.

While many nurses gravitate to top-of-mind choices like working in hospitals and clinics, those who choose to support adults with physical and developmental disabilities find not only a great need but also enormous opportunity and reward.

“Health, safety and welfare are our No. 1 priorities at DakotAbilities,” executive director Nathan Stallinga said.

“While we are known for our Meaningful Day Services program at Longfellow Center, unless health, safety and welfare needs are met, the people we support could not participate and enjoy day services. Their overall well-being is because of our wonderful nurses, physical habilitation specialists and direct support professionals.”

During National Nurses Week, May 6-12, DakotAbilities celebrates the accomplishments of all nurses, particularly those who choose to work with adults with physical and developmental disabilities.

“This environment offers a more intimate setting, allowing relationships to form deep connections with people supported,” said Marty Jolley, director of nursing.

“Witnessing their growth and progress firsthand is one of the best things about a nursing career here. The sense of fulfillment we get from seeing people thrive in a supportive environment like ours, there’s nothing like it. This is immensely rewarding for nurses who want those ongoing, meaningful interactions.”

DakotAbilities provides around-the-clock access to nursing support, giving families, caregivers and people supported peace of mind.

“Each one of the 20 community support providers in South Dakota fills a unique need, but it is medical that sets DakotAbilities apart. We are the only provider in the state that has 24/7 nursing services available. Because of that, we can help adults with the highest levels of medical need,” Stallinga explained. “Alternatives would be out-of-state placement or a nursing home.”

DakotAbilities owns 13 residential homes in Sioux Falls, one of which is designated for 24/7 nursing care. People living in the other homes, which are staffed 24/7 with direct support professionals, also have access to nursing expertise as needed. There is a nurse on call to guide staff through medical concerns and emergency situations.

“Our nurses communicate with doctor’s offices, they’re on top of prescription changes, and they review general events reports every day, guiding staff on how to proceed with changes in conditions. This gives families, caregivers and people supported peace of mind, knowing that dedicated, professional help is not only readily available but also proactive in ongoing care and changing needs.”

DakotAbilities employs a medical staff of 10, including RNs, LPNs, nursing assistants, a nursing manager and a nursing director.

“One of my favorite aspects of working at DakotAbilities is getting to know all the people supported and being an integral part of their health care team,” nurse Natalie Miller said.

“The Longfellow Center is such a positive and uplifting place to work. The best part of every shift is getting to visit with individuals from different homes in one place. I went to nursing school specifically because I wanted to work here.”

DakotAbilities is “always looking to grow our nursing team with people who are passionate about ongoing relationships. Our nurses play an important role in advocacy for the people we support,” Jolley said. “They are part of a team of professionals empowering people supported to make their own choices and participate fully in society throughout their lifetime.”

In the challenging landscape of attracting nurses, participation in Build Dakota Scholarships has been a lifesaver. DakotAbilities is offering its fifth Build Dakota Scholarship.

“It’s a win-win for us and the students,” Stallinga said. “As Sioux Falls grows, so does the need for our services, and we need to be prepared. We want nurses to know what opportunities are here for them and that this is an extremely rewarding and supportive environment.”

To learn more about nursing services or a nursing career at DakotAbilities, visit dakotabilities.org.