Five Questions with Patricia Oliver
For more than 30 years, Patricia Oliver has been a Texas Health Fort Worth employee. Addressing the needs of patients in the Cardiac Telemetry department can be challenging, but her good days tend to outnumber the not-so-good ones.
What did you want to be as a child, and how did you ultimately choose your career?
At first, I wanted to be an FBI agent. Then, one day I saw a nurse waiting for the bus in my neighborhood. A cap donned her head, and she was dressed all in white. I noticed she was caring for an elderly lady, and I thought, “What a great career – helping others physically and clinically.”
What is a typical workday like for you?
My typical work day is anything but typical. I craft my day around my patients, which includes addressing their medical needs, along with satisfying the needs of their family members. I usually have a very full day.
What is the biggest challenge of your work?
The biggest challenge involves solving problems, which can sometimes include securing the most functional equipment or obtaining appropriate medical supplies.
A few years ago, I had a patient code and suffer a stroke, post-surgery. Temporarily losing the ability to speak, I helped the patient improve speech and mobility functions. The patient underwent rehab and fully regained the ability to speak and walk. As a sign of sheer gratitude, the patient visited us every month for a full year.
What do you do when you’re not at work?
I love reading mystery novels and watching the BBC (British Broadcasting Corp.), particularly, “Masterpiece Theater.” As a form of relaxation, I try to exercise, when I can.
What is something unique about you that most people don’t know?
I enjoy dancing. I used to practice belly dancing. When I was younger, I watched the Wizard of Oz every chance I could, just so I could mimic the Lollipop Kids and their dance steps.
by Chandra Caradine •Posted December 18, 2018
