From EVS to Nursing: My Career at Bronson
Katelyn Matheny’s journey with Bronson began when she was 18 years old and took a position as an EVS Associate at Bronson Methodist Hospital (BMH). Katelyn knew she wanted to become a nurse, and she saw this role as an opportunity to get her foot in the door and gain valuable experience in the healthcare setting. Today, Katelyn is a nurse on the Bronson LakeView Hospital (BLH) General Care Unit (GCU), where she is proud to care for patients, support their families and mentor new nurses.
Katelyn’s Story
I’ve always known I wanted to be a nurse. When I was eight years old, my grandpa was diagnosed with melanoma. Unfortunately, when he was diagnosed, the cancer had progressed to stage four and we didn’t have many options. Like many other patients and families, we felt lost. Hospice came to our home, and their services helped my grandpa remain comfortable during his last days. It was in those moments that the hospice nurses really made a difference not just for my grandpa, but for our whole family. I immediately knew that I wanted to be a nurse when I grew up.
When I graduated high school, I applied to an EVS job at Bronson. I saw it as a chance to meet people and create opportunities for myself. While in EVS, I was able to learn a lot about the different areas of the hospital which was helpful as I thought about my next steps. After working in EVS for eight months, I became a Patient Care Assistant (PCA) at BLH. During my time as a PCA, I learned what it was like to work directly with patients and what it meant to have good bedside manner.
About a year and a half later, I started classes to become an RN. When I met the education requirements to become a Nurse Extern, I applied and got a position on the same unit I was on as a PCA. Becoming a new nurse already has so many challenges, so this externship was really helpful in preparing me for a smooth transition from school to full-time work. I learned how to chart, pass medications, manage assignments and so much more. I gained a lot of confidence in myself and my skills during that time.
After graduating nursing school, I became a Graduate Nurse (GN) while preparing for my board exam. My GN position was in the BMH cardiology department. When I passed my boards and transitioned into a full-time role in cardiology, I had to make the decision of where to go next. I knew I was going to stay at Bronson because, no matter the unit I’d worked on so far, everyone held the same values as me. This organization really strives to provide excellent care that is patient-centered and safe – everything I want to give and provide to my patients. However, I live close to BLH and really missed the small‑town, community feel there. After about a year and a half in cardiology, I returned to BLH, taking a position in the GCU. I love this unit and staying here for the past six years has been such an easy decision.
The Impact of Mentorship
I have so much gratitude for the people I’ve worked with at Bronson. So many people have shaped me into the nurse I am today, and I still look up to them.
During my externship, I precepted mostly with Jami Ross. Although we no longer work on the same unit, she had a huge impact on my growth as a nurse. I also continue to learn from all of my coworkers every single day.
As a GN, I was surrounded by an incredible team. Sandra West was my first preceptor and she truly went above and beyond for her patients and took time to teach and support me. Morgan Bladden helped me gain confidence on days when I doubted myself, and I also learned a great deal from Amanda Koetecki and Morgan Salas.
Now that I am an experienced nurse myself, I became a preceptor because I had such incredible preceptors myself. Being a new nurse can be intimidating, and it wasn’t that long ago that I was in their shoes. I want nursing students and new nurses to know it’s okay to slow down and ask questions. My goal is to help them gain confidence and feel supported.
Working Together to Achieve Exceptional Care
With the support and resources available at Bronson, we’re able to care for our patients in a more complete way. Our clinical team works closely with colleagues from areas like case management, therapy and social work to make sure patients receive great care during their stay and feel prepared for discharge. Every patient comes in with different needs and circumstances, so it’s important to treat their medical concerns while also supporting them as people. I also try to remember that while the hospital may feel routine to us, it’s often overwhelming for patients and their loved ones. Taking the time to explain what’s happening and showing compassion and understanding can truly change their experience.
I have a lot of pride in working for Bronson – especially the BLH GCU. This organization is committed to providing excellent, patient‑centered care, and that allows me to grow as a nurse while feeling supported by my coworkers and leadership. Despite the challenges healthcare faces, I feel hopeful when I see my unit’s dedication to improving patient outcomes and creating a culture based on compassion, empathy, support, teamwork and growth. It’s a process I’m proud to be part of — and one I hope to inspire new nurses to continue in the future.
