Nebraska Medicine Position: CNA
Kiley Parsons grew up in Brownville, Nebraska (pop. 200). She got her CNA while she was a senior at Auburn High School. Before joining the Department of Psychiatry, she worked in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and area/regional manager.
What made you want to work in the Department of Psychiatry?
Growing up in a small town where everybody knows everybody and all of their business, mental health was very stigmatized. Not only was it stigmatized, but there weren’t any resources for those who needed them. I knew from an early age that this field was something I not only wanted more knowledge in, but wanted to make a difference in. When the opportunity presented itself, I knew that I had to jump on it!
What do you like about working as a CNA?
As a CNA in this department, I like that I get to be one of the first people that the patients see when they arrive at their appointments. I use that as a time to try and make the patient feel as comfortable as possible, and hopefully let them know that this is a place you will be treated with kindness and respect, always! I also like that I get to work alongside providers, nurses, etc., who are happy to share any knowledge that they have when I have questions. I love this because they don’t have to do this, but they do it with a smile and seem happy to do it. I always want to learn more to be able to understand different mental health issues from different perspectives.
What are some of your future work goals?
I would love to become a Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry. However, my immediate and current plan of action is receiving my RN through Metro Community College. And, hopefully, once I am done with that, I will be able to further my education.
What are some of your hobbies?
Some of my hobbies include reading, building Legos, writing workout programs for my friends and family, and playing with my dogs!