About Me:

Hello, my name is Elyza Escarnuela, and I am a Practical Nursing student at Vancouver Island University. I am passionate about providing safe, compassionate and patient-centred care while continuing to grow both personally and professionally in the nursing field.

My experience in long-term care has helped me develop strong communication skills, empathy, and an understanding of the importance of dignity in patient care. In addition, my background as a cadet, where I achieved the rank of Sergeant, has strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and discipline. 

I am committed to continuing my growth as a nursing student by developing my clinical skills, critical thinking, and ability to provide safe and effective care. 

Background and Experience

I have worked as a food server in a long-term care facility for 4 years, where I developed strong communication skills, empathy, and an understanding of the older adults. In this role, I interacted closely with residents daily, which allowed me to build meaningful relationships and recognize the importance of dignity, respect, and individualized care.

Working in this environment helped me gain insight into the physical, emotional, and social challenges that many older adults face. I learned to be attentive to residents' needs, respond to changes in their condition, and communicate effectively with both residents and members of the healthcare team. These experiences strengthened my ability to provide compassionate support while maintaining professionalism in a healthcare setting.

Additionally, this role allowed me to develop time management, teamwork, and organizational skills while working in a fast paced environment. I became more confident in my ability to adapt to different situations and provide care that is both respectful and patient-centred. 

Overall, my experience in long-term care has played a significant role in shaping my interest in nursing and has provided a strong foundation for my clinical learning and future practice.

Leadership Experience:

I have 4 years of experience in cadets, where I achieved the rank of Sergeant. Throughout my time in the program, I developed strong leadership, teamwork, and responsibility skills while participating in structured training and attending annual summer camps. As a Sergeant, I was allowed to take on a leadership role, guide junior cadets, and contribute to maintaining organization and discipline within the group. 

This experience helped me build confidence in leading others, communicating effectively, and working collaboratively within a team environment. I learned how to remain calm under pressure, adapt to new situations, and take initiative when completing tasks or supporting others, which are essential in both leadership and healthcare settings. 

Overall, my cadet experience has contributed to my personal and professional growth and has prepared me to work effectively within a healthcare team.

Goal:

My goal is to become a competent and compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse who provides culturally safe and patient-centred care. My experience in long-term care has inspired me to support individuals while maintaining their dignity and independence. 

I am focused on developing my clinical skills, including medication administration, patient assessment, and therapeutic communication. As I continue my journey, I aim to grow both professionally and personally while making a meaningful impact in the lives of my patients.