Part three of a series introducing the passionate health care team behind our growing Level IV NICU
While our NICU has grown in scope and size, some things have remained constant over the years – including many of the exceptional professionals providing the care that’s helped thousands of infants grow, survive and thrive. We’re highlighting some of these unsung heroes as we prepare to open additional beds for premature and full-term infants with critical medical needs in our Children’s Tower come January.
Bobbie Terrell, NNP may be semi-retired, but she’s still making an invaluable impact in the CHoR NICU
How long have you worked in the CHoR NICU?
It’s been 40 years – May 1985 to present! In 1985 I started as a bedside nurse. I got my master’s degree in 1989 in high-risk maternal infant nursing and was licensed as a clinical nurse specialist. I never practiced as one but became a neonatal transport nurse in 1990. This gave me great autonomy and a thirst for more. I went back to school and got my post-master’s certification as a neonatal nurse practitioner in 1996 and was the second neonatal nurse practitioner in our NICU.
I have worked in many NICUs as an NNP, while maintaining my full-time position. This has given me the opportunity to see how other people practice and has given me a greater appreciation for the academic environment. In April, I "retired" from my full time position and continue to work PRN (on an as-needed basis).
Why have you stayed in this line of work, and at CHoR?
I love the babies! I love my colleagues! With every baby there is a new challenge, whether it be their illness or even family dynamics. Neonatal medicine has come so far. I learned so much and it has been exciting being on the cutting edge in our Level 4 NICU. I would never do anything different.
What made you choose this career and when did you know this was what you wanted to do?
I always knew that I wanted to work with children but the NICU was not my first choice, or at least I didn’t think it was. When I was interviewed back in 1985, the nursing director at the time asked me if I would consider working in the NICU; the RN position I applied for was in the special care nursery, which was step-down unit for the pediatric intensive care unit. Once I started in the NICU, I never looked back! It is my passion!
Is there a moment in your career that stands out to you as being extra special?
There are so many moments! I love seeing the babies as they progress once they leave the NICU. When parents bring them back to visit it is so rewarding. Not every story is a happy ending though; it is humbling and frustrating not being able to fix everything. Although the families go through so much, most are so thankful. Their gratitude is my reward and gives me pride in what I do.
What do you hope families in the NICU take away from their interactions with you?
I hope they trust that I have the knowledge and skill needed to care for their infants. Building a bond with the parents is so important. I hope that they see my compassion for their infants. I celebrate the successes and mourn the losses, but try to be there for them.
What are you most looking forward to about the new NICU space in the Children’s Tower?
I think the expansion to the Children’s Tower is going to be great for the families of the convalescing infants, affording them the opportunity to take care of their infants in an environment that is not so overwhelming.