UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Megan Richards, RN

After high school, I wasn't really certain what I wanted to do. I liked the sciences and figured I'd do something in the medical field where I could interact with people.  Nursing wasn't actually what I initially went to school for, but once I was in the program at Northern, I knew that this field would be a good fit for me and became inspired by many of my professors and classmates.

On the 6^th floor there rarely is a typical day. I start my day with bedside shift reports and after that it's a matter of organizing my day, prioritizing my next steps, and rolling with the punches. Sure, we have our typical requirements of the job itself, but the unpredictability and fast-paced environment of our floor are what I've come to love.

I started as a care aide on the 6^th floor in June of 2016 during my last semester of nursing school. I transitioned into the RN role in January of 2017 and have been in this same position since then.

The obvious change that many of us experienced was the move to the new hospital and all the associated changes with that—location of things, new equipment, etc.  For me personally, some of the big changes I've experienced are simply the little changes that happen on a daily basis and making sure to keep up with them all in order to be a resource for other nurses.

My husband and I just welcomed our second baby boy in October, so much of our free time is spent with our boys and our families. We love going for walks on the Iron Ore Heritage Trail and spending time at the local parks in the summer.  

I really enjoy the fact that we're a family and truly want what's best for those around us—and those in the community as well. I love working with my coworkers and knowing that they'll have my back as I will for them.