Careers

I started my career at Children’s Mercy in 2012 as a Nurse Technician on 2 Henson and a year later transitioned as a Newly Licensed Nurse in the NICU. In 2020 I took on an additional role as a Nurse Residency Program (NRP) Coordinator. I wanted to be a part of something greater than myself and knew that I could do that here. My niece, Gabrielle, was born when I was a senior in high school. She required a NICU stay at a nearby hospital, and I went to visit her late one night while my sister took a break. Gabrielle’s nurse came to do an assessment and asked if I wanted to change her diaper. Overwhelmed by a fear of hurting her tiny body, I declined. That nurse simply smiled at me and said, “Let’s change her diaper.” While changing a diaper might seem insignificant, this was a turning point for me. Prior to her hospitalization, I didn’t know what career path I wanted to pursue. However, from the moment we changed her diaper, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. When I started in the NICU at CM, I suddenly became the person that guided and encouraged nervous parents and caregivers, and now as an NRP Coordinator, I empower our Newly Licensed Nurses to be the best that they can be. Building others up in difficult situations is my connection to purpose. At CM, I never feel like I’m coming to “work” – rather I’m grateful for the fulfillment I receive from my work! This is a very special place. 
 
                                        —Hannah Elder, Nurse Residency Program Coordinator