Taking Care of People: My Journey as a Mobile IV Nurse

Taking care of people has always been the most important part of my job. For over 20 years, I worked in hospitals, dedicating myself to the care and well-being of my patients. However, I felt increasingly constrained by the demands of the healthcare system, particularly how insurance companies often dictated the care patients received, sometimes at the expense of what they actually needed.

That’s why I made a significant change in my career. I transitioned into being a mobile IV nurse, working in an alternative setting that allows me to provide personalized care directly to my patients. This shift has been transformative, giving me the freedom to focus on what matters most: delivering the care my patients genuinely need.

Starting out in this new role wasn’t easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. I had to build my practice from the ground up, learning the ins and outs of operating independently. It took many hard years of working in hospitals to get to where I am today. But now, as a contracting nurse, I have my own hours and my own choices. This autonomy has made my job perfect in many ways. There’s really nothing too difficult about it, except maybe the distances I have to drive—but that’s just part of the job.

Through my work, I’ve met people from all walks of life. Some are athletes looking to enhance their performance, while others are in hospice care, seeking comfort in their final days. The diversity of my patients is one of the greatest parts of my job. Each individual has a unique story, and I’m honored to be a part of their journey, even if only for a short while.

Compassion is the most important quality in this line of work. Without it, you can’t truly connect with or understand your patients. But compassion alone isn’t enough—you also need to be able to voice your concerns and advocate for your patients. In a mobile setting, where you’re often the sole healthcare provider, being the patient’s advocate is crucial. You have to ensure they receive the best care possible, tailored to their specific needs.

My motivation every day is definitely my family. They inspire me to keep going, to continue improving, and to provide the best care I can. I often wish people understood just how much nurses take home with them every day. We don’t just see patients; we feel for them, often as if they were our own family members. The emotional connection we form with those in our care is deep and lasting.

In the end, I wouldn’t trade this job for anything. The journey to becoming a mobile IV nurse was long and challenging, but it’s led me to a place where I can truly make a difference in people’s lives. And that’s what it’s all about—caring for people in the way they deserve, with compassion, respect, and understanding.

- Heather, RN