Laura Corn is the 2017 Nurse of the Year Recognition
“If I had to give nursing advice to others as they pursue a career in nursing, it would be to always put the needs of your patients first,” she said, noting that as technology has become more integrated into the practice of nursing, it’s easy to be consumed by it. “Treat patients as if they were your family. Take time to get to know them and really talk to them,” she advises. “Making a difference in people’s lives and saving lives is so rewarding.”
Growing up, Laura Corn was surrounded by nurses and health care workers.
“My sisters and aunts all worked in health care, and we had family members we helped care for with debilitating illnesses,” she said. “I grew up caring for them, and it was something I enjoyed.”
Later, Corn’s older sister worked as nurse in the Emergency Care Center at Floyd Medical Center.
Also rewarding is the sense of teamwork in the Polk Medical Center Emergency Department, she said.
“I looked up to her, and she inspired me to want to be a nurse,” she said.
“We are a huge work family,” Corn said. “I have to give them credit for helping me to be the nurse I am today.”
Those early experiences and that sister’s inspiration planted a seed that resulted in a career for Corn, and ultimately, being named Polk Medical Center Nurse of the Year in 2017. Laura, a registered nurse in Polk Medical Center's Emergency Department, started her nursing career at Floyd Medical Center in 1998, before joining the staff of Polk Medical Center where she has become known for her compassionate approach to patient care. “Laura is an excellent nurse,” said Tifani Kinard, Chief Nursing Officer at Polk Medical Center. “The kindness she demonstrates each day, along with her clinical proficiency, make her a role model for those of us who work beside her.” “I am passionate about my job in the emergency room. I love the fact that every day I step through the doors I never know what is in store for the day, whose live will be saved today or impacted by my care,” Corn said. “I enjoy caring for and making a difference in the lives of others.” Technological advances are a gift, when used appropriately, Corn said, and that is the advice she shares with young nurses.
Kayla Morris was honored as Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year.
“Like Laura, Kayla begins every day with the goal of providing outstanding care for our patients and their families,” Tifani said. “She has a positive attitude that's proven to be contagious to those around her.”
The awards were presented at the beginning of Polk Medical Center's recognition of Nurses Week.
“Making a difference in people’s lives and saving lives is so rewarding.”
“Technology has changed so much, but the basic needs of the patients remain the same,” she said.
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