Tammy Nation has a COOL JOB as a Triage Nurse.

How She Got That Gig:
"I knew I wanted to be a nurse even as a little girl!" She obtained a BS in Nursing from Research College and Rockhurst College, took the RN Boards and received a nursing license. She also became certified in Childbirth Education. "I worked in Labor and Delivery for five years and then got tired of working nights. I looked in the paper, interviewed for a private practice and supported 6 doctors. One of those doctors eventually split off to start his own practice and I went with him."

A Day In The Life:
Nation gets to work at 8:15 am and begins phone triage. She screens calls for the doctor she works for and gives advice and answer questions. "I have a protocol to follow for specific symptoms as a lot of times the calls are repetitious. I meet with all new obstetric patients to explain their schedule for the next 9 months, have them fill out the government forms and make the woman feel comfortable with the office. I also schedule all of the doctor’s surgery and handle pre-certification with insurance companies."

High Five:
"I love helping all the different types of people and their various situations."

Down Low:
"Dealing with insurance companies, they dictate so much red tape!"

Words From The Wise:
"You need a lot of patience (no pun intended!), be a good listener as sometimes the patient needs a sounding board before you can help them with their concern. Get a clinical background first, especially in OB."

For More Information:
Contact local nursing school, talk to nurses or doctors you know about what they do. Try to spend a day with them to see what they do. Volunteer at a hospital.