Aida Lopez Chacon

AIDA LOPEZ CHACON, B.S.N., B.S.E.E.

R.N. II
Surgery Department
University Medical Center of El Paso
Ambulatory Surgery Center

Graduated: 2015
Hometown: El Paso, Texas

FROM ENGINEERING TO NURSING:

Ever since she was young, Aida Lopez Chacon admired the skills, knowledge and compassion of doctors and nurses. She interacted with them when she got sick, or if a family member needed care, but she never thought she’d be able to pursue a career in health care. Fate instead steered her toward an electrical engineering degree and a long career in the auto industry. But after 16 yearsas an engineer, she realized she was ready for a change. “It was at that time that I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse,” Lopez Chacon said. She enrolled in the GGHSON’s Accelerated B.S.N., an intensive program designed to be completed in four consecutive semesters.

DRAWN TO SURGERY:

Lopez Chacon recalls always being intrigued by surgery andwatching with great interest surgical procedures in television documentaries. After earning her degree, it was an easy decision to seek a position in the operating room.“It is fascinating to be part of a team of medical staff during an operation and see how the different areas of medicine merge with technology to deliver patient care,” Lopez Chacon said.

FINDING HERGROOVE IN A FAST-PACED PROGRAM:

Lopez Chacon remembers feeling overwhelmed at times while working toward her B.S.N. degree. She described the accelerated program as rigorous and challenging. One of the keys to successfully completing the program was the support of her professors, who showed agenuine interest in the success of students.

“The times that I needed their assistance, they were always ready to help,” Lopez Chacon said. “I clearly recall their guidance,helping me apply complex concepts, theories and evidence-based practice to patient care. Thanks to their encouragement, I applied and was accepted to one of a limited number of internship positions at a local hospital, in my area of interest.”

TRANSITIONING TOTHEWORKFORCE:

For nurses about to begin their careers, Lopez Chacon advises following the guidelines and recommendations for patient care and to not takeany shortcuts. She also recommends making sure health caredocumentation is thorough and accurate.

"Always do the right thing –even when no one is watching – and have a good attitude,” she said. “Most importantly, treat your patients with the same care you would give your loved ones. Whether it is a regular doctor visit, or required hospitalization for aloved one, the care you provide impacts people’s lives in more ways than you can imagine. You may inspire someone to pursue a career in health care, just like what happened to me.”