Healthcare Heroes | Miranda Kletsch
June 16, 2021
What is your official Title?
I am the RN-Nurse Navigator of Emergency Services, including the Emergency Department and Urgent Care.
How long have you been at Watertown Regional Medical Center? Have you always been in the same position?
I started at Watertown Regional Medical Center right out of high school; 22 yrs ago and I’ve had the privilege to expand my knowledge throughout my career. I started on the inpatient floors as a CNA, and while in nursing school, I transitioned into the Nurse Tech role both here at WRMC, as well as a Nurse Extern at Froedtert.
Once I graduated, I worked as an inpatient nurse for a short while before heading to the ER. At one point, I decided that I needed a change of pace, with a different job at Aurora Summit, working in their Interventional Radiology department, but I never left my job here. I transitioned into the CRC (float nurse) role where I was able to really broaden my opportunities and knowledge, working wherever the need was that given shift throughout the organization (IPC-ICU-PACU-Day Surgery-OB-ER or Peds, when we had the Peds unit). When the new ER opened, the opportunity for the Nurse Navigator position became available. I was intrigued by the role and knew that it was an opportunity that would suit my well rounded experience.
What do you enjoy most about working at Watertown Regional Medical Center?
I enjoy the camaraderie with my co-workers.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
I have always loved science and during high school, I had the opportunity to take a class called, “Health Occupations, Clinical Observations.” The class provided insight and observation of the many healthcare career options to choose from, (Nursing; and the types of specialized units to work on, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Radiology, Healthcare Administration, just to name a few). This class allowed me the opportunity to determine that Nursing was what I wanted to do.
What would you say to somebody wanting to get into your profession?
If it were easy, everyone would do it! I’m not going to lie….You’ll certainly have your good and your bad days. But, knowing that you made a genuine difference or impact in someone’s day, during sometimes, one of their most vulnerable moments and yet they extend their gratitude and thanks, well, that there, that’s what makes it all worth it!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
Spending time with friends and family! They are my heart beat!
What is your favorite place in the Watertown area? (Example: Restaurant, park, activity)
Honestly, it’s difficult to narrow down just one but a few that come to mind include...a Mullen’s ice cream treat on a hot summer day after a day at the Aquatic Center! Zweig’s Grill for a juicy slider! Elias for a premium Saturday night steak! A yummy margarita to wash down one of the many Mexican cuisine options throughout town. Family night fun at one of the bowling alleys or viewing a movie at the nostalgic theatre!
What does working for a CMS “Five-Star” Hospital mean to you?
It makes me PROUD to know that we’re all working together to achieve the same goal! “To give good quality care!”
Why do you believe patients can Count on Watertown Regional Medical Center for quality care?
Those who work at Watertown Regional Medical Center stand by the mission of “Making Communities Healthier!” We strive to provide patients and families with the upmost quality of care!
What is one thing you’re doing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19?
Continue to educate.