Jessica Martin, BSN

Name: Jessica Martin BSN

Tell me about yourself?

About your job: I’m a Registered Nurse at WHS CARE Center for Family Birth and Women’s Health. I’ve been working for 2.5 years at WHS. Before I Worked on OB, I worked on 6E (Med Surg. / Oncology)

What extra duties have you taken on during COVID 19 ( if any)?
Fortunately, we have not seen any COVID 19 cases on our unit. An extra duty has been stepping in as the patient’s support system. During this COVID-19 period, patients have had limited visitors to help protect our patients and staff. We have acted in place as the friends and family to ensure that the new moms and babies had a memorable experience here at WHS.

Education: I was lucky enough to attend nursing school at Washington Health System School of Nursing. I graduated December of 2017. After that, I went to Chamberlain University to obtain my BSN. I am currently at Chamberlain University in their MSN program to become a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Hobbies outside of work:

I love spending my spare time with family. I try to encourage and engage in new experiences with my kids. We love to travel and explore new places. We enjoy making bucket lists and crossing things off like zip lining, fishing, horseback riding, and learning about different cultures. We are Disney and Universal fans, so we try to go as much as we can.

Family, pets, etc?

I’m a single mom of two incredible kids: Diegan, age 12, and Lucianne, age 8. We have one dog named Sally; she’s a German Shepherd/Lab mix. She has the best temperament and loves to snuggle. She has recently been diagnosed with Nasal Cancer, so now we are just trying to keep her comfortable and giving her the best life she could have.

What is your favorite local restaurant (not a chain restaurant)?

I would have to say hands down my favorite local restaurant is Union Grill. There is not a single item on the menu that is anything less than amazing! I have never heard of anyone being disappointed with anything they have ordered from there. I think the atmosphere is so unique and so fun. There isn’t another place like it.

What card or board games do you like to play?

My kids and I enjoy playing a variety of games. Clue is probably my favorite. We recently got Monopoly Cheater’s Edition and it’s been a lot of fun. You have to try to steal from the bank and other players without getting caught.

What’s the best concert you’ve been to and why?

Best concert, I would have to say was Charlie Daniels. It was the last concert my dad attended before he passed away. My whole family spent the day together. We made so many memories that I cherish.

What skill or talent would you most like to learn or improve?

I think two skills I would like to learn are crocheting and how to ski. I have always wanted to learn how to ski, but it was always put on the back burner. The kids and I made a pact to learn this coming winter. I am definitely excited to share in that experience with my kids. I’m just hoping I am able to walk away with no injuries. My sister in law recently taught my daughter how to crochet, so I am a little jealous she knows how to and I don’t. She has enjoyed showing me a few things as she is learning herself.

What motivates you?

I think as cliché as it sounds, my kids and mom are the biggest motivation for me. I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for them. My mom has gone above and beyond to help support me and make sure I accomplish the goals that I have set. She has been the guiding light through this journey. My kids are so encouraging and supportive with my work and school. I love getting the notes they leave in my lunch, or in the kitchen. I feel it is important, whether you succeed or fail, to never quit. I refuse to ever let them see me quit. Everything I do is for them, and I want them to have the best life.

What do you want to tell people, or want them to know, about the COVID-19 pandemic and or about WHS?

First off, I have to ask have you seen this new unit?! It is absolutely gorgeous. I do not think there is another hospital around that can give you such a beautiful place to have a baby. The patient rooms are enormous. The rooms are so peaceful with a spa like vibe. I was blown away when I walked onto the unit for the first time. I think the great staff makes a difference in a providing a great experience. As far as COVID-19, as you may know, we had only allowed one support persons to be with mom during deliveries and recovery. We have noticed that moms of multiple children have enjoyed some time of rest and bonding with the baby. I know they love their families and sharing the new bundle of joy, but they seem to be taking in the moment and enjoying the one on one time.