Lompoc nurse draws on SBCC education while working during crisis

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -- A Lompoc nurse working on the front lines against COVID-19 credits Santa Barbara City College for preparing her ahead of the pandemic.

Lompoc nurse Kaitlin Shipley is one of the amazing local heroes working on the frontlines against COVID-19.

Shipley graduated from Santa Barbara City College with an associate degree in nursing back in 2019.

Now, she dons protective gear to enter the isolation room at Lompoc Valley Medical Center.

When the spread of COVID-19 began, a part of the medical/surgical floor was sectioned off for COVID-19 patients in order to isolate them. Shipley works as one of the nurses caring for COVID-19 patients in that isolation unit.

Shipley credits SBCC for providing her with "excellent clinical instruction" noting that although it is an emotionally challenging time for healthcare workers around the world, it is what they trained for.

Shipley says it is satisfying to help people who need nurses the most right now.

“I became a nurse because I wanted to do something in my career that is challenging, interesting and patient focused. I feel the greatest sense of fulfillment by improving someone’s day and making them feel cared for. Being amongst my fellow nurses and working as a team makes me realize I am part of something important; especially in times like these. I am extremely proud to be a nurse and am grateful to be in this profession.”

Shipley also provides the following pieces of advice to future graduates of the SBCC nursing program:

• Take as many opportunities as possible to improve your skills and don't be afraid to speak up.
• When you have time off, do something you love and take care of yourself.
• Lastly, always remember why you became a nurse in the first place: to be there for the patient.

The SBCC’s Registered Nursing program is approved and accredited by the California State Board of Registered Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

For more information about the nursing program, click here.