Ehra M. Rodriguez-Pardo, BSN, RN

Nurse Emeritus

After obtaining my Florida RN licensure, I was offered a nursing position at the Alexander "Sandy" Nininger Veterans Nursing Home in Pembroke Pines, FL with the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. On November 1, 2020 I accepted the position and relocated from Springfield, MA and I was able to be close to my father.  I must admit that it took some time to learn and transition to bedside nursing from my position as Patient Care Coordinator with the Brockton Campus of the VA Boston Healthcare System. 

It's an honor and privilege to care for our nation’s Veterans. My father served 26 years in the U.S. Army, my two brothers and my son served in the Air Force, and I was in the Navy Reserve. 

Overseeing and providing care to our Veterans in their later years can be challenging as well as rewarding. While it is difficult managing people when they are disoriented, combative, resistant to care rendered and wander off the units causing the Wander Guard alarms to sound; however, it is very rewarding to experience Veterans’ appreciation of the care provided. The time spent sharing their stories and woes builds an enduring relationship for Veterans and staff alike. It is also heartwarming to see the joy on their  faces during family visits. Fortunately, family members are allowed to visit as long as they are COVID-19 tested by the nursing home.

Recently, I cared for a Veteran on Hospice Care whose breathing was deteriorating. The Hospice Care Assessment Nurse was there making his arrangements when I came on duty for the night shift. The Hospice Care staff would not be available until after 7am, since they were overwhelmed with the increased demand of their services. I ran for the portable oxygen concentrator, suction machine, and suction catheters. I set them up and proceeded to tend to the Veteran. In addition to the other 10 residents that I was responsible for, I monitored this Veteran’s progress throughout the night - suctioning, checking oxygen saturations, and ensuring he was comfortable. 

Later, I was working the evening shift and the wife of this resident sought me out and I was called to the nursing station by the nursing supervisor. The Veteran’s wife gave me a card in which  she expressed her gratitude for the care I provided to her husband. Her kind words brought a smile to my face and made my day. These are only a few examples of why it is a privilege and honor to care for those that have borne the battle.