Advancing his nursing career in the ER and skies

As an emergency room nurse at Oregon Health & Science University, Josh Ward ’18 treats patients in need of immediate medical care.

“I love helping people during some of the most challenging moments of their lives,” Josh said.

But these high-pressure moments don’t always happen at a hospital. He also helps them on their way to the clinic — whether in a plane or an ambulance.

Josh, who earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Linfield-Good Samaritan School of Nursing, also works as a flight nurse with Premier Jets and a critical care transport nurse with MetroWest Ambulance.

“Transport nursing allows me to utilize every aspect of my training,” he said. “Each decision I make during a transport impacts the patient's outcome, and that responsibility drives me to continually improve.”

Always learning and advancing

Josh’s success in these high-intensity roles didn’t happen overnight. He is committed to continuous learning and staying atop of his field. Since graduating from Linfield, he has advanced his skills by earning the following certifications:

• Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
• Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN)
• Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN)
• Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN)

“In transport nursing, I get to work at the highest level of my license, whether on the ground or in the air,” Josh said. “I can apply my training and evidence-based knowledge to improve patient outcomes while working as an independent clinician.”

Finding purpose

Despite the demanding nature of his jobs — physically, emotionally and mentally — Josh finds great reward in the work he does.

“The emotional and mental strain of working in emergency situations is tough, and the hours can be brutal,” he said. “But there’s nothing more rewarding than knowing you helped save someone’s life or made their worst day just a little bit better.”

Mentoring the next generation

As he’s continued in his nursing career, Josh has also developed a passion for mentoring other nurses.

“I’ve had amazing mentors throughout my career, and it’s important for me to give back,” Josh said. "Helping others pursue their career aspirations and watching them succeed in critical care is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job."

A strong sense of community

The sense of camaraderie is something Josh found as an undergraduate student at Linfield. Even as a prospective student, he sensed the benefit of coming to a smaller university.

“Coming from a small town, I wanted a school that would challenge me but not be overwhelming,” Josh said. “This feeling was reinforced during my tour when the student guide knew almost every single person he walked by.”

And as a Linfield student, his community of support grew when he joined the Kappa Sigma fraternity.

“Honestly, I think joining Greek life had a huge impact on me,” Josh said. “I was a shy kid from a small town, not used to meeting new people or making friends easily. Greek life really pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me break out of my shell, which has benefited me in all aspects of life.”

From the emergency room to the skies, Josh continues to embody the spirit of Linfield nursing as a skilled and compassionate person who is always ready to answer the call.

You can follow Josh on Instagram at @rotor_edrn

Photo Credit: HECTOR ACUNA HERALD/REVIEW Wilcox, AZ