An Interview with Melanie Henning, RN, BSN

We love nothing more than sitting down with healthcare workers and learning all about their experience in their field, what makes them do what they do, and of course their experience with Gales®. 

In honor of Black History Month, we sat down with Melanie Henning, a Travel Trauma Nurse, Nurse Supervisor and Gales® ambassador to get her take on the importance of the month and learn more about her experience in healthcare thus far.

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’m from Detroit. I am a Travel Trauma RN but I also work as a Nurse Supervisor. I have been an RN for 7 years. I have done Emergency, Med-Surg, PCU, Home Health and Corrections nursing.

What do you think is the most important takeaway from Black History Month?

I think the most important takeaway is being able to be celebrated. Celebrate black achievements and strides made in the black community but also be reminded and learn where we came from and how we still have to so many things that need to be changed.

If there is one piece of advice you could give a nursing student, what would it be?

Never give up on yourself while in school, it gets better and never let anyone tell you that you won’t make it.

What first sparked your interest in pursuing a medical career?

I knew I always wanted to go into a career where I could help people. I originally wanted to be a doctor but nursing just fit.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Right now I would say the flexibility. There’s so many different opportunities you could do in this field in so many different locations. You don’t have to be tied down to a job if you don’t want to be.

What is the most surprising thing about your job?

In this field everyday is a surprise. You never know what kinda shift you’re gonna get.

How do you find time for/what do you do to prioritize your mental wellness? 

Make use of my off days. If I have to take time off to prioritize myself I will. I started therapy, I will get massages, facials, work out, journal etc.

Lastly, why do you love Gales®?!

The comfort. The fact that they are easy to clean.