Judy Johnson, Copley at Stoughton’s Director of Nursing, is another long-time manager – 15 years next February, as a matter of fact.
Judy is an invaluable member of the Copley family, and is also one of those rare people who found Copley as much as Copley found her. As you’ll read below, Judy didn’t even know Copley existed before she applied – she found “a little gem” as she puts it. Sounds like one of those magical moments that happen in a career (if you’re lucky) when you find that perfect position in the perfect environment that you never even knew existed.
Without further ado then, let’s let Judy tell her Copley story in her own words…
What is your typical day like?
There really is no “typical day” in this role! But generally speaking, I start my day by getting any important updates I need about our residents and any other nursing issues that sometimes come up. I often arrive early so that I’ll see staff from all three shifts throughout the day. I like being able to touch base with all of them – and they know I’m always available to them at some part of the day if they need me.
I also do rounds of all the residents, usually a couple of times per day. Those are actually my favorite parts of the day, spending some time with them and especially seeing them at breakfast in the morning in the main dining room.
The rest of the day is spent with administrative tasks including staffing and managing regulatory guidelines to ensure we are always up to date and compliant.
What inspired you to work in health care/long-term care?
My sincere interest in people inspired me to work in healthcare and specifically in long-term care. I want to be part of trying to make people’s days more comforting and secure. That’s reinforced every day as I do my rounds.
Why did you choose to apply to Copley in particular?
To be honest, I didn’t even know Copley existed before I applied. Someone who worked in management at Copley at the time asked me to come and discuss a manager position. But I have to say, as soon as I visited and did the interview, I was all in. Copley can be a well-hidden little gem. Through the years, I have learned much at Copley which has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Have you worked at other facilities, and if so, what makes Copley different?
Copley is unique as it really does feel like family here. It is on the smaller size which makes it possible to care for the residents in a more personal and home-like atmosphere. We also develop close relationships with families. I personally moved my mother to Copley recently because I trust in the kind care we provide.
COVID was a difficult time for all long-term care staff. How did Copley support you? Do you remember a particular time or situation when you felt especially supported?
COVID was a very difficult time for everyone especially in the beginning. I felt supported by all departments. It was that family feel again – we all worked together to take care of our residents and each other.
What reasons would you give to someone considering working at Copley?
I always tell potential candidates that Copley feels like community and family all in one.
Is there a day or situation that stood out when you thought, “Yes, this is why I work at Copley!”
That’s pretty much every day! When I watch everyone working together to make our residents happy – that is why I work at Copley.