-
Elaine Ollerton George, a registered nurse in West Valley City, Utah, shares practical answers to questions she hears every day from patients, families, and neighbors.
With more than 14 years of experience on the front lines of hospital care, Elaine Ollerton George has seen how small gaps in knowledge can turn into big health problems. As a charge nurse, clinical educator, and community health advocate, she often fields the same questions from people trying to take better care of themselves and their families.
Below, Elaine answers some of the most common questions she hears, with clear guidance rooted in real-world experience.
What do people misunderstand most about nurses?
“People think nursing is just following orders. It’s not.”
Nurses constantly assess risk, notice changes, and speak up when something is wrong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses make up the largest segment of the U.S. healthcare workforce, with over 5 million nationwide. In Utah, nurses are often the first and last point of contact for patients during hospital stays.
Why do hospital readmissions happen so often?
“Most readmissions start after the patient leaves the building.”
Missed medications, confusion about follow-up care, and lack of support at home are common causes. Nationally, nearly 1 in 5 Medicare patients is readmitted within 30 days. Elaine has worked on quality improvement efforts focused on clearer discharge instructions and better care transitions.
How important is mental health in everyday medical care?
“You can’t separate the body from the mind.”
Elaine has pursued training in trauma-informed care and behavioral crisis intervention because mental health issues often show up during medical visits. In Utah, about 1 in 5 adults reports experiencing mental health challenges each year, according to state health data.
What should patients do if they feel rushed or unheard?
“You’re allowed to slow the conversation down.”
She encourages patients to ask for clarification and bring written questions. “Treat every patient like they’re your own family,” she says, explaining her core philosophy of care. Studies show that patients who ask questions are more likely to follow treatment plans correctly.
How does community background affect health outcomes?
“Where you live shapes your health more than people realize.”
Access to clinics, transportation, healthy food, and education all matter. Salt Lake County data shows higher rates of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease in underserved neighborhoods. Elaine works with local health outreach programs to close those gaps.
Why is mentorship important for nurses and patients alike?
“Confidence grows when someone has your back.”
As a preceptor, Elaine mentors newer nurses through high-pressure situations. Research from the American Nurses Association shows that mentorship improves nurse retention and patient safety, especially in hospital settings.
What can families do to support a loved one in the hospital?
“Be present and be organized.”
She recommends keeping a list of medications, asking who the charge nurse is, and understanding the care plan. Family involvement has been linked to fewer errors and smoother recoveries.
If you do nothing else
Elaine suggests starting with these simple steps today:
-
Write down your medications and doses.
-
Schedule overdue checkups or screenings.
-
Ask one clear question at your next appointment.
-
Learn where your nearest urgent care and clinic are.
-
Check in on a neighbor who may need help.
-
Attend a local health fair or screening event.
-
Share accurate health information with your family.
Call to Action
Good health often starts with shared knowledge. Elaine encourages readers to pass this Q&A along to someone who could use clear, practical guidance today.
About Elaine Ollerton George
Elaine Ollerton George is a registered nurse, clinical educator, and community health advocate based in West Valley City, Utah. She has spent 14 years working in hospital care across multiple specialties and was named her hospital system’s “Nurse of Distinction” in 2022 for leadership, compassion, and service.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Opinion Bulletin journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.