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Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long
Join nurse and healthcare leader Kimberly C. Long as she sits down with top nursing executives to uncover the defining moments that shaped their careers. In each 10-minute episode, guests share the challenges, breakthroughs, and insights that helped them grow as leaders. From inspiring team culture to improving patient care and navigating complex healthcare systems, Kimberly brings out practical lessons and actionable strategies that nursing leaders can apply every day. Whether you’re a seasoned CNO or an emerging leader, these conversations offer a front-row seat to the wisdom and experiences that drive success in nursing leadership.
Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long
Dr. Pat Patton on Leadership, Growth, and Emotional Intelligence in Nursing
In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Dr. Pat Patton, Chief Nurse Officer for Sweden Health System, to explore the journey of becoming a transformative leader in healthcare. Pat shares his story -from aspiring veterinarian to Army combat medic, pediatric nurse, and ultimately, Chief Nursing Officer - highlighting the pivotal experiences, challenges, and lessons that shaped her leadership philosophy.
Listeners will gain insights on leadership development, emotional intelligence, navigating career pivots, and maintaining balance in high-stakes healthcare roles. Whether you’re a nursing professional or a leader in any field, Pat’s story provides actionable advice and inspiration for your own leadership journey.
Kimberly Long (00:00)
Good morning, Pat. Thank you for your time this morning. And I want to quickly introduce you. is Dr. Pat Patton, the Chief Nurse Officer for Sweden Health System. Welcome.
Pat Patton (00:12)
Thank you, Kim. It's great to be here.
Kimberly Long (00:14)
Okay, we've got just a few questions that I'd like to talk with you about and sort of get your perspective.
Question 1 – Kimberly Long (00:16): “Every leader has a journey and that journey and the things that they experience get them to where they are. Can you share with us some of the experiences and challenges that shaped your path?”
Pat Patton (00:32)
[Pat shares her journey from aspiring veterinarian → Army → combat medic → nursing school → leadership roles in pediatric and adult care, eventually becoming CNO, highlighting challenges like micromanagement, learning new departments, and leadership development.]
Kimberly Long (06:27)
You know what, I think that's wonderful because it's the perfect example of how you can start out on one path and then kind of deviate and then end up landing someplace that gives you great fulfillment…
Question 2 – Kimberly Long (07:08): “As you look back on pivotal moments in your career that defined the leader that you've become, what was a pivotal moment that led you to be the leader Pat Patton that you are?”
Pat Patton (07:08)
[Pat discusses pivotal moments: realizing the importance of acknowledging others as a leader and developing emotional intelligence to navigate leadership conflicts effectively.]
Kimberly Long (10:10)
I think that's phenomenal and that's been demonstrated in your leadership to my observation as well.
Question 3 – Kimberly Long (10:42): “When we get to leadership positions, it can be kind of lonely sometimes. How do you deal with the loneliness part or how do you find balance there? And what advice would you give someone who's just getting started on their leadership journey?”
Pat Patton (10:42)
[Pat shares strategies for handling the isolation of leadership, including seeking confidants inside and outside of work, leaning on family support, and continuous learning. She also emphasizes mentoring, coaching, and professional development for young leaders.]
Kimberly Long (13:34)
That is wonderful advice. Dr. Pat Patton, thank you so much for taking the time to share your expertise and wisdom with us.
Pat Patton (13:46)
Thank you, Dr. Long, much appreciated.
Kimberly Long (13:48)
Bye bye now.
