“This is where I want to be”–Plastic Surgery Nurse Susanna Kaarlela found her calling in nursing
Susanna Kaarlela works as a plastic surgery nurse and she has had the courage to take on new opportunities. A strong work community has led her to the right place–even if the path has not always been straightforward.
Plastic Surgery Nurse Susanna Kaarlela works in a job where professionalism and being present go hand in hand.
“I was not young anymore when I completed my studies in nursing. Before entering the field of nursing, I worked as a hairdresser. As an adult, I decided to return to school and graduated as a nurse in 2004 from the school now called Karelia University of Applied Sciences,” says Susanna Kaarlela, Plastic Surgery Nurse.
Immediately after graduation, Kaarlela started working at the North Karelia Central Hospital, where she worked for almost ten years. Her work experience ranged from gastrointestinal surgery to plastic surgery and her skills deepened through a wide range of experiences. She also spent a year working in ambulatory surgery.
Kaarlela and her husband moved to the capital region due to his job–and a new phase in their careers opened up.
“We had four dogs and we were looking for a home that would accommodate them as well. When we found a home, I started looking for a job. I looked on the map to see where the hospitals were located, and Jorvi Hospital caught my eye. When I heard that there was a plastic surgery unit and a gynecology unit, I immediately thought that this could be a good fit!”
A phone call to the nurse manager led to an interview and a substitute position. Soon, Kaarlela was back working with familiar patient groups, but in a new environment.
“I remember the first time I walked into Ward K3 and saw the long corridor. I said to myself, this is where I want to be. That feeling has stayed with me.”
It felt good to return to the familiar unit
Even though the road took me to the emergency department at Espoo Hospital for a while, my heart remained in Jorvi. Returning to the familiar ward felt like a natural step.
“When I got back on Ward K3, it felt like coming home. Everything felt so familiar. And when my position became permanent, it felt especially good.”
Over the years, the ward has changed and evolved–today it is known as Ward K4. The patient groups have expanded, and in addition to plastic surgery, orthopedic back surgery patients are also treated on the ward. The work is versatile and our team works in close multidisciplinary cooperation.
“We have a small team with a strong team spirit. The people I work with are great – and that’s one of the major reasons why I've stayed here for as long as I have. We are allowed to be ourselves, and this is also reflected in our patient work. Patients often say that the atmosphere here is warm and comfortable.”
Our working days are varied and fast-paced. The morning starts with a silent report, where the person starting their shift independently goes through the ward’s medical records, followed by distribution of medication, wound care, washing, patient discharges, and ward rounds. Guidance is provided to patients, negative pressure treatments are performed, and at the same time the entire ward is kept running smoothly.
“No two days are alike. And even though it’s really busy at times, it also makes the job interesting. I like the fact that I can use my skills in many different ways.”
Kaarlela likes to work long hours because they allow for longer time off. Due to her long commute, the rhythm fits well with her daily life.
Nurse of the Year award warms the heart
In 2024, Kaarlela received a major recognition when she was named Nurse of the Year in the Musculoskeletal and Plastic Surgery unit.
“It was a big surprise and a great honor. I received so much wonderful feedback–it has stayed with me. It’s really rare to get direct feedback in everyday life, so this felt particularly meaningful.”
Kaarlela has just turned 60 and is no longer wondering what’s next in life. She’s happy to be where she is. The work is meaningful and the team is the best possible. “I feel like I get to do important work with a good team–what more could I ask for?"
Explore open nursing positions at HUS