UMass Memorial Health’s Post

The relentless pursuit of healing can be interpreted in many ways. To Jefferson Wermuth, RN, a charge nurse on the cardiac telemetry unit at UMass Memorial Medical Center, it means far more than the exceptional clinical care UMass Memorial Health provides. It’s about the positive effects of personal connections with patients and staff — a lesson he learned in his teens. "I was a sophomore and on the football team,” he said. “It was my first chance to start on varsity and I took a big hit from a linebacker.” Jefferson was taken to the hospital by ambulance and diagnosed with a concussion. “A male nurse treated me,” he recalled, “and he said, ‘my kid also plays safety. Make sure you're playing smart and not hitting kids with your head.’” That small piece of advice delivered in a busy emergency room resonated with Jefferson, and not just for its common sense. “I was impressed that he took the time to talk to me,” Jefferson said. “I thought that was something I could do — be a male nurse who relates to patients and makes them feel comfortable on their worst days.” His desire to enter nursing was encouraged by his sister, who is also a registered nurse. “She told me that if I didn’t like nursing, I could use my education in different ways, like becoming a nurse practitioner or going to medical school.” But once he started working, it was clear nursing was for him. “It’s a good gig,” he said. “I have a good work-life balance and there’s a lot of opportunity here." “One of the things that really impressed me was the new grad program,” he said. “It really helps ease you into nursing and supports you to build your confidence.” Previous to graduating, Jefferson completed an internship at UMass Memorial. That experience gave him a deeper understanding of the opportunities to advance and broaden his skills. “I knew that I could have an expanding role and explore different areas,” he said. “There is a lot of opportunity to get additional education, which I really like because I always want to learn new things.” We are grateful for caregivers like Jefferson whose passion makes all the difference and embodies the relentless pursuit of healing. #EveryoneEverydayRelentlessly