On a recent Tuesday morning, Teranjeet “TJ” Purewal, a 25-year-old nurse at Banner Baywood Medical Center in Mesa, Arizona, prepared for a busy shift on the stroke unit. The team was informed that they needed to open an unused area of the floor to accommodate seven patients from the emergency department. Purewal took over from the night shift nurses and began preparing the north section of the floor.
Reflecting on her career choice, Purewal said, “Whenever I have a difficult or stressful day, I always think about her. I try to treat every patient like they’re my own grandparent or relative — it’s a privilege to be able to help them feel comfortable and be themselves as much as possible while they’re in the hospital.”
Purewal has been working as a nurse for nearly two years but started her journey six years ago as a patient care assistant on the same unit. Inspired by her experiences and supported by Banner’s tuition assistance program, she pursued nursing studies at Central Arizona College and graduated in 2023.
She recalled forming a special bond with a patient during her time as an assistant. After this patient’s passing, Purewal learned that she had left funds for her education. This gesture further motivated her commitment to nursing.
Despite the challenges of her role, Purewal has learned not to take work stress home and encourages others to seize opportunities in nursing. “Knowing that Banner offers tuition assistance gave me more confidence that I could, in fact, do it,” she said. “If there’s someone in your corner rooting for you, don’t hesitate to jump at that opportunity.”
Banner Baywood Medical Center is an acute care facility providing various medical services including stroke care and emergency services.
