Eveliina Heiskari, from Vaasa, graduated as a public health nurse from Vaasa University of Applied Sciences in the spring of 2023. Having worked as a practical nurse since 2009, Heiskari ended up becoming an occupational health nurse somewhat by chance.
Eveliina Heiskari, from Vaasa, graduated as a public health nurse from Vaasa University of Applied Sciences in the spring of 2023. Having worked as a practical nurse since 2009, Heiskari ended up becoming an occupational health nurse somewhat by chance.
“I did not have a clue during my studies that I could find my place in occupational health care. I got an opportunity to do my study-related internship at TT Botnia, and it opened my eyes to this career possibility.”
Heiskari secured a job at TT Botnia basically as soon as she graduated from her studies.
“When I was about to graduate, I was looking for a position where I could utilize my new profession. I found TT Botnia’s job advertisement for an open position in telephone and chat counseling. I sent in my job application and luckily got the job. At this moment, I am the only occupational health nurse at TT Botnia who divides her working hours between remote counseling and occupational health customers.”
The possibility to work remotely makes it easier to combine work and family life.
“Remote working makes it so much easier to balance between work and family, and because I have small children, it was important for me to find daytime work.”
According to Heiskari, the role of an occupational health care nurse, as well as any other job in healthcare, demands great communication skills and empathy.
“Being empathetic, having good listening skills, and strong social skills are basic requirements in healthcare. However, in occupational health care, one must also be able to take initiative and be proactive. In this job, I can plan my workdays, compared to health center and maternity clinic work.”
Heiskari states that the job description of a remote counseling occupational health nurse is varied and allows freedoms in carrying out the work.
“Digitalization doesn’t tie me to any specific location, but it has also brought challenges, as the job description at TT Botnia is completely new. Occasionally, people contact me for remote counseling on matters that aren’t strictly within my expertise, but of course, I still investigate and guide clients forward in those cases. Flexibility is sometimes necessary.”
Heiskari has been satisfied with her career change.
“My work is interesting, independent, and provides opportunities for continuous learning. Flexibility is a great thing during busy times.”
According to Heiskari, learning the new job description has been rewarding but also challenging at times.
“Even though I have the option to work remotely, I still spend most of my workdays at the Vaasa office. It’s nice to meet colleagues, and I’ve received support and advice from them as I’ve been learning. My supervisor also encourages further training, and I’ve always received answers whenever I’ve had questions. I feel that at TT Botnia, there’s a genuine interest in the well-being of the staff, which is evident in the flexible working methods and hours.”
In her free time, Heiskari clears her mind by exercising.
– I go to the gym and attend group fitness classes, and I spend a lot of time outdoors. This helps me cope better with everyday life.
