05/12/2025
As we wrap up Nurses Week, we took some time to chat with Jill Teuscher, RN MSN, our outstanding Chief Nursing Officer, about her career and what nursing means to her. Jill has been at American Fork Hospital since Fall 2023 and is a great example to our nurse leaders and caregivers. We are fortunate to have Jill at American Fork Hospital. Enjoy the conversation!
Why did you decide to go into nursing?
When I was little, my cat had kittens, and it was the coolest experience to watch. Watching that process sparked an interest in me of how amazing our bodies are and how everything works. I kind of became obsessed with the science part of it, and how our bodies work in the disease process and normal functions and loved it. After working in healthcare, I've found it really fulfilling to care for people and that's what keeps me in this line of work. I'm passionate about the supportive and caring experience that we offer along with providing top quality care and patient outcomes.
How long have you been in nursing?
I have been working in nursing since 1998, with 26 years of that being with Intermountain Health.
What does your role as Chief Nursing Officer entail?
My role is to ensure a safe, high-quality experience in our hospital. There are many facets to that, but it boils down to providing an exceptional experience for our community members. I get to work with other caregivers who are also equally committed to the same mission of helping people live the healthiest lives possible.
What has been a memorable nursing experience during your career?
Recently, I was rounding on our mom-baby unit and noticed a grandma standing outside the nursery, gazing lovingly at her new grandchild. I took the opportunity to engage in a conversation with her about her experience transitioning into daily life as a grandma. She shared how this new role brought immense joy and a sense of fulfillment, as she was now able to support her daughter in ways she had always hoped for.
She spoke about the excitement and challenges of being a new grandma, from the sleepless nights to the heartwarming moments of holding her grandchild. It was evident that her presence was a pillar of strength for her daughter, providing not only practical help but also emotional support during this significant life transition.
This interaction was truly heartwarming, as it highlighted the importance of family support during such a pivotal time. The grandma's ability to be there for her daughter and grandchild created a nurturing environment, fostering a sense of unity and love within their new little family. It was a beautiful reminder of the profound impact that family connections have on our lives, especially during moments of change and growth.
What would you tell someone who is trying to decide whether they want to go into nursing?
It's been a great career for me, and I have loved it even more than I thought I would. This is meaningful for your life to be caring for others. The other great part with nursing is you can do something different every few years. You can work in Med-Surg, intensive care, surgical services, education, quality, Life Flight, or with the community. There are so many opportunities. You can take your nursing career in so many different directions.
Where do you see nursing going in the coming years?
We have more opportunities because of technology. Advances in technology can make it easier for nurses to spend time with their patients. We can document more efficiently, which gives us more time to be with our patients and care for their needs. With that added time at the bedside and the help of technology, nurses can help people better understand the complexities of their disease process and help them transition safely back home and back to a healthy life. It will become increasingly important for nurses to understand and leverage technology as it can help us do the right thing and be more connected to that individual and their journey. It will make us better at what we do.
