Called back to care: Ally and Shauna’s return to nursing

Ally Burgess and Shauna Allen thought they were ready to say goodbye to nursing.

After decades of caring for patients, building relationships, and navigating the fast-paced world of surgical and emergency nursing, both women retired from their full-time roles. But stepping away entirely didn’t feel quite right, and so they decided to return to Colchester East Hants Health Centre in Truro.

Today, you’ll find Ally and Shauna in the hospital's pre-admission clinic, in part-time roles that allow them to stay connected to their patients and their work, while enjoying a more flexible pace of life.

In the pre-admission clinic, they play a key role in preparing patients for surgery, with the clinic often seeing up to 180 patients per month. This includes completing health assessments, reviewing medical and medication history, and ensuring necessary testing (e.g., bloodwork or scans) is complete.

“The most important thing is to be an advocate for the patient, answer all their questions, and support their education around their procedure, so they are set up for a successful surgery and recovery,” says Ally.

The time before surgery can feel overwhelming and bring about feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. For many patients, their pre-admission appointment is one of the first touchpoints in what can feel like a complex journey.

That is where Ally and Shauna shine.

“We are often one of the first faces that patients will connect with within the surgical program,” says Ally. “The more knowledge we can provide, the better. It gives them a good feeling to know what they can expect next in their surgical journey.”

Shauna describes the value nurses provide in this clinic. “We have a clear pathway for our patients before and after surgery that can help prevent infections and decrease their length of stay in hospital, which in turn benefits not only the individual patient, but others who are waiting for surgery.”

The years of experience Ally and Shauna bring is apparent in the way they connect with patients. Not only clinical experience, but also their deep understanding of what their patients need during their most vulnerable moments. Both women say that offering reassurance, guidance, and clarity helps make the path to surgery easier and makes patients feel supported by a care team that is truly looking out for them.

Nursing is a career that requires great knowledge, skills and heart. This is what drew them back after retiring and continues to sustain them. 

“Retirement is wonderful,” says Ally, “but I miss the hands-on aspect and talking with patients. It’s nice to see them, give them reassurance, and set them up with resources in the community so they have the best possible outcome.”

Shauna agrees, saying, “Our patients are appreciative of what we do, so there is a lot of satisfaction in what we do. We may enjoy our days off in retirement, but we also love coming into the building and knowing we have a purpose and that we are here for a reason.”

Nurses like Ally and Shauna remind us that experience, compassion, and human connection remain at the forefront of every patient’s journey.

Photo (L-R) Shauna Allen and Ally Burgess