Nick Viazanko hasn’t been with Tribal Health long, but he’s already won the hearts of our team. Says Zoe Sanabria, RN, “Nick exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and passionate nurse. His unwavering positivity and enthusiasm inspire me; his persistence and commitment to excellence ensure that he consistently goes above and beyond in his role. Nick is just as driven outside of work. Whether he’s at the gym pursuing his fitness goals or traveling to explore new destinations, his zest for life is truly contagious. I am proud to celebrate Nick’s contributions and thank him for being an outstanding member of our team!”
Nick, thank you for talking to us! Where are you from?
I’m from Michigan, specifically the metro Detroit area. If you ever see me around, I can point it out on your hand—since Michigan is shaped like a mitten, your hand works perfectly as a map!
I’ll take you up on that. How did you get into nursing?
During my undergraduate studies, I took a certified nurse assistant (CNA) course and earned my certification. Soon after, I began working night shifts at a hospital in Marshall, Michigan. It was there that I truly witnessed the incredible impact nurses have on their patients, offering care and compassion that made them feel comfortable and at ease. I was inspired not only by the teamwork among the staff but also by how each nurse ensured their patients’ voices were heard. That experience sparked my desire to become a nurse.
As a fun side note, my initials are “NAV,” which in the medical field stands for “Nausea and Vomiting.” It feels like fate—how could I not become a nurse with initials like that?
Did you ever have a different career in mind?
Growing up, I was always drawn to math and science—they were my strongest subjects. My passion for the medical field began during my senior year of high school when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully, it was caught early, and her treatment included four rounds of chemotherapy and a month of daily radiation. As a self-proclaimed “mama’s boy,” I accompanied her to every chemotherapy session, which became my first real exposure to the medical world.
In college, I majored in biochemistry with a minor in psychology, always knowing I wanted to work in healthcare. Initially, I considered working in a lab, becoming a doctor, or pursuing nursing, but it wasn’t until I became a CNA that I realized nursing was my true calling.
What kind of nurse did you want to be?
That decision became clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. After college, I worked as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in a 23-hour observation unit. When COVID hit, our unit closed, and I was reassigned to the ER of a 90-bed Level 1 adult and Level 2 pediatric trauma center. It was there, amidst the fast-paced and organized chaos, that I fell in love with emergency medicine.
After becoming a nurse, I stayed in the ER and started my nursing career in Detroit, Michigan, where I specialized in trauma and pediatric nursing. My journey has solidified my passion for emergency care and the incredible impact nurses can have in critical moments.
When did you start caring for patients in Native communities?
I began caring for patients on Tribal lands in November 2024. While on a previous travel assignment in the Virgin Islands, I met a couple, Steve and Johannie, who had worked night shifts at Pine Ridge, SD. They spoke so passionately about their experiences there, sharing stories that were both exciting and inspiring. Their enthusiasm immediately drew me in, and I knew I wanted to go to Pine Ridge based on their recommendation.
Steve and Johannie introduced me to their recruiter, Zoe, who has since become my recruiter as well. Zoe has been incredible, guiding me through the process and helping me secure an assignment at Pine Ridge. Although I’m new to working on Tribal lands, it’s been an unforgettable and deeply meaningful experience. I look forward to many more opportunities to serve these communities in the future.
What’s your advice to nurses who haven’t worked on Indigenous lands before?
Throughout my nursing career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a variety of cultures, including urban communities, Caribbean populations, and now Indigenous communities. For nurses new to working on Indigenous lands, my advice is to take the time to educate yourself about the history and cultural practices of the area. Equally important is building trust and forming meaningful relationships with your patients. This not only fosters a deeper professional connection but also enhances the quality of care you provide.
After winter, I plan to become more engaged with the community to further immerse myself in the culture. I’m excited to attend community events, such as the Sun Dance Ceremonies, as part of my journey to learn and grow.
One of my coworkers, Kaleigh, recently showed me a mural within the Pine Ridge territory that featured a quote from John Trudell. It deeply resonated with me: “We’re not Indians, and we’re not Native Americans. We’re older than both concepts. We’re the people. We’re the human beings.” This reminder of the strength and identity of the community inspires me to continue learning and honoring their rich heritage.
What are your plans for the future?
At this time, I don’t have any specific long-term plans. I’m still new to working at Pine Ridge and excited about the opportunities here. I’d love to continue working in this community for at least a year if given the opportunity. In the future, I’ve considered the possibility of going back to school to become a CRNA, but for now, that’s just an idea I’m exploring. My focus remains on gaining experience and making the most of my time here.
Thank you, Nick!
