Meet Khyle Jackson, a dedicated and experienced nurse who’s described as “an integral part of our team. We can’t imagine working without him!” He talked to us about his entry into nursing and why he loves working in Indigenous health.
Hi Khyle! So tell us – how did you get into nursing?
It kinda happened accidentally. My dad is a retired CRNA and I never wanted anything to do with “medicine.” When I started college I was an accounting major with hopes of becoming a FBI or DEA agent. I ran into a friend from HS who worked on an ambulance and asked how he got that job thinking it might be cool.
After starting the EMT-Basic course, my first thought was, “Man, this is pretty cool.” The second week I thought, “Man, this is REALLY cool.” The third week I changed my major to nursing and here I am 37 years later. I wouldn’t change much of anything either.
Sounds like the right fit. How did you connect with Tribal Health ?
A friend called me around March and asked if I would be interested in working on a reservation. I couldn’t do anything until the fall, and started the process around September, ending up at Pine Ridge in December 2024. I feel like God puts me right where I need to be so I try to follow that the best that I can.
Was it your first time caring for Indigenous patients?
I worked in Phoenix as a Flight Nurse in 2003, 04, 05. On my off time, I worked at an Indian Hospital as a contract nurse. Other than that, this was my first experience.
What’s your favorite part of working there?
I wanted to come out here for a few reasons and one of those being learning about the Indian culture. After being here, the people I work with are great, the area is great, and the weather is great compared to South Alabama. So there are several reasons.
I feel pretty close to the team; I try to be a team player wherever I go. Everyone here is incredibly helpful so it makes everything better with that attitude. The relationship between RNs and MDs is very easy as well. You get a feeling of appreciation and that you’re part of the whole process.
That’s important. What do you do in your spare time ?
I’m definitely a family man so anything I do, I want it to be with my family. I live at the beach in Alabama – so plenty of outdoor hobbies. My 2 boys and I are either hunting, fishing, or doing some type of “project.” My daughter has a one-year-old who has now become the highlight of our lives. So, with all of that my spare time has become sparce … but I love every minute of it.
Thanks, Khyle!
