How Elaine Ollerton George Built a Career in Nursing and Community Care

A candid conversation with Elaine Ollerton George about her nursing career, leadership journey, and deep commitment to community care.

Elaine Ollerton George is a respected leader in nursing and healthcare. She works as a Charge Nurse and Clinical Educator in Salt Lake City, Utah. Elaine has over 14 years of experience in medical-surgical care, orthopaedics, telemetry, and step-down ICU. Her career began on a busy hospital floor, where she quickly became known for her calm manner and strong patient care.

Elaine grew up in West Valley City, Utah. She started her healthcare journey in high school through volunteer work. She later earned her nursing degree from Salt Lake Community College and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honours from Western Governors University.

Elaine is more than a nurse. She leads hospital teams, mentors new nurses, and helps improve patient care. She has a deep interest in mental health and is certified in trauma-informed care and crisis intervention. Her leadership helps drive hospital programmes that reduce readmission rates and improve patient transitions.

Outside of work, Elaine is active in her community. She volunteers at local health fairs, school events, and blood drives. She also works with the Salt Lake County Health Department to promote preventive care in underserved areas. In 2022, she was honoured as her hospital’s “Nurse of Distinction.”

Elaine believes in treating every patient like family. Her focus on compassion, teamwork, and education has made her a trusted name in nursing. She continues to inspire others through her work, mentorship, and community service. Elaine Ollerton George is a true leader in healthcare.

In Conversation: Elaine Ollerton George on Nursing, Leadership, and Community Care

Elaine Ollerton George has spent over 14 years working as a nurse in Salt Lake City, Utah. As a Charge Nurse, Clinical Educator, and community health advocate, she’s known for her calm leadership, mentorship, and deep ties to her hometown of West Valley City. In this interview, she shares her journey from a young student volunteer to a respected leader in healthcare, along with her thoughts on the future of nursing.

Q: Tell us about how you got started in nursing. What drew you to it?

I grew up in West Valley City, in a working-class family. My dad worked for the utility company and my mum worked in the cafeteria at a local school. I’ve always been surrounded by people who believed in hard work and helping others.

In high school, I was part of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) group. I also volunteered at Pioneer Valley Hospital nearby. That’s where it clicked for me. I remember helping an elderly woman navigate her way to her appointment. She was so grateful, just for that small act of kindness. It made me realise how much impact healthcare workers can have, even in simple moments.

Q: You took a fairly hands-on route into the profession. Can you share more about your education and early career?

After high school, I went to Salt Lake Community College for my nursing degree. It wasn’t easy—I worked part-time and helped care for my younger siblings at the same time. I earned my Associate of Science in Nursing and started working right away.

Later, I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Western Governors University. It was an online programme, which allowed me to keep working while studying. I graduated with honours, which I’m quite proud of. I believe that learning never stops, especially in this line of work.

Q: What was your first nursing job like?

My first role was on a busy medical-surgical floor at one of Salt Lake City’s main hospitals. It was fast-paced and demanding. But it taught me everything—how to stay calm, how to communicate clearly, and how to juggle multiple patients with different needs.

I also worked in orthopaedics, telemetry, and step-down ICU over the years. Those experiences shaped me into a more well-rounded nurse. Each area taught me something new about patient care, teamwork, and resilience.

Q: Today, you’re a Charge Nurse and Preceptor. How did you move into those leadership roles?

It happened naturally over time. I think people saw that I was calm under pressure and willing to step up when needed.

As a Charge Nurse, I help manage the shift and make sure everything runs smoothly. I also mentor new nurses through the Preceptor role. I remember how hard it was starting out, so I make a point to listen, guide, and encourage others.

Mentorship is important to me. Nursing can be overwhelming, and no one should feel they’re in it alone.

Q: You’ve also done a lot of work around mental health in your field. What inspired that?

I became interested in mental health after seeing how often patients and staff struggled with stress and trauma. I completed training in trauma-informed care and behavioural crisis intervention.

One moment that sticks with me involved a young patient in the telemetry unit who was also dealing with severe anxiety. It wasn’t just about monitoring their heart rate—it was about understanding their emotional state too. That experience reinforced how important it is to treat the whole person, not just the illness.

Q: Outside the hospital, you’re very involved in your community. Why does that matter to you?

West Valley City is my home. I grew up here, and I still live here with my husband Greg and our two children. Giving back is part of who I am.

I volunteer at health fairs, school wellness nights, and blood drives. I’ve also spoken at Hunter High School’s Career Day to encourage young people—especially girls—to look at healthcare careers.

Working with the Salt Lake County Health Department has been rewarding too. We focus on preventative care and helping people in underserved areas manage chronic illnesses. It’s about meeting people where they are and giving them tools to improve their health.

Q: You were named your hospital’s “Nurse of Distinction” in 2022. How did that feel?

It was humbling. I don’t do this job for awards, but it’s nice to be recognised by your peers. That honour reminded me that showing up every day with compassion and dedication makes a difference.

Q: What’s your personal philosophy when it comes to nursing and leadership?

It’s simple: treat every patient like they’re your own family. That mindset has never steered me wrong.

Whether it’s a senior with long-term health issues or a teenager in crisis, I try to listen, show respect, and advocate for their needs. Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about setting an example, lifting others up, and always putting people first.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in nursing?

Start by volunteering. Get a feel for the work. Nursing isn’t easy—it takes patience, stamina, and heart—but it’s also one of the most rewarding paths out there.

And remember, no matter where you start, there’s always room to grow. I started in a small neighbourhood, and here I am now, leading teams and speaking at schools. It’s all about showing up, working hard, and staying true to your values.