We recently connected with Susan McGrath and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Susan, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
In the heart of the bustling medical world of Los Angeles, I embarked on a nursing career that would take me through the corridors of critical care units, trauma centers, and even across continents on medical missions. Graduating from nursing school in 2004, I honed my skills at Northridge Hospital in Los Angeles before embracing
the life of a traveling/registry RN, leaving my mark at renowned institutions such as Cedar Sinai, Kaiser West L.A. Hospital, and Huntington Hospital.
My turning point came in 2008 when I moved to Orange County, CA, immersing myself in the challenging realms
of Mission Hospital and the University of California Irvine. Specializing in wound care and trauma, my journey
continued into the burn ICU, where I discovered a passion for dermatology and plastic surgery care. From
there, I began my credentialing and successfully completed all courses at Advance Aesthetic Nursing at College of Medical Aesthetics. Amidst my busy career, I also found time for philanthropy, participating in
medical missions to Peru, South America, and Cambodia with the Hand of Hope Organization.
But my story isn’t just about professional accomplishments; it’s a testament to personal resilience
My philosophy is – Looking good starts with feeling good, and resonates throughout my journey. My commitment to quality-based work and unwavering loyalty to elevating and advancing my craft and relationships reflect a person who has conquered not only the professional world but also personal demons. My story is an ode to the triumph of the human spirit—a journey from brokenness to empowerment, from critical care to aesthetic excellence, and from addiction to a life filled with purpose.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
In my 20 years as a registered nurse, with 15 of those devoted to the field of aesthetics, I have cultivated a deep understanding that transcends the surface-level desires of those seeking aesthetic treatments. Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered individuals from various walks of life—people grappling with mental health, trauma, PTSD, grief, those in the midst of transformations, and the bonds of family, such as mothers, daughters, fathers, and sons. These encounters have profoundly shaped my perspective, teaching me that in the field of aesthetics, empathy and hope play pivotal roles.
My nursing duties in aesthetics extend far beyond the surface, involving a unique blend of medical expertise and compassionate care. Beyond the injections, lasers, and treatments, my mission is to serve as a guide, helping individuals rediscover the radiant essence within themselves. It’s a journey that goes beyond mere appearances, delving into the core of self-love and empowerment.
In my hands as an aesthetic nurse, beauty transforms into more than just a physical enhancement—it becomes a celebration of each person’s unique journey. I’ve learned that true beauty emanates from within, and my role is to help others unveil that inner radiance. Whether it’s providing support to someone dealing with the aftereffects of trauma or guiding a client through a transformative journey, every interaction is an opportunity to instill confidence and self-worth.
As I navigate the intricacies of aesthetic nursing, I’ve come to understand that the mirror reflects more than just physical attributes; it mirrors one’s sense of worthiness and self-esteem. Through artistry and compassionate care, I aim to make a lasting impact that transcends the superficial and touches the soul.
Empathy is the cornerstone of my practice, as I comprehend that each person has a unique narrative, and their reasons for seeking aesthetic treatments are deeply personal. It’s about creating a safe space where individuals can express their desires, fears, and aspirations, knowing that they are heard and understood.
Through the years, my mission has evolved into a journey of empowerment, guided by the belief that true beauty is an internal force waiting to be recognized. In the realm of aesthetics, I’ve witnessed the transformation of not only physical appearances but also the renewal of self-esteem and a rekindling of inner strength.
In essence, my mission resonates with the understanding that aesthetic nursing is more than a job—it’s a calling to illuminate the beauty that exists beyond the skin’s surface. It’s about helping others embrace their unique journeys, instilling confidence, and fostering a sense of empowerment that extends far beyond the confines of a treatment room.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Adaptability:
Looking back, adaptability was a crucial quality that significantly impacted my journey. The ability to navigate through changes, whether in the workplace or personal life, allowed me to stay resilient and thrive in various situations.
Advice: Embrace change and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Know that taking accountability is important. Develop a mindset that sees adaptability as a valuable skill, and actively seek experiences that take you out of your comfort zone.
Continuous Learning:
Throughout my journey, a commitment to continuous learning proved to be a game-changer. Staying informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and new methodologies enhanced my skills and kept me relevant in my field.
Advice: Cultivate a habit of lifelong learning. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences in your field, and stay curious. Seek mentorship from experienced individuals, and never underestimate the power of expanding your knowledge base.
Effective Communication:
The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, played a pivotal role in my journey. Whether interacting with colleagues, superiors, or clients, clear communication fostered understanding and collaboration.
Advice: Hone your communication skills by actively listening, articulating ideas clearly, and seeking feedback.
Advice for those early in their journey:
Build a Strong Network:
Foster professional relationships and build a network within your industry. Attend networking events, connect with peers, and seek mentorship. A strong network can provide guidance, support, and valuable opportunities.
Embrace a Growth Mindset:
Approach challenges with a growth mindset, viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement. Embrace a positive attitude toward learning from experiences, and use failures as stepping stones toward success.
Set Clear Goals:
Establish clear and achievable short-term and long-term goals. Having a roadmap for your journey will help you stay focused and motivated. Regularly revisit and revise your goals as you progress and evolve in your career.
Seek Feedback and Learn from Criticism:
Be open to feedback and constructive criticism. Actively seek opportunities for improvement, and view feedback as a valuable tool for personal and professional development. Use it as a guide for refining your skills and approaches.
Balance Ambition with Patience:
While ambition is essential, balance it with patience. Success often takes time, and recognizing the value of patience will help you persevere through challenges without becoming discouraged. Trust the process and stay committed to your journey.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
One prevalent challenge in the field of aesthetic nursing I find is the existence of misconceptions within society about the nature of aesthetic procedures and the role of aesthetic nurses. These misconceptions often stem from societal pressures, media portrayals, and an overall lack of understanding of the nuanced responsibilities and qualifications of aesthetic nurses.
Perception of Superficiality:
Misconception: Aesthetic nursing is sometimes perceived as solely concerned with superficial beauty and vanity, overlooking the profound impact it can have on a person’s self-esteem and mental well-being.
Reality: Aesthetic nursing goes beyond superficial enhancements. Skilled professionals in this field understand the psychological and emotional aspects of their work, promoting self-confidence and empowering individuals to feel comfortable in their own skin.
Lack of Medical Credibility:
Misconception: Aesthetic procedures are occasionally viewed as less serious or medically significant compared to other healthcare practices, leading to a misunderstanding of the rigorous medical training and expertise required for aesthetic nursing.
Reality: Aesthetic nurses are highly trained medical professionals who often have backgrounds in areas like critical care, dermatology, or plastic surgery. They adhere to stringent ethical standards and possess in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology.
Overemphasis on Unrealistic Transformations:
The Stigmatization of Vanity:
Misconception: Seeking aesthetic treatments is occasionally stigmatized as mere vanity, disregarding the legitimate reasons individuals may have, such as addressing signs of aging, improving skin health, or overcoming the aftermath of medical conditions.
Reality: Aesthetic nursing is about holistic care, including the enhancement of physical appearance alongside promoting mental and emotional well-being. Aesthetic nurses often work with patients to address concerns that may have a substantial impact on their overall quality of life.
Addressing these misconceptions requires proactive efforts from aesthetic nurses and the healthcare community as a whole. Educating the public about the comprehensive nature of aesthetic nursing, emphasizing the medical rigor involved, and showcasing the positive impact on holistic well-being are essential steps in dispelling these misconceptions and fostering a more accurate understanding of the profession. Really through one client at a time and social media I have found to help me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://premierskinclinic.com/team/susan-mcgrath/
- Instagram: Susan.RN1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Injector.Susan.RN1/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-mcgrath-rn-cnor/
Image Credits
Christina Gressianu Photographer
