FOR REGISTERED nurse (RN) Sieara Ashby, becoming a health care professional was the only option. Ashby, who works with Quality First Home Care, is part of a profession known as home health nursing — a specialized field that brings medical care directly into patients’ homes. Home health nurses support individuals recovering from illnesses, injuries, or surgery, as well as those managing chronic conditions or disabilities. Their work often blends clinical skill with deep human connection, including teaching families how to care for their loved ones while providing treatment, education, and emotional support.
“I love that my patients get my full, undivided attention,” Ashby said. “When I’m with them, they know I’m there for them and not rushing to the next person.”
Ashby’s journey into nursing began when she was just 16 years old, watching her grandmother recover from a series of strokes. “She needed 24-hour care,” Ashby recalled.
“Insurance provided certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to help her. Witnessing the professionalism, kindness, and consistency of those CNAs spoke volumes to me. I realized that this was something I wanted to do.”
Inspired, Ashby completed her CNA training through Donaldson Care Center and earned her LPN from Drake State Community College. She later earned her registered nursing degree from Calhoun Community College. With every milestone, Ashby’s determination blossomed.
THE HEART OF HOME HEALTH
In her current role, Ashby provides medical care and education to patients across Lincoln County. A typical day begins the night before, starting with reviewing care plans, confirming visit times, and preparing supplies.
“I check everything in advance,” she said. “Each home is different, and every patient has unique needs.”
But what truly defines her work is the connection she builds with the people she serves. She recalled one patient whose joy came from tending flowers.
“One morning, I noticed a beautiful garden in the front yard of one of my patients. Even though I know nothing about plants, I expressed how lovely the flowers were to her,” Ashby said with a smile. “From then on, the patient shared a flower update from what was blooming, to how the weather was impacting the soil. That little moment of asking about something she loved helped her sit up! It reminded me and her that she was still herself, not just her illness.”
Ashby said those simple conversations often become the most healing part of her work. “A lot of our patients don’t have much support,” she said. “We may be the only people they see all week. Listening serves as medicine, too.”
BALANCING FAITH, FAMILY, AND SERVICE
A mother of three — Bryce, 13; Xander, 10; and Valerie, 2 — and a caregiver for her own mother, Ashby understands the balance between professional duty and personal care. She credits Quality First Home Care for providing flexibility and a supportive environment.
“I have family and friends who step in and help by grabbing lunch for my mom and taking the kids to practice,” she said. “That support means everything.”
“My faith keeps me grounded,” she said. “Some days are hard, but I believe God placed me here for a reason, and that is to help people heal, not just physically but emotionally, too.”
THE POWER OF UNDERSTANDING
Ashby believes that being a good nurse means having an understanding heart. “Sometimes patients are learning to live with new diagnoses,” she explained. “If they’re struggling to adjust to a new routine, I don’t label them as noncompliant. Instead, I see them as adjusting. Healing takes patience. You have to meet people where they are.”
Ashby reflected on the COVID-19 pandemic. “Even though I was just an LPN in 2020 during the pandemic turmoil, I learned patience and how to ensure the patient was never forgotten.”
That same mindset extends to her colleagues. Whether answering questions or covering extra visits, Ashby said teamwork keeps all the patients cared for. Although the nurses all have full loads, it’s not uncommon for a nurse to help a fellow nurse with her load.
“If someone’s overwhelmed, I’ll step in. I love how we help each other by doing what it takes to make sure every patient gets the care they deserve. It’s good to know that when you need to take a vacation, your patients are taken care of. My mission is to provide patients with the highest quality care they deserve consistently.”
HEALING OUR HOMETOWN
From the moment she watched her grandmother receive care to the countless homes she has visited over the last two years, Ashby believes that healing evolves through listening and understanding.
“I just love what I do,” she said. “Every day I wake up and know that somebody needs me today.” GN
