Nurse Story
Intentional Influence: Inside the ICU
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I want to remind nurses that where they are today does not limit where they can go ... If my journey helps even one nurse feel understood or inspired to pursue a goal that once felt out of reach, then my platform has served its purpose.
Beatris Gomez
As an ICU nurse and creator of Chronicles of Nursing, the digital brand and platform where she shares her life in healthcare, Beatris Gomez, RN, balances the high-stakes world of critical care with a growing online community. What began as a creative outlet during nursing school has evolved into a thriving community where healthcare workers find connection, laughter and support. Through her work as a speaker and content creator, Beatris uses her platform to remind nurses that they are not alone regarding the demands of their profession. In this interview, she reflects on finding her place in critical care, maintaining boundaries while living in the spotlight, and how sharing her journey helps advocate for and inspire the nursing community.
What drew you to the ICU, and when did you realize critical care is where you belong?
I was drawn to the ICU because I wanted to understand the why behind everything happening with my patients and every intervention I performed. I love the challenge of connecting hemodynamics, lab results and medications to the bigger clinical picture. Critical care pushed me to think ahead and be able to recognize subtle signs of deterioration when a patient’s condition changed within seconds. I realized I belonged in critical care because I felt the most fulfilled when caring for the sickest patients, advocating for them during their most vulnerable moments, and working alongside a medical team to make decisions that could truly change an outcome.
What experience fundamentally shaped who you are at the bedside today?
There are many moments that have fundamentally shaped the nurse I am at the bedside today. Some of those moments were caring for patients whose outcomes I could not change, despite everything the team did. Unsuccessful codes have taught me that being an excellent ICU nurse is not only about saving lives but also about preserving dignity and having compassion.
When did you decide to press record and share your voice on social media?
I was still in nursing school when I decided I would start sharing my nursing journey. Creating content became a creative outlet. What began as something fun eventually became a community where nurses could learn, laugh and feel understood.
With so much noise online, what is the core value, message or support you hope to deliver to the nursing community?
At the core of everything I share, I want nurses to know that they are not alone. Nursing can be physically, emotionally and mentally demanding, but there is an entire nursing community that understands what we are experiencing. I also want to remind nurses that where they are today does not limit where they can go. Whether their goal is to enter a new specialty, travel, earn an advanced degree or become more confident at the bedside, they are capable of achieving it through hard work, dedication and belief in themselves. If my journey helps even one nurse feel understood or inspired to pursue a goal that once felt out of reach, then my platform has served its purpose.
How do you logistically make time for nursing and influencing without burning out?
Honestly, this is something I am still learning to navigate. I have learned that creating boundaries and actually sticking to them is essential. I try to batch content when I have the energy and plan ahead. Giving myself permission to step away on certain days or put the phone away after certain hours is also something that's been helpful.
How do you keep your content rooted in positive intent, authenticity and professional respect while keeping it engaging?
My goal is to always stay true to who I am. Before I share something, I try to consider my intent: Is it helpful? Is it honest? Is it respectful? I believe content can be engaging without compromising compassion or professionalism. That balance can be difficult, especially in a time when healthcare conversations are often surrounded by political noise. However, remaining professional does not mean staying silent about issues that affect our profession.
How do you protect your personal well-being while being so visible online?
I protect my well-being by reminding myself that being visible online does not mean everyone is entitled to every part of my life. I am intentional about what I share and what I decide to keep private. I have also learned that I do not have to engage with every opinion or defend myself to every stranger. Maintaining those boundaries allows me to show up authentically without allowing the internet to disturb my peace.
What message or advice do you have for nurses who want to share their unique voices but might feel intimidated to step into the spotlight?
My advice is to start before you feel completely ready. You do not need a large following or perfect content. Speak from your own experiences, remain rooted in your values and set boundaries.
Follow Beatris Gomez (Chronicles of Nursing)
Instagram & Facebook: @chroniclesofnursing
TikTok: @chroniclesofbeatris