Healing Heart: Terry Snow, LPN, CPI Instructor

Nashville General Hospital Licensed Practical Nurse

Terry Snow, LPN, CPI Instructor, was working as a mechanic in the National Guard when his commanding officer informed him he was being sent to a medical unit and his next step was nursing school. That was more than 38 years ago. Following five years working in emergency medical services on an ambulance, Terry joined Nashville General Hospital in 1989.

“Nashville General has been a big part of my family’s history,” says Terry. “My wife, mother-in-law, sister-in-law and sister have all worked here. And now, my granddaughter goes to school here.”

Having grown up in a small town, Terry appreciates the diverse population served by the hospital and the lessons they’ve taught him.

“Here at Nashville General, you’re guaranteed to meet many people from all races, religions and creeds. When you meet different people every day, you have the opportunity to learn something different each day,” says Terry. “In my 30 years here, I’ve learned a lot. Humility is at the top of the lessons I’ve learned”.

When not at work, Terry enjoys gardening, woodworking and cooking.

What do you like about working at Nashville General Hospital?

The people I work with. They are very supportive and I can talk with them about anything. I also like that when people leave to work at other hospitals they sometimes come back here. There’s some secret sauce going on that keeps people here and brings them back.

How has nursing changed during your career?

Medicine has improved a lot. We had probably four or five antibiotics when I started. We have a lot more now and some we don't use anymore. Procedures have changed, too. When I started, if you had a heart catheterization you laid flat on your back for six hours and couldn't move your leg. Now we can do them in a way so you’re active almost right away. It used to be if you had hip surgery you're walking around like Frankenstein because you couldn't put your legs together. Now people are having hip surgery and going home the same day.

Who inspires you?

I’m inspired by people who try to make things better. You can tell that some people, no matter the profession, are doing the job just for a paycheck. But then there are people who truly care and want to make things better. If we all tried to make things better, it would be better for everyone.