A Spotlight on Education: Shiela Pullen’s Role as Nurse Educator

For Shiela Pullen, becoming a Nurse Educator has been more than just a change in job title — it’s been a deeply fulfilling new chapter. After more than twenty years working in admissions at Hudson Behavioral Health, where she primarily saw patients at their lowest points, she now has the opportunity to walk alongside them in their recovery, growth, and independence.

In her new role, Shiela provides medication oversight for patients living in recovery housing. While patients self-administer their medications, she ensures everything is taken safely and correctly. She also offers guidance during medical procedures and recovery, such as prepping for colonoscopies, supporting those who’ve undergone surgeries, and coordinating with outside doctors to help with follow-up care.

Her responsibilities go beyond medication. Shiela plays a vital role in infection control and health education. From teaching the importance of handwashing to monitoring food safety — like how long food lasts in the fridge or the importance of labeling — she equips patients with knowledge that prevents illness and promotes healthier living environments.

One of the most rewarding parts of this role for Shiela is witnessing patients move forward in life. Instead of only meeting them in crisis, she now sees their progress firsthand — whether it’s earning back a driver’s license, paying off fines, returning to school, or pursuing higher education opportunities.

“Seeing patients reclaim their lives and independence is so fulfilling,” said Shiela. “I have the opportunity to educate our patients about the importance of staying consistent with both physical and mental health treatments, and it’s rewarding to know that this has a meaningful impact on their future success.”

Unlike admissions, where she was tied to an office, Shiela now thrives on being out and about, visiting different facilities, and connecting directly with patients in both men’s and women’s housing. At Broad Street House, which supports people in the later phases of recovery, she stays especially busy. Many residents there are preparing to live independently — working jobs, saving money, and building a future. This is also when patients sometimes feel “well enough” to stop their medications, and Shiela steps in with compassionate education to support sustained recovery.

With most patients dually diagnosed, Shiela balances both medical and mental health needs. Her knowledge, patience, and ability to educate make her role indispensable in helping patients stay on track and thrive in housing programs.

What Shiela loves most about being a Nurse Educator is simple: she gets to see people live again. She’s not just helping with medicine or monitoring health — she’s witnessing transformation. From small daily lessons about handwashing to the big victories of independence, Shiela finds joy in knowing her work makes a lasting difference.