Paula Haggerty, M.B.A., B.S.N., RN

Clinical Nurse Manager
Pre-Surgical Testing Department

First UTSW job: ECT nurse, providing pre- and post-care to patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy.

Best part about my job: Being involved at the beginning of patients’ surgical journeys. It’s gratifying to ensure patients are preoperatively optimized and have a positive experience.

What energizes me at work: Whether it’s ensuring thorough pre-surgery testing or simply providing a reassuring word to a patient or team member, I feel energized by the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others. Collaborating with the Pre-Surgery Testing team also is invigorating.

How co-workers describe me: Resourceful and dependable. I’m always looking for ways to improve processes and make things run more smoothly, and I’m always willing to go above and beyond to help out my colleagues and serve our patients.

Recipe for success: Compassion. Having a deep sense of empathy and care for others has enabled me to build strong relationships with colleagues and patients as well as navigate challenging situations with grace and understanding.

Funniest UTSW memory: That had to be when a woman tried to sneak her pet dog into the hospital in a baby stroller to be with her husband, who was the patient.

I wish I were an instant expert in: The area of disadvantaged youth. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to support young people who face systemic barriers and challenges.

I’m really good at: Gardening. I’ve cultivated an impressive collection of different plant species in my home. There’s something incredibly calming about tending to plants and watching them grow, and it’s a great way to escape from the stresses and pressures of everyday life.

Hobbies: Traveling, shopping, watching crime TV shows, and spending time with family – especially my two adult daughters.

Surprising fact: Growing up, I aspired to become a police officer. The desire to serve others and make a positive impact on the world remains a fundamental part of who I am, and it’s something that I strive to embody in everything I do.

Claim to fame: My parents and I established a college scholarship for high school students. It is named in honor of my late grandmother, Fannie Russell, who was a strong advocate for education and believed in the transformative power of learning.