Lauren Amburn Fields, CRCST

Manager, Central Sterile Processing

Happy with Pardee since 2022

Where are you from?

Maryville, TN

What inspired you to join UNC Health Pardee?

I came to Pardee as a traveler in November 2020, when COVID was calming down a bit. I finished my contract, and went to a couple of other facilities, but wanted to come back to Pardee if the opportunity arose.

In November 2021, that opportunity presented itself! I was able to return as a traveler again, and fell in love with Pardee, the team, the community, everything. I stayed for a year as a traveler and then joined Pardee as a full-time employee the following December.

I've since worked hard to help make Central Sterile Processing the best that it can be. Our department plays a crucial role in surgeries, and I help ensure the team gives everything we've got every day. I've am now the manager and am thankful for all the experiences and opportunities I've gained along the way!

Pardee has always felt like home for me, and I'm so grateful that I was given the opportunity to learn and grow here among my amazing colleagues and teams. Everyone here truly cares and puts our patients first and foremost, and that is why I joined the healthcare field – to help people and their families.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

My workday isn't always typical, but that's what makes my job so rewarding. I have the usual meetings, but I also work with my team and others each day to solve problems, come up with new ideas and solutions, and improve our processes. Our field is ever-changing, and it's very rewarding helping my team move forward, striving to exceed standards that are constantly updating and improving.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience that made you feel proud to be part of the UNC Health Pardee team?

During the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, seeing everyone come together to support our teammates and communities was so heartwarming. In the midst of that, those that were able showed up and gave everything they had and then some. It was truly an amazing thing to witness, despite the horrific circumstances.

What do you appreciate most about the culture and community at UNC Health Pardee?

It truly feels like home to me. I have been to many places and have seen less-than-ideal work cultures. Pardee has the best culture and sense of community out of all of the places I have been to and heard about from fellow healthcare professionals. I look forward to coming to work each day and being a part of an amazing team that works hard to provide the best care for our patients and communities.

What is a surprising fact about yourself?

I love glitter!