Employee Spotlight: Arnette Mariano, MSN, BSN, RN, PCCN

Meet Arnette Mariano, MSN, BSN, RN, PCCN, night shift charge nurse at Hendrick Medical Center South (HMCS).

For 25 years, Arnette has found purpose in caring for people as a nurse. Coworkers in the Progressive Care Unit at HMCS describe her as intelligent, reassuring, approachable, kind and many other superlatives. What truly sets her apart, however, is her habit of sharing home-cooked meals reflective of her native Philippine Islands.

"As they say, food is life," said Arnette to explain why she brings pancit, lumpia and other favorite Filipino foods. "This is also one way of showing my appreciation to my coworkers for their hard work."

In 2018, Arnette joined HMCS (then Abilene Regional Medical Center) as a bedside nurse. Two years later, she transferred to the Med-Tele Unit at Hendrick Medical Center (HMC). She returned to HMCS in 2022 in her current role. Her husband, Reymar, is also a registered nurse at HMCS in Renal Dialysis.

Learn more about why Arnette enjoys being a part of Hendrick Health.

Q. How did you become interested in nursing?

I was inspired by my aunt, who is also a nurse in the United States. I realized how rewarding the profession is, and I've been in love with it. I'll continue to be the best nurse God intended me to be.

Q. What is a typical workday?

I work as both a charge nurse and bedside nurse, so I start my day by getting a handoff from the outgoing nurse and assessing the unit's overall needs. In either role, it is still about professionalism and being part of the team where patients receive safe, compassionate care guided by the Hendrick Health mission and vision.

Q. Why have you worked on the night shift for so long?

It balances my time as a nurse, wife and mother. We make sure we still have that family time together, and through the years, the night shift has become something I am comfortable with and enjoy.

Q. What is your advice for anyone considering a nursing career?

Genuinely caring for people is a meaningful career. To be a great nurse takes heart and kindness. It is not easy, but if you truly love it from the bottom of your hypothalamus, you will surely succeed.