Nicole Radke, CNP

My practice philosophy is to let my patients know that I am present with them at each meeting and that I will not judge them based on their decisions or health care goals. I like to sit down with my patients eye to eye and give them my undivided attention and not to rush them or make them feel like a burden. Everyone deserves to be heard and to feel valued.

Hometown: Sartell, Minnesota

What are you passionate about? My family; they are my support system. Animals, because they love us unconditionally

If I wasn't a provider, I would be an animal shelter or humane society owner. I love animals and have a special place in my heart for them.

Why did you become a provider? Because I wanted to be more involved in the direct care to patients. I wanted to be able to provide recommendations and treatments that improve the quality of life of my patients. I knew this was the career for me early on when I worked in a nursing home in high school as a nursing assistant. I just didn’t know what exact job that would be.

Something I have learned from my patients is that we as providers really can make a difference in our patient’s lives. Each encounter matters and it is important to value each encounter and to really listen to what our patients are telling us.

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is having some of those difficult and challenging conversations about code status and healthcare goals. Getting people to open up and talk about what is really important to them.  I enjoy this challenge because not every provider or every health care worker can get their patients to open up. It takes a special approach and openness to have your patients feel comfortable enough to let you in.