Meet Our Team: Katie

When every second counts, the community counts on Idaho Falls Community Hospital. So many people make it possible for us to be ready for all of life’s unexpected emergencies and we are proud to have each and every one of them on our team. Our employees are hardworking, compassionate, dedicated and definitely worth getting to know.

So we cannot wait to introduce you to Katie Arehart, Surgical Services Clinical Team Lead. We asked the questions and Katie answered in her own words.

What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?

As a child, I grew up watching "Rescue 911" and "ER". I knew I wanted to do something like that when I grew up. I never pictured myself doing anything but working in healthcare. 

What gets you excited to go to work each day?

I LOVE the people I work with, and I think surgery in fascinating. It's amazing what we can do for our patients. 

How would you describe your job to a group of five-year-olds?

When people are sick or have an owie, I help make them better. 

What is the one thing you do to stay healthy?

Exercise. Every weekday, I'm up at 4 a.m. for the gym. I'm a firm believer movement is medicine. I'm more of a morning person than night owl, so I find it easier to be consistent early in the morning. 

Do you have a secret talent no one knows about?

I can fall asleep in an instant! Just ask my husband, the second I sit down on the couch I'm out. This is why I can't sit still for too long, just ask my co-workers. I'm always on the go!

If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? 

I would have the ability to feel rested and energized on less sleep. I often think about all I could get done if I didn't have to sleep! 

How do you like to spend time outside of work?

I love to spend time with my family. We ski in the winter and we spend the summers at the softball fields. 

What is something you saw recently that made you smile?

My family and I recently returned from a vacation where we were able to swim with dolphins. It was SO FUN. Watching my kids’ excitement was amazing, and, let's be honest, I was just as excited as they were. 

When you were a kid, what did you want to do when you grew up?

A flight nurse, or something in emergency medicine. In college, I discovered surgery and never looked back. The operating room is my second home! I love working in surgery. 

What is one thing everyone should have on their Idaho Falls bucket list?

Eat at the Snakebite, walk/jog along the Greenbelt, see the 4th of July fireworks, go to the Farmer's Market, check out Love at First Bite at Snake River Landing, go to Pick Me Up or Hip Sip, get a milkshake from Scotty's, have dinner on the patio at Sandpiper. Clearly, I like to eat. 

When you’re having a bad day, what do you do to turn it around?

I find a place to be alone and feel what I need to feel, grab a Diet Dr. Pepper, take a deep breath and move on. Every day isn't a good one, but there is something good about every day!

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Organized, motivated, genuine.

What is one item you cannot leave home without?

How about 3? Chapstick, water bottle, and my phone.