Margaret Zimmerman, RN
Margaret Zimmerman is a seasoned Registered Nurse whose career reflects more than two decades of dedication, resilience, and unwavering patient advocacy. Her journey in healthcare began at just 14 years old as a candy striper, followed by 13 years working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in obstetrics before earning her RN in 2004. She later obtained her BSN from Kaplan University, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA—an achievement that led to her being featured in the university’s promotional campaigns across the Quad Cities. Margaret’s extensive clinical background spans hospice, home health, critical care, school nursing, and education, showcasing her versatility and commitment to delivering compassionate care across diverse patient populations.
In addition to her clinical work, Margaret has made a meaningful impact as an educator and mentor. She has taught nursing at Eastern Iowa Community College and Kaplan University, helping to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. A certified BLS instructor, she has also played a vital role in training others in life-saving skills. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Margaret stepped up as a top vaccinator for Hy-Vee and CVS, contributing significantly to public health efforts by helping vaccinate communities across eastern Iowa. Her dedication to service and excellence has been a consistent thread throughout her career, earning her recognition early on, including a nomination for All-American Nurse.
Margaret’s story is also one of remarkable perseverance. Between 2016 and 2020, she faced serious health challenges, including the placement of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Despite these obstacles, she made a strong return to the profession she loves and continues to serve patients today through home health care for veterans under VA contracts. Known for her “old-school” nursing values, Margaret believes in being highly skilled, adaptable, and fully present for her patients. Looking ahead, she plans to further her education by pursuing her Nurse Practitioner degree, continuing her lifelong mission to advocate for and care for others at the highest level.
• Eastern Iowa Community College
• Kaplan University BSN
• BLS instructor
• RN
• BSN
• All-American Nurse nomination 2004
• Kaplan University promotional feature
• Sigma Theta Tau (pending confirmation)
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Hospice
- Home health
- Educator
- Critical care
- School nurse
- Vaccinator
- Advocacy for patients
- Working with veterans
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most about nursing is being an advocate for my patients and their families. I'm passionate about patient advocacy - it's a core part of who I am as a nurse. I've worked countless free hours over the years because I believe in going above and beyond for my patients. Recently, one of my patients who was a former nurse herself sent me a card calling me her 'angel of mercy,' which I keep on my refrigerator. That kind of recognition from patients reminds me why I do this work. I believe in being there for my patients in every way possible, even when it means giving my time freely.
Locations
Veterans Affairs
Maquoketa, IA 52060