Many nurses throughout history have left distinguished legacies of excellence in a variety of ways. What impact might you have on patients that you encounter every day?
Past and current challenges in nursing and health care have been met by exemplary nurse leaders. Each exhibited, or exhibits, an enhanced focus and ideation, enriched values, purpose, and grit! Successful nurse leaders are equipped to be effective thinkers, communicators, motivators, and champions of personalized health care.
Nurses continue to build upon a rich legacy of innovations and commitment to meet issues of nursing and health care. Florence Nightingale, for example, was highly educated, focused on a path of lifelong discovery, and dedicated to knowledge and science in the service of others. Her legacy created a better society.
Your individual nursing legacy is an integral part of the legacy of nursing. Reflect on how you want your nursing career to be remembered. Envision what you want to leave to the profession in the areas of practice, education, and research. Make a conscious decision to plan deliberately what your legacy will be, rather than just letting it happen.
Instructions:
Post a 3-paragraph response (of at least 350 words) to the following.
- The 200thbirthday celebration of Florence Nightingale and the World Health Organization’s designation of 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife created an exciting opportunity to elevate and empower nursing.
- Describe a challenge in nursing. As a nurse leader, share at least two solutions to meet that specific challenge based on current proposals and/or inspiration derived from past nurse leaders’ expertise and experiences.
- At least 3 references.
- The 200th birthday celebration of Florence Nightingale and the World Health Organization’s designation of 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife indeed provided an exceptional opportunity to recognize and honor the vital role of nursing in healthcare. As a nurse, my impact on the patients I encounter every day is significant. I strive to provide compassionate and evidence-based care, ensuring the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of my patients. By actively listening to their concerns, involving them in their care decisions, and advocating for their needs, I aim to create a positive and empowering experience for each individual. Moreover, I continuously seek opportunities for professional growth, staying updated on the latest advancements in healthcare and incorporating innovative practices into my nursing practice. Through my dedication and commitment to excellent patient care, I aspire to leave a lasting legacy that contributes to the advancement of nursing and healthcare.
- One of the challenges in nursing is the shortage of nursing staff. This issue can lead to increased workloads, fatigue, and compromised patient safety. To address this challenge, nurse leaders can propose two solutions:
a. Advocate for increased funding and resources: Nurse leaders can actively engage in conversations with healthcare administrators and policymakers to advocate for increased funding and resources allocated to nursing. This can involve highlighting the importance of adequate staffing levels to ensure optimal patient outcomes and employee well-being. By collaborating with other healthcare professionals and organizations, nurse leaders can amplify their voices and influence positive change.
b. Promote professional development and retention: Nurse leaders can develop and implement strategies to promote professional development and enhance nurse retention. This can include creating opportunities for career advancement, providing mentorship programs, and offering incentives such as tuition reimbursement or flexible work schedules. Additionally, fostering a positive work environment that recognizes and values the contributions of nurses can significantly impact their job satisfaction and desire to remain in the profession.
- References:
a. American Nurses Association. (2021). Year of the Nurse and Midwife. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/continuing-education/2020-year-of-the-nurse-and-midwife/
b. Delgado, C., Upton, D., & Ranse, K. (2020). Nurse leaders’ response to COVID-19: Lessons learned from the Ebola virus disease outbreak. Journal of Nursing Management, 28(8), 1659-1669.
c. Kovner, C. T., Brewer, C. S., Fatehi, F., & Jun, J. (2020). What does nurse turnover rate mean and what is the rate? Policy, Politics, & Nursing Practice, 21(3), 174-187.