Why are you passionate about nursing?

For those who are looking for a career where there is never a doubt if you are making an impact-- nursing is the right choice. It requires high levels of intelligence, stamina, resilience, and teamwork. The field of nursing presents a tremendous number of options (from informatics to intensive care nursing to community health) and allows for excellent career progression over a lifetime. One of the greatest privileges of my life has been being a nurse/nurse practitioner.

I am passionate about nursing because I have been a patient myself. In 2013 I went from being a normal, healthy 22-year-old, to fighting for my life on a ventilator. I will never forget staring into the eyes of those caring for me during sedation rest periods and being at peace because of their care. After 6 days in the hospital, my passion for nursing was solidified. Today, I am a nurse practitioner in the urgent care setting, living out my passion for nursing. It is an honor to get to care for others and hopefully provide that same peace to my patients that was provided to me over a decade ago.

I recall a personal concern of mine in my high school days as to what my "calling" was in life. I attended St. Francis Borgia High school in Washington, MO, and we spoke of vocation, as opposed to profession or a job to make a living. I know I have always been called to serve, and despite my doubts and trying times, am thankful that I've always followed God's command in my life through nursing. In my freshman year of nursing school, at St. Louis University I was assigned from the start to read a book entitled, "The Art of Nursing" by Carolyn Cooper. Staring at the title, let alone reading the content, I tried to comprehend what that meant. With time and further pursuit, I know undoubtedly nursing is the art of love, empathy, true concern for others, efficacy, selflessness, therapeutic-communication, advocacy; all-the-while being devoted to continued growth of knowledge base and ever-evolving research to assist others in every facet of life. John 13:34-35 "Love one another..."

I’ve always been fascinated by how complex the human body is. Think about it. We're made up of TRILLIONS of unique cells that all serve different functions, & are organized into systems that all work together in a way that makes LIFE possible. For me, that concept is incredible! I wanted to gain a better understanding of the science behind HOW our bodies work. I was equally or even more intrigued by the brain and human psychology. Once I took anatomy and psychology classes my senior year of high school, I yearned to know more. And nursing school seemed like the best place to do that! I wasn’t even 100% sure I wanted to be a nurse when I started. But once I learned there was such thing as Psychiatric Nursing, I knew it was my calling. Today I work with youth who are working through significant trauma and/or mental health challenges, and I can't imagine doing anything else. Watching their transformation in treatment is one of the most rewarding parts of being a nurse.

It is my passion to care for, and make my patients better. I want every single one of my patients to be treated with the care they deserve and need. I try to achieve this by considering how my own dad would feel in their situation, and how I would want someone to go above and beyond for him; and consider what I could do to achieve that.

My passion from nursing stemmed from my Mom. My Mom worked in the ER in the greater Seattle area for as long as I can remember. She was a single mother but still found so much time to give back so effortlessly to those who needed her most. While I didn't go the bedside route of nursing, her passion and meeting so many of her friends inspired me to create a resource for nurses everywhere. Nurses really do have one of the most impactful jobs in the world and change lives on a daily basis.

This is such a great question because over the years, nursing education and practice has changed. Online and simulation pedagogy seem more popular. However, as I pondered this question, as a nurse practitioner and nurse educator, one thing I refuse to change, what Nightingale promoted and I am passionate about is the essence of nursing - human connection. During the pandemic, we realized the lack of connection negatively impacting both patient and professional. So I am passionate about my wonderful profession precisely because it allows me to fully, artfully and compassionately connect. To be present and helpful with another during challenging and tragic times. Reflecting on my career, I recognize deep gratitude and humility when able to sit with another during intensely troubling times - using my clinical as well as personal skills to be of service - to help one heal, inspire hope and find peace. As a nurse, I certainly gave of myself but I also recognize … I got so much more.

I am passionate about nursing because of the flexibility and mobility it offers. Nursing provides diverse career opportunities, allowing me to work in various healthcare settings, travel, or even pursue international nursing opportunities. This flexibility empowers me to experience different healthcare systems, cultures, and patient populations, continuously broadening my skills and perspective. For example, I could work as a travel nurse, moving between different hospitals or regions, providing care where it is most needed. This level of mobility and adaptability keeps me engaged and excited about my nursing career.

Despite the fact that I am primarily a CEO and dentist, I respect and venerate the nursing profession tremendously. Nurses play a crucial position in the healthcare system, providing essential care and support to patients. My enthusiasm for nursing originates from the profound impact nurses have on the health of their patients. Nurses are frequently the first point of contact for patients, providing reassurance, comfort, and expert care. Their commitment to bettering the lives of others is genuinely admirable. In my dental practice, I've had the honor of working with exceptional nurses and observing their compassion and skill firsthand. In addition, the nursing profession's emphasis on lifelong learning and flexibility corresponds with my values as a healthcare professional. Their unceasing pursuit of knowledge and skill development is commendable and necessary for providing high-quality care. I admire and love nurses and their vital role in healthcare, even though I'm not one.

I am passionate about nursing because of the job security it offers. Nursing is a profession that is always in demand, ensuring stable employment opportunities. The healthcare industry constantly requires skilled nurses to provide care and support to patients. This demand for nurses provides a strong sense of job security and stability in the field. For instance, even during economic downturns or uncertainties, nurses continue to be essential and valued members of the healthcare team. This stability allows me to feel confident about my career choice and offers peace of mind, knowing that I can build a successful and fulfilling nursing career.

Nursing has allowed me to combine my love for people and my appreciation for learning. There is no limit to learning as a nurse, and there is no limit to loving as a human. It is a privilege to care for many in their most vulnerable moments, sometimes on the worst day of their lives. To be able to witness my patients make great strides in their healthcare journey is incredibly rewarding. Nursing is a career of the heart.

I am passionate about nursing because it allows me to make a significant impact on public health. While providing direct care to individuals is important, nursing also offers the opportunity to educate communities, promote preventive measures, and manage diseases on a broader scale. For example, I have been involved in organizing health campaigns in underserved areas, where I educated the community about health risks and preventive measures, leading to a decrease in the prevalence of certain diseases. By focusing on public health, I can contribute to improving the overall well-being of society and create lasting changes that go beyond individual patient care.