Which class do you teach online?
NURS 3141: Foundations of Professional Nursing for the RN to BSN
What do you want students in your courses to learn? What is the learning outcome or objective?
I want students to learn about the foundations of our profession—from the history to the essential elements of modern-day practice—so that they can be prepared to enter their careers as informed, empowered professionals.
Why did you start teaching?
I have always loved working with people who are learning new skills and developing into a new role or identity. Participating in the process of growth and empowerment is so fulfilling!
What advice would you give to those considering the online RN to BSN program?
Lifelong learning is a critical aspect of safe nursing care. Every aspect of this program has something to offer you and your patients; approach it with a desire to be the best nurse you can be and you'll see great results!
What qualities make someone particularly successful in nursing?
Deep respect for each person as an individual is the basis for providing safe, high-quality, person-centered care. A good nurse sees the details, steps back and looks at the big picture, asks questions rather than being complacent, and works with the team to give the best possible care. If you can understand the patient's goal and rally a team to help them achieve that goal, you've done your job.
What do you think is the biggest challenge that people in nursing face today?
I see nursing balancing between its identity as a service-oriented, caring profession and its identity as a highly-educated, highly-capable group of diverse professionals. I think it's critical in today's healthcare context that we embrace both identities and use our united professional voice to speak for our patients (both sick and well) and our profession.
What is the one book you think everyone should read?
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students might not know.
I grew up in a small town in Tanzania, located in East Africa.
