Area I: Knowledge of Human Cultures and the Physical and Natural World
Having had a Liberal Arts education has provided me a foundation for seeing the world through a wide lens. This has provided me an expanded view of nursing and the care I have provided over the years. In nursing, we are encouraged to look at the 'system' and to recognize all things are connected. This system is our focus when delivering care - whether it be an individual, family or community. There is much more to providing care than focusing on one aspect, thus this expanded knowledge is essential for ensuring holistic care.
Area II: Intellectual and Practical Skills
Area III: Personal and Social Responsibility
I have attended several Quality and Safety conferences in Chicago. In these meetings, we heard from families that lost loved ones due to errors in healthcare. The goal of these conferences were intended to highlight the need to improve patient quality and safety in healthcare. There is an ongoing need to continue learning what works and what doesn't. As most things - change is inevitable thus the need to continue to gain and apply new information is necessary to keep up with the changing environment. I was part of engaging new practices to ensure safety and quality. As a nursing faculty, I am committed to continue to share the messages I heard and to assist students to see their role in ensuring quality and safety is delivered to all populations they choose to serve.
Area IV: Integrative and Applied Learning
Throughout my nursing career, I have been introduced to new information. I have been approached with those questioning current care procedures. These opportunities have allowed me to access new knowledge and apply to new situations. Previous learning and experience have been used throughout my career. There have been many opportunities to use past knowledge and apply to current situations. Networking has proven to be beneficial. Not only having experts in another filed be available for opinion, it is also a great way to share information. Having this connection between previous and new learning provides a stronger foundation for practice.
