Question
1. Create a professional mission statement (suggested length of 1 paragraph) that includes the following:
• a representation of your career goals, your aspirations, and how you want to move forward with your career
• an overview of where you would like to focus your time and energies within the profession
*********Becoming a nurse is something I worked very hard to accomplish – there were many challenges and obstacles along the way but I ultimately accomplished becoming a nurse shortly before my 30th birthday. I immediately started working in the pediatric emergency room, where I grew to love this career and the people I work with. I am getting my BSN to accomplish the last step in my educational journey. In order to be an employable and hirable nurse a BSN is required now in days so that is why I set forth on my BSN journey. I love what I do currently and would love to continue to work in the pediatric emergency room, I love the controlled chaos and never knowing what will walk in. I am now a mom and would like to focus on my kids in the next couple uyears, and emergency nursing allows me to work as little or as much as I would like. I will continue to look to specialize in pediatric emergency room medicine, and hope to obtain my Certified Pediatric Emergency Nursing Certification (CPEN) within the next two years. **********
a. Reflect on how your professional mission statement will help guide you throughout your nursing career.
2. Complete a professional summary (suggested length of 3–4 pages) that includes the following:
a. Explain how the specific artifacts (examples of written work completed during this program) or completed work or both in your portfolio represent you as a learner and a healthcare professional.
b. Discuss how the specific artifacts (examples of written work completed during this program) in your portfolio represent your professional strengths.
c. Discuss challenges you encountered during the progression of your program.
i. Explain how you overcame these challenges.
***********I started this program with the intention of finishing before I became a mom, but I did not take a direct path like I assumed I would. I found out I was pregnant with twins and had a high risk pregnancy for my first 2 semesters. I then became a mom of twin boys and quickly became overwhelmed with trying to be a new mom, a wife, a nurse, and a full time student. I sought childcare to help but unfortunately discovered my childcare professional hitting one of my twins on a nanny camera. I took a semester off from WGU to focus on my kids and regroup. I surrounded myself with a great support system to help me, and overtime became more comfortable with having people help with my kids. I am now at the very end of my BSN journey and can’t believe that it has finally arrived. I am now expecting my third child, and am excited to see what the future holds with my career and my family. I never lost sight of what my goal was – which was to be able to tell my kids I have my bachelors degree.*************
d. Explain how your coursework helped you meet each of the nine nursing program outcomes.
Note: Refer to the attachment “Nursing Conceptual Model.”
e. Analyze how you fulfilled the following roles during your program:
• scientist
• detective
• manager of the healing environment
f. Discuss how you have grown professionally since the beginning of your program.
B. Complete the following within the section “Quality and Safety”:
1. Reflect (suggested length of 1 page) on your professional definition of quality and safety developed in Professional Roles and Values, including any necessary changes to your definition.
a. Discuss how the program assisted you in developing your professional definition.
b. Identify the artifacts in your portfolio that support your definition.
i. Explain how these artifacts support your definition from part B1.
Note: The artifacts should be attached within the portfolio using the “Printout” feature.
2. Discuss the importance of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) certificate for your future role as a professional nurse.
C. Complete the following within the section “Evidence-Based Practice”:
1. Reflect (suggested length of 1 page) on your professional definition of evidence-based practice developed in Professional Roles and Values, including any necessary changes to your definition.
a. Discuss how the program assisted you in developing your professional definition.
b. Identify the artifacts in your portfolio that support your definition.
i. Explain how these artifacts support your definition from part C1.
Note: The artifacts should be attached within the portfolio using the “Printout” feature.
2. Reflect (suggested length of 1 page) on your understanding of evidence-based practice and applied nursing research by doing the following:
a. Discuss how you are able to evaluate current primary research and apply the concepts to your nursing practice, considering the following:
• relevancy and believability of data
• differences between quality improvement and research (places and uses of each)
• differences between primary and secondary research and resources and the implications of each in clinical practice
b. Explain how your experience in the program helped you achieve excellence in evidence-based practice.
D. Complete the following within the section “Applied Leadership”:
1. Reflect (suggested length of 1 page) on your professional definition of applied leadership you developed in Professional Roles and Values, including any necessary changes to your definition.
a. Discuss how the program assisted you in developing your professional definition.
b. Identify the artifacts in your portfolio that support your definition.
i. Explain how these artifacts support the definition from part D1.
Note: The artifacts should be attached within the portfolio using the “Printout” feature.
2. Summarize (suggested length of 1 paragraph to 1 page) your Learning Leadership Experience task by doing the following:
a. Discuss the importance of professional collaboration for effective nursing leadership.
E. Complete the following within the section “Community and Population Health”:
1. Reflect (suggested length of 1 page) on your professional definition of community and population health you developed in Professional Roles and Values, including any necessary changes to your definition.
a. Discuss how the program assisted you in developing your professional definition.
b. Identify the artifacts in your portfolio that support your definition.
i. Explain how these artifacts support the definition from part E1.
Note: The artifacts should be attached within the portfolio using the “Printout” feature.
2. Summarize (suggested length of 1 page) your Community and Population Health task by doing the following:
a. Discuss what you learned during your Community Health Nursing task.
b. Discuss what you learned that led to your community diagnosis.
c. Discuss how your initial focus and diagnosis evolved after working with your population.
3. Discuss the importance of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) certificate for your future role as a professional nurse.
Answer
- Professional Mission Statement
My mission as a nurse is to embrace the challenges and rewards of providing exceptional care in the pediatric emergency room, where I have found my true calling. Overcoming numerous obstacles, I persevered to become a nurse, achieving this milestone just before my 30th birthday. I am deeply passionate about my work and the incredible team I have worked with. As I pursue my BSN, I recognize the importance of furthering my education to remain employable and enhance my professional growth. My love for the controlled chaos and unpredictability of the pediatric emergency room drives my desire to continue working in this fast-paced environment. Being a mother now, I value the flexibility that emergency nursing offers, allowing me to balance my responsibilities at home while still making a difference in the patients’ lives. As I focus on my family in the coming years, I will actively seek opportunities to specialize in pediatric emergency room medicine and aim to obtain my Certified Pediatric Emergency Nursing Certification (CPEN) within the next two years.
The Significance of the Professional Mission Statement in my Nursing Career
My professional mission statement will guide my nursing career because it reminds me of my core values, aspirations, and goals. The mission statement will give me a sense of purpose and direction, ensuring that I remain focused on what truly matters to me as a nurse. Furthermore, my mission statement highlights the significance of lifelong learning and professional growth, reminding me to continuously expand my knowledge and skills and stay abreast of the latest evidence-based practices and advancements in nursing. By embracing ongoing education and professional development, I can provide the highest quality of care and contribute to advancing the nursing profession.
Also, my mission statement underscores the importance of advocacy and interdisciplinary collaboration, a reminder to be a voice for patients, ensuring that their rights and needs are respected and addressed. My mission statement acknowledges the desire to positively impact individuals, families, and communities, reminding me of my responsibility to address health disparities, promote health equity, and strive for excellence in nursing. Overall, my professional mission statement will serve as a constant reminder of the values and goals I hold dear in my nursing career, guide my decisions, actions, and choices, keeping me on track to fulfill my mission of delivering exceptional care, advancing my skills, advocating for patients, and making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
- Professional Summary
Representation as a Learner
Throughout this program, I have produced various written assignments and research papers that showcase my ability to critically analyze information, communicate effectively, and apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. These artifacts demonstrate my commitment to continuous learning and dedication to delivering high-quality care in the healthcare field. For instance, one of the artifacts in my portfolio is a research paper where I explored the application of holistic nursing theory in patient care. This artifact reflects my understanding of treating patients as whole individuals, considering their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Another artifact that represents me as a learner and healthcare professional is the concept of cultural competence in nursing. In this piece, I explored the significance of understanding and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds in delivering culturally sensitive care. Furthermore, completing a quality improvement project, part of my portfolio demonstrates my ability to apply evidence-based practice and nursing concepts to enhance patient outcomes. Through this project, I utilized the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model to identify areas of improvement and implement changes in a healthcare setting. This artifact reflects my commitment to continuous quality improvement and understanding how nursing concepts like the PDSA model can drive positive patient care changes.
Professional Strengths
The artifacts and written work showcase my strong writing and communication skills, which are essential for effective collaboration and documentation in healthcare. I have demonstrated my ability to convey complex ideas clearly and concisely, enabling effective communication with colleagues, patients, and their families. Additionally, the artifacts reflect my critical thinking skills and ability to analyze and synthesize information from various sources; this allows me to make informed decisions and contribute to evidence-based practice within my healthcare team. These artifacts showcase my skills, competencies, and qualities contributing to my field effectiveness.
One of the artifacts that exemplifies my professional strengths is a comprehensive care plan I developed for a complex patient case study. This artifact reflects my ability to analyze patient data, identify nursing diagnoses, and develop individualized care plans. It demonstrates my critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and clinical judgment, which are crucial for safe and effective patient care. Another artifact that highlights my professional strengths is a research paper I completed on evidence-based practice in nursing. This artifact demonstrates my research skills and ability to evaluate literature and critically incorporate the best evidence into practice. It reflects my commitment to staying current with the latest research and utilizing evidence-based interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Challenges Encountered During the Program Progression
During the progression of my program, I encountered various challenges that tested my resilience and ability to balance multiple roles and responsibilities. Initially, I had intended to complete my program before becoming a mother, assuming I would follow a direct path toward achieving my goals. However, life took an unexpected turn when I discovered I was pregnant with twins, resulting in a high-risk pregnancy that spanned my first two semesters. The demands of being a new mother to twin boys and fulfilling my roles as a wife, nurse, and full-time student quickly became overwhelming. Juggling these responsibilities proved a significant challenge, as I struggled to balance and dedicate adequate time and energy to each aspect of my life. Recognizing the need for support, I sought out childcare assistance to help manage my responsibilities. Unfortunately, this decision brought about another unexpected challenge when I discovered, through a nanny camera, that my childcare professional was mistreating one of my twins. This distressing situation made me prioritize my children’s well-being and take a semester off from WGU to regroup and focus on their care.
How I Overcame the Challenges
Overcoming the challenges I encountered during my program required a combination of resilience, determination, and the support of those around me. When I discovered I was pregnant with twins and faced a high-risk pregnancy, I had to adapt my plans and expectations. I prioritized my health and the well-being of my unborn children by seeking appropriate medical care and making necessary adjustments to accommodate the demands of my pregnancy. I worked closely with my healthcare team to ensure I received support and monitoring. Additionally, I engaged in self-care practices such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and getting adequate rest to promote a positive pregnancy experience.
Being a new mom of twin boys while juggling my responsibilities as a wife, nurse, and full-time student was undoubtedly challenging; I overcame this by seeking support from my spouse, family members, and friends. They provided invaluable assistance with childcare, household tasks, and emotional support; I created a support system that lightened my load and allowed me to focus on my studies and family. The unfortunate discovery of my children’s mistreatment by my childcare professional was a challenging situation to navigate. It prompted me to prioritize the safety and well-being of my children above all else.; I took immediate action by terminating the childcare arrangement and ensuring the security of my twins. To regroup and address the emotional impact of the incident, I decided to take a semester off from my studies at WGU. The break allowed me to devote my full attention to my children’s care and well-being while seeking support from loved ones and professional counseling.
Over time, I learned to become more comfortable accepting help and delegating tasks, recognizing that doing so was crucial for my well-being and success in my personal and professional life. Now, at the end of my BSN journey, I can hardly believe that I have reached this point; it is a testament to my perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. As I anticipate the arrival of my third child, I am filled with excitement for the future, both in terms of my career and my family. The challenges I encountered during my program have not deterred me but have strengthened my resolve to succeed. I am eager to embark on the next chapter of my life, armed with the knowledge, skills, and personal growth I have gained throughout this journey.
The Significance of the Coursework in Meeting the Nine Nursing Program Outcomes
Throughout my coursework, I have worked towards meeting the nine nursing program outcomes, as outlined in the Nursing Conceptual Model (Mandal et al., 2020). The coursework was crucial in meeting the nursing program outcome, as outlined below;
- Provider of Patient-Centered Care: Through the coursework, I learned to assess individual patient needs, establish therapeutic relationships, and develop care plans that address the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of health.
- Patient Safety Advocate: My coursework emphasized the significance of patient safety; I learned about risk assessment, infection control, medication safety, and error prevention strategies.
- Member of the Healthcare Team: Through collaborative assignments, group projects, and case study analyses, I developed skills in effective communication, interdisciplinary collaboration, and teamwork. The course enhanced my knowledge regarding the importance of shared decision-making, respect for diverse perspectives, and the value of cooperation in achieving optimal patient outcomes.
- Designer/Coordinator of Care: Through the coursework, I gained knowledge of care coordination principles, healthcare systems, and community resources, which are helpful when coordinating with patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care and facilitate seamless transitions between healthcare settings.
- Advocate for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: My coursework taught me a comprehensive understanding of health promotion and disease prevention strategies. I learned about health assessments, patient education, and implementing preventive measures.
- Evaluator of Nursing Practice: The coursework focused on developing critical thinking and evaluation skills to assess the effectiveness of nursing interventions and outcomes. I learned to analyze and interpret data, evaluate nursing research, and apply evidence-based practice to improve the quality of care provided.
- Provider of Culturally Sensitive Care: The coursework enhanced my knowledge about diverse cultural beliefs, values, and healthcare practices. I gained the skills to provide culturally sensitive care by adapting my approach to meet the unique needs of individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
- Manager of Resources: Through coursework in healthcare systems and leadership, I developed an understanding of resource management principles and learned to prioritize and allocate resources effectively, consider cost-effective care options, and advocate for optimal resource utilization to maximize patient outcomes.
- Leader/Change Agent: Through assignments and projects, I gained knowledge of leadership theories, strategic planning, and quality improvement initiatives. I learned to identify opportunities for change, develop implementation strategies, and engage in ethical and professional decision-making.
How I Fulfilled the Following Roles;
- Scientist: The coursework enabled me to think critically, engage in research, and apply evidence-based practice. I learned to analyze research findings, integrate evidence into practice, and contribute to developing nursing knowledge.
- Detective: I honed my skills as a detective by utilizing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. I learned to gather and analyze data, identify patterns, and make informed clinical judgments to enhance patient outcomes.
- Manager of the Healing Environment: Through coursework in healthcare systems and leadership, I learned about organizational culture, patient advocacy, and quality improvement strategies crucial in healing.
Professional Growth Since the Beginning of the Program
Since the beginning of my program, I have experienced significant professional growth. I have expanded my knowledge base, developed essential clinical skills, and honed my critical thinking abilities. I have gained a deeper understanding of nursing theories, concepts, and evidence-based practice. Additionally, my coursework has allowed me to cultivate strong communication and teamwork skills, enhancing my ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams and patients. I have learned to navigate challenges and setbacks academically and personally while remaining focused on my goals. Through self-reflection and self-care practices, I have prioritized my well-being and maintained a healthy work-life balance. My journey through the program has transformed me into a more confident, knowledgeable, and well-rounded healthcare professional.
- Quality and Safety
- My Professional Definition of Quality and Safety
Reflecting on my professional definition of quality and safety developed in Professional Roles and Values, I have realized the importance of continuous improvement and patient-centered care in ensuring optimal outcomes. I believe quality refers to delivering safe, effective, efficient, equitable, and patient-centered care that meets or exceeds established standards. Conversely, safety encompasses the prevention of harm to patients, healthcare providers, and the healthcare environment through implementing evidence-based practices, risk management strategies, and effective communication (Ricciardi & Cascini, 2021). Through comprehensive coursework, case studies, and practical experiences, I have gained a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts related to quality improvement and patient safety.
I have included several artifacts in my portfolio that support my definition of quality and safety. For instance, the research papers demonstrate my ability to critically analyze research and apply evidence-based practices to improve the quality and safety of patient care. Additionally, as part of my coursework, I engaged in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes and safety. I developed and implemented strategies to promote public healthcare outcomes. The case studies in my portfolio reflect my ability to analyze complex healthcare scenarios, identify areas for improvement, and implement interventions to enhance quality and safety. These case studies cover topics such as patient falls, medication reconciliation errors, and communication breakdowns.
- The Importance of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Certificate for My Future Role as a Professional Nurse
The IHI certificate is essential for my future professional nurse role. Obtaining an IHI certificate signifies a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of evidence-based practices and methodologies that drive quality improvement in healthcare (Dang et al., 2021). The IHI certificate provides me with a solid foundation in process improvement, measurement, and implementation science. As a professional nurse, being proficient in quality improvement methodologies allows me to actively contribute to initiatives that enhance the overall quality of care within healthcare settings. Moreover, the IHI certificate enhances my credibility and professional standing; it is a recognized validation of my expertise in quality improvement, reinforcing my commitment to providing high-quality, safe care.
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Professional Definition of Evidence-Based Practice
The program has been instrumental in developing my professional definition of evidence-based practice. I have comprehensively understood its core principles and processes through coursework, discussions, and engaging with faculty and peers. The program emphasized integrating the best available evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to inform decision-making and enhance patient outcomes. One such artifact is a research project I completed during the program, where I conducted a systematic review of a specific clinical topic. Another artifact that supports my professional definition is a reflective journal entry where I documented my experiences implementing evidence-based practice in a clinical setting. I described the challenges, successes, and lessons learned in utilizing research evidence to guide decision-making and improve patient care. These artifacts collectively support my professional definition of evidence-based practice by showcasing my proficiency in accessing and evaluating research evidence, integrating it with clinical expertise and patient preferences, and implementing evidence-based changes to enhance patient outcomes.
- Understanding of Evidence-Based Practice and Applied Nursing Research
I have gained valuable insights that have shaped my ability to evaluate current primary research and apply its concepts to my nursing practice effectively. Ideally, assessing recent primary research requires considering the relevancy and believability of data. To determine the applicability of data, I analyze the research question and objectives, ensuring that they align with the clinical context. I also examine the study population, interventions, and outcomes to assess their applicability to my nursing practice.
Differentiating between quality improvement and research is crucial in understanding their respective places and uses. Quality improvement focuses on improving processes within healthcare settings to enhance outcomes and efficiency (Teisberg et al., 2020). It is conducted within a specific healthcare organization and aims to address local challenges. In contrast, research seeks to generate new knowledge and evidence to inform practice (Hopkins et al., 2020); it is broader in scope and contributes to the existing body of knowledge in a particular field. Recognizing these differences allows me to identify the appropriate approach for addressing specific issues in my nursing practice.
Differentiating between primary and secondary research and resources is also crucial in clinical practice. Primary research involves original studies that generate new data, while secondary research involves synthesizing and analyzing existing research studies (Ajayi, 2017). In clinical practice, primary research can provide more precise and context-specific evidence, whereas secondary research provides a broader overview and allows for the generalization of findings.
My experience in the program has played a pivotal role in helping me achieve excellence in evidence-based practice. Through coursework, assignments, and discussions, I have developed a strong foundation in research methods, critical appraisal skills, and the ability to access and evaluate scholarly literature. This has enabled me to critically assess current primary research and discern its relevancy and believability for application in my nursing practice. Additionally, the program has fostered a culture of continuous learning and engagement in evidence-based practice. Engaging in research-based assignments, such as literature reviews and evidence summaries, has further enhanced my ability to evaluate and apply research concepts in clinical practice.
- Applied Leadership
- My Professional Definition of Applied Leadership
The program has been instrumental in developing my professional definition of applied leadership. Through coursework, discussions, and practical experiences, I have learned that applied leadership in nursing involves utilizing effective communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills to influence positive change and promote excellence in patient care. Applied leadership requires collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, advocating for patients and their families, and embracing a transformational leadership style that inspires and empowers others (Harton & Skemp, 2022). The program gave me a comprehensive understanding of leadership theories, models, and concepts, which served as a foundation for developing my professional definition. Furthermore, the program emphasized the significance of ethical and culturally sensitive leadership practices and the ability to adapt to evolving healthcare environments and navigate complex organizational systems.
One artifact that supports my professional definition is a reflective journal entry where I documented my experiences in a leadership role during a clinical rotation. In this entry, I discussed the challenges, strategies to overcome them, and outcomes achieved through applied leadership. This artifact demonstrates my capacity to reflect on my leadership practices, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to enhance patient care. This artifact collectively supports my professional definition of applied leadership by showcasing my ability to analyze complex leadership situations, reflect on my experiences, and propose strategies for positive change.
- Summary of Learning Leadership Experience
Professional collaboration is of paramount importance for effective nursing leadership. Nurses often work in interdisciplinary teams in healthcare, requiring collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care. By fostering a culture of collaboration, nursing leaders can enhance communication, promote shared decision-making, and leverage the expertise of diverse team members. The professional partnership allows for exchanging knowledge, ideas, and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions and improved patient outcomes. It encourages mutual respect and understanding among team members, creating a supportive environment where everyone’s contributions are valued. Moreover, collaboration enables effective coordination and integration of care across different healthcare disciplines, ensuring continuity and quality of care. By embracing professional collaboration, nursing leaders can harness the collective strengths and expertise of the team, enhance interdisciplinary communication, and promote a culture of excellence in healthcare delivery.
- Community and Population Health
- Professional Definition of Community and Population Health
The program was crucial in developing my professional definition of community and population health. Through dedicated units and immersive learning experiences, I understood the complex factors that influence the health and well-being of communities and populations. I learned about the social determinants of health, epidemiological principles, health promotion strategies, and the importance of cultural competence in addressing the unique needs of diverse populations. Moreover, the program emphasized the significance of collaboration, advocacy, and policy development in community and population health nursing. These experiences deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness between individual health and the broader community context and how nursing interventions can positively impact population health outcomes.
One such artifact is a community health needs assessment that I conducted; this artifact demonstrated my ability to assess the health needs of a specific community, identify priority areas, and develop targeted interventions. Additionally, a reflective journal entry on community health. This artifact collectively supports my professional definition of community and population health by highlighting my ability to apply theoretical knowledge, engage with communities, and implement evidence-based interventions. The artifact demonstrates my ability to assess community health needs, develop and implement targeted interventions, and advocate for health equity.
- Summary of Community and Population Health
During my Community and Population Health task, I gained valuable insights and experiences that expanded my understanding of community health nursing. Through this task, I learned the importance of conducting a comprehensive community assessment to understand the unique needs and characteristics of the population. I used data collection, interviews, and observations to gather information on social determinants of health, health behaviors, and access to healthcare resources. This process helped me understand the underlying factors contributing to the health issues, such as socioeconomic disparities, cultural beliefs, or environmental factors. Working closely with the population allowed my initial focus and diagnosis to evolve. I gained a deeper understanding of the community’s perceptions, values, and aspirations through engagement with community members, healthcare providers, and local organizations. This interaction provided valuable insights that challenged my preconceived notions and highlighted additional health concerns that were not initially apparent.
- The Importance of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) Certificate for My Future Role as a Professional Nurse
The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) certificate holds great importance for my future role as a professional nurse. The AMNH certificate provides a comprehensive understanding of natural history and the interconnectedness of life on Earth (Olivo, 2022). This knowledge is essential in recognizing and appreciating the intricate relationships between humans and the environment. As a nurse, understanding the natural world and ecological systems allows me to grasp better the impact of environmental factors on health and well-being. Additionally, the AMNH certificate equips me with valuable insights into the diversity of life and the cultural contexts in which health and illness are experienced.