Preparing for the longer term of nursing

Have you made any adjustments to your profession goals or educational plans based on the RWJF and IOM Report? The way forward for nursing: leading changes, advances in healthreleased last October?

I even have not worked in clinical nursing since 2001. I can not imagine it has been 10 years already. I all the time believed that someday I might “go back to bed” and I actually miss caring for patients. It has recently turn into just a little more noticeable to me how much I miss the clinical side of nursing. I do not know if it’s since the indisputable fact that it has been 10 years has overwhelmed me, or if it’s because I’m excited in regards to the direction our occupation is heading. Perhaps it’s kind of of each.

The query that actually bothers me is: where do I need to be? The intensive care unit was my home for many of my clinical profession. I loved the joys of caring for seriously in poor health patients and their families. Titration of vasoactive drugs, assisting with invasive procedures, using the newest technologies – all the things is great! ER admissions, diagnostic “trips,” end-of-life discussions, and the list goes on…

However, my “other list” also impresses me. As a member of parliament for ladies’s health, it has been incredibly rewarding to be out in the neighborhood and making a difference by educating women about preventive care. In addition, contraceptive counseling, prenatal care and teaching, help to alleviate menopausal symptoms, and so forth… Primary care physicians have a lot to supply, and the needs are great.

The very first key message of the IOM report is: “Nurses should practice to the full extent of their education and training.” Does this mean it’s my responsibility to practice as an NP because I’m certified and licensed? Would I disregard this message by returning to the nursing staff within the ICU? I hope not. On the opposite hand, I could all the time pursue one other degree… the reply is likely to be a critical care NP. Now I even have something to take into consideration!

Perhaps as we prepare for the longer term of our occupation, we should always all take this time to have a look at our individual goals as well. What is the longer term in nursing?