As the year comes to a close, the Campaign would like to thank each of our dedicated readers and listeners for following along this year and for sharing your support. We are so thankful for all that you do for patients, from serving on the front lines of health every day, to making life-changing differences for patients and families. We’re honored to highlight the critical role that nurses play in advancing patient care and health for humanity.
Throughout 2017, we had the privilege of interviewing dozens of nurses from around the world to gather advice, inspiring and unique stories, innovative ideas, and much more. Every Nursing Notes article and episode of the Nursing NotesLive podcast contributes something new and special, but here are just a few of our favorites:
January: Smart ICUs Transform Critical Care
Hildy Schell-Chaple, RN, PhD, CCNS, FAAN, a clinical nurse specialist, shares how new technology can create a “smart” ICU and transform the patient experience by eliminating preventable harms, engaging patients and families in their care, and further personalizing patient care.
February: Defying Stereotypes as a Nurse Educator and Leader
During his three-decade career as a nurse, Eric J. Williams, DNP, RN, CNE, has often been the first male or African-American to hold his position. He aims to serve as a role model for all men and set an example for minorities who want to pursue nursing careers.
March: How to Become a Nurse Entrepreneur
After expanding her knowledge of healthcare innovation and nursing entrepreneurship at the 2017 Nurse Hackathon, Christine O’Brien, MSHI, RN, shares inspiration and advice for aspiring nurse entrepreneurs.
April: Six Insights for New Nurse Leaders
Kaitlyn A. Gregory, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, discusses her main takeaways from the Clinical Scene Investigator (CSI) Academy to inspire new nurses to develop evidence-based initiatives and advocate for change. Her advice to new nurse leaders includes questioning the norm, collaborating with others, and asking for help.
May: Meet the Future of Nursing
The future of nursing is dependent on passionate, talented student nurses like the ones we met at the 65th Annual National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) Convention this year. Student nurses like Jennifer, Kyle, Raya, Melanie and Marcus share their stories and what inspired them to pursue careers in nursing.
June: Around the World with Pediatric Nursing
Across the world, especially in areas with limited health providers, nurses play a critical role in caring for children. Michele Morin, RN, MSN, has seen this firsthand through her global nursing fellowship.
July: Innovatively Recruiting and Retaining Nurses
The future of nursing relies on the successful recruitment of new nurses, and developing innovative ways to recruit is essential. University of Missouri Health Care is setting a strong example through a new program showcasing successful recruiting methods, including student loan reimbursement and weekend pay increases.
August: Keeping Our Country’s Schools Healthy and Happy
School nurses play a vital role in keeping students healthy and educating them about healthcare and development. Nina Fekaris, MS, BSN, RN, NCSN, shares insights about the importance of the modern-day school nurse.
September: Fighting for an HIV-Free Generation
Though the worldwide rate of HIV infection has lowered in the past decade, children still contract the virus at a high rate – the majority through mother-to-child transmission. Nurses play an essential role of helping to provide mothers and children with access to support services in areas where this issue prevails.
October: Nurses on the Frontlines of Disaster Response
After devastating natural disasters like hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the role of nurses on the frontlines is especially critical. Mary Casey-Lockyer, MHS, RN, shares the importance of disaster preparedness and her personal experience volunteering in the aftermath of a hurricane.
November: Nurses Leading the Way in Community Health Initiatives
Through the provision of constant care to their patients, nurses gain unique insights into patient needs and the importance of healthcare innovation. Vivian Low, MPH, RN-BC, FPCNA, coordinates community resources and has implemented creative initiatives like Harmonica for Health and Laughter Yoga.
These nurses and so many more inspired us in 2017, and we can’t wait for all the incredible things to come in 2018! Happy holidays, nurses – thank you for all that you do every day!
