NR 351 Week 7 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Leadership through Systems-Based Practice in Nursing

Discussion leaders play a pivotal role in utilizing systems-based practice to empower other nurses within the healthcare environment. Systems-based practice, as defined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2015), is the “provision of accessible, continuous, and coordinated person-centered care for persons living with multiple chronic conditions (PLWMCC) through a system that incorporates a team approach, health information technology, and shared decision making” (Chamberlain College of Nursing, 2020). In my role as a nurse leader, I aim to integrate these principles of systems-based practice to foster holistic patient care across the healthcare continuum.

One of the fundamental aspects of systems-based practice is its emphasis on taking into account the entire health of a patient, beyond the scope of a specific unit. This approach is grounded in several core nursing competencies, including patient-centered care, teamwork, collaboration, informatics, technology, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement (Chamberlain College of Nursing, 2020). By incorporating these competencies into my leadership, I can enhance patient outcomes and contribute to the development of an effective healthcare system. I intend to leverage these competencies to promote better discharge planning, reduce hospital readmissions, and ensure a seamless patient experience throughout the care process.

Opportunities for Leadership in Systems-Based Practice

In my current clinical setting, which is an inpatient cardiac unit, I recognize numerous opportunities to grow as a leader through systems-based practice. One key opportunity lies within the framework of shared governance, a model that encourages collaborative decision-making between bedside nurses and nurse leaders. According to McKnight and Moore (2020), shared governance allows nurses at all levels to have a voice in shaping clinical practice, fostering both personal and professional growth. By participating in a shared governance group, I can enhance my leadership abilities while empowering other nurses to contribute to care improvement initiatives. This collaboration ensures that decisions made at the bedside align with organizational goals and patient care standards.

Addressing Discharge Planning and Readmissions

A prevalent issue in my unit is the frequent return of patients shortly after discharge, often due to non-adherence to discharge instructions. Discharge teaching tends to be rushed, with both patients and staff eager to transition to the next phase of care. This challenge requires a systems-based approach to effectively address. I will apply my leadership skills to encourage my fellow nurses to dedicate more time to comprehensive discharge teaching, ensuring patients fully understand their care plan before leaving the hospital. By doing so, we can prevent unnecessary readmissions and improve long-term patient outcomes. I believe that enhancing discharge planning aligns with the principles of systems-based practice, as it emphasizes coordinated, person-centered care that extends beyond the hospital setting.

References

Chamberlain College of Nursing. (2020). NR351 Transitions in Professional Nursing: Week 7 Lesson. Downers Grove, IL: Online Publication.

McKnight, H., & Moore, S. (2020). Nursing shared governance. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved October 12, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549862/

NR 351 Week 7 Discussion

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2015). Systems-based practice.

NR 351 Week 5 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Week 5: Leadership to Enhance Quality in Diverse Situations

Leadership is often associated with individuals who influence and inspire others, demonstrating a willingness to take risks (Hood, 2018, p. 443). On the other hand, managers are typically assigned their roles and focus on maintaining workflow efficiency and resource management (Hood, 2018, p. 443). Although leadership and management are distinct concepts, they are frequently used interchangeably, which can make differentiation difficult (Hood, 2018, p. 443). However, it is crucial to recognize that not all managers possess leadership qualities, and vice versa. Traditional managers have specific roles and responsibilities within an organization, which may not always include leadership (Zydziunaite, 2012). I firmly believe that all nurses have the potential to be leaders, and that the conventional role of managers is becoming less essential. Leadership, fundamentally, involves influencing others to achieve a common goal, which is the essence of nursing. Nurses collaborate with patients and healthcare teams to ensure safety and quality care.

Nurse leaders and managers must feel empowered in order to empower others. Effective managers are committed to bringing out the best in their staff, providing them with the necessary resources and support to deliver quality care (Hood, 2018, p. 458). Working night shifts, I rarely see management present in our unit. Although our director is approachable, her promises often remain unfulfilled, making it difficult to rely on her when addressing concerns, such as staffing issues. It feels as though management is indifferent to our concerns, particularly regarding staffing, and the situation has become disheartening.

NR 351 Week 5 Discussion

In response, our unit has developed a strong teamwork approach during night shifts. During the day, charge nurses occasionally take on patient assignments to support the team. Despite this collaborative spirit, the core issues remain unresolved. As managers, their responsibility is to make employees feel valued, yet many nurses in our unit feel replaceable and insignificant.

Advocating for Change in the Nursing Profession

As leaders in the nursing profession, we must continue advocating for our rights and the needs of our unit. Instead of passively waiting for management to respond, we should take proactive steps to address these issues. While everyone acknowledges the unsafe working environment, few raise concerns outside of formal meetings. Even during meetings, the topic of safety is only sporadically mentioned. One approach is to directly communicate with management through emails, outlining specific instances where the unit was understaffed or overwhelmed with admissions. This can help convey the severity of the problem and prompt action.

Additionally, taking on leadership roles within the unit can drive change. Several committees, such as the welcoming committee, safety committee, improvement board, and equipment board, offer opportunities for staff to contribute to leadership efforts. Leadership in nursing is not limited to high-level administrators; it can also emerge at the bedside (Zydziunaite, 2012).

Leadership and Management Comparison

References

Hood, L. J. (2018). Leddy & Pepper’s conceptual bases of professional nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Zydziunaite, V. (2012, May 25). Challenges and Issues in Nursing Leadership. Retrieved February 01, 2018, from https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/challenges-and-issues-in-nursing-leadership-2167-1168.1000e105.php

NR 351 Week 3 Socialization for the Nurse Returning to School

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Socialization for the Nurse Returning to School

As a nurse entering an RN-BSN educational program, you are embarking on a journey of socialization or transformation. This process involves adapting to new roles and expectations as you learn more about the functions and responsibilities of a BSN-prepared nurse. A key resource during this transition is the network of nurses with BSN and higher degrees. These individuals can offer valuable guidance, mentorship, and insights based on their own experiences. Learning from their expertise can significantly enhance your socialization process and help you navigate challenges more effectively.

Factors such as openness to learning and a willingness to embrace new ideas are essential for a successful socialization experience as a BSN student. Every nurse you work with can offer a unique perspective, adding depth to your understanding of nursing practice. Additionally, the ability to critically evaluate various approaches will be crucial as you encounter complex assignments like research papers. Being receptive to feedback and maintaining an open line of communication with your peers and mentors will foster an environment conducive to growth and learning.

Utilizing Resources for Effective Socialization

In preparation for the next step in my nursing career, I am confident that I will rely on the experience and support of other nurses throughout this process. This is similar to how I seek advice from seasoned nurses while working on the floor caring for patients. The key to success is recognizing that learning is a lifelong process, and as nurses, we are never too old to learn or too young to contribute valuable insights. Keeping an open mind and embracing diverse approaches to nursing care are critical in this regard.

Hood (2014) describes socialization into the nursing profession as the process of preparing individuals for a particular societal role (p. 10). This concept applies not only to new nurses but also to those returning to school for advanced degrees. As I transition into this new phase of my education, I anticipate discovering new roles and comfort zones within my nursing practice. It is important to acknowledge that each of my colleagues brings their own experiences and outlook to the table, enriching my learning experience.

Ensuring Effectiveness in the Socialization Process

One of the most important aspects of my journey is remaining open and ready to learn from anyone. This openness ensures that I can benefit from the diverse perspectives and insights offered by my colleagues, mentors, and educators. As I progress through the RN-BSN program, I expect that my research and interview skills will become more refined, helping me to communicate more effectively and engage in meaningful professional discussions. By keeping the lines of communication open and fostering collaborative relationships, I can ensure that my socialization process is both productive and transformative.

References

Hood, L. J. (2014). Leddy & Pepper’s conceptual bases of professional nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

SUMMARIZE TABLE

NR 351 Week 3 Socialization for the Nurse Returning to School

NR 351 Week 1 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Why These Competencies Were Selected

The Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies were selected to outline the essential skills and knowledge required for nurses as they enter practice. These competencies represent the baseline expectations for all nurses completing their pre-licensure education. Given that nursing education and practice are dynamic fields, the competencies need to be periodically reviewed and updated to ensure they remain relevant and continue to reflect the core standards for entry into professional nursing practice (Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, 2014).

Two Most Important Competencies for My Future Practice

In my future nursing practice, I believe leadership and teamwork/collaboration will be the most important of the 10 competencies. Leadership is critical because I aspire to further my education and eventually manage my own health care clinic. Strong leadership skills teach you how to approach problem-solving, encourage forward-thinking, and empower others. Furthermore, leadership is key to recognizing and addressing the various factors that influence health care delivery and nursing practice.

Teamwork and collaboration are equally vital because no matter how much experience or knowledge one gains, there is always room for improvement when working with others. Effective teamwork fosters mutual respect, open communication, and shared decision-making. These elements contribute to a well-functioning health care team and promote continuous learning and development among team members (Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, 2014).

Table: Comparison of Leadership and Teamwork/Collaboration Competencies

References

NR 351 Week 1 Discussion

Massachusetts Department of Higher Education. (2014). Nof: Competencies. Retrieved from http://www.mass.edu/currentinit/NiNofCompetencies.asp

NR 351 Week 2 Time Management Plan Assignment

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

NR 351 Week 2 Time Management Plan Assignment

Directions

Begin by thoroughly reviewing the Time Management Plan Guidelines and Grading Rubric available under Week 2 Assignments. These resources outline the specifics needed to complete your assignment successfully.

To customize this template, click on “File” and then “Save As.” Rename the file to reflect your name, formatted as Your Last Name Time Management Plan.docx (e.g., Smith Time Management Plan.docx). Ensure that the document is saved in .docx format, compatible with Microsoft Word 2010 or later.

At the top of the template, include your name and the current date. Directly input your answers into the document while adhering to all provided instructions. Save your work frequently to avoid data loss.

If you have general questions regarding this assignment, post them in the Q & A Forum for your classmates to see. For private inquiries, feel free to email your instructor. Ensure you submit your completed assignment by clicking the orange “Submit Assignment” button on the Week 2 Time Management Plan Assignment page by the deadline of Sunday at 11:59 p.m. MT.

Weekly Schedule

Academic Integrity Policy Attestation

By typing my name in the box to the right, I affirm that I have completed the entire Academic Integrity tutorial and will adhere to the Academic Integrity Policy of Chamberlain College of Nursing.

Answer: Kimberly Morton

Academic Integrity Question #1

What is one example of plagiarism that was mentioned in the Chamberlain Academic Integrity Tutorial?

One example of plagiarism mentioned in the tutorial is the act of submitting another person’s work as one’s own. This constitutes a deliberate form of cheating, as it involves knowingly presenting work that was not completed by the individual. This behavior is dishonest and contradicts the core values of integrity. As students and future nurses, it is our duty to maintain honesty in our academic endeavors, just as we do in our professional practices. Engaging in our own research and completing our assignments is vital for our educational growth.

Academic Integrity Question #2

Other than not sharing passwords, what is one way students can avoid plagiarism that was mentioned in the Chamberlain Academic Integrity Tutorial?

One method to prevent plagiarism is by restricting access to your computer. Often, we save older assignments on our devices that are not secured, making them easily accessible. It is crucial to avoid saving work on public computers, as others can potentially plagiarize it, which could result in penalties for both parties involved. To further mitigate plagiarism in writing, students should summarize information in their own words, ensuring comprehension while avoiding direct copying. Properly citing sources at the end of summaries is also essential to credit the original authors.

Self-Evaluation: Challenges

What are your greatest challenges with time management?

My primary challenges in time management include prioritization, adhering to my schedule, and juggling responsibilities. With two jobs and caring for my daughter, I recently resigned from one position to focus on school, which has been a challenging adjustment. For the initial weeks, I worked six days a week, trying to allocate time for coursework on four of those days. I often read during lunch breaks and while waiting for my daughter at dance class, utilizing the Chamberlain app to stay engaged with discussions. While managing my time has become slightly easier through weekly planning, I often find it difficult to accommodate unexpected events. My daughter is currently on summer break, which has eased our evening routine, but I recognize I need to allocate time for my own well-being as well.

NR 351 Week 2 Time Management Plan Assignment

To improve, I plan to wake up earlier to complete readings and assignments, freeing up evenings for quality time with my daughter. My schedule is often modified mid-week, leading to overwhelm and reduced sleep. Occasionally, I face delays leaving work, which pushes back our routine, including dinner and schoolwork. I must learn to say no when asked to cover extra shifts to better manage my time.

Self-Evaluation: Strategies

What effective strategies will you use to overcome these challenges?

To enhance my time management skills, I intend to use a planner to organize my week each Sunday, focusing on prioritizing essential tasks. I anticipate that some weeks will require more dedication to coursework, so I will adjust my schedule accordingly. Additionally, I will refrain from taking on extra shifts that conflict with my school commitments, allowing time for relaxation between work and study. Staying motivated by connecting with fellow students and engaging with their discussions will also be key. Their experiences can provide insights and encourage me to strive for similar achievements.

NR 351 Week 6 Professional Paper

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Communication

Introduction to Communication in Nursing

Communication serves as the transfer of information, emotions, and thoughts between individuals, utilizing speech or other forms of expression. Effective communication is achieved when all parties accurately comprehend the conveyed message. It is essential for nurses to ensure that their communications with patients are understood correctly. Furthermore, precise communication among healthcare professionals is crucial to minimize errors and ensure appropriate treatment (Hood, 2018).

Essential Principles of Communication in Professional Nursing

The interaction between nurses and patients is a fundamental component of healthcare. Patients must have confidence in their nurses to deliver optimal care. As Hood (2018) notes, “Communication is an essential element of helping others; mutual goals cannot be defined or achieved without effective communication.” For patients to adhere to medical recommendations, they need to grasp their health conditions clearly. Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is vital, as nurses often serve as the link among various medical staff, ensuring that patients are well-informed about their care.

Communication Among Peers in Nursing

Additionally, collaboration among peers is critical in providing quality patient care. According to Hood (2018), “Nurses and other healthcare team members must work together to achieve the common goal of providing the best possible care for clients.” A comprehensive healthcare plan necessitates effective communication to meet all patient needs. Clear communication during provider handoffs is essential, as it involves sharing the patient’s current health status and relevant medical history. Implementing a systematic approach can significantly enhance the clarity of these communications (Robins & Dai, 2015).

Conclusion

Effective communication between nurses and patients is vital for ensuring that patients are well-informed and understand their health conditions. Moreover, communication among medical staff is equally important; thorough reporting is necessary to guarantee that patients receive the high-quality care they deserve. Implementing a checklist system for handoffs can streamline the process, equipping the receiving provider with the essential information needed to deliver optimal care. This strategy helps to mitigate gaps in patient healthcare and facilitates efficient service delivery.

NR 351 Week 6 Professional Paper

References

Hood, L. J. (2018). Leddy & Pepper’s professional nursing (9th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Robins, H., & Dai, F. (2015). Handoffs in the postoperative anesthesia care unit: Use of a checklist for transfer of care. AANA Journal, 83(4), 264-268.

NR 351 Week 4 Professional Paper worksheet assignment

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-351: Transitions in Professional Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

NR 351 Week 4 Professional Paper Worksheet Assignment

References

Robins, H., & Dai, F. (2015). Handoffs in the postoperative anesthesia care unit: Use of a checklist for transfer of care. AANA Journal, 83(4), 264-268.