"People will forget what you said, they will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel." – Maya Angelou. This powerful quote deeply resonates with my approach to education, especially within Acute Care Np Programs. My career has been shaped by mentors who not only imparted knowledge but also instilled a sense of value and purpose. They taught me formally and informally, supporting me through challenges and celebrating my growth. They invested time to understand my learning style, offering constructive feedback that propelled my development. Their genuine belief in my potential was transformative. This experience ignited a passion within me to create a similar environment for aspiring Acute Care Nurse Practitioners.
Impacting Healthcare Through Acute Care NP Education
Working with students in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) programs is incredibly fulfilling. Guiding them to grasp complex concepts and master essential skills is not just rewarding on a personal level; it’s a direct contribution to the healthcare community. These programs are vital in shaping competent and compassionate NPs who will be at the forefront of patient care in acute settings. It mirrors the support I gratefully received, allowing me to pay it forward to those who will be providing critical care in the future. This relationship is also mutually beneficial. I continually learn and refine my teaching methods, often gaining new perspectives from my students and evolving alongside them in the ever-changing landscape of healthcare.
Clinical Expertise Informing NP Program Instruction
My extensive clinical background directly enriches my teaching within acute care NP programs. My experiences include:
- 2021 – Present: Nurse Practitioner in Inpatient and Outpatient Hematology Oncology, Clinic 2D, Huntsman Cancer Hospital
- 2023 – Present: Nurse Practitioner, QMP. Kindly MD in Millcreek Utah
- 2014 – 2021: Clinical Nurse, medical oncology inpatient. Huntsman Cancer Hospital
- 2020 – 2021: Travel nursing acute care, oncology with Intermountain Health Care
- 2016 – 2017: Oncology Infusion nurse, outpatient. Huntsman Cancer Hospital
- 2014 – 2015: Clinical Nurse, Urgent Care and KidsCare. Intermountain Health Care
- 2008 – 2014: Medical Assistant, Family Medicine and Urgent Care/KidsCare. Intermountain Health Care
- 2006 – 2008: CNA, Legacy Assisted Living Facility
This diverse experience, ranging from oncology and urgent care to inpatient and outpatient settings, provides a practical foundation for my instruction. I bring real-world scenarios and insights into the classroom, bridging the gap between theory and practice for students in acute care NP programs.
Courses Designed for Acute Care NP Specialization
The courses I currently teach are specifically designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in acute care settings:
- Spring:
- NURS 7471- Adult Gerontology Chronic, Acute and Critical Care I
- NURS 7643- AGACNP Practicum III
- NURS 7703- DNP Scholarly Project III
- Summer:
- NURS 7641- AGACNP Practicum I
- NURS 7644- AGACNP Practicum IV
- NURS 6340- Hospital Medicine
- NURS 7701- DNP Scholarly Project I
- Fall:
- NURS 7642- AGACNP Practicum II
- NURS 7702- DNP Scholarly Project II
These courses, encompassing chronic, acute, and critical care, along with specialized practicums and hospital medicine, are integral components of comprehensive acute care NP programs. They reflect a commitment to developing highly skilled and specialized nurse practitioners ready to meet the demands of acute care environments.
Conclusion: Investing in the Future of Acute Care Nursing
My dedication to teaching in acute care NP programs stems from a deep belief in the power of education to transform individuals and improve healthcare. Just as my mentors shaped my path, I am committed to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for the next generation of Acute Care Nurse Practitioners. By sharing my experiences and passion, I aim to empower students to not only excel clinically but also to embody the compassion and dedication essential for providing exceptional acute care.
