Although better known as an icon of nursing in general, Nightingale’s long career saw her make the shift from practicing nurse to nurse educator. Her writings, methods and principles helped forever redefine the way the world trained new nurses. Her work is one of the great cornerstones that St. Elizabeth School of Nursing continues to build upon today.
Please enjoy this brief overview of Florence Nightingale’s life and career. Her story is an inspiration to anyone looking to make an impact on the world as a nurse or nurse educator.
Ann Minnicus, MSN, BSN, RN, CGRN
Ann Minnicus, a 1977 graduate of the St. Elizabeth School of Nursing program, understands that it can be challenging for new nurses to show grace and tenderness towards patients when the pace is hectic. She stresses, “Be compassionate toward your patients. It can be hard when you have several patients to care for at one time and a lot of tasks to complete. However, you can’t forget that they’re people, too. You have no idea what else they could be going through.”
Joshua Vanzant
While striving to be changemakers in the field of nursing, it’s important to remain strong yet respectful. A 2014 graduate, Joshua VanZant, puts the importance of professionalism into perspective. “As younger nurses, we’re newly educated; we’re up to date on evidence-based practice; and the goal of nursing is to be change agents. Embrace that role to find a way to be respectful of those who have been in the profession longer.”
Dr. Andrea Blissitt, PhD, RN, CNE
Dr. Andrea Blissitt, Adult Practice department chair and assistant professor of nursing, reminisces on the challenges she faced when starting her career to advise new nurses as they start theirs. “I wish I would’ve been more prepared for feeling inadequate about not knowing everything, and that should be the impetus behind asking questions and pursuing knowledge. Always strive to know why and know more.”
Dr. Michelle Gerrety, EdD, MSN, RN
Collaborative patient care happens when you build trust among coworkers. St. Elizabeth School of Nursing Director Dr. Michelle Gerrety emphasizes that fledgling nurses must remember they’re a part of something bigger than just being a nurse. “You’re always part of a team. You need to ask for help and offer your help as well.” Dr. Gerrety also adds this important tip: “Listen to your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it usually isn’t.”
Ryan Capecci
If there’s one thing you can count on in the medical field, it’s to expect changes in policy and practices. The medical field is no exception. Ryan Capecci (2011), a registered nurse in the PACU at Franciscan Health Lafayette, and a flight nurse for the non-profit organization Grace on Wings, reminds new nurses that being open to modifications in the workplace is important. “Always be receptive to change. There are so many changes in healthcare today, so it is good to try and stay up to date on clinical practices in whatever area you are working in.”
Mary Vandervolgen-Goldman
No matter what you choose as a career, it’s important to love it. Mary Vandervolgen-Goldman, a 1963 graduate, offers this key to happiness to recent graduates. “Select where you want to work. Whether it be pediatrics, geriatrics or emergency room trauma and love what you do.” She advises to explore all options and do not be closed off to opportunities. “If you love what you do, you’ll never feel like you have to go to work.”
As seen in the The Lamp spring 2020 issue
