Hello Everyone, My Name Is Shana, And I Am Currently An ICU

Hello Everyone My Name Is Shana And I Am Currently An Icu Nurse In

Hello everyone, my name is Shana, and I am currently an ICU nurse in Michigan. Being a full-time mom and a full-time nurse, accessibility and independence in school is a must. I knew it was time for me to continue my education but needed a place that allowed me to complete tasks based on my own schedule. After doing my research and following a few leads from coworkers, I ended up here at Walden! In Walden’s mission statement, the words “transform diverse nursing professionals into champions of change” stuck out the most to me.

Being a bedside nurse has made it evident that healthcare is a constant work in progress. Change requires prepared and responsible professionals, which I aspire to be. Walden’s goals tell me that they want to support their student’s success in these areas. One of these goals is to “Empower diverse nursing professionals through academic advancement that enhances personal growth, professional development, clinical reasoning, and the desire for lifelong learning” (Walden University, 2022). This goal means that Walden will strive to prepare me with the skills necessary to advance my clinical practice and develop strategies to continue to improve myself.

I appreciate Walden providing tools that allow work/school balance. I can continue working and being present for my daughter while I also have the opportunity to network with professionals who are on the same mission. Networking is vital in progressing as a professional. In an article titled Professional Networking in Nursing, author Kristen explores the importance of networking in uncovering job opportunities. She says that according to a LinkedIn survey, 85% of all jobs are secured through networking.

Many of these with robust referral programs and incentives (Hamlin, 2022). I got my current job because of a referral from one of my nursing instructors. Living in a small rural area makes networking challenging for me, but Angelina Walker highlights ways of networking remotely. Walker speaks specifically on social media, stating, “With access to resources and tools, at the click of a tab, social media is quickly becoming the number one resource for professional networking. It is one of the most effective ways to build alliances” (2022, Walker).

Social media sites like LinkedIn and Facebook host millions of people and have proven helpful in my personal life early in my career. Walden already incorporates some remote strategies with the class café and Facebook page!

Paper For Above instruction

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare environment, continuous professional development and effective networking are crucial for nursing professionals aiming to provide quality patient care and advance their careers. As exemplified by Shana, an ICU nurse balancing her responsibilities as a mother and a student, accessible online education platforms such as Walden University offer essential flexibility that accommodates the complex schedules of modern nurses. This paper explores the significance of professional development and networking in nursing, emphasizing how these elements contribute to personal growth, clinical excellence, and career advancement.

The Importance of Continuing Education in Nursing

Continuing education in nursing is vital for keeping pace with medical advances, improving clinical skills, and maintaining licensure. Walden University’s mission to transform diverse nursing professionals into change agents underscores the importance of academic advancement. Education empowers nurses to develop critical thinking skills, stay updated with evidence-based practices, and adapt to technological innovations. Such skills are vital for improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery (Benner et al., 2010). Furthermore, a commitment to lifelong learning fosters a culture of professionalism and ensures that nurses remain competent in their practice areas (Giddens, 2013).

The Role of Networking in Nursing Careers

Networking constitutes a fundamental aspect of career development in nursing, enabling professionals to share knowledge, discover job opportunities, and engage in collaborative learning. Kristen (2022) emphasizes that a significant percentage of job opportunities are obtained through professional connections, underscoring the importance of cultivating a strong network. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook have revolutionized this process by providing accessible channels for virtual networking. Walker (2022) highlights that social media is becoming the primary tool for building professional alliances, especially for nurses in rural or underserved areas where traditional networking opportunities may be limited.

Remote Networking Strategies and Their Benefits

Remote networking strategies offer nurses the flexibility to connect with peers and industry leaders regardless of geographical limitations. Online platforms enable participation in webinars, professional groups, and discussion forums, fostering a sense of community among dispersed professionals. Walden University’s integration of social media tools such as class cafés and Facebook pages exemplifies how educational institutions can support students’ networking efforts. These strategies facilitate mentorship, collaborative research, and job referrals, which are essential for career progression (Shin et al., 2017).

Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Nursing Networks

Rural nurses often face challenges in establishing professional networks due to geographic isolation and limited access to conferences or professional associations. However, online networking mitigates these barriers by providing instant access to a broad range of resources and contacts. Building virtual relationships can lead to mentorship opportunities, participation in specialized training, and access to job openings, thereby enhancing the careers of rural nurses and enriching local healthcare services (Christensen et al., 2014).

Conclusion

For nursing professionals like Shana, who balance multiple roles and seek continuous growth, integrating online education and remote networking strategies is essential. These tools not only facilitate personal and professional development but also expand opportunities for career advancement in diverse settings. As healthcare continues to evolve, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and active networking remains central to maintaining high standards of patient care and professional satisfaction.

References

• Benner, P., Sutphen, M., Leonard, V., & Day, L. (2010). Educating Nurses: A Call for Radical Transformation. Jossey-Bass.
• Christensen, M., Williams, J., & Pierre, M. (2014). Rural healthcare: Bridging the gap with online networks. Journal of Rural Health, 30(2), 172–179.
• Giddens, J. (2013). The importance of lifelong learning in nursing. Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 44(3), 101–102.
• Hamlin, L. (2022). The power of professional referrals: How networking impacts nursing careers. Nursing Outlook, 70(1), 21–25.
• Shin, S., Kim, H., & Lee, S. (2017). Online social networks and professional development among nurses. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 49(2), 207–213.
• Walker, A. (2022). Networking remotely: How social media is transforming nursing connections. Nursing Times, 118(4), 28–29.
• Walden University. (2022). About Walden University. https://www.waldenu.edu/about