Today was the most intense day I could possibly imagine.  We were challenged physically and emotionally to strengthen our bond as a team, to communicate honestly and effectively, and to view our patients’ stories in a deeper and more meaningful way.  Our hike today was confidence boosting, fun, and strengthened our friendships into ones that will last forever!  I also enjoyed the way Dr. Sherwood made us all think about ways to see our patients differently than what is easy or obvious.  Her distinction between Reflective Practice and Righteous Indignation made me laugh!

Carole’s presentation of Connecting the Heart and the Head has changed the way I think of the families of the babies in my care for the rest of my career.  While I have always loved my babies and felt honored to be entrusted with them by their parents, I have always kept… Continue reading →

At the end of my second day in beautiful Marseille, I am just as enthusiastic as I was on day one!  Every speaker was fascinating!  After years of having patients sign informed consents, I now actually know that this is a process and not simply a task that needs to be checked off.  Watching Michael Skolnik’s parents discuss the loss of their son with such regret and sadness will be a memory that I bring to every conversation I have with patients regarding decisions about procedures.  The Shared Decision Making concept was novel to me, and seemed very awkward to our group during the first round.  However, with the second two rounds, the language started seeming more comfortable making this process seem not only possible, but ideal for ensuring our patients understand their options and are truly receiving the care they need and desire instead… Continue reading →

As I think back through my first day of learning to think differently about every aspect of my current nursing career and future career in nursing administration, I am feeling overwhelmed with excitement about this transformed mindset.  Before arriving, I expected to learn and grow as I would in any other patient care conference or educational activity offered through my employer or school.  I can not believe how different this is from what I envisioned!  I feel inspired and motivated!  I want to soak everything in!!!  I am surrounded by people that are here with my same desire to become the best healthcare provider, team-mate, teacher, and patient advocate possible.  There is a common goal to not take the easy or comfortable road, but instead find solutions that change the entire culture of health care to one that is not only safe, but the… Continue reading →