New Year Resolutions

Once again we stand at the threshold of a new year, a juncture to straighten our paths and discard the bad habits for good ones. It also brings on a new outlook, one of invigoration and enthusiasm. As a visitor and participant to many blogs and forums there is no shortage of acrimony, all that warrant merit. It’s time to recommit to our convictions and address all that is amiss. As our President-elect is sworn into office this new year, it would behoove us to adopt his theme of change. It's time to act on what needs to be corrected. We can start by simply speaking up rather than being silent. Every moment we take to correct a situation is a step in the direction for improvement.

Let us become more cognizant of what is in our power to better our profession. Be mindful that every small effort toward change is the first step to whole and complete change. Approach each day with a positive and constructive attitude. As the critical mass, each one of us is responsible for the change we want in our profession. We are professionals in the most vital occupation that exists and this attitude, and its reality, is supported by the legacy and ideals of Florence Nightingale.

Together, we can make each professional resolution, a comprehensive advocacy. Suggested theme for change in 2009: The best is yet to come.


By Jenn Foster

New Year’s Resolution: Education

The road ahead always appears long and difficult; the terrain unmanageable. Looking back at the road traveled helps to assess our needs, wants and what is right; often we struggle to make the necessary changes. A new year triggers a time of renewal for our hearts and minds and brings us to that proverbial clean slate that makes us more energetic for making those changes.

There is so much to be done – where do we start?

We can not accomplish everything overnight. The question for each of us is what can we do now? Keep it simple. Simply put, once begun is half done. It is that simple! The thing that we can be sure of is that we need to do something. A few mouse clicks on the internet can take us anywhere.

Everything in our profession revolves around education. We can not stand still. Assess the knowledge and credentials in which you are in need and recommit to education. Are you in need of a degree or just simply some refresher courses? How about ReLicensure?! Please see October 31 article from Villanova University concerning ReLicensure.

As this blog continues to evolve, research the opportunities that are provided. Explore the schools of nursing that participate (and the many that are forthcoming) for the program and specialty they offer and take that first step.

Many of you maybe ready for your next step, a new beginning. Please examine the postings on CareerBuilder.com at left for the latest job openings and click on “Nursing Positions in Pennsylvania” and “Nurse Educator Postings in Pennsylvania” for a complete list.

Thank you for visiting this site in 2008. Your comments are not only welcomed here but encouraged. Your contributions will help make each one of us better, and in turn, better the healthcare industry. I look forward to hearing from you in 2009.


By Jenn Foster

Professional Standards and Expectations for Nurses

By: Stephanie Larkin


Every major profession carries with it a group of expectations and standards by which those that work within each industry must adhere to in order to maintain quality practice. These standards are, in many ways, how institutions and businesses gain the trust of their clients, or in the case of nursing the trust of their patients, which enables the institution to become legitimate.

There is no business sector which needs standards and expectations more than any profession within the medical and health services field. This is a field by which employees are working with people on a daily basis, and the quality of their lives and health care. As such, maintaining a set of practices and standards are imperative. Because nursing is the profession through which more patients will have one on one contact with than many other professions in health services, standards are even more important. While each country and each specialization of nursing carries with it its own unique sets of standards and expectations, nurses have a common ground where they meet, and why their standards are understood across every field, and every country.

Standards within a professional practice are known as statements of an authoritative nature through which the profession to which they relate to provide a unique description of the responsibilities of all practitioners within that profession. Further, the standards and expectations are in place to ensure that all practitioners are also accountable for the work and duties they perform. When it comes to nursing, this is done in order to create boundaries and to provide a level of care that is equitable for all patients. Further, the priorities and values of nurses must be common to each nurse within the profession, and the standards and expectations outlines this as such.

While standards will vary in specifics across nursing specializations, and across countries, there is a general mindset as to what is expected of nurses in terms of expectations and standards. They are intended to provide daily guidance to nurses as they practice. Accountability, ethics, competence, knowledge, and the practical application of knowledge are key elements that are common to all nursing standards and expectations.

Nurses are required to be held accountable for every action that they take on a daily basis. This requires constant documentation of every element of their daily job, and following a chain of command within their select position. They are also required to maintain ethical standards within their practice, and to follow all ethical guidelines as set forth by their governing body of nursing. Furthermore, nurses are expected to have a set amount of knowledge before they enter the field of practitioner work, and with that knowledge set come an expectation of competence and practical application. Nurses are expected to be competent in their knowledge base such that they know and understand what they are supposed to in the medical field, and also, are supposed to know how to apply that knowledge in a practical manner.

For example, nurses will be taught in school how to implement an IV procedure. Knowing how to do this is not enough, nurses should be able to apply this knowledge practically through the actual conduct of IV procedures, and should be capable and competent of doing so.

Quality Assurance is another issue that is common across all standards and expectations for nurses. Through this, quality assurance standards ensure that nurses are practicing with quality efforts which in itself promote their competence and practical applications. This will require continuous education on the part of the individual nurse, as quality assurance standards across many medical centers, cities, and countries are in a constant state of evolution. It is the responsibility of the nurse practitioner to understand their quality assurance expectations at all times.

Confidentiality is another element of most standards and expectations for nurses. This is a requirement that nurses do not have an option to practice or not. Legislation and privacy concerns are in effect all across the globe, and nurses have the expectation that they will maintain confidential and private information for their patients within the patient doctor realm. Patients use medical services under the understanding that their information and medical records are not being seen by the wrong person, or found in the wrong hands, and because nurses have the most contact between patient and doctor, these are standards of paramount significance to the nursing profession.

While these are only a tip of the iceberg when it comes to nursing standards and expectations, these standards are among the most common across specializations and countries.

Overview of Nursing School Programs

By: Lisa Parker

If you are interested in obtaining a degree in nursing, you could not have picked a better time. Nurses are in great demand today, and with people living longer, that demand is likely to increase in the coming years. Nursing school programs can be characterized by the type of degree they offer, and although there are actually 5 degree types that one can obtain as a nurse, the more popular degrees are the Associate's and the bachelor's. However, if you are interested in newer professions such as forensic nursing, there are also certificate programs. Maybe you are considering legal consultation or teaching and you may even decide to get your master's degree. The other defining characteristic is whether you are in an online or distance learning program, or taking courses at a traditional college or university.The Associate's degree programs focus predominately on teaching students what is needed to prepare them to enter the workforce with the skills of a professional nurse. Their education typically has four major components, which consist of evaluation of care, health teaching, wellness and prevention, and the administration of treatments and medications. The evaluation component includes observation, nursing diagnosis, assessment, and intervention. The main focus of the Associate's degree is for their student to achieve employment either while in school or directly after graduation. Although it is not a requirement, most nursing programs for a bachelor's degree operate from the assumption that most of their students are registered nurses and/or they have already obtained their Associate's degree in nursing. The focus of these programs is to prepare students for a higher position, such as a supervisory role, or to enter into a master's degree program. These programs usually revolve around the cultural, political, economic and social issues that can affect patients and the health care industry in general. There is also a focus on understanding the allocation and management of resources, which includes but is not limited to, people, money, and time. The most common variations of the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing or a student's route to this degree include going from an RN to a bachelor's degree. Other variations include the accelerated bachelor's program, LPN to a bachelor's, the traditional 4-year bachelor's, the online RN – bachelor's degree, and the second-degree bachelor's program. The master's degree program revolves around the type of career you want, as you can get a master's degree that focuses on a more specific nursing path such as, Nursing, Nurse Education, Midwifery, Administration, and Health Care Systems Management. If your focus revolves around Nursing, Nursing Education, Midwifery, or any other similar specialty, your training should focus more on the actual health and expanding upon the knowledge received in your previous educational programs. If you have decided on receiving a masters degree with a focus on Leadership in Healthcare Systems, Nursing Administration, Health Care Systems Management, or any other similar specialty, your program should focus on management, leadership, finance, managed care strategies, workforce management, and other courses designed to prepare students for obtaining leadership positions in their chosen health care organization.

It is important to note that in the field of nursing many programs often offer certificates as well as degree programs. The certificate programs are more specialized than degree programs and there are certificates that can be obtained before you receive a bachelor's degree or after you gain your master's degree. Some of the certificate programs that are pre-master's degree include case management and geriatric care management. A few certificates for those with a master's degree include legal nurse consulting and life care planning. Most online schools and traditional colleges and universities also offer more specialized programs like the Nurse Practitioner program and Clinical Nursing Specialist programs. As other nursing careers and specialties gain popularity, you should begin seeing more degree and/or certificate programs available in the field of Nursing. Unlike online programs, colleges and universities can boast a combination of classroom training, lab work, and on the job experience as a part of their programs. Although this has been the greatest advantage of traditional schooling, some online programs are starting to catch up, especially the distance learning programs. One of the greatest selling points of distance learning offered by traditional colleges and/or universities is the ability to graduate or "walk" with their traditional program peers. Yet, the main draw of complete online programs is the ability to gain a degree on your own time that works with your schedule while allowing you to work a full time job. Take your time and financial situation into account before settling in on a program. Regardless of the certificate or degree program that you choose, be sure that you pick a program that is good for you. There are many options available in the field of nursing and this information can help you find the correct path to the degree that you are seeking.


Lisa Parker is a freelance writer who writes about topics pertaining to nurses and the nursing profession including nursing school and nursing accessories.

Nursing, the Next 10 Years, a Brief Overview

By: Craig Elliott


General Outlook for Nurses

The outlook for individuals considering entering the nursing field is excellent. Registered nurses, or RN's, make up the largest number of health care workers in the country. In addition, registered nurses will make up one of the fasted growing population of workers in all occupations over the next ten years.

Many registered nurses begin their career in the hospital setting. This allows the nurse to become familiar with various branches of medicine. While there is a demand for hospital nurses, this area of nursing will remain relatively level over the next ten years.

Many healthcare experts predict a surge in demand for registered nurses in the home health care setting. As Americans live longer, have more disposable income, and desire to remain home, nurses that can oversee care and treatment in the home setting will become increasingly valuable.

Another area of nursing that will see a surge in growth is with nurses who continue their education with Master's level work. With the rising cost of healthcare many families are using nurse practitioners and nurse midwives as a replacement for their primary care physician.

Hospitals, also, are realizing the cost saving benefit of highly trained nurses, and many employ nurse anesthetists, clinical nursing specialists, and nurse practitioners to keep their costs under control.

Not a Registered Nurse?

Job prospects for licensed practical nurses, or LPNs, while positive, are not as strong as those of registered nurses. Licensed practical nurses will continue to be in demand, particular in hospital and long term care facilities.

Many licensed practical nurses continue their schooling to become RNs while employed. The responsibilities of an RN are greater, but they also include more opportunities. RNs typically supervise LPN in a clinical setting, and the greater skill level allows the RN more job options.

RN or BSN?

The schooling necessary to become a registered nurse can be completed in anywhere from two to four years. The coursework is very intensive and involves many clinical hours. A program completed in less that four years, however, will leave you with an RN, not a BSN, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing. An RN is fully qualified to do all the duties required of a registered nurse, depending on the state. Obviously, the addition of a bachelor degree has many benefits.

An RN with a bachelor's degree in nursing is at an advantage when administrative positions open up in a hospital or clinical setting. In fact, due to the degree of federal and state oversight on healthcare facilities, many require a BSN for administrative, case management, and supervisory positions.

If you are considering working on your Master's degree, either as a nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, or to teach, you are required to have a bachelor's degree. While not all programs will mandate that your bachelor's must be in nursing, it is certainly helpful.

Considering a Career Switch?

Nursing is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to move into a different career. With the high demand for nurses, many potential employees, particularly hospitals, will pay for most or all of your schooling. Even if you must foot the bills for your education initially, signing bonuses, combined with the near guarantee of a job upon graduation, takes much of the risk out of a career switch.

Another attractive fact concerning the nursing profession is the attractive tuition reimbursement plans offered by many employers. These offers, combined with the flexible shift scheduling available at many hospitals and care facilities make it possible to go from a LPN, to RN, to RN with BSN and on to acquiring a master's in your desired specialty without hefty student loans or a disruption of your income.

The Future of Nursing

Clearly all nursing professions will continue to grow over the next ten years. Nursing is an excellent career choice for those who wish to make a good income, have a flexible schedule, and continue their education. While the hours can be long, and the work physical, a quality nurse should never find themselves without their choice of jobs.

While long hours and the physical demands of the job may scare some people off, many others are attracted to the flexibility, the fast paced environment, and the ability to help others. For those concerned about the rigors of a nursing career, there are many positions available in private doctor's offices, public schools, and other lower stress environments. Nursing, whether in a clinical setting or administrative is a job in great demand.


Craig Elliott is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning the nursing profession.

Misericordia University: An 84-year Tradition of Hospitality, Justice, Mercy and Service

Misericordia University - Description of Program

Misericordia’s nursing program is committed to providing an educational experience which produces competent nurses who are critical thinkers and educated consumers of research. This program prepares its graduates for productive careers in nursing and advocates for life-long learning. As an entry-level professional program, the nursing curriculum reflects a commitment to the relationship between liberal arts and professional studies that enables graduates to adapt to constantly evolving societal and professional needs. The Department of Nursing is committed to the provision of affordable, quality professional education that expresses the founding Sisters' values and attitudes of hospitality, justice, mercy, and service. The overall goal is to develop a competent professional who will provide the highest quality of care to individuals, aggregates, and populations.

The goals/outcomes support the mission of the University and the principles of academic excellence, service leadership, and professional preparation which are components of the Trinity of Learning. Evidence based practice is a strong component of this curriculum which requires students to critically think and problem solve. This curriculum will build on the reputation of the nursing program and continue to provide high quality graduates. The proposed changes are consistent with the program’s mission, goals and educational goals of the university.

Philosophy for Misericordia’s Department of Nursing

The nursing department at Misericordia University supports the mission statement and philosophy of the University. The undergraduate nursing program is based on a complementary relationship between liberal arts and professional studies. The approach to education focuses on critical thinking, as well as on the values and attitudes of justice, mercy, service, and hospitality. Humans are viewed as intellectual, spiritual and creative beings that are in constant interaction with their environments. Human beings have the potential for self-direction based on their developmental level and are characterized by the capacity for emotion, reasoning, and perceiving. The holistic view of humans takes into account the physical structure, mind and spirit of the individual, as well as the environment in which each functions. Humans interact on the basis of respect for each other’s worth and dignity.

The environment as experienced by human beings is multidimensional and dynamic. It can be viewed as encompassing biological, physical, psychological, socio-cultural, political and economic forces. Human beings experience the environment as individuals, families, groups and communities who can be described in terms of micro-systems and macro-systems.

Health is a dynamic sense of wellness, which results from a process of making choices over time. A particular sense of wellness is perceived by individuals and is influenced by their self-esteem, inner sense of meaning, and desire to achieve their highest potential.

Nursing is an art, involved in caring, and a science based on its own theory and research. The nursing process guides nursing practice and involves critical thinking as related to the cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains of knowing. Ethical and legal issues have a strong impact on the practice of nursing. Professional nursing is a vital, effective health service to the community. The faculty believes that professional nursing is committed to making quality health care available and accessible to all, thus reflecting the commitment to mercy, justice, and service. Professional nursing exerts an influence on, and is influenced by several factors that contribute to the complexity of the health care system. These include: the newly developing patterns of providing services, the roles of other members of the health team, scientific and technological advances, research, and social and economic pressures. Leadership in nursing involves directing and managing client care, as well as collaborating with other health care professionals.

Learning is directed toward the development of values and professional role identification. It is lifelong and involves developmental changes. Learning involves critical thinking, which encompasses analysis and synthesis of knowledge. The faculty believes that learning occurs when the student actively participates in the learning process. Students have the responsibility to achieve their highest potential with the assistance of the faculty who act as facilitators. Teaching, therefore, is a collaborative process in which a student assumes progressive responsibility for personal learning.

Undergraduate education in nursing is built on a strong core of general education requirements and is generic in nature. Included within the undergraduate nursing curriculum are liberal arts and the sciences such as nutrition, anatomy and physiology, and developmental psychology, as well as other pure and behavioral sciences. The undergraduate program prepares nurse generalists who are capable of using nursing research, nursing process, and theories in a variety of settings. Students are prepared for graduate study in nursing.

Graduate education enables professional nurses to realize their creative leadership potential and provides opportunities for collaborative functioning with health professionals and others in effecting change in nursing practice and health care. Specialization occurs on the graduate level which provides for in-depth knowledge and experience in specific clinical and functional areas. Advanced knowledge provides the foundation for effective leadership in nursing. Scientific inquiry is an integral part of graduate education in nursing. Such inquiry provides the basis for acquisition of increased competencies in utilization of research and increased knowledge base in the analysis and synthesis of theories related to the practice of nursing. Graduate education provides the foundation for doctoral study in nursing.


By Cynthia Mailloux, PhD, R.N.
Associate Professor
Chair Nursing Dept - Misericordia University