Greetings,My name is Samantha Becker and I am currently a sophomore II this year at Pacific Lutheran University. Everyday is a new learning opportunity and I try to appreciate it to the fullest. Thank you for taking the time to look over my portfolio, and I hope you gain something from it as I share my nursing experience with you. |
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Why I chose nursing Defining Nursing To define nursing is necessary in order to determine what a nurse is and the various roles they play in health care. Throughout history, many definitions have been made, but they are forever changing as nursing roles expand. the definition I most closely associate nursing to be was written by Virginia Henderson, " The unique function of the nurse is to assist the individual, sick or well, in the performance of those activities contributing to health or its recovery (or to peaceful death) that he would perform unaided if he had the necessary strength, will or knowledge". This definition does not include the importance of the family, however focus on the patient in this definition seems the most accurate and clear. Professional Statements In one year from now I will still be here, completing my nursing degree. By next year I plan on reducing my anxiety level and understand that one test cannot decide my entire career. There is always room for error, however it is easier said than done. In five years I really have no idea what I will being doing in nursing. It has always been a dream of mine to be able to offer my assistance in some underdeveloped countries in the world. I really hope I will get the chance to do that someday. Five years from now I would also like to be working on my NP certification. I believe autonomy to be an important factor in nursing and reaching this level would allow me to do so. What type of nursing I plan on doing I still have yet to decide. When I started school here almost two years ago, I was more than positive I would be a trauma nurse. Although the emergency room is a place I will hopefully get the chance to work, my mind changes almost every week on what I would like to specialize in. The last few weeks, I really have my heart set on hospice or palliative care. However, a few weeks from now I may completely change my mind. Role Challenges As clinicals progress and my learning begins to take shape, the way I had previously learned has been altered. Rather than memorization, this type of skill is best taught by hands on learning, which is a skill I have yet to master. I have always learned best by rewards and appraisal and by receiving excellent grades on written exams and papers. I'm starting to understand now that although gratification may not be noticed by those higher on the corporate ladder, it is seen in patient's eyes when they look at you. It is seen when you hold their hand through a painful experience. It is seen when they reach out to you for help, and it is felt as soon as this is recognized. |
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As many know, personal influences help us make decisions about our future. I have grown up my whole life with the most wonderful mother anyone could possibly want. Watching her help and guide people in the medical field taught me the importance of helping others and giving back to the community, and the world. Without her I would not be where I am today, and everyday I know how fortunate I am to have her in my life.