. Describe what drew you to pursue nursing as a career, and…
1. Pursuing a career in nursing has been a personal calling for me, as I have always had a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on their lives. Nursing, with its emphasis on compassion and caring, seemed like the perfect avenue for me to fulfill this calling. Additionally, the ever-evolving nature of the healthcare industry has always intrigued me, and I am eager to be part of a profession that is constantly at the forefront of advancements and improvements in patient care.
Over the next 5-10 years, I see myself contributing to the nursing profession in various ways. Firstly, I aim to continually expand my knowledge and skills through lifelong learning and professional development opportunities. By staying updated on the latest research and best practices, I can provide evidence-based care that produces the best outcomes for my patients.
In addition to clinical practice, I also have a strong interest in nursing education and research. I see myself taking on leadership roles in these areas, whether it be as a clinical instructor, mentor, or researcher. By sharing my knowledge and experiences with future nurses, I can help shape the next generation of healthcare professionals and contribute to advancing the field of nursing through research and innovation.
Furthermore, I envision myself advocating for changes in healthcare policies and systems to improve patient outcomes and create a more equitable healthcare system. I plan to actively engage in professional organizations and participate in health policy discussions to lend my voice to important issues that impact nursing practice and patient care.
2. My values align closely with the mission of Creighton University, which is rooted in the Jesuit tradition of educating leaders who are committed to service and social justice. I strongly believe in the importance of serving others and using my skills and knowledge for the betterment of society, which is at the core of Creighton’s mission.
Creighton’s emphasis on educating the whole person resonates with me, as I believe that nursing is not just about providing physical care, but also addressing the emotional, spiritual, and social needs of patients. By adopting a holistic approach to care, I can help promote healing and well-being in patients.
Moreover, Creighton’s commitment to social justice aligns with my own values of equality and advocacy. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare regardless of their background, and I am passionate about working towards reducing healthcare disparities and promoting health equity. Creighton’s mission reinforces my commitment to being an advocate for underserved populations and working towards a more just healthcare system.
3. In a previous healthcare setting, I encountered an uncomfortable situation where a patient’s family member was demanding a specific treatment option that was not supported by evidence-based practice. This presented an ethical dilemma for me as a nurse, as I had to balance the autonomy and desires of the patient’s family with my obligation to provide safe and effective care based on the best available evidence.
In this situation, I took the time to listen to the family member’s concerns and explain the rationale behind the recommended treatment plan. I empathized with their wishes but also emphasized the importance of following evidence-based practice to ensure the best outcomes for the patient. Ultimately, I collaborated with the healthcare team and the family to find a compromise that took into account the patient’s best interests and the wishes of the family.
Looking back, I feel that I handled the situation appropriately by advocating for evidence-based practice while still respecting the wishes of the family. However, in a similar situation in the future, I would strive to improve my communication skills to ensure that all parties involved feel heard and understood. By actively engaging in open and honest discussions, I believe that ethical dilemmas can be navigated more effectively, leading to better patient-centered care.
4. To successfully complete the academically rigorous 12-month Accelerated BSN program, I plan to implement several strategies to manage my time effectively and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Firstly, I will prioritize my commitments and create a detailed schedule that allows for dedicated study time, clinical rotations, and self-care activities.
I will also utilize effective study techniques such as creating organized study materials, participating in study groups, and seeking help when needed. Additionally, I will practice self-discipline and set realistic goals for each day, ensuring that I stay on track with coursework and assignments.
To manage stress and promote self-care, I plan to incorporate regular exercise, mindfulness activities, and time for relaxation into my daily routine. I understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout and promote overall well-being.
Overall, I am committed to dedicating myself fully to the demands of the program and utilizing effective strategies to manage my time efficiently. I am confident that with determination, discipline, and a strong support system, I will successfully complete the program and excel in my nursing education and clinical practice.