Education

Do we ever stop learning?

Nursing is one of those professions that continues to evolve, change and grow almost daily. Just when you think you’ve got a handle on things another study is released that changes how you do a certain task or give a certain medication or chart a certain way. I secretly think its another reason why we all love it so much. That commitment to learning.

I’m always looking something up. Be it a medication who’s “other name” I can’t remember, or a question a colleague asks that I just can’t recall as quickly as I used to. Your Clinical Educator should be a friend!

The grumbling and groaning that occurs at certain times of the year on your unit usually coincides with the recertifications of our “mecca” courses. ACLS, PALS, PEARS, TNCC, ENPC etc. all evoke both fear and fascination in us all. We gather in groups, plunge ourselves into a simulation world for 2 days, and come up for air only to eat, down copious amounts of coffee and pee. Self- inflicted it may be be but oh so necessary to continue to be current in our practice.

A review of anything is always worthwhile. Cramming more relevant information into your already crowded mind is somehow comforting.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions no matter how stupid you may think them to be and look for those education opportunities that pull you out of your comfort zone. Conferences in other cities/towns and education sessions at different hospitals all provide some time away, some excellent opportunities to network as well as a chance to maybe see a new place, find a new restaurant and have a girls night out.

Education…..its a basic part of a nurses’ life but can be so much more than just the classes we attend!