The Outstanding Nurse...

guest112 · May 13, 2016

There are a lot of lists out there about what makes an outstanding nurse. I guess I didn't agree with some of them because I created my own. Thought I would shared for Nurses Week...

THE OUTSTANDING NURSE...

1. IS KNOWLEDGEABLE

Has the knowledge to do the job or know where to get it. Knows what he/she doesn't know. A willingness the learn the rest. Knows where to find the information. Willing to pull up the policies to verify information or ask peers when necessary. Always asking questions and seeking new knowledge.

2. IS EFFECTIVE

This comprises three skills. 1) Time management. 2) Prioritization. And 3) Critical Thinking. Not only understands the how to perform tasks, but understands the rationale behind them. Without this understanding it is difficult to individualize care and trouble shoot when problems occur.

3. IS TEAM-ORIENTED

Always helps peers in trouble (to keep the team strong) if his/her patients are stable and safe.

4. HAS GOOD CHARACTER

This comprises three qualities. 1) Confidence. Being able to tell a patient, I don't know that, but I will try to get you an answer.â€ Able to set boundaries when necessary. 2) Self-Awareness. Knowing your own judgments and biases and keeping them in check. 3) Integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness.

5. IS RESPECTFUL

To patients regardless of their history, to peers and team regardless of past experiences, to themselves.

6. IS AN EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR

Clear and constructive communication with the ability to communicate in various styles and to patients with various levels of educations and backgrounds. Communication with patients and the team should be verified to confirm the intended message was receive properly. Communication should be limited to necessary information that benefits the patient or team. Always follows up on tasks delegated to others.

7. IS SAFE

Puts safety first. Always considers potential threats to a patient and taking steps to prevent them. The safe nurse has all the qualities above. They are able to use their knowledge to critical think through problems, communicate with the team, get further information if needed, set boundaries, and treat patients and team members with respect which fosters a solid and safe team environment.