NURS 6002: Foundations of

Graduate Study

Academic and Professional Success Plan Template

Prepared by:

Kadidia C. Tall-Waiters
This document is to be used for NURS 6002 Foundations of Graduate Study to
complete Assessments 1-6. Just as importantly the document serves to organize your
thoughts about planning for your academic and professional success.
For specific instructions see the weekly assessment details in the course, or ask your
instructor for further guidance.
Week 1 | Part 1: My Academic and Professional Network

 Clearly and accurately identify at least two academic individuals or teams to

collaborate with to be successful in the MSN program and as a practicing nurse.
 Clearly and accurately identify at least two professional individuals or teams to
collaborate with to be successful in your MSN program and as a practicing nurse.
 Clearly and thoroughly explain in detail why the academic and professional
individuals/teams were selected to support success in the MSN program and as a
practicing nurse.
 Clearly and accurately explain how the academic and professional individuals/teams
will support success in the MSN program and as a practicing nurse.

Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and

comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the
assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.

NETWORK MEMBER 1

Name: H.E. Sam Schuler, RN, MSN

Title: Registered Nurse

Organization: U.S. Army Martin Army Community Hospital

Academic or Professional: Professional

Why I selected this individual and/or team and how they will support my success
in the MSN program and as a practicing nurse: I chose Mr. Schuler because of the
following reason. He is a dedicated nurse that motivates me and other nurse’s to be
successful in our careers, he has be a superior knowledge of nursing administration and
hands on skills. Mr. Schuler is a key leader when it comes to setting staff members on a
path to success in their personal and professional life. I feel that his skill set will assist
me in making me a successful nurse, by guiding me to empower others and build
relationships with my fellow professionals that provide them with the experiences they
need to take care of patients. Mr. Schuler always is a person that has set standards for
what it means to be a great nurse. He is one of the main reason that I decided to seek
my NP degree in Mental Health. As a Mental Health NP, Mr. Schuler has stated that this
career field is short professionals and that I would be a great addition to the field. After
much care and research, I stated work at West Central Mental Health Hospital and
found it to be very rewarding and career filling. I feel that at any time day of night I can
call upon Mr. Schuler to provide me guidance and mentorship to be successful.

Notes: Mr. Schuler told me that success comes from within and education is the key

NETWORK MEMBER 2

Name: Latoshia Collins

Title: Chief of Nursing of Department of Medicine

Organization: U.S. Army Martin Army Community Hospital

Academic or Professional: Professional

Why I selected this individual and/or team and how they will support my success
in the MSN program and as a practicing nurse: Captain Collins, L. is one of the most
dedicated and professional nurses I know. Her knowledge, skills, and abilities and
second. As the Chief of Nursing for the Department of Medicine for Martin Army
Community Hospital, she shows what it takes to be a leader and to be successful in the
every changing challenges of a major medical facility. Captain Collins not only leads by
example, she attends several meeting per day, works with a budget of several million
dollars. As a future leader, I have observed Captain Collins work and in a commanding
fashion move, work with, and deal with many different personalities as she leader the
Department of Medicine. I feel that at any time day of night I can call upon Mr. Schuler
to provide me guidance and mentorship to be successful. She is one of the best leaders
I have every had the pleasure of working with.

Notes: Captain Collins leads by example and guides by passion

Name: Dr. Patrina Johnson

Title: Dean of Faculty Chamberlain University Nursing School

Organization: Chamberlain University

Academic or Professional: Academic

Why I selected this individual and/or team and how they will support my success in the
MSN program and as a practicing nurse: As a student of Dr. Johnson, I’ve the opinion that a
great nursing professor such as her pays attention to me and all of her students’ this is what made
Dr. Johnson the best teacher I have ever had. Her teaching style seemed to match my learning
style in relation to the clinical training and in class learning. Dr. Johnson stated that teaching
student s was a passion, that she had and wanted to make sure that her students carried the same
passion that she had. As a student I felt that learning from Dr. Johnson was more like a
kinesthetic teaching style, this allowed her to encourage her student to seek more learning
opportunities and to excel to be better then yesterday.

Dr. Johnson always provides a good educational support system and with a careful format for
success, she gave me a presentation of how me becoming a great nurse could benefit all students
and encouraging me to become a Nurse Practitioner, by telling me to go for it.

As an educator Dr. Johnson is very professional to me as an professor who, according to the rest
of my class, she is close to absolutely perfect in her knowledge and guidance for everyone to
achieve and be the best. Even now, long after I have graduated Dr. Johnson still calls or emails at
least once per month reminding me of important terms and updates related to the nursing
profession. This is why I have chosen her to be my Academic mentor as I seek to complete my
MSN as a NP.

Notes: Special note: on 12/18/2019 she provided me with a great PowerPoint presentation with
examples of what it that to succeed in my gradate program. She has stated on many occasions
that I can contact he at any time regarding my educational challenges should I need and assists
and motivation.

Name: Jorge Menjivar

Title: Nursing Faculty

Organization: Chamberlain University Nursing School

Academic or Professional: Academic

Why I selected this individual and/or team and how they will support my success in the
MSN program and as a practicing nurse: Professor Menjivar is an outstanding clinical
instructor for Chamberlain University, I can say this by with a clear mind based on having
completed several of my clinical course with him. He worked with me and all students to make
sure that we understood the tasks at hand and to not be just a good nurse, but an extraordinary
nurse.

I came to learn that he greatly enjoyed being a teacher and talking about what can be
accomplished as a NP. I informed Professor Menjivar that I wanted to become a mental health
NP, he told me that was a great career choice. The Professor gave me several resources to start
researching what were the requirement for this career, he also referred me to Walden University
because of the great programs that were offered. I have reached out Professor Menjivar
regarding knowledge, he has agreed to remain as resource for me, acting as a mentor as I take
this journey toward the next part of my career.

Notes: Professor Menjivar often stated that education does not find you, you must go out and
find it.
Week 2 | Part 2: Academic Resources and Strategies

 Clearly identify and accurately describe in detail at least three academic resources
or strategies that can be applied to the MSN program.
 Clearly identify and accurately describe in detail at least three professional
resources that can be applied to success in the nursing practice in general or in a
specialty.
 Clearly and thoroughly explain in detail how you intend to use these resources, and
how they might benefit you academically and professionally.

Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and

comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the
assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.

ACADEMIC RESOURCE/STRATEGY 1

ACADEMIC RESOURCE/STRATEGY 2

ACADEMIC RESOURCE/STRATEGY 3

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCE/STRATEGY 1
PROFESSIONAL RESOURCE/STRATEGY 2

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCE/STRATEGY 3

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES/STRATEGIES
Week 3 | Part 3: Strategies to Promote Academic Integrity and Professional Ethics

I have analyzed the relationship between academic integrity and writing, as well as the
relationship between professional practices and scholarly ethics. I have also identified
strategies I intend to pursue to maintain integrity and ethics of my academic work while
a student of the MSN program, as well as my professional work as a nurse throughout
my career. The results of these efforts are shared below.

Directions: In the space below craft your analysis/writing sample, including Part 1 (The
Connection Between Academic and Professional Integrity) and Part 2 (Strategies for
Maintaining Integrity of Work). Utilize headings formatted in proper APA throughout
each Part to clearly identify key topic area requirements.
Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and
comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the
assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.

Part 1: Writing Sample: The Connection Between Academic and Professional

Integrity

In the space below write a 2- 3-paragraph analysis that includes the following:

 Clearly and accurately explains in detail the relationship between academic

integrity and writing.
 Clearly and accurately explains in detail the relationship between professional
practices and scholarly ethics.
 Accurately cite at least 2 resources that fully support your arguments, being sure
to use proper APA formatting.
 Use Grammarly and SafeAssign to improve the product.
 Clearly and accurately describe in detail how Grammarly, SafeAssign, and
paraphrasing contributes to academic integrity. Include sufficient evidence that
Grammarly and SafeAssign were utilized to improve responses.

As a nurse working in the mental health field, on a daily basis I have to complete reports
using many different academic sources. So as a nurse professional if know that academic
integrity is very important to research, as a general rule you can find information regarding
academic at the local library, medical institution, or on the internet. These location will have
mainly the same information but will differ, me as the professional will have to go about finding
it a different way. For this essay, I feel that a better explanation can be given, I found some
really great research using the following source as a guide Montclair State University Center for
Writing and Academic Integrity, 2019. Writing and Academic integrity is founded on several
essential aspects; writing style, respect, drafting, organization and structure, revising, editing,
Proofreading honesty, and work honesty (National Juris University, 2019). Many institution of
higher learning are well involved within their communities and dedicated to brining change to
the area of writing and academic styles.

As a professional I feel that our writing style is key to making sure that the message with
are wanting to put out is well understood. Academic respect means we can face any challenge
with the integrity & professionalism this means “learn to be the better person, to do the right
thing” to be better then the rest. Drafting your work is indispensable to any yourself and the
institution as you strives for academically proficient and professional. I want to make sure that
organization and structure is one point when it comes to writing and research, the result will be
shown in the work and assist the instructor and class to better understand me. Revising one's
work can result in transparency and avoid any concerns of plagiarism. Sometimes as a necessity
and recourse we have to keep a certain level of writing and academic integrity with each other in
order to offer a feeling of doing the right thing. When it comes to work honesty this makes
integrity all the more important within the academic community, we must have professionals and
willing to be accountable for their work (The Fundamental Value, 2013, p. 26). Based on what I
have been able to learn and research academic environments offer a lot to the person willing to
learn. Professionalism is the string that puts it all together. As a professional using these values
will assist us in doing always submitting and great work. As a professional I am willing to stand
up for my values even when others don't agree, I have learned that the world will show you
adversity when you try and do the right thing. Honesty will help you accomplish all your
academic goals.

Academic writing is a concept of our style and the message we are trying to put out, as
well as the other points we are attempting to make. The function as an as institution (Walden
University) will be to show academic integrity in all aspects and work. Walden University has
zero tolerance for plagiarism and as a professional I will not plagiarize anything to complete an
assignment

Every profession has its own code of ethics and professionalism. As far as nursing is
concerned the National Student Nurse Association Code of Ethics has an integrity Statements.
This code offers a guide to how a nurse should conduct her professional life and operate within
the aspect academic and writing ethics. The national code for nurses’ shows how to can carry
out all of my duties, daily responsibilities, and patient obligations within the field of healthcare.
I have learned that when one earns their nurse degree and passes the NCLEX, we automatically
accepts this Code of Ethics, we then agree to accept everything within this career as well as work
in a scholarly manner for the code of ethics and nursing. The NSNA states that, “NSNA
informs, prepares, and inspires members to develop continuous, life-long learning and ethics of
the profession. Nursing students are encouraged to take full advantage of their education and
develop their professional leadership skills as members of NSNA.” (p 45). This statement
focuses on academic learning and writing. The way a nurse should function, it also shows us and
others what their scholarly duties and ethics should be. If you are an nurse, and see another
nurse doing something wrong, and she thinks no one is looking, you need to speak up.

The NSNA that tells you she has no scholarly ethics, if she is doing something wrong. On
the other hand, if you see her accidentally pop an extra narcotic out, and stick it in her pocket,
and you don't say something wrong you are just as guilty, you should go to find nurse manager,
you need to explain the situation to the nurse manager, this will protect you and your license, and
remember based on the rules scholarly ethics is not just academics. As a professional nurse and
student, we should all have ethics. If we do what is right when know one is looking this is what
defines us.

As we progress through our course I will make use of the learning and writing tools that,
Walden University has to offer they can help me to write the best paper possible. The use of the
Safe Assign allows me to run my written work through a database the will check my work for
any type of plagiarism. I also make use of several free plagiarism program (Student Plagiarism
Checker, plagly, plagchecker, or Grammarly). I feel that these tools if used right will produce a
quality writing project.
 As we progress through our learning we have to understand that academic integrity and
ethics are need to make sure that writing and research follow rules to protect everyone. Protect
the research that others have done gives the writer and the families a since of security, the code
of ethics follows and system that is designed to work in everyone's favor. A code of ethics in
writing is interpretive and form a basis for seccess.

References

National Student Nurse Association. (2014). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive

statements. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/coe-view-only

International Center for Academic Integrity. (2015). The fundamental values of academic

integrity. Retrieved Jan 5, 2020, from https://academicintegrity.org/fundamental-values/

American Psychological Association. (2018). Publication manual of the American psychological

association (6th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

Walden University Academic Skills Center. (n.d.). ASC success strategies: Plagiarism. Retrieved

Jan 5, 2020 from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/ASCsuccess/ASCplagiarism

Walden University Writing Center. (n.d.). Grammarly: Overview. Retrieved Jan 5, 2020, from

https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/grammarly
PART 2: Strategies for Maintaining Integrity of Work

Expand on your thoughts from Part 1 by:

 Clearly identifying and accurately describing strategies you intend to pursue to

maintain integrity and ethics of your 1) academic work while a student of the
MSN program, and 2) professional work as a nurse throughout your career.
 Include a clearly developed review of resources and approaches you propose to
use as a student and a professional.

As I researched different books concerning the "Honor Codes: Evidence Based Strategies for
Improving Academic Integrity", many of the chapters talked about academic integrity and the
affects it has on research and ethics. Since the book was published in 2017, it can be assumed
that these strategies hold true to this very day. The book is very informative as it relates to about
50-75% of students don't follow ethical or honor codes during their college time. The book also
stated that this is an on going concerns and steps should be put in place in order to lower these
stats.
I feel that because so many people have complete an ethical writing concern, and really don't
feel that they did anything wrong or felt that they would not get caught. As we progress through
this MSN program, we need to understanding that we have to be in the know as it relates to our
own academic integrity, because if we don't complete ours writing assignments on our own,
might we push this same mentality on our patients and not perform to our full potential. Many
college students should be made aware of Academic Ethics before starting class, this will keep a
lot of them from getting into trouble. Since starting my career as a nurse I have seen several
ethical violation and have had to make quite a few on the spot correction. The one thing that I
have seen is that older professionals' really don't like to be corrected by the new person. The one
thing that I really like to remind them that their license and my license is on the line because they
are failing to follow that rules. Maintaining a professional mindset often keeps me at a distance
from others, but the patient safety is my first priority, but I do say that have a high level of
integrity sometimes costs me a closer bond with my co-works.
I have asked myself several question in the past that I always help myself to maintain a
professional stance:
- Because many healthcare facilities and attempting to save money, how does that affect
healthcare service?
- What price does it take to keep my moral value high and my ethics higher?
- What is the best way to keep academic and professional integrity?
 As a Walden University student, I will work hard and always do all of my own work and
assignments; I will utilize Walden University SafeAssign to make sure that my work is properly
checked and it is my own work. I will use the writing center when needed to make sure that I
turn in the best writing product this will be done in order to avoid possible plagiarism, and keep
my integrity high.
As a nurse professional, I plan to follow the NSNA Code of Ethics for nurses and follow
any new policy's and procedure that they put out. . Of course, this will all depend on funding,
but this is a goal I have for what I would like my practice to be. As I work to complete my
assignment, I plan to join other organization to make sure that I am a good nurse to those with
who I serve.

References
Tatum, Holly; Schwartz, Beth M. (2017-04-03). "Honor Codes: Evidence Based Strategies for
Improving Academic Integrity". Theory into Practice. 56 (2): 129–
135. doi:10.1080/00405841.2017.1308175. ISSN 0040-5841
American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive
statements. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/coe-view-only
Walden University Writing Center. (n.d.). Grammarly: Overview. Retrieved
 Jan 5, 2020, from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/grammarly
Week 4 | Part 4: Research Analysis

I have identified one topic of interest for further study. I have researched and identified
one peer-reviewed research article focused on this topic and have analyzed this article.
The results of these efforts are shared below.

Directions: Complete Step 1 by using the table and subsequent space below identify
and analyze the research article you have selected. Complete Step 2 by summarizing in
2-3 paragraphs the results of your analysis using the space identified.

Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and

comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the
assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.
Step 1: Research Analysis
Complete the table below
Topic of Forensic Mental Healthcare Professional
Interest:
Research Brown, J., Weinfauf, E. (2018). Forensic mental health: a source
Article: Include guide for professionals. St. Paul, MN: Forensic Press
full citation in International
APA format, as
well as link or https://www.jscimedcentral.com/Psychiatry/psychiatry-5-1119.pdf
search details
(such as DOI)
Professional Based on the information that I have read I have come to believe that the
Practice Use: study of Forensic mental health is part love, dedication, and the process of
One or more taking care of the patient. As I have earn working with patients with
professional standard mental health therapy concerns may require a different therapeutic
practice uses of approach. Dr. Brown wrote in his book that using Forensic mental health
the treatments as frequently as we do, we must also consider the level of
theories/concept treatment that the patients is willing to accept. because I work at a mental
s presented in health treat hospital, I have had the opportunity to see many different
the article patients receive treatments, some of the conditions treated are phobias,
anxiety and the most common one psychosis. Forensic mental health
training is a merging treatment in the field that will require more training
and better professional for the future. As I learn more I feel that based on
the current career path I have chosen, I can make a difference within the
community, also with my professional practice as a Forensic mental health
professional I can use this skill to reduce the number of patients suffering
and to improve their functional status.
Research Strengths Limitations/Weaknes Relevancy Notes
Analysis Matrix of the ses of the Research to Topic
Add more rows Research of Interest
if necessary Quantitative Having English as my third Have a good Can my case study
and language. I have a need to idea of the be published
Qualitative fall back to my work different based on the
research skills dictionary are a word types of information being
for my enforcement tool mental health presented.
program of concern you
study may
encounter.
Base understand of some Figure out Research the
Having a of the mental health words ahead of time number of other
access to a with the context of my as to how studies that have
large number subject matter. many been conducted.
of patients patients I will have any of these
that can be add to my studies that have
observed research and been conducts
with what ended with the
 area to focus same results.
(phobias,
different
personalities,
ect.)
Obtaining quality results Remember Consult with others
Experiences and required that different to gain a better
with working size samples foundation for the
with patient will give me subject matter.
within the field different
of Forensic results.
mental health
Willingness to Making sure that my Beware of I feel that my study
learn and to compute and skills are barriers as is going well, the
apply that updated to handle the large they could participants and
skills to my amount of information need give you willing and the
academic to be successful false results. audience is able.
education.
Control group Keeping my ideas How many Was the project
of patients professional. Keep it real people will I over though or was
that can be and on topic. use in my their quality in the
observe and research, 5 research to bring a
the hands on professional better
treatment that and 10 understanding to
they receive patients, the subject matter.
beware of
bias
I am able to Remembering to follow all I will make What was the
look at the rule as the relate to HIPPA sure that I results or the
relationship and patients rights. have patients.
each patient permission
offers and to prior to using
quantify the results.
variables and
work within
the group.

I have learned Learning that a patients will Does my Quality work and
to see a sometimes say what I want research quality research.
situation to hear and not say what represent the
through the subject I am attempting to desire results
patients eyes research. Keep the subject as it relates
to a certain on tasks to assisting
point. patients.

Can act as an Keep the research as Topic of Sample of others

independent simple as possible study should work and cited
professional be sources played a
understood well into the paper.
by as many
people as
possible.
I can work out Do over write, keep it Be prepared sucess
situations and simple and don't over to have
let them be complicate. protractors to
 applied to the my study.
current patient
I am working
with

Particularly Think about the question Watch for Did my research

important That you ask the client, they triggers and bring new insight
I learn to could cause bigger issues if who they to the field of
apply my skills they take the question the affect the Forensic mental
to the patient wrong way. audience you health treatment.
and try not are looking to
and let connect with.
personal
opinions
interfere with
my
professional
opinion.

Step 2: Summary of Analysis

 Write a 2- to 3-paragraph summary that you will add to your Academic Success and
Professional Development Plan that includes the following:
o Clearly and accurately describe in detail your approach to identifying and
analyzing peer-reviewed research.
o Clearly identify and accurately describe in detail at least two strategies that
you would use that you found to be effective in finding peer-reviewed
research.
o Provide a complete, detailed, and specific synthesis of at least one resource
you intend to use in the future to find peer-reviewed research.
o Integrate at least one outside resource and 2-3 course specific resources to
fully support your summary.

Identifying and Analyzing Peer-Reviewed Research

Peer- Reviewed Research is way by which people can be critical and can learn to asses each
other's research prior to turning in academic journals, papers, or presenting the information in
such a way that it can be peer-reviewed and submitted for grades or publication. I feel that my
writing can be identify and analyze using a peer research method. There are several things that I
did during the research process, I wanted to look for the skill of the author/author's. The authors
credentials is a great indicator of the level of education and experience they have in the field. As
I move forward I look for articles to see if it focuses on my subject matter that I am researching,
in my case it should be about Forensic mental health skills and treatment. In many cases, the title
of the article is a good indicator of what the article was all about, this will allow me to narrow
the information I want. My next step will be to look for good structure in the article that relates
to Forensic mental health, in some cases longer articles offer more information, than short
articles. The last thing that I do is review the article for, tone, context, and point of view for an
excellent peer-reviewed article. This to me is the best way to locate a really great peer reviewed
article that focuses on the Forensic mental health research and its effectiveness.
Strategies in Finding Peer-Reviewed Research
As I progress through this course I have learned that locating a credible and well written peer-
reviewed article is not complicated. Some may agree with me, others may not, but I have found
that some of strategies include looking at a limited number of research databases, having a small
group to look at such as a peer-reviewed journals located within the Walden University
electronic library.
Being able to narrow down the research information that is being searched will be your most
effective way of getting the information you want and saving time. Looking at a different
approach sometimes allows for me to see a publication, that would other wise be missed because
a title could be written a different. Another resource that is often over looked would be the use of
the instructor in getting feedback or as a point of learning, in many cases the instructor is a great
of truth, they will tell you if something is good or bad and weather or not it fits what you are
attempting to explain. The instructor or your fellow peer can also provide you with additional
resources.
Future Resource for Information
In the past, prior to starting my course of study at Walden University, I used Google Scholar as
my primary source to find peer-reviewed articles. But, as I started this course I took the steps of
using Walden Library, with Google Scholar being my secondary source, by using these two
sources I can have an accurate research paper for submission. Since I started this course I have
decided to utilize Walden Library for all of my assignments while in this program and will use
the library for the foreseeable future. The beneficial use of the database will continue to assist me
with informational and peer reviewed research. The more research tools & resources I have, the
better, the chance I have of putting together a better product for my class.

Reference
Walden University Academic Skills Center. (n.d.). ASC success strategies: Plagiarism. Retrieved

Jan 5, 2020 from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/ASCsuccess/ASCplagiarism

Walden University Writing Center. (n.d.). Grammarly: Overview. Retrieved Jan 5, 2020, from

https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/grammarly
Week 5 | Part 5: Professional Development

I have developed a curriculum vitae to capture my academic and professional

accomplishments to date. I have also developed a statement identifying one or more
professional development goals, and a statement proposing how I might align one or
more of these professional development goals with the University’s emphasis on social
change.

The results of my efforts are below.

Directions: Complete Step 1 by developing (or copying and pasting) a curriculum vitae
(CV) in the space provided. Complete Step 2 by clearly identifying and accurately
stating in detail your professional development goals. Complete Step 3 by clearly and
accurately stating in detail how to accurately and appropriately align one or more of
your professional development goals with the University’s emphasis on social change.

Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and

comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the
assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.
Step 1: Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Use the space below to create a fully developed and accurate curriculum vitae (CV)
based on your current education and professional background. Alternatively, you may
write this in a separate document and copy/paste the results below.
NOTE: If needed there are a variety of online resources available with tips and samples
of graduate nurse CVs.

Kadidia C. Tall-Waiters
8009 Highlands Dr, Midland, GA 31820
404-421-3064
kadidia.tallwaiters@yahoo.com

OBJECTIVE

Nurse

EDUCATION

Chamberlain University, Atlanta, GA 4/2015-8/2019

B.S. NURSING

Columbus Tech College, Columbus, GA 12/2012-9/2014

Certificate Healthcare Admin

Certification and License

-Active Nursing License (RN290602) 10/2019-Present
-BLS Healthcare provider 6/2019-Present
-Phlebotomy Certification 6/2012-Present
-Mandated Reporter for Sexually Abused Children

WORK EXPERIENCE

Rose Hair Braiding Rose 9/2009-10/10/2018

-Braids Hair in a professional

CLINICAL EXPERIENCE

Collaborative Healthcare (48 hours) (Clinical) May 6, 2019 – Jun 29, 2019
Piedmont Newnan Hospital Newnan, GA
- Ensures that temporary staff and ‘transitioning to practice’ nurses have improved supervision by
senior nursing staff
- Takes advantage of knowledge and experience of each team members, which also leads to
professional development and increased knowledge for junior staff
- Reduction in staff isolation and a more supportive working environment
- Patient outcomes and satisfaction is improved
- Individual team members can familiarize themselves with each other’s skills and capacities
- Significantly reduced risk of missed care (any patient care which is omitted or delayed)
- The workload is shared which can reduce nurse stress levels and potential manual handling injuries

Community Health (48 hours) (Clinical) Jan 7, 2019 -Mar 2, 2019

Upson County Public Health Department Thomaston, GA

- Helping individuals, families, groups and communities develop their capacity and access to
resources, including health insurance, food, housing, quality care and health information
-Facilitating communication and client empowerment in interactions with health care/social
service systems
- Helping people understand their health condition(s) and develop strategies to improve their
health and well being
- Helping to build understanding and social capital to support healthier behaviors and lifestyle
choices
- Delivering health information using culturally appropriate terms and concepts
- Linking people to health care/social service resources
- Providing informal counseling, support and follow-up
- Advocating for local health needs

Maternal-Child Nursing (48 hours) (Clinical) Oct 29, 2018 – Dec 1, 2018
Dekalb Medical Center Dekalb, GA

- Work with laboring mothers

- Assist in delivery
- Care for mothers and newborns after delivery
- Monitor mothers and newborns for complications after delivery
- Monitor critically ill infants
- Provide support to patients’ families before, during and after a delivery
- Check on new mothers and their babies following discharge

Pediatric Nursing (48 hours) (Clinical) Sep 3, 2018 – Oct 27, 2018
Children Hospital of Atlanta (Egleston) Atlanta, GA

- Identify changes in a child’s signs and symptoms and intervene in emergent situations
- Maintain privacy and confidentiality in nurse/child relationships
- Differentiate between normal and abnormal physical findings
- Serve as a child advocate
- Participate in activities to manage a child’s pain
 - Analyze situations of pathophysiological problems and detect changes in patients
- Determine a child’s needs related to pain management

Complex Adult Health (48 hours) (Clinical) Jul 16, 2018– Aug 28, 2018
Piedmont Newnan Hospital Newnan, GA

- Developed a broad knowledge in all areas of adult health with learned to develop my skills
in assessment, organizational, technical, and prioritization.
- Assisted the lead RN as I learned to act as a patient advocate
- Learned to consider patient safety as my top priority by supporting patients in knowing
what is in their best interests of the patients.
- Learned to welcome diversity and different aspects of Nursing– learned to function in
diverse health care settings, from hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home care facilities;
willingly accept changes and accept it as a new learning experience.

Mental Health (64 hours) (Clinical) May 7, 2018 – Jun 11, 2018
Anchor Hospital Atlanta, GA

- Learned to assess and plan nursing care requirements

- Assisted with organizing workloadsx2sw3e1Azq2
- Assisted with the visitation patients in their rooms
- Learned to build relationships with, reassuring, listening and talking to mental patients
- Assisted with teaching patients how to combat stigma and help patients and their families
during this tough time
- Observed Sr Nurse administer medication
- Agreeing and reviewing care plans and monitoring progress of patients
- Taught to work with doctors and other professionals staff members
- Encouraging patients to take part in therapeutic activities

Adult Health II (64 hours) (Clinical) Feb 16, 2018– Apr 22, 2018
Piedmont Hospital Stockbridge, GA

- Assisted with the design client-centered care through advanced practice and education with
an altruistic concern for the welfare of others while supporting autonomy and respecting
human dignity.
- Learned how to demonstrate integrity through accountability and responsibility for clinical
decisions and life-long learning.
- Manage quality improvement measures that support legal/ethical standards through the use
of evidence-based practice.
- Learned to promote the health of clients/patients through education and multidisciplinary
management of risk reduction, disease prevention and the management of Illness.
- Demonstrate professional role competence in education and advanced nursing practice.
Adult Health I (48 hours) (Clinical) Jan 5, 2018-Feb 25, 2018
Piedmont Hospital Newnan, GA

- assessing and planning nursing care requirements

- writing care plans and records
- providing pre and post operation care
- monitoring a patient's condition
- carrying out routine investigations and care procedures, such as administering medication,
injections and intravenous infusions, and taking vitals
- assisted with dealing with emergencies
- organizing workloads
- providing advice and promoting good health to patients
- providing information, emotional support and reassurance to patients and relative

Fundamental of Nursing (60 hours) Oct 23, 2017-Dec 17, 2017

Unihealth Post-Acutecare Fayetteville, GA

- Record medical history and symptoms.

- Collaborate with team to plan for patient care.
- Advocate for health and wellbeing of patient.
- Monitor patient health and record signs.
- Administer medications and treatments.
- Operate medical equipment.
- Perform diagnostic tests.
- Educate patients about management of illnesses.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Organization Red Cross 1/2017-10/2019

Worked on the Med-Surg/Gastro Unit Ward-Took care of the waiting room and ensure that it
is cleaned up and ready for our members-Orient the patients to their room upon
admission-Round (check-in) on patients-Act as a companion for appropriate patients-
Deliver blankets, towels, washcloths, beverages as approved, read to the patient or
provide magazines and books-Ensure Care Boards are updated and accurate-Answer
Phones-Additional duties as assigned
Step 2: Professional Development Goals
My professional development goals are as follows, I will learn to follow a professional plan that
will assist me in assisting patient and growing in the profession.

1) Diagnose the Patient

The a mental health nurse must I first will learn assess the patient & to accurately make a
determination of the diagnosis regarding the type of mental disorder my patients has. During this
training, as a mental health nurse I will learn to observe the patient, learn to interview, and
administer mental health tests of the patient to have a full understanding of my client.

2) Build Relationship

I need to learn to improve and search for a cure to the mental illness that affects my clients, as a
mental health nurse I must learn to establish a very strong and caring relationship with my clients
patient, this will allow for me gain their trust so that they will adhere to the nurse's knowledge
regarding treatment.

3) Teach the Patient

I need to learn to provide the required treatment plan, as a mental health nurse I must learn to
educate the client about their specific condition relating to mental illness and I can teach him
how to learn to cope with the mental problem. As I gain knowledge, I will be able to keep the
patient up to date with the treatment and teach them.

I have look at my total skill set that I will need, I have came up with the above three things that
are very important to my professional development goals to assist me as I grow. The three goals
listed above are my foundation: Diagnose the patient, Build relationships, and teach the patients,
said note, complete my education.

Step 3: Alignment with Social Change

As a future professional mental health nurse, I have learned to be a social change agent in an
effort to become better at the duties. The role for myself is that of being an advocate for those
suffering from mental health issues. I want those working within as a nurse within the mental
health care system, to know that I can be called upon at any time to assist them where possible
and provide a solution to the problem.
I feel that as a mental health nurse, every can see what I am offering can take effect and being to
transform everyone around me regarding the lives of both my patients and fellow nurses. As I work to
become more dedicated to the field. I will make every effort to assist both the ill and the well, through
the various functions they perform. Social change is an on going movement and the knowledge we gain
over time needs to be applied to that change, we learn and we grow as in the way of a professional.
Week 6 | Part 6: Finalizing the Plan

I have considered various options for my nursing specialty, including a close look at my
selected (or currently preferred) specialty and second-preferred specialty. I have also
developed a justification of my selected (or preferred) specialty. Lastly, I have examined
one professional organization related to my selected or preferred specialty and
considered how I can become a member of this organization.

The results of my efforts are below.

Directions: Complete Step 1 by writing 2-3 paragraphs in the space below comparing
the nursing specialty you have selected – or the one you prefer if your choice is still
under consideration - to your second preference. Identify each specialty and describe
the focus and the role that graduates are prepared for. Identify any other differentiators
you feel are significant, especially those that helped or may help you reach a decision.

Complete Step 2 by writing a paragraph identifying and justifying your reasons for
choosing your MSN specialization. Be sure to incorporate any feedback you received
from colleagues in this week’s Discussion Forum.

Complete Step 3 by examining and identifying one professional organization related to

your selected or preferred specialty. Explain how you can become a member of this
organization.

Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and

comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the
assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.

Step 1: Comparison of Nursing Specialties

The profession Psychiatric mental health nursing (PMHNP) covers an area of specialties, that
include pediatrics mental health, adult mental health, addiction mental health, and adult-geriatric
mental health care. As a family nurse practitioner (FNP) they are a nurse practitioner who
specializes taking care of family medical issue.

All areas of the NP career field requires a master’s degree in nursing, as well as Master of
Science in Nursing (MSN). The degree as a (PMHNP) degree normally requires a typical degree
program as a MSN, it also requires additional courses that are within the all other specialties of
the higher degree field. In addition, I will need to take courses to complete my specific area of
interest.

The main difference between (PMHNP) vs. NP is that a (PMHNP) program is more rigid, it
does not enable graduates to travel outside the required learning. You must take a certain number
of courses that are designed to meet the needs of the patients. The (PMHNP) degree teaches you
to treat everyone from children to geriatrics. As a NP specialties there is a much smaller scope of
focus and are set to a certain age group, a certain branch of medicine, or a certain medical
setting.

Let’s explore the required education, job description, and career outlook for an (PMHNP). .

Educational Requirements

To practice as an (PMHNP), nurses must have a master’s degree in nursing. Be a registered

nurse with a BSN degree in nursing and relevant experience. Below is a list of the required
course that need to be taken in order to earn your degree as a (PMHNP).

● Master’s Degree Options ● Program Curriculum

NURS 3101 Issues and Trends in Nursing

NURS 3151 Foundations of Nursing Research
NURS 4211 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population Health
NURS 4006 Topics in Clinical Nursing
NURS 4221 Leadership Competencies in Nursing and Healthcare
NURS 6002/6003 Transition to Graduate Study for Nursing
NURS 6050 Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health
NURS 6051 Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology
NURS 6052 Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice
NURS 6053 Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership
NURS 6501 Advanced Pathophysiology
NURS 6521 Advanced Pharmacology
NURS 6512 Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning
NURS 6630 Psychopharmacologic Approaches to Treatment of Psychopathology
NRNP 6640/PRAC
Psychotherapy With Individuals
6640
NRNP 6650/PRAC
Psychotherapy With Groups and Families
6650
NRNP 6660/PRAC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Role I: Child and Adolescent
6660
NURS 6670/PRAC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Role II: Adults and Older Adults
6670

Duties and Responsibilities of the NP

NPs work independently or in collaboration other professionals such as physicians and health
care professionals to deliver family care to all ages and all family members. NP work well to
develop relationships for all of the families the serve. The work to promote a healthy family
lifestyle and prevent disease while giving the best care possible and giving health counseling
lifespan of the patient.

NPs can be found in many different settings, this will include working hospitals, large and
small clinics, large or small medical practices, or school systems. The average NP is qualified to
treat medical conditions and to prescribe medications.

A NP can be expected to perform the following duties.

● Conducting physical and health assessments

● Performing diagnostic tests and analyzing results
● Prescribing medications
● Developing treatment plans for acute and chronic illnesses
● Providing education and guidance on disease prevention and healthy lifestyle habits
● Facilitating preventive care and disease management

Job Outlook

Looking at the PMHNP vs. NP the two are not the same. Both nurses may work
autonomously, but the can't replace a for physician and will from time to time be required to seek
out the assistance of the doctor. The United States of Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that a
salary for a PMHNP is about $123,600.00 per year. Where as the starting salary for an NP is at
of around $107,460. Both area are expected to grow well into the future. In closing, both careers
are required and both will be needed well into the future,
 It is a career path that can provide RNs with more opportunities for nurse leadership and
clinical autonomy, if you are interested in the program, you can contact Walden University for
additional information.
Step 2: Justification of Nursing Specialty
I knew from the first day of nursing school that my career as a nurse would focus on the
psychiatric nursing aspect, I could feel that it was going to be where I placed my focus, because I
hard a strong desire to work at the state mental health hospital. This organization offered me the
quality work life, room to grow and develop, and quality training. As a current mental health
nurse at West Central Mental Health Hospital, located in Columbus, GA. As a professional I
feel that working around patients with mental health concerns has allowed me to learn to
empathize with what some the patients are dealing with, some of these issues might be
embarrassment, treatment frustration, and a desire to hurt themselves, that can often go hand in
hand with a mental illness.
I have had the opportunity to work with patients that are suffering with some of the worst
mental health conditions (et. depression, psychotic episodes, addicted to drugs, anxious, or
paranoid delusion). Many of the patients that I serve really don't think that they will get better,
they have given up hope. I feel that I can provide a service and assist in my patients treatments.
Also located at the hospital, we have several patients that have committed some serious crimes
(murder, rape, cannibalism, ect.). I have looked at ways to work with breaking the psychotic lock
that they have, by providing patients and time to my patients. The final reason that I makes me
want to become a mental health nurse is to assist to work those patients that are suffering from
drug addiction. I have had the privilege of caring for patients who feel as if they are stuck with
nowhere else to lean on and are broken both spiritually, fully mentally broken and emotionally
broken.
As a Psychiatric nurse my foundation will be to the patients who have a variety of disorders,
including:
 Anxiety, such as panic disorder or phobia
 Mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder
 Psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia
 Substance abuse and addiction
 Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
The most fulfilling part of my nursing career is when I make a positive change in just one
patients life and assist them in getting their life back on track.
Step 3: Professional Organization

There are well over 100 special organization that are dedicated to the professional growth and
development of every member seeking a place the mental health career field. The organization
that I choose is listed below, this organization I feel will allow me to grow and development,
work to become a better mental health nurse. As a student at Walden University, I have come to
understand that education is the way to growth and keeping a steady flow of knowledge.
The American Mental health Counselors Association pushes for everyone to be professional
counselors, I have learned that education does not stop after college, it is just the start. Becoming
a certified mental health nursing is a lifelong process that shows you that learning is a continuous
process it shows you the professional many new methods, ways, and ideas to assist you with the
treatment of the community I serve (State Mental Health Hospital). I have learned during this
course that the best way to development my skills is through counselor development, and
updating my skills that are provided by my professional organizations.

American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA)

 Website: AMHCA.org
 Counseling Topic: Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors
 Chartered Date: 1976
 Mission Statement: “...to enhance the profession of clinical mental health counseling
through advocacy, education, and collaboration”
 Membership Fee: $183 annually for professionals, $84 annually for students
 Publications Offered: The Advocate Magazine External link  and Journal of Mental
Health Counseling External link 
 Conferences: AMHCA Annual Conference External link , June 26-28, 2019 in
Washington, D.C.
 Benefits of Membership: Liability insurance, professional networking opportunities, and
numerous discounts.
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