“The court certifies Nurse Theresa Drass as an expert…”
That’s how my recent birthday unfolded. Almost 2 years to the day, AND on my #birthday, I realized my (hesitant) goal of serving as an expert witness in a trial for the first time.
The experience was all-consuming.
Knowing you guys were thinking of and with me in spirit was reassuringly helpful. Again, thank you!!!
I want to share with my nursing peeps that I was reminded of the power of professional community, continuous growth and the profound impact nurses can have.
For my LNC colleagues, I will tell you that I was questioned about and referred to my notes and other resources from @LegalNurse.com certification. Please know, once caught up, I look forward to scheduling a “Wednesday Wins” segment with Maricel and lisa@wadenurseconsultants.com on Building or Re-building Your LNC Business? Get Insider Tips to debrief and share my POV and take-aways from the experience. (And yep, being an Eagles 🏈 fan came up…)
Last but definitely not least, my gratitude to Patrick, Ingrid, Kelly, and Karen at OnPoint Legal Nurse Consulting for your awesome continued support and collaboration.
The Power of Testimony:
Testifying in court wasn’t what I envisioned for my birthday, but it became a powerful reminder of the nurse’s role as educator. Using my voice, my knowledge, and my experience to potentially impact a situation became an unexpected yet profound way to contribute. This experience underscored the importance of lifelong learning in nursing. New developments, legal rulings, and healthcare policies require us to stay sharp, ever-ready to be the most effective voices for our patients and our community.
The crux of my testimony centered on the core principles that guide ethical and legal nursing practice. These principles, demonstrably woven into the daily routines of a good nurse, include critical thinking and application of the nursing process. I specifically spoke about how these frameworks ensure we provide safe, evidence-based care. Furthermore, I highlighted the importance of adhering to regulations, policies, and procedures – these established guidelines are crucial for maintaining patient safety and preventing errors. Additionally, I emphasized the significance of following job descriptions, which outline the scope of practice for nurses, ensuring we stay within our legal and ethical boundaries when making decisions and delivering care. Ultimately, my testimony aimed to showcase how these interconnected elements form the bedrock of responsible nursing practice.
Continuing Professional Development:
As nurses, we have a responsibility to ourselves, our patients, and our communities to commit to continuous professional development. Whether it’s attending conferences, enrolling in online courses, or simply staying up-to-date on the latest research, this dedication ensures we deliver the best possible care. Every day presents an opportunity to learn, to grow, and ultimately, to better serve those entrusted to our care.
While birthdays may come and go, our commitment to nursing is a lifelong oath. Witnessing the impact of my testimony solidified the profound purpose of this profession. It’s a constant reminder of the privilege it is to be a nurse – a role that allows us to celebrate life, advocate for the vulnerable, and constantly seek new ways to heal and serve.
Conclusion:
My birthday blast and bold testimony became a potent symbol of the ever-evolving journey of a nurse. It’s a journey of growth, of learning, and of giving back. So, as I celebrate this milestone, I also celebrate the countless opportunities yet to come, the chance to further my knowledge, advocate for my patients, and continue to contribute to this noble profession.
