Metro Detroit Nurse Continuing Education Sees Patient Care Improvement
Health is a field that will always have a demand for more. Not only can you be guaranteed that these jobs will be around for some time, but you get the gratification of helping others every single day. Lauren Ban is currently a nurse with a bachelor of science in nursing and is in graduate school working towards completing a master's degree in order to become an adult gerontological primary care nurse practitioner. She currently works at St. John Providence Park Hospital in Novi, Michigan. Continue reading to discover what it is like to be a nurse in a hospital in Metro Detroit.
What is your current position within the health industry?
"The majority of patients I care for are post-surgical total joint replacements -- total hip and total knee arthroplasty. My job entails collaborating with a multidisciplinary team which includes physicians, nurse practitioners, physician's assistants, nurses, social workers, case managers and physical therapists. I provide knowledge and interventions, which assist patients in managing their post-operative pain and prepare them for a successful recovery once discharged from the hospital."
What are some ways your education prepared you for your current role?
"My education has provided me with a broader knowledge base related to current trends and issues which affect the healthcare system. I am more aware of specific policies and procedures that must be followed in order for the hospital to be financially reimbursed by Medicare and Medicaid. For example, on my unit we are very focused on meeting 100 percent compliance with the Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP). A great thing about going back to school is that I have learned a great deal from the experiences of other nurses in my classes. I then like to share that knowledge with my fellow colleagues, with the goal being that they can apply that knowledge to their own practice."
What is one key element from your education that you use at work on a regular basis?
"One of the most important concepts I've learned through education and working in the field is the importance of teamwork. Teamwork is essential in nursing in order for a unit to function properly and for care to be provided in a timely manner. The nurses on my unit demonstrate teamwork on a daily basis and for that I am grateful. We support each other and provide assistance without even having to ask for help. I think a team approach not only benefits patient care, but also helps eliminate stress and nursing burnout in an already stressful environment."
After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, Nicole Wrona began working with a diverse range of musicians. In addition, she is a freelance writer for numerous publications. Her work can be found at www.metalleaves.com and Examiner.com.
