Speakers - WNSC 2025

Abstract

This keynote presentation will focus on elevation, education, and empowerment of nurses through a healthy work environment. 

The nursing profession is in a constant state of evolution, driven by the evolving demands of healthcare, the growing complexity of patient care, and the expanding role of nurses in clinical and leadership settings. In such a dynamic environment, it’s crucial for nurses to continuously strive to elevate, educate, and empower themselves. The aggregation of these three elements is key to support thriving within nursing and to improve healthcare delivery. This journey demands a deep commitment to professional growth, lifelong learning, and a mindset of proactive leadership. Through a focus on these principles, nurses can create positive change for their teams and patients.

The concept of "elevating" in nursing goes beyond personal ambition; it is about advancing the profession. Elevation involves seeking leadership opportunities, expanding one's scope of practice, and consistently striving for excellence in patient care. The choice to elevate your practice may mean returning for a higher degree, obtaining a specialty certification, joining a committee within your organization, attending a conference, or becoming actively involved in a professional nursing organization. Nurses must be intentional about setting long-term professional goals and seeking out mentors who can provide guidance. 

Continual education and nursing are intertwined as new technologies, treatments, and best practices are frequently emerging. How a nurse continues their education will depend on their interests, patient populations served, available time, and goals. Elevating one’s knowledge positions the nurse to be more effective in their nursing role and to deliver high-quality care. 

Empowerment in nursing is synonymous with advocating for patients, other team members, or yourself. Empowered nurses are more likely to assist with facilitating a healthy work environment. Healthy work environments directly support the empowerment of nurses. When nurses feel supported, respected, and valued, they are more confident in their ability to provide excellent care, advocate for patient needs, and contribute to improvements in the healthcare system. In such an environment, they are also more likely to pursue career advancement opportunities, knowing that their well-being and growth are prioritized. Healthy environments also reduce burnout and turnover. Empowered nurses who feel supported are more likely to stay in the profession long-term and to take on leadership roles, contributing to the overall elevation of nursing practice.