Reflection

 My journey into nursing began during my time at McMaster University, where I initially enrolled in the commerce program in the fall of 2019. As a student during the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced the abrupt shift to online learning. Sitting in front of a computer for lectures and assignments, I found myself increasingly disengaged from the material. The lack of in-person interaction and hands-on experiences made it difficult to stay motivated, and by my third year, I realized that a career in finance was not fulfilling my aspirations.

Uncertain about my future path, I sought guidance from my girlfriend, who was a Personal Support Worker (PSW) and a nursing student at McMaster. Her passion for her work and studies inspired me to explore the field of nursing. With part-time jobs scarce during the pandemic, I decided to become a PSW myself. This role allowed me to work directly with individuals in need, and I quickly discovered a deep-seated passion for helping and caring for others in a hands-on environment. The experience was transformative, solidifying my decision to pursue a career in nursing.

I applied to several accelerated nursing programs and was particularly drawn to Trent University’s 28-month program, which offered a comprehensive curriculum and ample time to immerse myself in the field. Upon receiving my offer, I eagerly accepted, ready to embark on this new chapter.

Alignment with Honesty and Core Beliefs in Nursing

Honesty is a fundamental value in both my personal life and my approach to nursing. I believe that transparent communication and the sharing of accurate information are essential in building trust with patients, their families, and colleagues. This commitment aligns with the nursing principle of advocacy, ensuring that patients are fully informed and empowered to make decisions about their health care.

Balancing honesty with empathy is crucial, especially when delivering difficult news. Recognizing the emotional and psychological dimensions of patient care, I strive to approach such conversations with compassion, supporting patients holistically. Within the healthcare team, being open about my limitations or mistakes reinforces my dedication to teamwork and accountability. By fostering an environment of trust and collaboration, I contribute to the provision of safe and effective care, embodying the integrity central to the nursing profession.

My core beliefs—compassion, advocacy, and lifelong learning—naturally complement my value of honesty. Advocacy involves amplifying patients’ voices and ensuring their dignity through truthful and respectful communication. My dedication to holistic care aligns with transparency, as addressing patients’ emotional and spiritual needs often requires honest conversations that acknowledge their fears and hopes.

Emphasizing lifelong learning supports my commitment to acknowledging my limitations honestly. This approach not only ensures patient safety but also reflects humility, building trust within the healthcare team. Moreover, my belief that nursing blends art and science resonates with honesty as a cornerstone of evidence-based practice and compassionate care.

Integration with Course Materials and Professional Development

The course materials at Trent University have significantly bolstered my understanding of the nursing profession. In NURS 1550, I am learning about microbiology, infectious diseases, and nutrition, which are essential for understanding patient care at a physiological level. NURS 1000 focuses on the intra- and interpersonal aspects of nursing, teaching me about positive communication and new perspectives that enhance mental health for both nurses and patients. NURS 1001 delves into the guidelines, duties, and values of a nurse, reinforcing the ethical frameworks that govern our practice.

The “Scope of Practice” readings from the College of Nurses of Ontario (2023) have been particularly informative, helping me understand the boundaries and responsibilities of nursing roles. These materials emphasize the importance of adhering to professional standards and the impact of regulatory frameworks on patient care.

My experience as a PSW has given me practical insights into relational inquiry, a concept explored in Lecture 2 of NURS 1000. Relational inquiry involves understanding patients within the context of their life situations and relationships, promoting individualized care (Hartrick Doane & Varcoe, 2020). This approach resonates with my belief in holistic care and the importance of empathy and understanding in nursing practice.

Research supports the significance of relational inquiry in nursing. Rainer (2015) discuss how relational caring and advanced nursing ethics contribute to better patient outcomes and professional satisfaction. By integrating relational inquiry into my practice, I am better equipped to address the complex needs of patients in a compassionate and ethical manner. Furthermore, the importance of honesty and advocacy in nursing is well-documented. Rainer (2015) explores factors that influence nurses when advocating for patients in jeopardy. The study highlights the challenges nurses face in speaking up and the crucial role that honesty plays in patient advocacy. This reinforces my commitment to being a trustworthy advocate for my patients, ensuring their voices are heard and their best interests are represented.

Current and Future Development as a Nurse

The skills I developed as a PSW have laid a strong foundation for my nursing career. I have firsthand experience in providing direct patient care, understanding their needs, and building meaningful relationships. However, I recognize that this is just the beginning. My tenure at Trent University will allow me to grow in critical areas essential for professional nursing, such as clinical judgment, leadership, and advanced communication skills.

I am committed to embracing lifelong learning, staying updated with the latest evidence-based practices, and continually refining my skills. My goal is to become an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse, where I can apply both the art and science of nursing in a high-acuity environment. By integrating my core values of honesty, compassion, and advocacy, I aim to provide exceptional care that fosters trust, empowerment, and collaboration.

my journey into nursing has been shaped by personal experiences, core values, and a commitment to professional growth. The integration of honesty and my core beliefs into my practice not only aligns with the ethical standards of nursing but also enhances my ability to provide holistic, patient-centered care. Through the support of my courses and the insights gained from relevant research, I am well-prepared to continue developing as a competent and compassionate nurse.