Opal Caldwell BSN, RN

Science and humanities have been a passion of mine since beginning my journey as a Registered Nurse. When I reflect on the knowledge I have gained throughout my educational career, it brings a smile to my face.  Writing, theory, and research have been weak points for me, but for the past two years, reflecting on each assignment, I realize I have grown as a writer, researcher, and theorist.

 

The first presentation and paper I completed for my MSN is Helicobacter Pylori (HP). Several people in my family being diagnosed with the disease and it being very prevalent, I wanted to learn more in depth about it.  I found several interesting facts about the disease that aided me in caring for my patients, being a gastrointestinal nurse. Being able to learn about HP on a cellular level aided me in teaching my patients how to prevent infection, how to treat it, what complications of the disease process were, and who needs to be tested.

 

The second assignment, to meet this competency, was learning about attachment theory. Completing an in depth paper and presentation aided me in helping patients when I work in labor and delivery. Understanding the importance of bonding and the theory of attachment is critical to new mothers and their children. Being able to give mothers time to bond with their children can prevent numerous bonding issues later in life.

 

The third assignment I chose to show competency for this essential is the research conducted on the nurse burnout project. Being able to effectively perform research, to improve patient care, is a major concept in science and humanities. Without research, healthcare would not be able to advance.