"Just a nurses" attitude.

(News You Can Use)(Brief

article)

Recognize that you are a nursing professional, not just a nurse. Your licensure is as a registered nurse or as a
licensed practical nurse is not "just a nurse."

Whether or not you are happy and successful in your nursing career is your choice. If you put forth the effort to
stay up-to-date, to become certified, to commit yourself to finding better ways to providing care, doors will
open to you. The way other people see you is the result of how you see yourself. If you see yourself as "just a
nurse," that is how others will treat you. If you see yourself as a highly educated, skilled, and dedicated
professional, then that is how you will be perceived.

Fortunately, it is rather easy to change perceptions by other people of you, but it takes time. Start today and
dispose with that "just a nurse" attitude. You are a highly trained, skilled professional and you deserve respect.
But don't forget your responsibility--that is to stay up-to-date, to become certified, and to commit yourself to
better nursing care.

David W. Woodruff, MSN, RN, CNS

Nevada RNformation  Feb, 2008 Feb, 2008