Did you know that Maryland is the first state in the nation to have all acute care hospitals offer a nurse residency program for Newly Licensed Registered Nurses (NLRNs)? In 2013, nursing leaders formed the Maryland Nurse Residency Collaborative (MNRC) to help support Maryland hospitals implement high-quality nurse residency programs.
These residency programs across the state are coordinated by fantastic nurse educators who provide a strong foundation and smooth transition into the profession for newly licensed nurses.
This series puts a spotlight on those MNRC and NRP coordinators here in Maryland!
Danielle Hagel, MSN, RN, CCRN is the Nursing Practice and Professional Development Specialist at the Johns Hopkins Nurse Residency Program. She was kind enough to share about her journey below.
Tell us briefly how and why you became a nurse educator.
"I became an educator, to new graduate nurses specifically, because it is fulfilling to see their progression from day of hire to their graduation one year later.
As much as my nurses utilize me for coaching, educating, and supporting, I learn so much more from them.
Learning and changing are two constants in nursing.
Remembering that, keeps me humble and relatable to the nurses I am honored to teach."
What advice would you offer to those interested in becoming an educator?
"My advice to those who consider becoming an educator- be open-minded to other views, opinions, beliefs, and always welcome learning how to do something from an alternate perspective.
Just because we’ve done something a certain way for so long, does not mean it is the best way.
How can we support and educate our nurses to be the best, for themselves and in-turn for our patients?"
What is your proudest accomplishment as an educator?
"My proudest accomplishment as an educator is becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable.
I was never one to speak to large audiences or high-level leadership. Now I am privileged to teach to a class of 90+ nurses, and confidently present data to our Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Directors of our hospital.
Reminding myself 'I can do hard things' has been a mantra that has allowed me to develop my career to altitudes I never imagined."
Thank you to Nursing Practice and Professional Development Specialist Danielle Hagel for sharing her story and insight, in addition to the important work she does every day guiding new nurses!
Stay tuned for future spotlights on nurse residency coordinators here in Maryland.
Learn more about the MNRC and the NRP Experience.
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