Attending structured learning programs is another formal
way of developing oneself as a professional. Conferences are
excellent opportunities for learning new practices. These
have the added advantage of renewing one’s spirit and
enthusiasm for nursing. They also provide opportunities
for networking that improve self-growth. Participating in
practice updates or classes offered by your institution is
vital. Often these are mandatory.
Informal methods for growth include reading journals or new nursing
books, reviewing current literature (i.e., the Cochrane Database or Joanna
Briggs Institute), participating in nursing journal clubs, or talking with peers
and advanced practice nurses about innovations in practice. Professional
organizations offer another excellent method to promote lifelong learning.
Many times, speakers provide reports about current research at meetings.
Specialty organizations include a variety of members, many with vast experi-
ences in that specialty. Asking questions of these experts provides the novice
nurse with increased learning. It is also possible to find in such organizations
a mentor who will assist with your professional growth. A preceptor is an
experienced nurse who is familiar with unit practices and who acts as a guide
throughout the orientation process.
The timing of lifelong learning is a factor that enters into one’s personal
and professional lives. One must look for opportunities as they happen, even
though the timing is not always right. For example, if you have an opportunity
to attend a national conference in your specialty area but you think you cannot
afford the time or money to go, think about the professional benefits if you
attended. Look for resources to foster attendance, such as institutional funds,
community agency scholarships, or grants. Discuss it with your supervisor and
your mentor. Many times options open up to enable conference attendance.
It is important not to get into a rut with your work because this can stifle your
lifelong learning. “In seeking and responding to stimulation, nurses actively
look for and engage in activities to prod their development” (MacIntosh, 2003,
p. 735). Discovering ways for professional stimulation, such as connecting
with others in a similar practice at a national or regional conference, tends to
bolster current practice.KEY TERMS
developing
oneself: Engaging
in activities that
promote long-term
professional growth
and development
mentor: One
who assists with
professional growthFYI
Self-development benefits you as well as your
employer and your patients. Each time you
gain new knowledge, whether from reading or
a formal class, your patients, and by extension
your institution, benefit by receiving the latest
information and increased quality of care.Consider a specialty organization that you might consider joining. Find the organization’s home
page on the Web and explore opportunities for networking.CRITICAL THINKING EXERCISE 17-2
456 CHAPTER 17 Developing Oneself as an Innovator