Community Blog

A Nurse's Personal Nursing Philosophy

By Shannon Youmans, R.N.

As a nurse, my philosophy focuses around being able to provide holistic, compassionate, and culturally-sensitive care to patients and families. In my practice, I will provide patient-centered care and assist patients to attain their maximum state-of-wellness on the health-illness continuum. I will be sincere and professional when communicating with patients and caregivers. I will avoid conflict whenever possible and solve problems when they arise in a cooperative manner. I will be nonjudgmental about personal beliefs.

My personal philosophy is to first and foremost be a patient advocate through clear communication, education, critical thinking, and decision making to help improve outcomes by practicing evidence-based care. It is important to me to provide the highest quality nursing care possible to achieve excellence in patient results while creating a respectful healing environment. It is my responsibility to maintain updated knowledge and skills in order to serve my patients effectively and efficiently. I will continue to participate in the advancement of the nursing profession through education and practice throughout my career.

My decision to become a nurse did not develop as a childhood dream, but rather as a result of being a patient in my early twenties facing a challenging disease. During this time, I felt a loss of control and was grateful the nurses who cared for me had an increased understanding of human dignity and mutual respect. They listened and incorporated my beliefs into my care. As my advocates, they enabled me to participate in the health care decisions being made about me. They were honest, trustworthy, compassionate, and caring. Because of this positive experience, I wanted to give back what was given to me. I became a nurse. Through nursing, I have realized giving of myself allows me peace of mind and spirit.

(Shannon is currently working toward her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing. This is an excerpt from one of Shannon’s papers.)