Expert Interviews, Guides & Advocacy Issues in Nursing

The Nursing Colleges blog interviews experts in the nursing field about the most important topics in modern nursing, and where they think they’re headed. Through expert interviews, we explore the top advocacy issues in nursing, and spotlight the nurses who are leading the charge for change. 

Our features section also offers new and aspiring nurse practitioners (NPs), advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), and other nurses the key resources and guides they need to help navigate the early stages of their education, training, licensure, and career. Our blog catches readers up on the most interesting conversations in nursing today, and gives them ways to join in, too.

By Sophia Khawly, MSN Calendar Icon November 7, 2023

The Nursing Code of Ethics

Nurses are expected to adhere to the morals of the profession and embrace them as a part of what it means to be a nurse. Having a code of ethics makes it clear what the profession’s primary goals, obligations, and values are.

By Kimmy Gustafson Calendar Icon November 1, 2023

Compassionate Practice in Nursing: What to Know

Nursing, at its core, is the profession of caring for others. However, compassion, an essential trait for nurses, extends beyond caring for needs. According to researcher Beth Lown in a paper published in the Association for the Study of Medical Education Journal, “Compassion involves recognition, understanding, emotional resonance and empathic concern for another’s concerns, distress, pain and suffering, coupled with their acknowledgment, and motivation and relational action to ameliorate these conditions.”

By Sophia Khawly, MSN Calendar Icon October 26, 2023

Day in the Life of a Nursing Instructor

A nurse instructor requires experienced nurses to take their knowledge and skills in nursing and translate them into lessons that help student nurses. Their goal is to provide high-quality training for nurses that promotes safe and effective patient care.

By Sabrina Tillman Calendar Icon October 9, 2023

Navigating a Career Shift into Nursing: A Guide for Aspiring Registered Nurses

The decision to switch careers is a significant one. It’s an opportunity for someone unhappy with their current path to align their professional life with their personal values. For those who identify as empaths drawn to a career that offers learning, growth, and the chance to make a real difference, nursing could be their calling.

By Rachel Drummond, MEd Calendar Icon October 6, 2023

Best Graduate Nursing Degrees (2023-2024)

There is a great variety in APRN opportunities, ranging from general to specialized. Read on to learn about the best graduate nursing degrees in 2023-2024, including those for NPs, CNMs, and CNSs.

By Matt Zbrog Calendar Icon October 5, 2023

The Rise of Interprofessional Teams in Healthcare

Healthcare involves many more people than the physician and the patient. The modern healthcare team is a broadly interprofessional one, including nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, laboratory technicians, physical therapists, nutritionists, counselors, and social workers, just to name a few.

By Sabrina Tillman Calendar Icon October 4, 2023

Nursing Realities: Challenges, Strikes, and Tips for Aspiring Nurses

The numerous nursing strikes in 2022 and 2023 symbolize the collective voice of nurses advocating for better pay, improved working conditions, more time off, and enhanced mental health support. Despite these challenges, nursing can be a rewarding career choice for those committed to patient care. Here are some insights on how to navigate this journey effectively.

By Sharlys Leszczuk Calendar Icon October 3, 2023

Guide to Nursing Essentials: Gear, Accessories, and Apparel for Optimal Performance

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, having the right tools is paramount to delivering efficient and effective care. Much like a carpenter’s quality drill or a chef’s sharp knife, nurses have indispensable tools that optimize performance, ensure patient safety, and promote personal well-being.

By Sophia Khawly, MSN Calendar Icon September 29, 2023

Can Nurse Practitioners Have Their Own Practice?

NPs in states that offer the most practice autonomy will find the easiest path to opening their own practice. Whereas NPs working in states with restricted practice must find a supervising physician to collaborate with them.

By Kimmy Gustafson Calendar Icon September 28, 2023

Increasing the Acceptance of the NP Role

The nurse practitioner role was first established in 1965 in Colorado to address the shortage of primary care providers. Since then, this advanced nursing role has expanded nationwide, encompassing not just primary care but specializations such as midwifery and anesthesia. As the scope and number of nurse practitioners have grown, so has the public’s awareness of these skilled healthcare providers.