Do you remember your first nursing role model? The nurse you wanted to emulate, the person you most wanted to be like. What was it about her? Most likely it was her ability to handle the most complex patients and situations. Or, perhaps it was her personal characteristics: charisma, tenacity, professionalism, incredible confidence. Whatever the reason, we all remember our very first nursing role model. Mine was Mrs Brenda Kitchen. I was 14 and was working as a "candy striper." Mrs Kitchen was a diploma nurse and was the "head nurse" of a small pediatric and orthopedic surgical hospital. Mrs Kitchen always seemed so put together...her uniform was crisp, she was calm and professional and was in charge of the entire hospital. She would make her rounds, said hello to the entire staff, and was informed regarding all of our patients. Mrs Kitchen was kind, professional, competent, and clearly "in charge." She exuded professionalism and I wanted to be just like her. I hope Mrs Kitchen is aware of the impact she had on me. Most likely...she isn't. You see, for those of us in leadership roles, we frequently are unaware of the influence we have on others. As leaders, we are constantly on stage. Nurses are watching us...deciding if they want to be like us...or if they do not. It is a heavy burden to bear.
As part of STN's core values, leadership and mentoring, we have created 2 avenues for our members to avail themselves of opportunities to hone their leadership skills. As part of its strategic plan, STN is creating a Leadership Institute. Under the direction of Amber Kyle and Amy Krichten, the Leadership Institute will provide competency-based education to provide our members with leadership development activities.
In addition, the STN Membership Committee is offering a mentoring program for members seeking advice and guidance from more seasoned peers. We have witnessed the positive impact of peer-to-peer mentoring at the STN conference and we want to expand and formalize opportunities for meaningful mentorship throughout the organization. The STN Mentor Program was designed to foster the meaningful exchange of ideas and knowledge transfer that will enhance individual skills and advance STN's mission to ensure the highest level of trauma care across the continuum. The program is available to all members in good standing. We encourage you to consider participating in the STN Mentor Program as a mentee.
As leaders, it is incumbent upon us to realize the impact that we have on those with whom we direct. Our influence is immeasurable. I encourage each of you to avail yourselves of the opportunities that STN has to offer. Either consider becoming a mentor to our many novice nurses or apply to become a mentee. Many of our STN members are in leadership roles and are in a great position to offer our members advice, guidance, and direction. If you are so inclined, please volunteer for the Leadership Development Committee. We are certain to deliver a good product to our colleagues and your input will be valuable.
I'd like each of you to remember the influence that you have on others. Our every word and every action is watched, monitored, and emulated. Please take the time to reflect on your influence. You never know if you are the next Mrs Kitchen.