Have you ever wondered why nurses are perceived as effective for board service? Since 2018, through a national think tank and subsequent published evidence, the discipline of nursing has collectively defined our professional identity in nursing (Godfrey, 2022). Professional Identity in Nursing (PIN) is defined as a sense of oneself, and in relation to others, that is influenced by characteristics, norms, and values of the nursing discipline, resulting in an individual thinking, acting, and feeling like a nurse. This definition is operationalized by four key domains: values and ethics, knowledge, nurse as leader, and professional comportment (Godfrey, 2022). These domains exemplify what we do every day and how we can enable change and transformation culturally for more effective board service (Joseph et al., 2023). 

1. How do values and ethics translate into the boardroom?

As we navigate issues related to human services, patient care, and health, we will be expected to act in alignment with the discipline’s core values. As a board member, ensure the consistent use of objective lenses to enable health and equity for all, regardless of location, race, income etc.

2.    How does knowledge translate into the boardroom?

We are knowledge brokers, educators, and lifelong learners. Therefore, we must constantly be prepared to engage in discourse on issues related to health based on experiences, the context of nursing and other disciplines, critical reflection, and scientific discovery. As a board member, stay current with trends and lifelong learning opportunities to ensure preparedness and influence.

3.    How does nurse as leader translate into the boardroom?

We are called by society to enable the health of the public. In 2010, the Institute of Medicine stated, that while the public is not used to viewing nurses as leaders, and not all nurses begin their careers with thoughts of being a leader, all nurses need to be leaders (IOM, 2011, chp 5.). As a board member, always assert leadership to ensure transformation at every board meeting.  

4.    How does professional comportment translate into the board room?

This domain requires using open and respectful communication demonstrated through words, actions, and presence. As a board member, always evaluate your tone, body language, and language to ensure healthy relationships. 
 

"Understanding and embracing Professional Identity in Nursing offers new language and new knowledge for the journey—helping nurses heal, flourish and expertly care for others. Professional identity incorporates formation, or professional growth, and as such, points to the nurse as person and professional, encouraging development in the areas of values and ethics, knowledge, nurse as leader, and professional comportment. These four domains can act as “signposts” for professional development as the nurse progresses in the discipline.”
Nelda Godfrey, PhD, ACNS-BC, RN, FAAN, ANEF
Professor and Associate Dean, Innovative Partnerships and Practice, University of Kansas School of Nursing

References: 
Godfrey, N. (2022). New Language for the Journey: Embracing a Professional Identity of Nursing.
Journal of Radiology Nursing, 41(1), 15–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jradnu.2021.12.001

Joseph, M. L., Edmonson, C., Godfrey, N., Kuhl, L., Shaffer, F., Owens, R., Bickford, C., Cusack, C., Dickow, M., Liebig, D., O'Rourke, M., Priddy, K., & Sommer, S. (2023). A Conceptual Model for Professional Identity in Nursing: An Interdependent Perspective. Nursing science quarterly, 36(2), 143–151. https://doi.org/10.1177/08943184221150265

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