Tag: Nursing Students

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Beyond the Mic: The NextGen Tutor, Suzanna Valdez, Empowering New Nurses

“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” -Mother Teresa

The Importance of Preparing for the NCLEX

In this inspiring episode of the All One Nurse podcast, titled “The NextGen Tutor: Empowering Nursing Students,” Nurse Shenell Thompkins, RN, MSN, had the opportunity to engage in conversation with Suzanna Valdez, RN, the founder of The NextGen Tutor. Their discussion centered on the NextGen NCLEX examination, the importance of mentorship, and methods through which nursing students can cultivate confidence during their journey. The NCLEX serves as the final hurdle in the process of becoming a licensed nurse, and appropriate preparation is critical for success.

Suzanna underscores that passing the NCLEX examination involves more than mere memorization; it necessitates critical thinking, strategic approaches, and self-assurance. She advises students to:

1. Prioritize quality over quantity when practicing questions.

2. Comprehend the rationale behind each answer rather than relying solely on memorization.

3. Foster a resilient mindset and confidence to mitigate test-related anxiety.

Additionally, Suzanna emphasizes the stringent test-taking protocols associated with the NCLEX, advising students to incorporate scheduled breaks and manage their time effectively.

Tutoring is A Powerful Tool for Success

For those encountering difficulties with NCLEX preparation, tutoring can prove transformative. Suzanna articulates how personalized coaching enables students to dissect NCLEX-style questions efficiently, identify key concepts and age-related factors within scenarios, and enhance test-taking strategies to bolster confidence. She recognizes that the objective is for students to pass the NCLEX examination, irrespective of whether they engage a tutor, and acknowledges that many students seek guidance after experiencing a failure on the exam.

Her approach is characterized by a commitment to developing relationships with students, ensuring that they feel supported and empowered throughout their preparation process. Suzanna also notes that outcomes are not 100% guaranteed. While she does not promise that every student will succeed, she emphasizes that her dedication, combined with the student’s effort, often yields successful outcomes.

Key Takeaways of Suzanna’s Interview on the All One Nurse podcast include,

  • Perseverance is everything – Nursing students should never give up on themselves. 
  • Quality practice questions and reading rationales are more important than quantity.
  • Having a mentor can accelerate growth and confidence. 
  • Breaking down NCLEX-style questions and understanding keywords is essential.
  • Quality practice questions and reading rationales are more important than quantity.
  • Mindset matters, and it plays a significant role in exam performance.
  • Strict test-taking protocols and the importance of taking breaks during the NCLEX exam.
  • Instilling confidence in students is a key goal of tutoring and coaching.

Final Thoughts For Aspiring Nurses

Trust in your preparation and purpose. Passing the NCLEX examination transcends mere achievement; it represents a step toward realizing one’s vocational calling with faith, confidence, and knowledge. It is imperative to remember that individuals possess the capability to succeed because they are supported on their journey. Emphasize thorough preparation, seek mentorship, and recognize that every challenge contributes to personal growth for the future.

Have you attempted the NCLEX and faced challenges? It is essential to recognize that many esteemed nurses have faced similar experiences. They often affirm that whether one passes or fails the NCLEX does not define the type of nurse one will ultimately become. Let every nurse practice with excellence.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode on 

🟣Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-gen-tutor-empowering-nursing-students/id1755700754?i=1000668150258

🟢Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/episode/6bRISwgIC0E8aSG066HNuo?si=bpBre7_6SVW6Mgig0oV5eg

🔴YouTube → https://youtu.be/vwtdvp3UY6w?si=o3fA0VaiAuZr9oyx

Meet Suzanna Valdez, RN

Suzanna Valdez is a dedicated NCLEX tutor and the founder of The Next Gen Tutor, where she helps nursing students master exam strategies and develop confidence. With extensive experience in diverse healthcare settings, she has transitioned into nursing education, providing tailored coaching to facilitate student success.

📌 Connect with Suzanna

🌐 The Next Gen Tutor website: www.thenextgentutor.com

📱Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextgentutor

💡TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextgentutor 

📘Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenextgentutor

If you found value in this post, consider subscribing to All One Nurse for additional blog content and updates regarding new podcast episodes, resources, and more. Let us continue to illuminate the path for aspiring nurses throughout their journeys. Please share your thoughts in the comments if this article or episode inspired you!

“Bridging the gap between the stethoscope and the soul.”- Nurse Shenell

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Why Functional Medicine Matters in Autoimmune Care and Supporting Black Women Conversation on the All One Nurse Podcast

“Your genetics load the gun. Your lifestyle pulls the trigger.”- Dr. Mehmet Oz

It was a privilege to sit down with Dr. Phylicia Harris, DNP, FNP-C, FMACP, an expert in Functional Medicine and founder of Functionally Balanced Health, on the All One Nurse podcast episode, “Understanding Functional Medicine and Supporting Black Women with Autoimmune Conditions“. Unraveling the complexities of Autoimmune Conditions and how a holistic approach can transform patient care. 

Autoimmune disease can feel like a mystery- one day your body is thriving, and the next it’s fighting against itself. Traditional medicine often focuses on symptom management. However, functional medicine digs deeper, aiming to uncover the root cause. Dr. Harris emphasizes that understanding lifestyle factors, nutrition, and underlying imbalances can empower patients to take control of their health.  Learn more about autoimmune conditions here  A-Z Autoimmune Disease List.

The Disproportionate Impact on Black Women

According to the Society for Womens Health Research (SWHR), approximately 80% of individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases are women, though the gender distribution varies depending on the specific condition. One of the most eye-opening discussions in this All One Nurse episode was about health disparities. Black women face higher rates of autoimmune conditions and often struggle to receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. This leads to more aggressive symptoms and poorer outcomes than with their white counterparts. For instance, African American women are three times more likely to develop lupus than white women and frequently experience more severe symptoms and complications (SWHR.org, 2024). Dr. Harris breaks down the why behind these disparities and how advocacy in healthcare can bridge this gap. 

Key Takeaways of Dr. Harris’s Interview on the All One Nurse podcast include,

  • Dispelling myths–what functional medicine is and isn’t.
  • Addressing  everyday stressors experienced as normalcy in black women. 
  • Gut health and the immune system, and why it matters. 
  • How nurses can support patients seeking alternative treatment options. 
  • The power of knowledge: why understanding your body is the first step toward healing. 
  • Functional medicine is a science-based approach that can complement traditional medical practices.

Final Thoughts

This conversation is a must-listen for nurses, students, and anyone passionate about comprehensive patient care. If you’ve ever wondered how functional medicine can shift the healthcare landscape, this episode is for you. 

🎙 Catch the full conversation here :

🟣On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/understanding-functional-medicine-supporting-black/id1755700754?i=1000710555302

🟢On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/66Uk93uNiPJdayWM3TriKJ?si=kmpmO95vSiiwfUrwQAWKIw

🔴On YouTube: https://youtu.be/uF-hJwrqXOY?si=Ek93TSnXRSLIKqF3

What’s your take on functional medicine in nursing? 

What has your experience been like with patients with autoimmune conditions?

Which of these barriers resonates with your experiences? Mistrust in healthcare among Black women, limited access to quality care, gaps in education, or cultural incompetence in medical practice?

Please leave a comment and share your thoughts!

Meet Dr. Phylicia Harris

Dr. Phylicia Harris, DNP, FNP-C, FMACP, is a doctorally-prepared Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with nearly 15 years of healthcare experience. She specializes in helping women struggling with debilitating autoimmune symptoms, guiding them toward relief through root-cause medicine. Her practice, Functionally Balanced Health, focuses on gut health, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions to restore well-being.

Dr. Harris’s mission is simple yet powerful: Autoimmune conditions don’t have to define your life. Through functional medicine, she empowers women to reclaim their health and vitality.

Connect with Dr. Harris

🌐 Website: Functionally Balanced Health 📍 Location: Virtually serving clients in the TN and FL area 📧 Email: info@functionallybalancedhealth.com 📱 Instagram: @functionallybalancedhealth 📘 Facebook: Functionally Balanced Health

Did you enjoy this post? Subscribe to the All One Nurse to receive more blog content and updates regarding new podcast episodes, resources, and more! 

At All One Nurse, our mission extends beyond insightful conversations—we’re here to mentor, uplift, and empower nursing students and new nurses through faith-driven support practical guidance. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of clinical rotations, the nursing program, preparing for the NextGen NCLEX, or seeking career clarity, our mentorship programs and All One Nurse podcast offer a space to learn, grow, and connect.

“Bridging the gap between the stethoscope and the soul. Getting back to the human side of healthcare.”

All One Nurse

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A Letter to New Nurses

Hello there, 

First, congratulations! You did it! It was hard and there were many times you wanted to give up, drop out, dropped out and went back, or simply barely made your way through. However, it is finished. Nursing school that is…

Now, as you embark on this new journey and exciting career called Nursing, I wanted to leave you with some words of encouragement and tips. 

Passing the NCLEX exam. 

You will do fine, because guess what? It can be taken again. Invest in a credible review course and review book. Having more than 2 study tools may set you up for failure, think “quality not quantity”. Most legitimate NCLEX study tools have practice test banks. Be sure to take these practice tests and focus on the rationales of the questions answered incorrectly.

You want to learn how to take the NCLEX. You already have the knowledge, because you survived nursing school. Learn how to take the test. It is a standardized exam developed by the National Council State Board of Nursing (NCSBN) to assess if you are safe to practice. Know what the question is asking. Be sure to give yourself a break while sitting for the NCLEX. You have time. However, do not wait until the last possible minute to take your NCLEX exam after graduating, because you may not do as well. Get it out the way!

Stepping into your new career. 

During your internship, or new position, always listen, be open to learning, and see the patients as Humans. You will learn your duties in time and practice safely. I don’t know what type of personality your preceptor will have but always aim to learn from the experience. This may keep you off of an emotional rollercoaster. Just don’t forget to have empathy and integrity as you are learning your new role. As humans, we all make mistakes, but when you own them, things will work out better for you. Managers will agree to this and it may prevent someone else from making the same mistake.

Remember that people come to the hospital because they need a nurse. They need and depend on you to care for them. They will always remember how you made them feel, even if they don’t remember what you said. 

Anxiety may follow you for the next 6 months of your new career, as you go through orientation and start caring for patients independently. It will get better.  As you follow your preceptors, write down notes and look over your notes at home. Take the time and learn where the supplies are in your unit/department. Always ask questions. Always follow your organizations protocols, policies, and procedures. These are set in place to protect you, the patient, and the organization.  

Becoming a great nurse.

Healthcare is always evolving due to technology, new medications, etc. From the very new nurses (such as yourselves) to the very experienced nurses (beyond me), nursing is a lifelong learning process.  I truly believe we are God’s hands and feet on earth.  May we all do so through competency, passion, and integrity. 

Sincerely, 

All One Nurse  

If there is anything that you would like to share as a new nurse, or experienced nurse, feel free to comment below*

All positive comments are welcomed…

(Photocredit: Google/TypiMage)

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You Better Get One! A Nursing Philosophy.

Do you have a nursing philosophy? 

“A nursing philosophy is a mission statement that outlines a nurse’s values, beliefs, personal and professional ethics as they relate to the nursing profession and their motivation for being a nurse”. -Indeed.com 

As a nurse educator, I developed a teaching philosophy. Check it out below and I encourage you to develop your own nursing philosophy to help motivate you on your nursing journey. Enjoy! 

My Nursing Philosophy

I am very passionate about the nursing profession and my role as a nurse. I desire to teach future nurses the same values, beliefs, and dedication I have toward the nursing profession. What I believe makes a great nurse educator is their qualities, teaching strategies, and recognition of challenges.

I believe a nurse educator’s character should possess an attitude of integrity, accountability, respect, commitment, caring, managing impulsivity, and listening with understanding and empathy. Doing so, demonstrates the respect for thyself, the profession of nursing, and the public.

I believe a nurse educator’s skills and competency are important, adding the ability to combine clinical expertise with a formal background in teaching for students to be successful. Nurse educators should aim to become certified to rid the question of competency, but display competency in their area of practice.

I believe that successful teaching consists of the ability to use a variety of teaching strategies that promote a learner-centered environment. I believe that students should understand that they are accountable for their learning which will affect the lives of others. I want to do so in a manner that is motivating and facilitates learning.  I believe that nurse educators must assess how students learn best and be adaptable, approachable, and responsive to students.

I believe that successful teaching consists of recognition of challenges. There are constant changes within the nursing profession and health care system. We must be aware of external issues like health care reform, changing demographics, technology, and the environment in which nurses’ practice. We must develop a curriculum that remains challenging while also providing opportunities for diverse students to participate in. 

References

What Is a Nursing Philosophy? (With Tips and Examples) | Indeed.com

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Do Not Eat from the Same Plate!

If you’re working in the hospital setting, we have all completed the yearly online modules on workplace violence. Obvious workplace violence will be physical and/or verbal altercations, but let’s talk about the more subtle acts of violence, like eating our young nurses up and leaving no crumbs! 

We all start out with the mindset, “I’ll never do that” but if we look away when we see them coming and refuse to help a newer nurse, or nursing student, then my nurse friend we are eating from the plate, too. So, let’s pause and revamp our diet here!

Workplace civility

Let’s talk about the benefits of workplace civility in our workspace. Most hospitals are short staffed, ass backwards, and the list of negatives can just keep going.  However, workplace civility starts with the individual. It is the practice of treating all people with respect and courtesy, regardless of their position or title. 

Why is it so important?

  • It creates a more positive and productive work environment.
  • It can help to reduce stress and conflict.
  • It can attract and retain staff. 
  • It can improve HCAP scores*.

There are a number of things that we can do to prevent eating our young nurses and promote workplace civility, including:  

  • Setting a good example for new nurses and nursing students.
  • Being approachable.
  • Being patient.
  • Enforcing the policies and procedures.
  • Recognizing and rewarding new nurses and nursing students for practicing safely. 

Workplace civility is an important part of creating a positive and productive work environment. By taking steps to promote workplace civility, the patients, staff, and organization benefit in many ways.

Here are some additional tips for promoting workplace civility and not eating our young nursing staff:

  • Be respectful of others, even when you disagree with them.
  • Listen to others without interrupting.
  • Be open to feedback.
  • Be willing to compromise.
  • Be a team player.
  • Be positive and upbeat.
  • Be helpful and supportive.
  • Be honest and ethical.
  • Be professional.

By following these tips, we can all create a more positive and productive work environment that welcomes our new nurses and nursing students instead of eating them up and spitting out the bones. 

Sincerely, 

All One Nurse

Additional Resources

Nurse Bullying and Hazing – The Truth About Nurse Culture | Marie Claire

*HCAP Scores explained- Hospital CAHPS (HCAHPS) | CMS

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Isolated Patients and PPE! Do you really have time?

The answer is No. 

How many times do you just need to silence the beeping pump, or quickly get a blood pressure? Not including all the other “right quick” tasks that may be needed in that patient’s room throughout the day.  However, wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not a suggestion. It is essential for healthcare workers to protect themselves, their colleagues, and other patients from exposure to transmittable diseases.

What is PPE?

There are many different types, including gloves, gowns, masks, face shields, eye wear, and other protective materials. The type of PPE that is required will vary depending on the type of procedure being performed and the risk of exposure to infectious pathogens, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. 

It is important to use PPE correctly (donning) and to dispose of it properly after use (doffing). Healthcare workers should also be trained on how to use PPE safely and effectively. Do not walk in the halls with PPE on. Even if it is clean, it gives off the perception that it might not be. My most experienced nurses know to “cluster” their care in isolated rooms, but it’s the getting stuck in our ways that is not always the best way and can cause the most harm.

Here’s the bottom line, PPE:

  • Protects you from exposure to blood-borne pathogens, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials.
  • Protects patients from becoming infected by healthcare workers (Immunosuppressed Patients).
  • Helps to prevent the spread of infection, reducing healthcare cost, and improving patient safety.

It is important to note that just like birth control, PPE is not 100% effective in preventing exposure to infectious diseases. However, it is an important part of infection control and can help to reduce the risk of exposure and transmission of diseases.

For more information on PPE, please visit the cdc.gov website.  

Transmission-Based Precautions | Basics | Infection Control | CDC”

Isolation Precautions | Guidelines Library | Infection Control | CDC