Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and the broader array of influences and structures impacting everyday living. These determinants are the key drivers of health disparities, leading to unjust and preventable health outcomes. SDOH include factors such as: Economic Stability  This includes factors like employment, income, debt, and socioeconomic status. People with lower income levels often face greater challenges accessing healthcare and maintaining healthy lifestyles. The ability to secure stable employment, earn a ..read more

April is Diversity Month and serves as a vital opportunity to amplify awareness surrounding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, offering a space for meaningful conversations and mutual understanding among Diverse groups. Promoting Unity and Belonging can also help boost recruitment and retention. In fact, a Glassdoor survey found that 76% of employees and job seekers report that a Diverse workforce is an important factor when evaluating job offers.  Here are some suggestions on how to celebrate Diversity Month: Cultural Exchange Discussions  Host cultural exchange events ..read more

When you first meet someone, do you automatically judge that person based upon their weight, skin color, clothing, piercings, hairstyle, disability, speech, etc? Many people automatically infer a stereotype based on someone’s appearance. This is known as unconscious bias. Recognizing and addressing biases is not only crucial for Nurses to uphold the highest standards of care, but it's also a moral necessity in providing equitable and compassionate treatment to every patient. With commitment to self-reflection and continuous growth, Nurses can truly embody the principles of empathy and understa ..read more

Whether you're a Nurse dealing with the daily stresses of the healthcare profession or simply looking for ways to unwind and recharge, this list of activities is designed to help you make the most of the spring season. From outdoor yoga sessions to mindful walks in nature, each suggestion is aimed at promoting relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. So take a moment to prioritize self-care and indulge in these activities that will benefit your physical and mental health, and allow you to fully embrace the beauty of the season. Outdoor Yoga Sessions: Find a serene spot in nature and a ..read more

Working in the healthcare field is both demanding and stressful. Nurses often face challenges like adjusting to irregular hours, taking on extra shifts, and coping with the emotional toll of losing patients. While healthcare professionals are skilled at problem-solving, healing, and managing pressure, they are not immune to the lasting impact of stress and trauma. “Even before the pandemic, healthcare workers faced challenging working conditions that lead to burnout. This includes long work hours, risk for hazardous exposures, stressful work, and high administrative burdens,” John Howard, M.D ..read more

Rather than dismissing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a passing trend, we should recognize it as a natural progression. In moving forward, we need to elevate our strategies to a more deliberate, purposeful, and impactful approach. According to the Pew Research Center, a significant number of employees have expressed that DEI initiatives have had a beneficial impact on the workplace. It comes as no surprise that among those highlighting the value of DEI efforts, many belong to marginalized groups who often face challenges in a work environment that overlooks the importance of their d ..read more

It takes a special person with specific attributes to be a great Nurse. Great Nurses bring their best qualities into the profession to enhance the healthcare team and promote positive patient outcomes. Here are 10 attributes needed to be a great Nurse! High-Quality Communication Skills: A great Nurse must be proficient in effective communication. Nurses are often the liaison between doctors, patients, and families, so they must be able to convey information clearly to avoid errors or miscommunications. Good communication not only helps to build trust among coworkers and patients but ensures th ..read more

Racial concordance signifies the connection between the racial or ethnic backgrounds of patients and their healthcare providers, showcasing its profound impact on patient care, communication, trust, and overall health outcomes. While racial concordance in Nursing offers various benefits, it's important to recognize it's not always feasible or practical to match every patient with a Nurse of the same racial or ethnic background. Emphasizing racial concordance should not overshadow the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the Nursing workforce.  Improved Communication ..read more

Choosing the right Nursing school is a crucial decision that will shape your future career. It's essential to carefully consider various factors to ensure you receive the best education and training possible. From accreditation to clinical opportunities, faculty expertise, and student support services, each aspect plays a vital role in your overall learning experience. By taking the time to research and evaluate these key factors, you can choose a Nursing school that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success in the field of Nursing. Here are some key things to look for: Accreditation ..read more

Workplace violence is a serious growing concern. Hospitals must prioritize precautions and preparedness measures to mitigate the risk of violence against staff, patients, and visitors. According to a report  from National Nurses United, 81.6% of Nurses reported they have experienced workplace violence, with half stating they have seen instances of violence increase in the last year.  "As a result, Nurses are subjected to multiple impacts of workplace violence, including physical and mental injury," the report summary states. "Injuries, including both physical and non-physical, c ..read more