Investing in Our Science
Investing in the technologies of health and nursing is essential for the development of our future workforce. But is it enough to sustain the foundation of the practice and the narrative of nursing science? Have we put in the internal work so that our external is not a facade? I think most nurses would say, "We still have a long way to go." I concur.
Recently, the profession of nursing has pushed agendas that clearly speak to their commitment and dedication to some of the most pressing issues in healthcare; such as innovation, the nursing shortage and inequities. In the meantime, the state of our nursing science is falling behind. For every time that I encounter a new graduate who says they don't know what nursing science is and have never heard of it, we have lost ground on empowering our next generation with the necessary tools to continue the work of so many who have gone before us.
Why The Narrative of Nursing Science Matters.
With the different levels and categories of nursing, often times there can appear to be an unreliable basis of the science. My example of nursing students not knowing what it is after graduation is a clear indication of flaws in our pipeline.
Since policymakers rely on narratives to make decisions, it's essential for nurses to clearly communicate what our science entails and its effect on health outcomes. This clarity is crucial as the recent election brings numerous changes to the political, social, and economic landscape.
I am especially concerned with the urgent need to communicate this to our future scholars, as narrative undoubtedly influences our clinical practice and will ultimately impact our professional judgment, research and the people we serve.
Denetra Hampton, Founder
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