Minority nurses are uniquely positioned to leverage their influence to help combat racial disparities in the healthcare industry. As climate change increasingly and disproportionately affects people of color, empowering minority nurses through environmental health education is becoming imperative.
Through educational initiatives, minority nurses can help counter environmental racism and its associated adverse health outcomes. In this article, we’ll examine racial disparities in climate change, why environmental education is important, and how minority nurses can take action to affect greater change.
Disparities in the Impact of Climate Change
Numerous studies and research on racial disparities have made it evident that climate change disproportionately affects people who suffer from socioeconomic inequalities.
Air pollution poses the most significant threat to children of all races, but it’s particularly problematic for racial and ethnic groups in poor communities who face higher exposure to pollutants. Children in these communities are at higher risk because they’re lower to the ground and thus more likely to breathe the toxic air that stays close to the Earth’s surface. Babies are also at higher risk because they have weaker immune systems and need clean air to develop and grow in a healthy way.
As a whole, 75% of African American people are more likely than white people to live in communities with higher odor traffic, carbon emissions, and other harmful pollutants, which can cause numerous health problems, including asthma and cardiovascular disease.
Ocean acidification is also an issue due to increased CO2 levels, disproportionately affecting indigenous coastal communities whose diets rely on seafood. An increase in natural disasters as a result of climate change also has a more significant effect on minorities in lower-income communities due to fewer resources and inadequate infrastructure.
Recent reports from the EPA have also shown that Black people are 40% more likely to suffer higher mortality rates due to living in places that are more affected by extreme temperatures driven by climate change. The study also analyzed various American cities, revealing that Black people are 41-59% more likely to die due to poor air quality.
Education Is Key to Environmental Stewardship for Minority Nurses
As climate change worsens, incorporating environmental awareness in nursing education will be vital to improving minority patient care and community outcomes. Minority nurses play an essential part in representing and speaking for these communities, so they must educate themselves to ensure they’re empowered to serve their community through diverse healthcare initiatives.
Many nursing programs already recognize the need to increase environmental health literacy to empower future nurses and improve public health outcomes. Nurses are in a powerful position to act as environmental stewards to help reduce the healthcare industry’s carbon footprint and improve patient care for minority communities disproportionately affected by climate change.
Though only 16.8% of the RN workforce is from minority backgrounds, many voices still have the power to push for change, especially if they’re more educated on environmental issues and how they affect minority health outcomes.
Education on environmental laws is paramount, as these can affect how medical facilities are run and impact patient outcomes. For example, the Clean Air Act (CAA) regulates air emissions in healthcare facilities, and the Clean Water Act (CWA) regulates the discharge of pollutants into local bodies of water.
Nurses must ensure that these laws are being followed, especially in minority communities that are already disproportionately affected by pollution and air and water quality.
How Minority Nurses Can Take Action
Healthcare doesn’t happen in a vacuum. When engaging with patients, nurses should consider additional factors that could affect their health, such as their race and where they live. Minority nurses, in particular, can advocate for patients of color, especially if white practitioners overlook the disparities they face.
This is the intersection of nursing and justice. Nurses and even other healthcare professionals are responsible for educating themselves and understanding how various factors can heavily impact communities.
Nurses must proactively educate themselves and raise awareness to promote a more culturally responsive healthcare system. Likewise, educators must promote environmental awareness and understanding of racial disparities by expanding learning opportunities, recruiting support for more diverse nurses, and strengthening diversification in health education programs.
However, minority nurses can also act by joining organizations like Health Care Without Harm and the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments. Many local communities also offer sustainability and public health advocacy groups that provide numerous resources and opportunities for continuing education. Joining these groups and organizations can help minority nurses become better advocates in their communities and practices.
Final Thoughts
As a minority nurse, it is important to seek opportunities to improve patient outcomes. This includes asking patients about the disparities they may be facing and listening to what they have to say. Nurses should also be aware of culturally insensitive workplace practices so they can speak up if something happens.
Getting involved in advocacy groups and supportive organizations helps, but a critical part of enacting change is being proactive in the workplace to address racial disparities as they occur. This obligation applies not just to minority nurses but to all practitioners who recognize when a patient is being affected or mistreated.
Despite being a vocational profession, nursing can harm your health and overall well-being. The long hours, high stress, and irregular shift patterns can increase your risk of adopting negative health behaviors (like smoking and eating processed foods). They may result in fatigue, weight gain, cancer, and diabetes.
Unfortunately, traditionally marginalized minorities in America also have worse health outcomes than the rest of the population. According to the BMJ, minorities receive significantly worse healthcare in every US state, meaning you may struggle to find quality care despite working in the healthcare system.
These disparities require policy-level changes to address inequities and close the healthcare gap. Until then, however, you can protect your health and manage stress by becoming a wellbeing warrior. Championing your well-being can markedly improve your productivity, too, as you’ll be far more engaged when you feel rested, healthy, and have a positive outlook on life.
Managing Stress
Work stress is prevalent among minority nurses. This undermines many nurses’ job satisfaction and has led Black and Hispanic nurses to say they are 46% more likely to leave their employer than they were in 2008.
Prolonged periods of stress may be the reason why you feel tired all the time, too. Stress and work-related anxiety puts your body into a constant state of fight-or-flight and prevent you from adequately relaxing. If you experience heightened stress, you may find that you cannot fall asleep on time and could miss out on hours of valuable shut-eye.
The root cause of your work-related stress may be out of your hands. If you’re understaffed and overworked, it can be challenging to maintain balance and feel calm during the day. However, that doesn’t mean you should overlook stress-busting wellness interventions altogether. If you’re feeling the strain and need to find some calm in your life, consider taking steps to keep burnout at bay, which include:
Banish blue screens from the bedroom and keep your sleeping area clean, cool, and dark to improve your sleep quality.
Exercise regularly and aim to work up a sweat outside of work at least once daily. Even gentle exercise, like walking around local parks, can meaningfully reduce stress.
Adjust your diet to eat more whole foods and drink more water. This will give you the energy you need to respond to emergencies throughout the day and will reduce your risk of developing chronic fatigue.
Try to adopt a positive mindset and use a journal to record positive affirmations and things you’re grateful for today.
Adopting these habits won’t eliminate the cause of your stress, but they may help you become more resilient in the face of work-related anxiety. This can give you the energy to campaign for change and champion calls for increased well-being at work.
Incentivizing Well-being
Yoga, deep breathing, and a healthy diet will make you more resilient. However, that doesn’t mean you should ignore the fundamental issues causing you to feel stressed, burnt out, and fatigued. Addressing these issues directly is critical, as some employers may be unaware of the scale of discontent at your place of work.
You may not be able to campaign for better pay or reduce work hours, but you can champion calls for a better employee incentive program at your place of work. Effective employee incentive programs have many benefits, including:
Improved productivity
Enhanced morale and job satisfaction
Accurate performance tracking
Highlighting these benefits to your employer may help them understand why a benefits program that incentivizes well-being is so essential. This can drastically reshape your relationship with work, too, as you’ll be able to accurately report the number of hours you work, the stress you feel, and the productivity barriers undermining your well-being.
Healthy Hobbies
Making changes at work is the best way to respond to work-related stress. However, you’ll still need to use your free time for sustained career satisfaction. This is why hobbies are so important, as they shape how you spend your time off and will innately boost your health, happiness, and well-being.
If you usually spend your free time scrolling on socials and completing household chores, consider switching things up in favor of hobbies that engage you mentally and support your physical health. For example, if you are passionate about nature and the world around you, consider developing a gardening hobby. Even if you don’t have a yard, you can garden by getting involved with community greenspaces and allotments.
Hobbies that improve your fitness can boost your mental resilience, too. For example, learning new yoga flows and mastering poses can give you a much-needed confidence boost that aids your efforts to feel empowered. This is crucial if you’re experiencing mission drift and need to refind your purpose as a nurse. Focusing on interests outside of work can renew your interest in nursing and help you feel energized when you return to work.
Conclusion
Becoming a well-being warrior can improve your health, happiness, and job satisfaction. Even simple changes like drinking more water and taking up hobbies like yoga can boost your energy and help you avoid conditions like fatigue. Just be sure to advocate for necessary changes at work, as no amount of journaling and positive mantras can overcome a work environment that does not support your wellness.
In recent years, there has been an increase in nurse entrepreneurs who have chosen a less conventional path in the healthcare industry. Nurses, known for their dedication and adaptability, are now moving beyond traditional direct patient care roles and venturing into side gigs and full-fledged entrepreneurial ventures.
This article examines the process of moving from idea to action, discussing the different stages of starting a business, the challenges encountered, and the unique strengths that nurses bring to the table. It aims to inspire an interest in starting your own side business!
Ideation Phase
Every entrepreneurial journey begins with an idea. For nurses, these ideas often stem from their everyday experiences and the challenges they observe within the healthcare system. The ideation phase is about recognizing a problem and envisioning a solution. Here, creativity meets practicality as nurses leverage their unique perspectives to identify opportunities for innovation.
During my time as a nursing student and new graduate nurse, I discovered that nurses needed more support and career guidance. In my personal experience, a clinical instructor laughed at me and told me I would never become an emergency nurse. This response shocked me and pushed me to pursue my passion for working in the emergency department.
As my career progressed, I became a preceptor, mentor, educator, and coach. I realized I had a talent for providing career guidance to nurses and empowering them to work towards their career goals. Many have referred to me as the ultimate “hype woman” due to my ability to motivate others.
One day, I realized I could turn my skills, abilities, and expertise into a business. I identified a significant gap in career guidance for nurses, recognizing that nursing offers many different opportunities and career paths. On June 21, 2021, I founded Farah Laurent International Nurse Coach LLC. Today, I am an energetic Nurse Career Coach, author, freelance writer, speaker, and corporate trainer focusing on leadership development, professional advancement, creating healthy workplaces, and branding.
Identifying Opportunities
Nurses encounter numerous pain points in their daily routines—inefficiencies, gaps in patient care, and unmet needs. These experiences can spark ideas for potential business ventures. The key is to remain observant and curious, always asking, “How can this be improved?” For example, noticing a lack of specialized patient education materials might inspire a nurse to develop a series of informative, easy-to-understand guides.
Another idea is to develop nursing products by nurses for nurses. Nurses have a deep understanding of healthcare and are filled with solutions. Nurses possess many transferrable skills in business, such as problem-solving, adaptability, communication, negotiation, leadership, change management, psychology, human behavior, and simply connecting with people.
Market Research
Market research is crucial. This involves assessing the demand for the proposed solution, understanding the competitive landscape, and identifying the target audience. To gather data, nurses should utilize resources such as online surveys, focus groups, and industry reports. A great example would be how the newspaper industry has lost its demand. Think about the problem you are solving and how significant the demand could be.
Understanding the Industry
The healthcare industry is vast and complex, with its own set of terminologies and regulations. For a nurse transitioning into entrepreneurship, learning the business aspects of healthcare is essential. This includes understanding the business terms and speaking the language, such as ROI (Return on Investment), market segmentation, and customer acquisition costs.
The Learning Curve
Venturing into business can be daunting, especially when faced with the steep learning curve of understanding market dynamics, financial management, and marketing strategies. For many nurse entrepreneurs, this phase involves consuming a wealth of knowledge from various sources.
Self-Education
Books, online courses, and seminars become invaluable tools. Titles such as “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries and “Business Model Generation” by Alexander Osterwalder provide foundational knowledge. Additionally, “The Brand Flip” by Marty Neumeier offers insights into branding—a critical component often misunderstood in the early stages of business development.
YouTube University
Platforms like YouTube offer a plethora of educational content. From tutorials on business plan creation to digital marketing strategies, nurse entrepreneurs can find step-by-step guides and real-world advice. The visual and practical nature of these videos helps demystify complex concepts.
Taking Action
While knowledge is power, action is paramount. The transition from planning to execution is where many aspiring entrepreneurs falter. However, the most effective learning often comes from doing—trial and error is an integral part of the entrepreneurial process. Taking action is the best way to move forward in your business, and it is part of a continuous improvement cycle.
Implementation
Launching a business requires a proactive and growth mindset. Start small, with pilot projects or side gigs, and gradually scale up based on feedback and results. This iterative approach allows for adjustments and improvements along the way.
Overcoming Challenges
Entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges, from financial constraints to market competition. Nurses, accustomed to high-pressure environments and critical decision-making, are well-equipped to navigate these obstacles. Resilience and adaptability are vital traits that aid in overcoming setbacks.
Building a Business: Personal and Professional Growth
Entrepreneurship is as much about personal development as it is about business success. It demands continuous learning and self-improvement.
Client-Centric Approach
To succeed in business, entrepreneurs must undergo a significant shift in mindset. They must understand that clients care primarily about their own needs and how quickly their problems can be solved. This client-centric approach is essential for building lasting relationships and gaining trust.
Investing in Yourself
Investing in personal development—whether through courses, coaching, or networking—is crucial. Although spending money on yourself and your business may sound daunting, this is the fastest way to improve your business.
Personal Branding and Visibility
In the realm of entrepreneurship, personal branding cannot be overstated. It is imperative to be visible and communicate your value proposition. Building a personal brand and becoming a thought leader in your niche can differentiate you from competitors.
Understanding Branding
As Marty Neumeier explains in “The Brand Flip,” branding is what the audience says you are. It’s the perception held by your clients and customers. Nurses must create a strong, authentic brand that resonates with their target audience. In order to understand your brand, you have to know yourself and your purpose and values.
Social Media and Networking
Leveraging social media platforms to create organic content and engage with potential clients is essential. Attending networking events, both online and offline, helps build connections and foster relationships within the industry.
For nurses interested in starting a business but not quite sure where to start, here are some potential ideas.
10 Nurse Business Ideas
Nurses possess a unique blend of skills and qualities highly transferable to business.
Here are ten business ideas for nurse entrepreneurs:
Nurse Consultant: Providing expert advice to healthcare facilities on improving patient care and operational efficiency.
Freelance Writer: Writing health-related content for blogs, magazines, and websites.
Health Coach: Offering personalized wellness and nutrition advice to individuals seeking healthier lifestyles.
Home Healthcare Agency: Providing in-home care services to patients.
Medical Billing Service: Managing billing and coding for healthcare providers.
Telehealth Services: Offering remote consultations and follow-up care.
Continuing Education Provider/Tutor: Creating and delivering educational programs for nurses.
Patient Advocate: Assisting patients in navigating the healthcare system.
Medical Equipment Sales: Selling specialized medical equipment and supplies.
Medical Spas/IV Therapy: Providing skin, beauty, and hydration-type services in a medical spa is a booming industry.
Actionable Steps to Start Your Business
Here are five actionable steps to help nurses kickstart their entrepreneurial journey:
1. Conduct Market Research
Identify your target audience and understand their needs.
Analyze competitors and market trends.
2. Develop a Lean Business Plan
Outline your business model, value proposition, and revenue streams.
Set clear, achievable goals and milestones.
3. Open Your Business and Select a Structure
Register your business and obtain the necessary licenses.
Choose a suitable business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC).
4. Decide on Your Business Model
Determine whether you will provide a service or sell a product.
Develop a pricing strategy and sales plan.
5. Focus on Brand, Sales and Marketing
Build an online presence through a professional website and social media.
Be visible and build a brand people want to be a part of.
Network with potential clients and industry professionals.
Create marketing campaigns to promote your business.
Building Relationships and Trust
Success in business hinges on building long-lasting relationships. Honesty and reliability are the cornerstones of trust. Making people know, like, and trust you is essential for sustained growth.
Networking and Engagement
Attend industry events, conferences, and workshops.
Engage with your audience through social media and email marketing.
Conclusion
Nurses have a unique opportunity to leverage their skills and experiences to create successful businesses. By embracing continuous learning, investing in personal development, and building strong client relationships, nurse entrepreneurs can navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve lasting success. The journey from side gigs to full-fledged businesses is filled with lessons and personal and professional growth.
It’s time to stop overthinking and take action! Take the steps towards building your dreams!
As nurses, there are times when we want to share our knowledge and passion with a broader audience. Whether educating patients on the importance of preventive care or advocating for better healthcare policies, our voices carry immense power.
But what if we could take that power and amplify it through media?
As a nurse entrepreneur, you have the unique opportunity to leverage media platforms to elevate your brand, promote your products and services, and make a meaningful impact on public health. And who better to understand this journey than another nurse who has walked the same path?
On my own media journey as a nurse, I have come to understand both the challenges and potential of media exposure.
With over 25 years of healthcare experience, I have become a recognized TV medical correspondent and host of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, opening doors to business ventures, partnerships, brand collaboration, and even the ability to market and promote my products, services, and brands. My passion for health advocacy and community outreach inspired me to begin this media work. I soon learned all the benefits media has for budding entrepreneurs, so much so that I created MediaRX. This platform empowers healthcare professionals to amplify their voices and brands in the media landscape.
Our Unique Role as Nurse Entrepreneurs
As nurse entrepreneurs, we blend our clinical expertise with business acumen to create solutions that meet the needs of our communities. Whether you have your med spa practice or you’re selling health-conscious cookies, our firsthand experience with patient care gives us a unique perspective on how to meet our client’s needs that is both credible and relatable.
When we share our insights and expertise, we position ourselves as trusted thought leaders and experts in the public eye. This not only helps to make our brands more recognizable and trustworthy, but we’re also able to leverage our voice to raise awareness of our products and services, similar to what advertising and marketing companies do.
We can also use media to educate patients and health consumers beyond the bedside through educational outreach. By sharing our expertise through television segments, podcasts, social media, or articles, we can educate the public about important health issues and how our products or services can help.
Using media also helps us combat misinformation. In this age of misinformation, our voices are needed more than ever. We build trust and authority for our brands by providing accurate and reliable health information. Sharing our personal stories and the inspiration behind our products and services also brings a human touch to our brands. It makes our businesses more relatable and fosters a deeper connection with our audience.
The Benefits of Media for Nurse Entrepreneurs
Incorporating media into your business strategy not only benefits the public but also enhances your brand and professional growth in many ways:
Increased Visibility and Credibility: Media exposure elevates your brand’s visibility, showcasing the value and impact of your products and services. This increased visibility leads to greater credibility and recognition in the industry and increases lead generation and sales.
Professional Growth: Engaging in media opportunities allows you to develop new skills, such as public speaking, writing, and digital communication. These skills enhance your professional growth and open new business opportunities.
Building a Loyal Community: Sharing your expertise through media fosters a sense of community and loyalty among your audience. It provides a platform for sharing best practices and innovation.
Empowering Consumers: Using media to educate consumers about health issues and solutions empowers them to make informed decisions. This empowerment leads to better health outcomes and increased trust in your brand.
How You Can Leverage Media
Leveraging media as a nurse entrepreneur isn’t intuitive or easy. It involves several strategic steps that, quite honestly, extend beyond our nursing school education into the worlds of PR & marketing, advertising, content creation, and networking with media outlets. Here are a few steps to help you to begin leveraging media.
Identify Your Niche: Determine where you have the most expertise and passion. Ideally, this is aligned with your products and services. This will be your focus when creating content and engaging with media.
Create Valuable Content: Develop content that provides value to your audience. This could include blog posts, social media updates, videos, podcasts, or articles that address common concerns and how your products or services can help.
Engage with Your Audience: Use media and social media platforms to interact with your audience. Answer their questions, share tips, and provide updates about your business. This engagement builds trust and loyalty and positions you as an industry leader.
Seek Media Opportunities: Look for opportunities to appear on TV shows, podcasts, webinars, and articles. Platforms like MediaRX can help connect you with these opportunities, ensuring you reach a broader audience.
Build Relationships with Media Professionals: Network with journalists, bloggers, publicists, and influencers in your business space who are aligned with your products and services. Building these relationships can lead to more media coverage and collaboration opportunities.
I recognize the need for greater nurse representation in the media to lead important health conversations. As an entrepreneur, media doubles as a business tool, so I created MediaRX to bridge the gap between healthcare professionals and media opportunities. MediaRX is a comprehensive platform designed to prepare and introduce nurse entrepreneurs to various media outlets to help their voices be heard.
At MediaRX, we thrive at the intersection of healthcare and media. Consider what we offer if you want to explore how your business can thrive using media.
A Tailored Platform: MediaRX is specifically designed for healthcare professionals to understand their unique needs and the importance of their expertise. The platform offers tailored opportunities that match the skills and interests of nurse entrepreneurs, helping them find the right fit for their media engagements.
Training and Support: MediaRX provides training and support to help nurse entrepreneurs succeed using media. From media training workshops to one-on-one coaching sessions, the platform equips you with the skills to communicate confidently and effectively through various media channels.
Building a Network: MediaRX fosters a community of healthcare professionals interested in media, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration. This network can lead to new opportunities, shared experiences, and mutual support.
Advocacy and Impact: By connecting nurse entrepreneurs with media opportunities, MediaRX helps businesses raise awareness of their products, services, and messaging. This allows them to advocate for important issues and influence public opinion, policy, and behavior. This impact can lead to meaningful changes in healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and grow your business.
The importance of nurse entrepreneurs in media cannot be overstated. Your unique perspective, expertise, and compassion make you invaluable contributors to health communication. By leveraging media platforms, you can ensure that voices are heard, respected, and impactful.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that nurse entrepreneurs’ role in media will continue to grow. By embracing this opportunity, you can elevate your brand, empower consumers, and drive positive change in healthcare. Let’s take the first step together with MediaRX and make our voices heard in the media landscape.
Temitope (Temi) Oseromi, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, has been serving as the nurse manager of Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) HealthCare’s Intensive Care Units—the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) and the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) since 2022.
Oseromi is responsible for managing two units and was given the additional task of rebuilding the MICU.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, frontline medical staff, particularly those working in Intensive Care Units, experienced significant stress, uncertainty, and burnout. Only three nurses remained on the unit.
Despite the challenges, Oseromi, through her stability, innovation, and compassion, transformed the culture and atmosphere of the unit within just 12 months. By fostering a shared governance mindset and building trust among the teams, she empowered nurse leaders to take charge.
With 20 years of experience in critical care, neuro, orthopedic neuro, and emergency department roles, Oseromi has demonstrated her nursing leadership skills and ability to mentor novice leaders while consistently raising the standard of excellence for her clinicians. These qualities reflect her integrity, competence, and commitment to nursing.
Oseromi’s remarkable contributions to the nursing field have been recognized in the prestigious Champions of Nursing Diversity Series 2024. This series is a platform that highlights healthcare leaders who are driving substantial changes in the nursing field within their organizations. Oseromi’s inclusion in this series is a testament to her impactful work and leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion in nursing.
Meet Temitope (Temi) Oseromi, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, nurse manager of GBMC HealthCare’s Intensive Care Units—Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) and Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU).
What is your title, and where do you work?
I’m the nurse manager of the Medical and Surgical Intensive Care Units at Greater Baltimore Medical Center in Baltimore, MD.
Talk about your role in nursing.
As a nurse manager, I am responsible for the unit’s overall operational needs, which include, but are not limited to, interviewing, hiring, performance management, patient safety/patient care initiatives, overall team engagement, patient experience initiatives, process improvement projects, and all other business-related needs.
How long have you worked in the nursing field?
20 years
Why did you become a nurse?
I have always been interested in caring for people, interacting with them, and seeing them get better in whatever situation they may be in. I knew I wanted to be in the medical field. Still, I wasn’t sure of the specifics until I worked at an assisted living facility. There, I had the opportunity to interact with elderly residents and quickly identified nursing as my calling.
What are the most essential attributes of today’s nursing leaders?
Servant leaders, great listeners, an ability to give and receive feedback, problem solvers, and being approachable.
What does being a nursing leader mean to you?
Being a nurse leader means removing barriers for my teams so they can effectively and efficiently care for patients and supporting my team professionally and personally. It also means growing the nursing teams into excellent clinicians, ensuring patient care is delivered safely utilizing best practices and advocating for my teams at different off-unit forums.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the growth in our nursing workforce in the Medical and Surgical ICUs at GBMC. We continue to groom our teams and mentor frontline and formal unit leaders. Both ICUs have collaborated well, even in different locations within the organization. Both charge nurses check in on each other, provide support for each other, and coordinate staffing flow together. This was not the practice a few years ago.
Tell us about your career path and how you ascended to that role.
I graduated from nursing school and assumed a new grad role at a local hospital in an Orthopedic Neuro Medical Surgical Unit. I stayed for a few years and transitioned to work at a Neuro Critical Care Unit. After a few years as a neuro-critical care RN, I decided to work in the emergency department, which was an eye-opener as it differed from the inpatient care workflow. After the ED, I transitioned to a staff nurse position at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, where I was promoted to clinical care coordinator. Some time passed, and I was promoted to the role of nurse manager of a Medical Surgical Telemetry unit. I served in the role for about four years, after which I was promoted to nurse manager of the MICU, SICU, and Central Monitor Station.
What is the most significant challenge facing nursing today?
Staffing continues to be a constant challenge in nursing today. More and more nurses are needed, given that the population is getting sicker and younger.
As a nursing leader, how are you working to overcome this challenge?
We continue to work to onboard the best talent to join our teams, and we have initiatives to retain that talent within the organization.
What nursing leader inspires you the most and why?
Our Chief Nursing Officer, Angie Feurer, because she is personable, insightful, intuitive, asks the right questions, and is always curious. She is a problem solver who loves connecting with her teams and likes to hear from the frontline.
What inspirational message would you like to share with the next generation of nurses?
Keep up the great work. Although nursing school may be busy, nursing is a rewarding profession. Once you graduate nursing school, be open to opportunities that may come your way. Do not close any doors, as nursing consists of many areas you can dive into. Explore, experiment, and be curious. Proceed to advance your nursing education and continue to inspire others.
For the last two years, Shawana S. Moore, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, PNAP, FAAN, who works as the Interim MSN and DNP Program Director at Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, has served as the first African American President of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH).
Minority Nurse asked Moore to reflect upon what she’s accomplished, what she’s proud of, and what still needs to be done. What follows is our interview, edited for length and clarity.
What was it like for you to be the first Black/AA President NPWH? Do you think you gave more of a voice to minorities?
I am honored to share my experience as the first African-American President of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. Serving in this role has been a tremendous privilege and a humbling experience.
When I first took office, I recognized the significance of being a trailblazer and the responsibility that came with it. Being a representative for my community and advocating for the needs and concerns of women’s health nurse practitioners across the nation has been challenging and rewarding.
Throughout my tenure, I have worked tirelessly to advance our organization’s goals and mission, ensuring that women and gender-related health remain at the forefront of healthcare discussions. I have championed initiatives that focus on equitable access to healthcare, particularly for underserved populations.
As the first Black President, I have prioritized diversity, inclusion, and equity within our organization. I believe that embracing our differences can foster a stronger and more inclusive community of nurse practitioners in women’s health. I have actively encouraged mentorship and professional development opportunities for underrepresented individuals, enabling them to thrive and excel in their careers.
In addition to these efforts, I have collaborated with other professional organizations to advocate for legislation that supports women’s health. Guided by evidence-based practice and the expertise of our members, we have successfully influenced key decisions that ultimately improve the quality of care for women across the country.
I am grateful for the support and encouragement from my colleagues, mentors, and the broader healthcare community. Together, we have made significant strides in advancing women’s health and breaking down barriers that hinder access to care.
During my tenure as the President of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, I prioritized amplifying the voices of minorities within our organization. Recognizing the importance of representation and inclusivity, I implemented several initiatives to ensure that the unique perspectives and needs of minority healthcare professionals were heard and addressed.
First, I was the Co-Chair of the inaugural committee focused on enhancing inclusivity, diversity, and equity within our association. This committee comprised representatives from various minority groups, creating a platform for open dialogue and collaboration. Through this committee, we developed strategies and initiatives to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for all members.
Additionally, I actively sought out opportunities to engage with minority nurse practitioners and healthcare professionals by attending conferences, workshops, and events specifically tailored to their needs and interests. By actively participating in these forums, I showcased the importance of diversity within our field and provided a platform for minority voices to be uplifted and celebrated.
Moreover, I facilitated educational workshops and seminars that addressed the unique healthcare challenges faced by minority populations. By focusing on cultural competence, implicit bias, and health disparities, I equipped our members with the knowledge and tools to deliver equitable care to all women, regardless of their background or ethnicity.
Finally, I prioritized recruiting and retaining diverse nurse practitioners by meeting with WHNP students nationwide and reinvigorating our mentorship and scholarship programs. These initiatives aimed to provide support and resources to aspiring minority healthcare professionals, ensuring their success and advancement within the field of Women’s Health.
Through these efforts, I am proud to say that I made a difference in amplifying the voices of minorities within the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. By fostering an inclusive and diverse environment, we not only enriched the experiences of our members but also enhanced the quality and equity of care provided to women nationwide.
How long was your term? Once it ended on December 31, 2023, how will continue to be involved in the organization?
While my time as the first Black/AA President ended, my commitment to advocating for women’s and gender-related health and promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equity in healthcare will continue. I hope my tenure has paved the way for future leaders who will further advance the field and ensure equitable and comprehensive care for all women.
The organization has developed the President’s Circle to maintain the active involvement of Past Presidents. I will actively participate in the forum. Additionally, I will support the organization in developing a maternal health series, an environmental health series, and other projects.
It has been an honor to serve as the first Black/AA President of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, and I look forward to witnessing our organization’s continued growth and progress in the years to come.
Please tell us what you believe are the most important goals you accomplished while in your role as President. How did these actions help improve the lives of nurse practitioners?
As President of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, I am proud to have accomplished several important goals that have impacted our organization.
One of the most significant achievements was ensuring equity was woven throughout our organization. Recognizing the importance of equity, I spearheaded the revisions and updates of our bylaws with a lens of equity. This initiative proved invaluable in fostering inclusivity, diversity, career advancement, skill development, and networking opportunities for our members, staff, and Board of Directors.
Another crucial goal I accomplished was expanding educational resources and professional development opportunities. Establishing partnerships with renowned institutions and experts in women’s health resulted in a wide variety of high-quality educational materials, webinars, and conferences. These resources enhanced our members’ knowledge and skills and served as a platform for sharing cutting-edge research and advancing best practices in the field.
Furthermore, I prioritized advocacy efforts to ensure policies that promote equitable maternal and reproductive healthcare for women and gender-related populations. I collaborated with local, state, and national stakeholders to advocate for changes that positively impacted our profession and the patients we serve. Through strategic initiatives, we raised awareness about women’s health issues and influenced policies that address disparities and improve healthcare outcomes.
Lastly, I focused on strengthening the sense of community and engagement among our members. Implementing time to meet with the president of the academic WHNP program across the country, I facilitated in-person and virtual listening sessions. These initiatives fostered collaboration, shared experiences, and supportive connections among our diverse membership.
My tenure as president of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health was marked by significant equity, education, advocacy, and community-building achievements. I am incredibly proud of the strides we have made in advancing women’s health and ensuring the well-being of patients nationwide.
What kind of feedback did you receive while in this position?
My feedback from members and stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. Many expressed gratitude for my leadership, emphasizing the significance of representation and inclusivity in our organization. The feedback highlighted the impact of my efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity within the association and the broader healthcare community.
This feedback has served as both validation and motivation, reinforcing the importance of our work and inspiring future initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and advancing healthcare for all women.
What are you most proud to have accomplished?
One of my proudest accomplishments was spearheading the update of our organization’s bylaws with a lens of equity at the center. It was vital to me that all members, regardless of their background or identity, felt equally represented and supported within our association.
What more work do you think needs to be done? Why?
Significant work remains. While progress has been made, issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization and the broader healthcare landscape must continue to be addressed.
Specifically, efforts must be made to increase further representation of underrepresented minority groups in leadership positions and decision-making processes. This can be achieved by implementing inclusive recruitment and retention strategies, mentoring programs, and creating opportunities for professional development to foster a diverse and inclusive membership.
Ongoing advocacy is needed to address healthcare disparities, particularly those disproportionately impacting marginalized communities. This may involve collaborating with other organizations and stakeholders to promote policies and initiatives that promote equitable access and quality care for all women.
While progress has been made during my tenure as the first Black President, there is still more work to be done to ensure true equity and inclusivity within the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health and the healthcare field.
What were your biggest challenges?
Throughout my tenure, I faced several challenges. However, my biggest challenge was breaking through existing barriers and overcoming deep-rooted biases within the healthcare industry.
Structural inequalities and unconscious biases presented obstacles that required persistent efforts to raise awareness, educate, and enact meaningful change.
Despite these challenges, I remained resolute in advocating for inclusivity, equity, and fairness in the field, ensuring that the voices and experiences of all nurse practitioners, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, were heard and valued.
What were your most significant rewards?
Serving as the first Black President of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health has been an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. This milestone’s significance cannot be understated, as it represents a step forward in promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity within our field.
Being in this role has allowed me to uplift and amplify the voices and contributions of Black nurse practitioners, as well as other underrepresented minority groups. By actively advocating for their needs and concerns, we have fostered a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members.
Furthermore, the opportunity to connect with and learn from fellow nurse practitioners across the country has been invaluable. Together, we have collaborated on initiatives to improve healthcare outcomes for women, particularly those facing racial disparities and inequities.
Witnessing the positive impact of our collective efforts and the growth and success of our members has been the greatest reward of all. This experience has reinforced my commitment to breaking barriers, inspiring future leaders, and promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equity in healthcare for the betterment of all women.
