EDUCATOR PORTFOLIO

Name and Degree(s): Kristen Paladino, MSN, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM

NURS 610: Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice

During this course I explored the theoretical basis of advanced practice nursing through
analysis of nursing’s models. I also analyzed selected middle range theories/models
and their application to practice and education. The value of theory-based practice,
including the sharing of knowledge with other disciplines, is stressed as the foundation
for Advanced Practice Nursing. What I have learned from taking this class is that
learning and applying nursing theories shouldn't be limited to the classroom. There's a
place for nursing theories in daily practice, whether at the patient's bedside or in
community health nursing area. When my patients and their families, and even those in
other healthcare professions ask why I do what I do, I can cite the nursing theories and
theorists who have guided me in my profession.

Projects/Assignments
Reflective writing piece on past experience
Paper – Mid Range Theory Cheryl Beck

NURS 615: Nursing Research: Analysis and Design

During this class I was expected to research a concept and develop an appropriate
framework. Critical thinking, critical reasoning, and critiquing processes were introduced
and related to research-based advance practice. Methods of conducting research and
evaluating findings for use in practice setting were explored. I review published research
in the area of mentoring and explored qualitative and quantitative methodologies behind
it. Following that I prepared a research proposal and submitted an IRB application on
mentoring, which was then accepted. After taking this class I could not believe how much
nurses use search to answer questions about their practice, solve problems, improve the
quality of patient car. Not only do they generate new research questions from the
outcomes they attain but they help shape health policy. As a result of taking this class, I
have confronted questions about practice on my unit, and have used evidence-based
research improve the policies on my floor.
Projects/Assignments
Research Proposal on mentoring novice nurse faculty members in academia
IRB Application for mentoring novice nurse faculty members
Measurement Paper
John Hopkins Appraisal Form

NURS 620 Nurse Educator as Leader

During this course I analyzed health policy in relation to its impact on nursing education.
In addition methods for leadership in professional development were discussed at the
state to create healthy work environments, including staff engagement. An emphasis
was placed on the role of the nursing leader in relationship to innovative and strategic
leadership approaches to change as well as quality improvement. My course leadership
project included a cost-benefit analysis as well as proposal on how to reduce surgical
site infections after a cesarean section.

Projects/Assignments
Evidenced Based Practice Proposal for Reduction of Surgical Site Infections on the
Labor & Delivery Unit
Getting To Know You Paper

NURS 625: Analysis of Concepts in Advanced Nursing Practice

Analyzed the philosophical foundations of concept development for the advancement of

nursing theory and practice. During the course evidence-based information was
synthesized from a variety of sources in selecting a concept for analysis. During this time
I began working on the concept of “Mentoring and Novice Faculty in Academia”,
something that has been very near and dear to my heart. I choose this concept because I
was able to learn about my craft from women who understand what it means to be a
nurse. They recognize the value of what they do and continue to be role models to the
novice nurse.
As I reflect upon this class I have learned that concepts are the building blocks of
theories. They have important role in theory development. During my concept analysis
process, I became familiar with different attributes and definitions of my concept,
mentoring, and its function.
Projects/Assignments
Concept Analysis Paper
Concept Analysis Grid
Mentoring Concept Map

NURS 630: Application of Clinical Interventions in Advanced Nursing Practice

During this class I advanced the concept of mentoring novice faculty members through
extensive concept analysis.

Assignments/Projects
Narrative journal/clinical logs/self- reflection. I have learned through this process that
journaling can be a vital tool used to promote effective communication among the various
roles that educators play within the healthcare facility. In the world of academia effective
communication is a vital aspect needed to improve the teacher/student relationship.
Concept Grid
Presentation: Concept Advancement on Mentoring Novice Nurse Faculty in Academia

NURS 635: Curriculum/Program Development and Evaluation

During this class we investigated various conceptual frameworks, organizational

frameworks; program outcomes, level outcomes, course outcomes, content selection;
teaching strategies; and evaluation methods. For me, I felt that this class was one of the
most important since I am about to embark into the world of academia. It made me
realize that faculty development and education is needed to aid knowledge in curriculum
development. It made me realize that some point in the very near future, I will be
expected to create a new nursing course or update an old course and how this class will
be vital in creating that.
Assignments/Projects
Group Project – Curriculum Development on Nursing Residency Program in Labor &
Delivery. When creating this program it made me realize that learning is an active,
continuous process because concepts, skills, and values are constantly being re-
evaluated and reorganized for use. It is a huge undertaken and something that should
not be taken lightly in the world of academia. This development can determine a
student’s future.
Evaluation of Nursing Program
Internal and External Factors in Curriculum Development

NURS 640: Assessment, Measurement & Evaluation

In this course we explored evidence-based assessment and evaluation practices and

the use of a variety of tools and strategies, including information technology, to assess
and evaluate learning. I developed a plan for assessing cognitive, psychomotor and
affective learning outcomes to promote learning. I utilized technology to support valid
assessments, measurements and evaluations when creating test blue prints and stem
questions.

Assignment/Projects
Created a Nursing Syllabus
Created a Test Blue Print and Stem Questions
Power Point presentation on culturally and linguistically diverse students

NURS 645: Pedagogical Strategies in Nursing Education

During this course I examined innovative ways that education supports and promotes a
culture of active teaching and learning. I investigated the use of different technologies in
nursing education. Evidence-based teaching strategies were identified for use in the
classroom and clinical settings.

Assignments/Projects
Humanistic Learning Theory PowerPoint Presentation
Autism
 NURS: 650 Seminar & Practicum in Teaching

In this course I have the opportunity to deliver didactic and clinical instruction to
students enrolled in the Trinitas School of Nursing. Under the guidance of an
experienced nursing faculty member, I engaged in the development and delivery of
didactic content to students. In addition, I had the opportunity to provide clinical
instruction to a group of ten nursing student in the clinical practice area. What I learned
from this practicum is multi-faceted. I learned that nursing and teaching require similar
traits, specifically, excellent communication skills, enthusiasm, strong interpersonal
skills, competence and professionalism cross over into teaching, in essence, it is a
genuine sense of caring for the individual, whether it be a student or patient.

Assignments/Projects
Employed a variety of evolving technologies and modalities in the classroom and clinical
setting to facilitate learning
Clinical Instruction at Trinitas School of Nursing, Brother Boneventure Campus. Group of
ten students.
Classroom instruction performed at Trinitas School of Nursing, Elizabeth, NJ

NURS: 660 Guided Study & Seminar in Nursing Education

During this class I conducted independent research and performed a literature review on
and developed a manuscript for publication The Evolution of Mentoring Amongst Nursing
Educators – A Multi-Generational Undertaking. This project allowed me to illustrate my
ability to properly use and document sources for future publication. When I started this
journey over three years ago I didn’t realize the idea I had for my concept would actually
develop into a real life manuscript. It made me self-reflect, which not that I think about it,
is such a vital part of writing. Self-reflection actually involves thinking about your nursing
experiences as a writer would. Going forward I now know that I can use my own practice
experiences to write a future article. Whenever I have an interesting idea or experience
that stands out in my practice, I will be sure to write them down so I can reflect on them
and possible use them in the future.
Assignments/Projects
Curriculum Vitae
Educator Portfolio
Manuscript

NURS 665 Simulation in Nursing Education

Analyzed evidence-based educational practices supported by the use of simulation and

simulation technology. Implemented a simulation in its entirety, including
debriefing/guided reflection using a high-fidelity human patient simulator in my own
created scenario.

Assignments/Projects
Simulation on Post Partum Hemorrhage. After creating my own simulation, and putting
into play, I don’t think I realized the time and energy that goes into creating one
simulation. Although when I look back simulation it has always been a part of nursing (i.e.
anatomic parts to recognize landmarks, or computer based programs), I don’t think the
impact has been as effective when compared with the laerdel mannequin. When I was in
school, I did not have the opportunity to experience this teaching strategy. At the
completion of the course I was able to see how it promotes patient safety and optimize
outcomes of care. It truly provides nursing students with opportunities to experience real
life scenarios and intervene in clinical situations within a safe, supervised setting without
posing a risk to a patient. This will definitely become part of my regular practice when I
become and educator. This class not only allowed me to see the benefit for the student
but also for the educator.
NATIONAL LEAGUE FOR NURSING EIGHT COMPETENCIES FOR NURSE EDUCATORS

1. Facilitates Learning

I have always loved to learn new things, but this educational journey to get my
Master’s degree did more for me than just getting to the finished line. I have been
challenged to think about nursing and how it has evolved through time. Nursing
does not affect one thing, it has a cascading affect that touches community,
environment, family, and relationships. In my clinical practicum experience I was
given opportunities to create an environment that facilitates learning and desired
learner outcomes. I used information technologies to support the learning
process, identified student’s learning styles and used various teaching strategies
with the guidance of my preceptor. I have made new relationships among other
staff faculty, colleagues and students.

2. Facilitate Learner Development and Socialization

In my practicum experience, I was fortunate enough to be able to direct students

to identify their learning styles. During my tenure as an MSN student I was able to
gather resources to better help me in the future with the diverse population of
nursing students. I was also able to learn different teaching strategies to
accommodate the various learning styles that students have. Throughout each
class I was also able to share my experiences and reflect with my professors,
colleagues, and preceptor to foster socialization.

3. Use Assessment and Evaluation Strategies

During my practicum I noticed that students had a lot of down time when it came
for caring for their patients. The need for me to find ways to assess and evaluate
learner outcomes has become very important to me. I was able to assess and
evaluate students in the simulation lab when they performed medication
administration, range of motion exercises as well as vital signs. In the future, I
plan to use case studies, simulation, and many other avenues to assess critical
thinking and competency. I provided constructive feedback to my students during
the debriefing process that was both guided and encouraging.
 4. Participate in Curriculum Design and Evaluation of Program Outcomes

During my practicum I was involved in curriculum design and revision. I was given
the opportunity to work on syllabus writing where I was able to create a proposed
nurse residency program on a Labor & Delivery unit.

5. Function as a Change Agent and Leader

As a change agent I was able to implement on my unit a protocol to decrease

surgical site infections after a cesarean section. I was able to perform a cost-base
analysis, order the supplies from purchasing and a strategic plan was initiated and
implemented to ensure that the proprosed protocol would be rolled out as
smoothly as possible. After implementation our surgical site infection rate
decreased.

6. Pursue Continuous Improvement in the Nurse Educator Role

During my practicum I remained supportive, encouraging and respectful to others

for their individuality and uniqueness. I continually spoke with the students about
their professionalism, and their attitude. I maintained a positive attitude and tried
to find the good in all situations. I always told the students even in their times of
despair to “Push forward, no excuses”.

7. Engage in Scholarship
My preceptor for my clinical practicum had a great deal of experience in
management, performance improvement and was going to be the next president of
the National League of Nursing’s NJ Chapter in 2018. I had the opportunity to
discuss with him the current state of our nursing education programs across the
spectrum of higher education, health care organizations, and agencies. As a future
novice nurse educator, I enjoyed spending time with him discussing these issues.

8. Function within the Educational Environment

I have been fortunate enough during my journey to have worked at the Trinitas
School of Nursing skills lab. This has afforded me the opportunity to implement
and run simulation exercises using low, mid and high-fidelity human patient
simulators as well as assist faculty in planning and implementing simulation
activities. This gave me a well of knowledge and resources as I graduate with my
Master’s Degree in Nursing Education. During my practicum I was exposed to
many different themes that were researched by the National League of Nursing
such as role strain in nurse educators, developmental needs of both the novice
and experienced educator. In the future I hope to secure a job as a nursing
educator role and continue to practice the competencies for nurse educator that
have been created by the National League of Nursing.