D024 Phase 1 Video Reflection

D024 Phase 1 Video Reflection

Student Name

Western Governors University 

D024 Professional Presence and Influence

Prof. Name

Date

D024 Phase 1 Video Reflection

Introduction and Background

My name is Kayla LaBrie. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Husson University in 2012. Pursuing a Master’s degree has been a long-standing goal for me. Now that my children are becoming more independent, I believe this is the ideal time to further my education before expanding my family. Advancing my education feels essential both professionally and personally, aligning with my desire for continued growth.

What are your current professional roles?

I currently work full-time as a Med-Surg charge nurse and preceptor at a critical access hospital in Maine. Additionally, I hold a per diem position at a nursing home, serve as a clinical instructor for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) at a local high school, and work as a corrections nurse at the county jail. My responsibilities as a charge nurse require me to be highly visible and actively engaged in managing staff assignments and prioritizing patient care within the department.

How would you describe your leadership style and approach?

My leadership style centers on maintaining a positive attitude and calm demeanor, especially during stressful or high-pressure situations. I lead primarily by example, emphasizing compassion, empathy, and strong clinical skills. This approach helps build trust and respect among nursing staff, fostering a cooperative and supportive work environment conducive to teamwork and shared success.

Are you involved in any mentorship programs?

Yes, I am actively involved in my hospital’s mentorship program, which pairs new nurses with experienced mentors for a duration of one year. The program includes weekly communications through email or text, monthly face-to-face meetings lasting about an hour, and concludes with a year-end celebration dinner for mentors and mentees. Since its inception four years ago, the program has consistently received positive feedback for the valuable support it provides new nurses.

What are your goals for pursuing a Master’s degree?

My primary goal in pursuing a Master’s degree in Nursing Education is to broaden my teaching role beyond instructing CNA students at the high school level and transition into university-level nursing education. Although I work in a critical access hospital setting, we emphasize comprehensive training and support for new nurses. Every new hire undergoes three months of one-on-one Med-Surg training, with an additional nine months of individualized training for those moving into the Emergency Department.

What kind of professional support network do you have?

I am fortunate to collaborate with many nurses holding Master’s degrees, including several graduates from Western Governors University (WGU). Most of these MSN-prepared nurses, along with numerous BSN-prepared colleagues, actively participate in the American Nurses Association (ANA). This professional community offers significant support as I embark on the next phase of my educational journey.

Closing reflections

I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to advance my education and improve my professional skills. I look forward to engaging with peers and faculty throughout this program, and I wish everyone success as they pursue their own professional goals.

Summary Table of Kayla LaBrie’s Professional Profile and Goals

References

American Nurses Association. (n.d.). About ANA. https://www.nursingworld.org/ana/

Husson University. (n.d.). Nursing Programs. https://www.husson.edu/academics/nursing/

Western Governors University. (n.d.). Nursing Degrees. https://www.wgu.edu/online-nursing-degrees.html