My Nurse Practitioner New Year’s Resolutions

I’m not a big New Year’s resolution maker.  I fall into the category of your typical make a resolution and forget about it a few days later kind of person.  Even in my not-so-old age I am apparently stuck in my ways.  But, perhaps this year since my blog is young and my nurse practitioner career is still evolving I can make and stick to some career related commitments.

Here are my New Years 2013 nurse practitioner resolutions:

1. Commit to Continued Learning

I have reached the point in my career where I have established a routine and am becoming proficient in my practice.  I have fewer questions than in the first years of my nurse practitioner career and can easily get by with a minimal amount of continued learning.  I am losing the zeal I once had for improving my medical knowledge.  This year, I pledge to continue learning, to research and address gaps in my medical knowledge and to become an even better master of clinical skills.  I have already taken the first step toward reaching this goal by subscribing to a monthly medical journal.

2. Become a More Diligent NP Organization Member

I admit I am pretty sure my AANP membership has lapsed.  I forgot to renew since I did not attend the national conference this year.  And, while I remain a member of my local nurse practitioner organization, the Middle Tennessee Advanced Practice Nurses Association, I haven’t attended a meeting in a few months.  No, not even the ones held at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.  This year, I will make these organizations a priority by maintaining my membership status and becoming a more active member of my local NP organization.

3. Attend a Nationally Known Medical Education Conference

Naturally, I spend every last penny of the continuing education allowance offered by my employer each year.  In the past, however, I have often chosen my continuing education conferences based on location (sun, sand and surf anyone?).  This year, I am going to attend an educationally heavy conference.  I will focus on education over vacation in order to improve my practice…and then if I have any money left I will find an additional offering at the beach!

4. Become a Better Co-Worker

No, I don’t think I’m all that bad to work with.  That being said, practicing in the emergency department I work alongside multiple nurses, phlebotomists, X-Ray and CT technicians and administrative staff members not to mention fellow NP’s and PA’s.  This year I want to foster better relationships with my co-workers.  Not necessarily deeper personal relationships, but I would like to show more understanding on busy days when staff members are under stress or take time to teach those working their way up in the medical profession.  I want to exhibit more leadership, to be calm, cool and collected and show patience under all circumstances.

What are your nurse practitioner New Year’s resolutions for 2013?