Practice Summary Paper

NURS 403- Transition to BSN Practice

Purpose of Assignment

The purpose of this paper is to guide you through a process of self-reflection and self-

evaluation to discover the scope of your personal and professional development while enrolled in

the RN>BSN nursing program at Old Dominion University.

The assignment is designed to help you prepare for your Portfolio. The Practice

Summary Paper is designed to demonstrate the attainment of the 8 core competencies in general.

The Portfolio demonstrates the achievement of the Core Competencies through the attainment of

specific elements [the bullets] within the Core Competencies.

Approach to Assignment

This paper helped me to realize my development as a nurse and as a student working

throughout this BSN program. Though there were not any references included, there were many

clinical experiences and college papers included showing detail in my attainment of each of the

eight core competencies.

Reason for Inclusion

I included this paper in my Portfolio because it summarizes all the hard work I put into

going to school for my BSN. It showcases my growth as a nurse and in writing. One of my

educational goals was to become a better writer. Although my writing still needs work, it has

improved since my first class. I have learned how to research better and to become more

professional in my papers.
Critical Thinking

Uses decision-making skills in making clinical or professional judgments.

Revises actions and goals based on evidence rather than conjecture.

Nursing Practice

Performs direct and indirect therapeutic interventions that incorporate principles of

quality management and proper safety techniques based upon assessment findings.

Communication

Uses therapeutic communication within the nurse-patient relationship.

Teaching

Provides teaching to patient and/or professionals about health care procedures and

technologies in preparation for and following nursing or medical interventions.

Research

Evaluates research that focuses on the efficacy and effectiveness of nursing

interventions.

Leadership

Articulates the values of the profession and the role of the nurse as member of the

interdisciplinary health care team.

Professionalism

Differentiates between general, institutional, and specialty-specific standards of

practice to guide nursing care.

Culture

Demonstrates sensitivity to personal and cultural definitions of health, and how these

beliefs influence an individuals reactions to the illness experience and end of life.