Michelle is currently my ICU Nursing clinical instructor. She has been an amazing person to learn from! She has the ability to redirect nervous energy associated with taking care of critically ill patients and fostering a great learning environment. Just yesterday I was very apprehensive to take care of a patient supported by a mechanical ventilator. Michelle identified my nervousness and helped me complete a thorough assessment of the patient. Never did she "do" or "take over" on the assessment. Rather she allowed me to complete my own assessment and engaged me with thought provoking questions to enhance my understanding.
She is also extremely patient and never forgets we are students learning something new. Michelle has a wonderful ability bring all the components of the situation into perspective and formulate a comprehensive nursing plan. One of the most valued aspects of Michelle's teaching is that I have never felt incompetent or uneducated while executing my nursing knowledge. She brings out the best in people while building their confidence. I can see this within my own experiences, my clinical group and her co-workers.
Michelle also goes above and beyond her responsibilities as an instructor. She has made herself available after office hours to her students. I once texted her in the eight o'clock evening hour to see if she could clarify an aspect of developing a care plan. Within minutes she returned my phone call and answered all my questions in a 20 minute conversation. She did not have to take a call post office hours, but she did. This shows her dedication to her students. She is committed to my education just as much as I am and I am going to be a better nurse for it.
When I grow up I want to be just like Michelle!