Larry Medina RN

This I believe about my professional nursing practice:

Nursing, at its core, is the ability to care for those who are unable to care for themselves. It is a profession that extends far beyond physical treatment to include mental, emotional, social, and spiritual care. I believe that the most important part of nursing is not just to cure, but to offer compassion, hope, and dignity to each person I encounter. Through nursing, I aim to enhance my patients' quality of life in all aspects—physically, spiritually, and mentally.

In my career, I have seen that the best nurses possess a deep sense of compassion and empathy. These qualities enable nurses to connect with their patients on a meaningful level and advocate for their well-being. I hold these traits close to my heart as I strive to not only provide medical care but also nurture the human spirit. This perspective is deeply rooted in my Christian faith, which teaches that we are all made in the image of God and are therefore deserving of care, respect, and love. I aim to restore physical health, while also benefiting my patients mentally and spiritually.

My nursing philosophy is influenced by Ray’s Adaptation Model and Leininger’s Cultural Care Theory. Ray’s model highlights the importance of adapting to each patient’s unique needs, and Leininger’s theory reminds me to consider the cultural backgrounds of my patients in the care I provide. This allows me to deliver holistic care that respects the individuality and beliefs of each person.

Nursing, I believe, contributes to healthcare by being the patient’s advocate. It involves working tirelessly to meet their needs, protect their dignity, and ensure they receive the best possible care. Nursing is about more than administering treatments; it is about being present for the patient in their time of need and helping them navigate through their healthcare journey.

I view nursing as a practice that is grounded in both compassion and science. It is a blend of evidence-based care and personal connection, ensuring that each patient is treated as a whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Nurses not only address the immediate physical issues but also attend to the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of their patients, creating a comprehensive approach to healing.

The environment in which we practice nursing is dynamic and fast-paced. Nurses are required to make critical, life-saving decisions daily, often under immense pressure. Our role is also highly collaborative, as we work alongside other healthcare professionals to create personalized care plans that best serve our patients. In an era where technology is constantly evolving and research is ongoing, nurses must remain adaptable and open to change to stay at the forefront of healthcare.

The outcome I strive for in my nursing care is to ensure that my patients feel supported in all aspects of their health. My goal is to foster healing and balance by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, promoting a full and comprehensive recovery. This holistic approach ensures that my care contributes to my patients' quality of life, not just their immediate medical needs.

I prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that every patient feels heard, valued, and respected. At the same time, I maintain a habit of critical thinking and problem-solving to assess patient data, identify needs, and deliver the most effective, evidence-based care. Adaptability is another key value I hold, especially as a travel nurse. My experiences in different healthcare settings have helped me stay flexible and open to change, whether it involves new technology, treatment protocols, or patient needs.

In conclusion, the values that shape my nursing practice are compassion, human dignity, integrity, and collaboration. I believe that by upholding these values, I can provide care that not only treats the physical ailments of my patients but also nurtures their emotional and spiritual well-being, ensuring they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Mission Statement: My mission is to enhance the quality of life for my patients by combining my compassionate care with critical thinking to address their individual needs. Guided by my personal Christian values, I strive to provide holistic support that nurtures not only physical health but also emotional and spiritual well-being. I believe that every interaction is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference, fostering healing in a safe and loving environment.