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Modern Healthcare Shows Its Never a Bad Time to Be A Student Leader at ��

�� — Wed, 07 May 2025 17:58:31 +0000

At ��, we know that the future of healthcare depends on collaboration. That’s why interprofessional education (IPE) is a vital component of how we prepare our students to lead in today’s complex healthcare environment. Recently, Jaanam T. one of our Master of Health Administration students demonstrated this commitment firsthand, representing WCU as a student leader and facilitator at the University of Texas at Austin’s IPE event.

Bringing together students from various healthcare disciplines, the IPE event challenged participants to work collaboratively on real-world healthcare scenarios. Jaanam was selected to serve as a facilitator — a role that required not only confidence and communication, but also the ability to guide a team of diverse professionals through thoughtful discussions and problem-solving.

One of the key topics explored was the growing influence of vaping among youth. As facilitator, she helped lead their group in examining this issue from multiple perspectives — medical, administrative, behavioral, and social — while encouraging each team member to contribute their insights. It was an experience that brought their WCU coursework to life and showcased the importance of interprofessional collaboration in developing holistic, effective solutions.

“Being part of this event really reinforced how well-prepared I am for real-world healthcare challenges,” Jaanam shared. “WCU has given me the foundation to lead, communicate, and collaborate in diverse settings. This event was a great example of what healthcare looks like when we work together.”

Beyond the engaging discussions, the IPE experience offered valuable opportunities to network with peers and professionals, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in decision-making. Perhaps most importantly, it emphasized a core truth in healthcare: No single discipline can do it all. The best outcomes come from teams that communicate openly, respect each other’s expertise, and work together with the patient in mind.

Currently balancing coursework with a career as a behavioral technician, she credits the flexibility of WCU’s online program for allowing them to pursue both professional and academic goals. Outside the classroom and clinic, they enjoy traveling, reading, and diving into historical topics — all of which fuel a lifelong curiosity and passion for learning.

Events like this are more than just academic exercises — they are essential learning experiences that prepare students for the realities of today’s healthcare system. At WCU, we are proud to support interprofessional opportunities that challenge our students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and grow as leaders.

We encourage all students to take part in IPE activities whenever possible. Whether you’re pursuing a career in nursing, administration, therapy, or any other health profession, these experiences are invaluable for developing the skills and mindset needed to make a lasting impact in the field

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2025 WCU Alumni Entrepreneurship Award Had Bright Idea to Assist Pediatric Vein Finding

�� — Wed, 07 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

After serving five years in the Marine Corps, �� BSN alumni Adam B. found himself asking, “What’s next?”

With no desire to pursue a medical career, Adam began working in the wine industry and studying marketing but soon wanted a more fulfilling career. He pursued a role in the San Diego Fire Department and worked as an EMT, but when he was exposed to nursing – everything changed.

“I found myself more drawn to the medical side than the rescue aspect, and after meeting nurses in the field, I knew I was on the wrong career path,” he said.

Adam began searching for the right school for him, but they all had a waitlist. A friend recommended looking outside of San Diego and focusing the search on schools with accelerated programs. After visiting WCU-Orange County, he knew it was the right place for him.

“I interviewed at many schools with long waitlists that just weren’t as impressive,” he said.

Adam quickly set goals of becoming an ER nurse and enrolled at �� shortly after his initial visit.

As he approached graduation, Adam was determined to stand out in the job application process. He took a job as an ER tech at a children’s hospital to broaden his experience working with both children and adults. After three weeks of working there, he fell in love with pediatrics.

“I know that’s a very short time frame, but I just loved working with the kids,” he said.

After graduating with his BSN in 2018, Adam became a pediatric specialist, training staff in pediatric care in the ER. It was during this journey and witnessing the staff struggle to place infant IVs that Adam developed another calling: entrepreneurship.

To help the staff improve IV placement on the first attempt, he developed a makeshift vein finder in his garage.

“This sparked my interest to make a commercially made vein finder for infants that was affordable and easy to use,” he said.

Together with a friend and fellow PED nurse, Adam developed the Firefly Vein Light.

Recently, Adam was honored with the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award at the 2025 WCU Alumni Awards, celebrating alumni who have demonstrated exceptional success in entrepreneurship.

“Coming from a university, where they celebrate alumni making an impact beyond bedside care — it’s truly special,” he said. “We’re trying to enhance the quality of care for kids. And so, this award means more than you know.”

While Adam is focused on expanding his company’s portfolio with additional medical products, he recently earned his labor and delivery certification and plans on pursuing that specialty this summer.

“I’ve always wanted to do labor and delivery,” he said. “I originally decided against it because I figured it would be a little harder with my background and being a male nurse, but I’m excited for this new venture.”

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Celebrating National Nurses Week 2025

Courtney Eaves — Tue, 06 May 2025 15:11:16 +0000

Each year from May 6-12, National Nurses Week marks a time to recognize the extraordinary individuals who are the backbone of our healthcare system: nurses. At ��, National Nurses Week is more than a celebration. It’s a moment to reflect on the passion, resilience, and commitment shown by WCU students, alumni, and faculty every single day.

The has chosen the 2025 theme for Nurses Week: “Nurses Make the Difference.” WCU couldn’t agree more. From bedside care to leadership roles and beyond, nurses continue to shape the future of healthcare — and many of them start that journey right here at ��.

Nurses Make the Difference In Both Big and Small Ways

WCU students and alumni are proof that nursing isn’t only a profession… it’s a calling. Yes, they make an incredible difference in patient outcomes, but they also leave a lasting impact in the lives of patients’ families, communities, and themselves.

Take Diana, a recent WCU alum who found her confidence and calling in nursing while following in her mother’s footsteps. Her journey wasn’t always easy, but through dedication and the support of her peers, she turned her passion into purpose. “I wanted to care for people the same way my mom did,” she shared. “Now I get to do that every day.”

Finding Purpose and Pushing Through

For many WCU students, nursing is more than just a dream, it’s a mission fueled by life experience. Gisselle, a first-generation WCU Miami graduate, doubled down on time management and academic discipline to complete an accelerated nursing program and achieve her goal of becoming a pediatric registered nurse. Her story is one of perseverance, representing the strength and determination that so many of WCU students bring to the classroom and the clinical setting.

Read more of Gisselle’s story: First-Generation WCU Miami Graduate Achieves Dream of Becoming a Nurse

Strength, Resilience, and a Deep Desire to Help Others

Katy’s story is a powerful reminder of the healing power of nursing, not only for patients, but for the nurse themselves. A single mom and cancer survivor, Katy found renewed purpose in nursing through WCU’s Texas BSN program. “After going through my own health struggles, I wanted to be the person who could make someone else’s day better,” she said.

Read more of Katy’s story: Single Mom and Cancer Survivor Finds New Purpose in Nursing at WCU Texas

Every Nurse Has a “Why”

WCU encourages students to find and hold tight to their “why” — the reason they chose this demanding, yet deeply rewarding path. For Ericka, the BSN cohort speaker at WCU-Ontario, that “why” came from a deep desire to give back after experiencing personal loss. Her message to fellow students was clear: “This profession requires heart, but if you lead with compassion, you will change lives.”

Read more of Ericka’s story: WCU Ontario BSN Cohort Speaker Shares Inspiring ‘Why’ Behind Nursing

Growing a Nursing Career Online

Nurses are lifelong learners, and at WCU, many students continue their education beyond the BSN. Our online nursing programs are designed to support working nurses who want to advance their education on their terms. Whether you’re pursuing an RN to BSN or earning an MSN in a specialized field, WCU offers flexible, student-focused programs to help you grow.

Nikolas N. is one example of what’s possible with determination and support. After completing his BSN at WCU, Nikolas enrolled in our online MSN – FNP program. As a pediatric intensive care nurse, he wanted to expand his knowledge and impact, especially in leadership and evidence-based practice. “The online format made it manageable with my work schedule, and the program was incredibly engaging,” he said.

Read more of Nikolas’s story: WCU BSN Grad Takes Next Step as MSN-FNP

Tips From Nurses Who’ve Been There

Whether you’re a current student or considering a future in nursing, the path ahead can be challenging. But you’re not alone. WCU BSN alumni have shared seven tips for future nursing students, from staying organized to never being afraid to ask for help.

Celebrating You Today and Every Day

To all the nurses in the WCU community: thank you! You make a difference with every patient you comfort, every life you save, and every challenge you rise above.

If you’re inspired by these stories and feel called to make a difference, �� offers Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs designed to help you advance your education with confidence. With no waitlist for the Texas BSN and Miami BSN programs, hands-on training in industry-current labs, and support from day one through graduation, WCU is here to help you further your nursing journey.

If you’re looking for more flexibility in your education, consider one of our online nursing programs. The next step in your educational journey is just around the corner.

Happy National Nurses Week 2025 from WCU!

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WCU PharmD Onsite Intensive Week: Hands-On Learning, Service, and Connection

�� — Thu, 01 May 2025 16:00:06 +0000

Hybrid PharmD students returned to �� Center for Graduate Studies for the Spring Trimester Immersive Week — an energizing blend of academic assessments, service learning, professional development, and face-to-face connection.

“It provides the faculty and associates the opportunity to engage face-to-face with the students and students to likewise engage with one another,” WCU School of Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo said. “It is an important aspect of creating and maintaining the sense of community we all feel with one another.”

Academic and Experiential Learning

The week began with final exams, lab sessions, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), giving students — particularly those in the second-year cohort — a chance to apply what they’ve learned in real time.

Second-term students also explored new technology through a Virtual Reality Pharmacy simulation and engaged in Interprofessional Education (IPE) by collaborating with Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students on patient care planning.

“They worked on a patient care plan together, understanding how each discipline plays a crucial role in patient care,” WCU-CGS Student Advisor Annie Mouradian noted.

Community Engagement

Students stepped beyond campus to serve the local community at the St. Francis Center, where they provided blood pressure and diabetes risk screenings, offered health education, and supported food pantry operations.

“Students were able to apply their knowledge in real-world settings while also making a positive impact on the local community,” Mouradian shared.

Career Development

Fifth-year students preparing for fall Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) attended a Career and Professionalism Workshop hosted by Career Services. They also took part in an informative session with Dr. Colleen Le-Leavitt, residency program director at Walgreens. Her team shared insights into California healthcare laws, upcoming legislation, and Walgreens’ ongoing advocacy with the Board of Pharmacy, helping students better understand the broader landscape of pharmacy practice.

Celebration and Reflection

The week wrapped with the annual Honors and Awards Ceremony, recognizing student achievements and offering a moment of celebration and reflection.

“We ended the week celebrating their achievements, reflecting on all they’ve accomplished and how far they’ve come in their journey,” Mouradian added.

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From Student to Faculty: WCU Alumna Gives Back to Dental Hygiene Program

�� — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:00:25 +0000

�� dental hygiene instructor Katie B.’s story is a full-circle testament to the power of community, education, and a passion for healthcare. After graduating from WCU’s Dental Hygiene program in 2014, Katie returned in 2017 — not as a student but as a faculty member eager to give back to the next generation of dental professionals.

“Being a student here, I really loved ��, and I was eager to come back and continue what the faculty did for me,” Katie said. “They provided me so much to make my dental career so lucrative and also just so fulfilling.”

Now a dedicated faculty member, Katie is helping students bridge the gap between the classroom and clinical practice. Her dual role as an educator and working clinician allows her to bring real-world experience into her teaching. She focuses on giving students practical tools and insights that help them transition smoothly into professional practice. Hearing from former students who feel confident and well-prepared in their new roles is one of the most rewarding parts of her job.

“I like to work with students and give them real-life experience because I am still working clinically, so we work in a lot with tips and tricks and things to be able to move from clinical in school to clinical in private practice.”

Katie is also passionate about community service. One of the highlights of the dental hygiene program is the annual Smile Camp, where students provide no-cost dental cleanings, X-rays, and education to local children. For many students, this is their first hands-on experience working with pediatric patients.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for them to apply everything they’ve learned in a fun, supportive environment,” Katie shared. “The camp not only helps the community but also instills in students the importance of giving back through their profession.”

Katie encouraged prospective students to come ready to learn and embrace the fast-paced, hands-on approach at West Coast. With technologically advanced equipment, extensive faculty support, and a commitment to student success, West Coast Dental Hygiene stands out as a leader in preparing future hygienists.

“When you come to West Coast, we have every experience you could possibly imagine from technology to hands-on training,” she said. “Our faculty are here full-time for you so we bring in the newest innovations that we can use with our students so when they go into private practice, they’re prepared.”

For Katie, the reward is simple: seeing her students thrive, just like she did.

“Coming back as faculty after being a student is giving what I was able to receive, so I hope that if one student can take away something that I’ve taught them into their real world — that is exactly what I’m here for,” she said.

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How to Become an Aesthetic Nurse: A Comprehensive Guide

Courtney Eaves — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 20:14:11 +0000

Aesthetic nursing merges the precision of modern healthcare with the creativity of cosmetic enhancement. In this guide, learn how to break into this rewarding field, acquire the necessary skills, and leverage it all to grow as a healthcare professional.

What Is an Aesthetic Nurse?

Aesthetic nurses, also known as cosmetic nurses, perform non-invasive treatments with the goal of enhancing a patient’s appearance and confidence. Key services such nurses offer include:

Injectable Treatments: Administering Botox, dermal fillers, and neuromodulators
Skin Rejuvenation: Performing chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapies
Body Contouring: Utilizing non-surgical reshaping techniques
Patient Guidance: Educating clients on post-treatment care and maintenance

Aesthetic nurses work in diverse settings, such as medical spas, plastic surgery clinics, dermatology offices, and outpatient surgical centers. Success in this role requires technical expertise, artistic judgment, interpersonal communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.¹

Steps to Become an Aesthetic Nurse

1. Earn Your Nursing Credentials

Begin your journey by completing a nursing program. The degrees we offer at �� are a great way to start. There are a couple of different routes to choose from:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program: A 2–3-year program focusing on core nursing skills.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program: Typically, a 4-year degree offering advanced training in leadership and patient care. However, at WCU you can earn your BSN in as little as 39 months.

2. Obtain RN Licensure and Gain Clinical Experience

After completing your degree, you’ll need to pass the to become a licensed nurse. Employers generally look for:

At least two years of clinical experience in core nursing competencies.
A minimum of 1,000+ hours in relevant specialties, such as dermatology, plastic surgery, or acute care.

Pro Tip: Seek experience in areas directly related to aesthetics, such as outpatient dermatology or plastic surgery clinics.

3. Pursue Specialized Aesthetic Nursing Training

Develop expertise in aesthetic procedures through targeted certifications and hands-on workshops. Key areas of focus include:

Injectable treatments like Botox and dermal fillers
Advanced skincare treatments and laser technologies
Body contouring techniques and safety protocols

Certifications to consider:

(CANS): Demonstrates expertise in aesthetic nursing.
(CPSN): Recognizes proficiency in plastic surgery care.
(DCNP): For nurses specializing in dermatology.

Note: The CANS certification requires recertification every three years and requires either 45 contact hours of continuing education or retaking the certification exam.

4. Establish Your Career

Explore diverse opportunities in aesthetic nursing, including:

Working in high-end medical spas or collaborating with plastic surgeons
Gaining experience in dermatology offices or outpatient surgical centers
Pursuing leadership roles or specializing in advanced techniques
Opening an independent practice, subject to state regulations
Attaining further advanced nursing credentials

State Specific Requirements

Each state has unique requirements for practicing aesthetic nursing. Below are licensing and advanced practice regulations for three key states:

State-Specific Licensing Requirements for 2025

California:
- Hold a valid California RN license
- Complete an accredited ADN or BSN program. BSN programs like the oneswe offer at WCU-LA, WCU-Orange County, and WCU-Ontario are excellent options to prepare you for the NCLEX
- Pass the NCLEX-RN examination²
Florida:
- Hold an active RN or LPN license from the Florida Board of Nursing (the ADN program at WCU-Miami is a great place to start)
- Complete specialized training in aesthetics
- For Advanced Practice Nurses (APRNs):
  - Hold a clear, active Florida APRN license
  - Complete 3,000 clinical hours under physician supervision within the past 5 years
  - Complete graduate-level coursework, including 3 semester hours in differential diagnosis and 3 semester hours in pharmacology³
Texas:
- Hold a valid Texas RN license
- Complete an accredited ADN or BSN programlike the one we offer at WCU-Texas
- Pass the NCLEX-RN examination⁴

Why Choose Aesthetic Nursing?

Growing Need: Non-surgical procedures are on the rise.⁵
Creative Fulfillment: Combine scientific knowledge with artistry to achieve natural enhancements.
Variety: Explore working with the wide range of treatment types that are considered part of aesthetic nursing.

The Importance of Continued Education

Aesthetic nursing evolves rapidly with technological advancements. Stay ahead by:

Attending workshops on emerging treatments
Earning advanced certifications in injectables or laser technologies
Networking with industry professionals through organizations like the (AAAMS)

Aesthetic Nursing FAQs

What Skills Are Essential for Success?

Strong understanding of facial anatomy
Artistic judgment for achieving natural enhancements
Excellent communication for personalized patient care
Problem-solving abilities to address treatment challenges

Is Prior Nursing Experience Necessary?

Yes. Clinical experience builds the foundational skills required for patient safety and effective treatments.

How Do I Build My Portfolio?

Gain hands-on practice during training, document your work, and gather testimonials from satisfied clients.

Start Your Journey Today

Aesthetic nursing offers practitioners a unique opportunity to blend their healthcare expertise and artistic vision. Whether you’re just beginning your nursing education or advancing your career, consider enrolling in programs like the ADN programs or BSN programs at WCU to take the first step toward this exciting and rewarding field.

Nurse.org, How to Become an Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurse | Salary 2025,
California Board of Nursing, Steps to Become a California Registered Nurse,
Florida Board of Nursing, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse,
Texas Board of Nursing, Frequently Asked Questions – Licensure,
PubMed, National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Trends in Surgical and Nonsurgical Aesthetic Procedures: A 14-Year Analysis of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery-ISAPS,

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WCU Student Went From Kinesiology to Occupational Therapy in Journey of Discovery and Dedication

�� — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Faith P.’s path to becoming an occupational therapy doctorate student at ��’s Center for Graduate Studies wasn’t always clear. Her journey, which began with a kinesiology degree, has now led her to a program she is passionate about — and one that is helping her build the career she always dreamed of.

Faith’s love for the human body and its systems started early. She pursued a bachelor’s in kinesiology at another university, knowing she wanted a career that allowed her to understand and work with the body. It wasn’t until she met a friend — someone who had already graduated from her alma mater — that she first learned about occupational therapy.

“She was in the process of coming back for some additional credits to pursue the master’s program [at West Coast],” Faith explained. “We got to talking, and she introduced me to the world of OT. She raved about it, and as she shared more, I just fell in love with the idea.”

This conversation sparked something in Faith. It was her friend’s enthusiasm for OT and her own deep interest in human health that made Faith take the leap and apply for the OT program at WCU-CGS.

“She told me the program was amazing, and that West Coast had a great track record with the NBCOT exam,” Faith recalled. “That was really what sold me, knowing the program was designed to help me succeed.”

Faith was also pleasantly surprised by the support and resources available at WCU-CGS, which exceeded her expectations.

“I never expected to have so many opportunities to connect with people,” she said. “The resources, the community — it’s all beyond what I imagined. I’m not just learning a profession; I’m building long-lasting relationships and a career that I never thought I could create.”

One of the most rewarding aspects of Faith’s experience has been the strong sense of community she’s found at WCU-CGS.

“The connections I’ve made have been crucial to my success,” she shared. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I’ve felt like I’m part of something bigger than myself.”

Faith’s cohort has become like a family. “We talk every day, even outside of school. It’s not just about OT. We’ve really become close friends,” she added.

She’s also been able to build relationships with faculty, mentors, and other students through various leadership roles. Faith serves as a coordinator for Peer Assisted Learning (PALs), where upper-term students mentor newer cohorts, helping them with practical exams and study sessions.

“It’s an amazing experience,” Faith said. “It’s like I’m giving back what I’ve learned, and it’s been a great way to connect with other students.”

In addition, Faith is the president of the Student Occupational Therapy Association, where she works alongside other student leaders to promote community engagement, fundraising, and wellness for OT students.

“I never expected to be president of SOTA,” she laughed. “But I had the support of my community. They encouraged me to step into this leadership role, and with their help, I’ve been able to succeed.”

In contrast to her undergrad experience, WCU-CGS has provided Faith with a clear and structured path.

“They gave me everything I needed — classes, timelines, even resources like the library and fieldwork coordinators,” Faith said. “It’s been so much more organized and supportive than my undergrad experience. I feel like I finally have the guidance I need.”

For anyone considering a career in occupational therapy, Faith had some wise advice: “Just go for it. Don’t doubt yourself. It’s hard work, but you can do hard things.”

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WCU-Miami BSN Nursing Student Honored with Daisy Award for Stepping Up During Pediatric Code on Clinical Rotation

�� — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:00:56 +0000

�� nursing student Genie R. was recently recognized with the prestigious Daisy Award, honoring her compassionate care and poise during a critical moment in her clinical rotation. The BSN student, who is set to graduate later in 2025, was surprised with the award during class — completely unaware she had even been nominated.

The moment that sparked Rene’s nomination happened during a clinical rotation in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, when a pediatric patient went into cardiac arrest. Though still a student, Rene instinctively jumped into action — supporting the medical team, gathering supplies, and anticipating needs, all while staying within her scope of practice.

“It was just like a nice flow with the unit,” she said. “Thank God that in skills and in the simulation lab they teach you the proper names for the tools and materials that we need.”

For Rene, the experience was a powerful validation of the simulation-based training she received at WCU, which she credits with helping her stay composed in a high-stress situation.

“SIM is extremely important. It came in handy during the code while in clinicals,” she said.

Rene’s motivation to pursue nursing is deeply personal. Her mother’s long battle with illness shaped her understanding of what compassionate care truly looks like. She still remembers a particular nurse who made an impression not just for how she cared for her mother, but for how she treated Rene as well.

“She didn’t only give attention to my mom, but also to me,” she said. “She always made sure her linen was clean… she brought that extra step or extra care that was not part of her scope, but she did it anyway.”

Rene hopes to bring that same energy to her future patients.

“I treat patients like they’re my family,” she said. “I just hope that I’m remembered as, ‘Oh my gosh, she went the extra mile.’”

Even as many in the field move away from bedside nursing, Rene remains committed.

“They remember your name. They remember what you did for them when you bring that extra care,” she said.

With her heart set on making a difference, Rene’s journey is just beginning — but she’s already leaving a lasting impression.

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8 Nurse Leader Skills to Master

Courtney Eaves — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 18:12:53 +0000

What sets a good nurse apart from a great one? While possessing strong clinical skills can sometimes be enough to provide quality patient care, it’s excellent leadership skills that make the difference.

In fact, being a nurse . The profession demands a combination of hard skills, like foundational clinical knowledge, and soft skills, such as emotional intelligence and critical thinking. A highly competent nurse leader understands how to balance technical proficiency with interpersonal skills. This balance allows them to create a supportive, efficient healthcare environment where both their patients and team members feel valued.

Why Are Nurse Leadership Skills Important?

Strong nurse leaders are at the heart of effective healthcare teams. They advocate for patients, support their colleagues, and drive meaningful change within their organizations.

The right leadership skills ensure that nurses:

Strengthen patient safety by reducing errors
Deliver high-quality patient care
Improve operational efficiency for better patient outcomes
Maintain workplace morale and retain skilled nursing staff
Promote continuous learning

For registered nurses looking to transition into leadership roles—whether through a Post-Master’s Certificate program, MSN program, or RN-to-MSN program—mastering key clinical and interpersonal skills is crucial for success. Keep reading to learn about the eight essential leadership skills every nurse needs to thrive.

What Clinical Skills Should Nurse Leaders Have?

Nurses must be confident in their clinical experience while also making sure that their teams adhere to the best medical practices. An accredited nursing program prepares nurses to uphold patient safety, think critically in high-pressure situations, and implement practical healthcare solutions when it matters most. Here are a few clinical skills successful nurse leaders should have:

1. Strong Clinical Decision-Making

Providing quality patient care starts with good decision-making. Even if nurse leaders aren’t at the bedside, their experience plays a major role in guiding teams. They must be able to assess patient conditions, interpret medical data, and empower their colleagues to make the best possible decisions.

A solid clinical foundation also helps nurse leaders spot early warning signs of complications and support nurses handling complex cases. Quick thinking and experience-based confidence in their expertise allows nurses to maintain high standards of care, even in fast-paced environments.

2. Crisis Management

No two days in healthcare are the same. Medical emergencies, staffing shortages, and unexpected crises require nurses who can react without delay and stay calm under pressure. When every second counts, a great nurse leader can make all the difference. These professionals must know how to prioritize patient care, coordinate emergency response efforts across multiple departments, and train staff on protocols to ensure team preparedness. Whether it’s a cardiac arrest or a severe asthma attack, strong crisis management skills save lives.

3. Healthcare Technology Proficiency

Modern healthcare relies on technology, and nurses must be competent when using digital tools. From electronic health records (EHRs) to telemedicine, understanding digital tools goes far. Being tech-savvy allows nurses to improve documentation accuracy, adopt new digital tools that can optimize workflow, and use data to track patient progress.

4. Infection Control & Patient Safety Protocols

Keeping patients safe is at the core of nursing, which is why infection control is a shared responsibility across healthcare teams. Every nurse works to prevent infections and reduce risks by setting high standards and consistently following safety protocols. However, nurse leaders take on additional responsibilities to uphold safety compliance, educate colleagues on best practices, and implement strategies to prevent hospital-acquired infections.

What Soft Skills Should Nurse Leaders Have?

Beyond clinical expertise, great nurse leaders must also have compelling interpersonal and leadership skills. These soft skills help them foster teamwork, build trust, and create a positive work environment—ultimately leading to better patient care. Take a look at several key soft skills every nurse leader should develop:

5. Effective Communication

Nurse leaders often act as bridges between teams, which is why direct, confident communication is a must-have for organizational success. On a daily basis, they’re expected to give clear instructions, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and educate patients and families.

6. Critical Thinking

In healthcare, every decision matters. Nurses need sharp problem-solving skills to navigate difficult situations, make data-driven choices, and anticipate challenges before they arise.

Sound critical thinking allows them to make informed decisions in high-pressure situations and identify opportunities for process improvement. Excellent nurse leaders stand out by seeing situations from different perspectives and making decisive choices.

7. Time Management

With countless responsibilities, nurses must know how to prioritize tasks and delegate wisely, all while keeping their units running smoothly. Balancing urgent demands while maintaining a steady workflow helps them support both their patients and teams. Good time management not only improves efficiency but also prevents any potential staff burnout.

8. Emotional Intelligence

Exceptional leadership extends beyond clinical expertise. Nurses must understand and support both their patients and staff, which is why emotional intelligence is so critical.

High emotional intelligence allows nurses to:

Nurture a team culture rooted in respect
Provide support to patients and staff by preemptively recognizing their needs
Navigate and resolve conflicts effectively—especially in high-stress situations
Lead with compassion, offering guidance to patients and families during difficult times

Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Career

Great nurses do more than care for patients—they influence, inspire, and lead by example. That’s why �� (WCU) offers multiple nurse leadership programs to help you grow:

Each accredited program incorporates hands-on training and a dedicated clinical placement team to help you find the right preceptor and clinical site. Plus, you can complete each program at the pace that’s right for you, so you never have to choose between your job and furthering your education.

Strong nurse leaders shape the future of healthcare. If you’re ready to advance your nursing career journey, schedule an information session today.

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Celebrating Excellence at the WCU-CGS CPhA Awards Recognition Ceremony

�� — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 16:00:37 +0000

�� Center for Graduate Studies hosted its highly anticipated California Pharmacists Association Awards recognition ceremony this March, where several individuals and organizations were honored for their outstanding contributions to the field of pharmacy.

This year’s PharmD ceremony highlighted the incredible accomplishments of both students and faculty, with a special focus on the role of mentorship, innovation, and dedication to patient care.

Dr. Ani Avoundjian: New Practitioner of the Year

Among the awardees was Dr. Ani Avoundjian, an assistant professor at WCU, who received the prestigious New Practitioner of the Year award at the state level from the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA). In an emotional reflection on her achievement, Dr. Avoundjian shared, “I am beyond honored to be recognized as New Practitioner of the Year at the state level by the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA)! This award is especially meaningful as it reflects the impact of my early years in pharmacy and the passion I have for patient care, advocacy, and mentorship.”

Dr. Avoundjian’s recognition is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of her continuous dedication to improving patient outcomes, advocating for the pharmacy profession, and fostering the next generation of pharmacists.

“Stepping into this profession has been an incredible journey, and I’m truly grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and students who have shaped me along the way,” she added.

A Recognition for the Pharmacy Community

This award is a testament to her hard work, but Dr. Avoundjian emphasizes that the honor is not only hers. She credits the larger pharmacy community for its collective drive towards excellence, saying, “This recognition is not just about me — it’s about the pharmacy community that continuously pushes boundaries, uplifts one another, and strives for excellence. I’m proud to be part of a profession that is making a difference every day.”

WCU and San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association Shine

In addition to Dr. Avoundjian’s individual success, the ceremony also celebrated notable achievements from the �� and the San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association teams. The WCU PharmD program received several awards, showcasing the strong leadership and dedication of its students and faculty. The university was awarded the Innovative Chapter of the Year and Chapter of Excellence titles. These awards were largely due to the exceptional leadership of WCU’s student chapter president, Janna Mozannar, who has been instrumental in driving these initiatives forward.

The Local Chapter of Excellence award was also presented to the San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association, under the leadership of Dr. Avoundjian and Dr. Anna Chaparyan. Their tireless efforts in creating meaningful local initiatives have made a significant impact on the broader pharmacy community.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Pharmacy

Reflecting on the accomplishments of the WCU and San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association teams, Dr. Avoundjian expressed immense pride in the achievements of the students and leaders involved, stating, “I couldn’t be prouder of our students and leaders for their dedication and hard work.”

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