it may be difficult to stay abreast with evidenced-based practice changes .
While burnout is a pervasive issue across healthcare , the phenomenon manifests distinctively among rural community nurses . The isolation , coupled with high workloads and inadequate staffing are ever present in rural nursing . Socioeconomic disparities , the burden of chronic diseases , and drug abuse issues loom large in rural communities ; nurses routinely go above and beyond their scope of duties to mitigate their noxious effects . In fact , nurses in this setting are generally the principal , if not the only , advocates for health equity and systemic justice available to the community .
The Rewards
Despite the challenges , rural nurses often find great satisfaction in forging strong connections with their communities . Rural nurses develop strong bonds with their patients that go well beyond the scope of clinical practice . They take on leadership and advocacy roles ; collaborate with local organizations , policymakers , and health providers ; and implement innovative solutions . They foster a durable support system , as well as a sense of belonging and camaraderie in these challenging times .
Nurses in rural areas can have a direct impact on the health and well-being of the communities they serve . Their work makes a significant contribution to the individuals who suffer from limited healthcare access , and it improves their quality of life . Rural nurses engage in proactive and responsive health education to raise awareness about chronic diseases and preventative measures . They routinely conduct individualized or community counseling to encourage healthy lifestyle and early intervention screenings .
The rural settings typically offer a closer connection to nature and a slower pace of life , thus providing nurses with a better work-life balance . Due to limited resources , rural nurses often practice with a higher level of autonomy . This independence grants greater professional visibility and allows them to address a wide range of health needs within their communities . In turn , rural nurses enjoy a greater sense of accomplishment and work satisfaction as they are highly valued for their contributions and are respected by both patients and colleagues .
Conclusion
Rural healthcare faces unique hurdles in today ’ s world , influenced by geographic isolation , limited resources , and disparities in care access . Within this crucible of experience , rural nurses forge an inimitable identity . They continuously rise to the challenge and create opportunities for collaboration , innovation , and community-driven solutions . In the face of adversity , nurses play a critical role in the forefront as catalysts for change with an unwavering dedication to health equity . By recognizing their invaluable contributions , addressing their distinctive challenges , and fostering an environment of empowerment and support , we can amplify the transformative impact of nursing in building healthier communities for all .
Bio
Jennifer Marie Figueroa- Delgado , DNP is a House calls Adult Nurse Practitioner in upstate New York and a professional mentor to nursing students . Born in New York , she spent her formative years in Humacao , Puerto Rico . She graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a BSN with minor course concentrations in English , Education and Natural Sciences . After moving to New York City in 1997 , she specialized in adult-geriatric care and community health of the underserved communities of lower Westchester , Washington Heights and The Bronx . Dr . Figueroa-Delgado obtained her master ’ s in advanced nursing-Adult Nurse Practitioner from the College of Mt Saint Vincent in 2009 and became a Primary Care Provider in the Washington Heights community , where she previously worked as a community health nurse . She went on to obtain a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2018 . She served on the National Association of Hispanic Nurses ( NAHN ) Board of Directors . She also served as the Vice President of the NAHN New York Chapter , where she developed & chaired the NY Mentorship Program and is currently the NAHN Historian since 2012 .
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