Pennsylvania Nurse, Front Page 2017 Issue 3 | Page 21

What are your future goals? I’m focusing on being active as a Board member with both PSNA and the Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania (NFP). I want to make a difference in the lives of new nurses through work with these organizations. I want to ad- vocate for our patients and have compassion. I plan to maintain a leadership position for a few more years and then retire. And I’m always thinking of ways to stay connected to my passion. Why do you think it is important that nurses join PSNA and/or get involved at the state level? Nurses can make a difference in the lives of so many. Professional nursing needs a voice. As mem- bers of the most trusted profes- sion, we must advocate for nurses to practice to the extent of their licensure. It is vital that we take care of our young so that we have nurses to take care of us. PSNA is an amazing opportunity to learn about issues impacting our profession. It is all about nursing support at the state and national levels. Dues are minimal and well worth the investment. I encourage all nurses to join and to run for an offi ce. Advice for new nurses or nursing students: • Work as a nursing assistant. • Don't be afraid to touch a pa- tient. • Patients depend on us for basic needs like bathing, linen chang- es, and grooming. This can be more important to the patient than their new medication. • Lead by example. Editor’s Message continued from page 4 Families gather in faith communities. With people brought together in one place, opportunities for health promotion abound. This issue includes an example of how nursing has made an impact in addressing population health in a faith community. Also known as parish nurs- ing or congregational nursing, the term “faith community” embraces communities of all faiths. This issue also includes memories of the 2017 conference where Penn- sylvania nurses gathered for education, professional development, and fellowship. Check e-mails and the PSNA website for information on upcoming conferences and a Call for Abstracts. As always, Pennsylvania Nurse welcomes articles from readers. Feel free to contact me ([email protected]) or PSNA Com- munications Director Jennifer Neidig ([email protected]) with ideas for articles. Issue 3 2017 Pennsylvania Nurse 19