In response to: Professionalism and professional identity

Dear Dr. Gelinas,

I am writing in response to the article, Professionalism and Professional Identity (Owens et al., 2024). Developing and embracing one’s professional identity as a nurse is integral to acclimating to this ever-demanding career. I became a Licensed Practical Nurse in 2020 and continued my education to become a Registered Nurse in 2022. After almost four years of nursing practice in various areas including assisted living, skilled nursing, progressive care, and currently medical- surgical nursing, I have worked both consciously and subconsciously to build upon my professional identity. I frequently precept new nurses on the medical-surgical unit where I work. I also intend in the future to move into either nursing leadership or education.

This article has helped me to understand how I can continue building my professional identity through the use of Amended Miller’s Pyramid. I feel as though I am currently at the proficient (shows how) level moving steadily into the expert (does) level. I hope that through the application of the practices mentioned in this article, I can help foster an environment where novice nurses feel supported as well as challenged to learn, grow, and develop their own professional identity.

Sincerely,

Kateland Stratton, ADN, RN
Grottoes, VA