South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Sunday)
Developing future nurses and the future of nursing
Melissa Durbin, vice president and chief nursing officer at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, recently was appointed president of the Nursing Consortium of South Florida that reinforces relationships between nurses in practice and academic settings, facilitates collaboration among member organizations, creates opportunities for strengthening the nursing community, and ensures adequate access to highquality nursing services. The organization provides role models, encouraging young people to choose nursing as a career. Nursing is a career that will never fade away, Durbin says.
It’s about making a difference, not just in her day job, but within the profession where practices have a direct impact on the patients they serve, Durbin says. Nurses are heavily involved in public policy and advocate for equal healthcare for all patients. Always remember the “why” that made you decide to be a nurse, Durbin says. Nurses are privileged to be trusted with patients’ lives and loved ones.
Resume
Experience: Executive director Lynn Heart and Vascular Institute Boca Raton Regional; Director Trauma Services/Critical Care Services Delray Medical Center; Director Pediatrics & Pediatric Intensive Care West Boca Medical Center
Education: Florida Atlantic University (Masters of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in Nursing Leadership) and ANCC Board Certification of Advanced Nurse Executive
On the board
Why this organization resonates with me: To be able to work beside very talented nurse leaders to address the priorities of the nursing profession in South Florida. Our job as a nurse leader is to ensure we have a voice for nursing Melissa Durbin, vice president and chief nursing officer at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, was recently appointed president of the Nursing Consortium of South Florida.
at every meeting addressing healthcare. Organizational goals: To develop and grow these initiatives: community engagement: nurses on boards; mental health: violence in the workplace; and youth outreach.
Promoting the profession
Advice to young professionals looking for community engagement experiences: Don’t limit yourself to organizations that are aligned with your career path. Many boards can benefit from the wide range of knowledge and experience a nurse can contribute.
Etiquette tip: Know what your role on the board entails and fulfill your responsibility.
On the side
Reading: No Ego, by CY Wakeman
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