Enhancing patient care motivated University Hospital trauma nurses to earn advanced degrees
“I wanted to contribute more to tackling healthcare’s complex problems and challenges,” said McKenzie Krebsbach, D.N.P., who received her doctorate in May 2020.
Seeking innovative ways to improve patient outcomes and expand their knowledge base, three trauma critical care nurse practitioners at USA Health University Hospital have earned doctorate degrees in recent years.
The drive to provide optimal patient care pushed Noelle Davis, D.N.P., A.C.N.P., Mackenzie Krebsbach, D.N.P., A.G.-A.C.N.P., and Emily McGowin, D.N.P., A.G.-A.C.N.P., to complete their Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees through the University of South Alabama College of Nursing.
The healthcare providers said their goal was to have a terminal degree at a teaching institution where quality improvement is a daily focus.
“Implementing trauma-focused quality improvement projects ensures the highest level of patient care is provided and helps us align our outcomes with other leading trauma centers around the country,” said McGowin, who graduated in December 2020.
Krebsbach, who graduated from the program in May 2020 and serves as a member of the adjunct faculty at the USA College of Nursing, said that working in a growing academic health system made her feel it was important to further her education: “I wanted to contribute more to tackling healthcare’s complex problems and challenges.”
Davis, who graduated in December 2019 and also serves as a member of the adjunct faculty at the USA College of Nursing, wanted to have the ability to advance in academics while focusing on the importance of patient care.
Making the decision to continue their education was an easy one. “We want to do more, learn more, improve patient outcomes, and maximize our education,” McGowin said. She noted the balance of home, work and school could be challenging.
They agreed that one of the keys to success is maintaining a positive mindset: “If you are determined and want it, nothing can stop you,” Davis said.
The support from their fellow trauma team members was an integral part of their success. “I felt the support and encouragement from the entire trauma multidisciplinary team,” Krebsbach said. “Anytime I needed a boost of confidence or guidance, they were there for me.”
Jon Simmons, M.D., trauma medical director and chief of trauma and acute care surgery at USA Health University Hospital, said the three advanced practice providers are a vital part of the high quality of care provided at the trauma center.
“We are fortunate to work in an academic health system that fully supports professional growth,” Simmons said. “Continuing education is a big part of maintaining a high standard of care, and it keeps USA Health on the cutting edge of healthcare.”
USA Health University Hospital is home to the Fanny Meisler Trauma Center, the only level I trauma center in the Gulf Coast region. Only level I trauma centers can offer comprehensive emergency care, including necessary life-saving interventions, prevention, advanced surgical care and rehabilitation 24 hours a day, every day.
