To achieve its goal of providing evidence-based information on a spectrum of critical topics for nurses, Nursing2023 is guided and supported by its editorial board (EB)-a diverse group of experts whose knowledge and judgment are instrumental in ensuring the journal's success.
In this month's Editorial Board Spotlight, get to know Bridget Parsh, EdD, CNS, RN, CPN, a professor at Sacramento State School of Nursing.
Q: How did you start your career, and how did you get to where you are now?
I have been an RN for more than 35 years. I spent the first 5 years working in a pediatric intensive care unit, which was a terrific experience for my next job in the ED. After 14 years of working at the bedside (specifically in the ED, ICU, NICU, and at a summer camp), I went back to graduate school with the goal of teaching. Now, with my doctorate, I'm in a tenured position at a great university in Northern California. The teamwork, ethics, and focus on quality patient care-the key parts of nursing-are also the core of teaching. Plus, educators are still able to engage with patients during clinicals, so it really is the best of both worlds.
One of my favorite jobs is being a camp nurse. When I was in college, I was a volunteer at a diabetes camp and almost every year at a summer camp for kids. Every summer was a new, fun-filled experience.
What I love most about my current role is working with students. They are always creative, inquisitive, and inspiring and make this job fun even during stressful times. Our future nurses will do a great job providing stellar care!
Q: Why did you choose to say "yes" to the invitation to serve on the Nursing2023 Editorial Board?
Linda, the journal's Editor-in-Chief! She is kind, smart, and always encouraging. The journal's Editorial Board comprises nurses from all over the country with a wide range of experience. I learn something at every meeting. Plus, this journal is important for our nursing profession. I started subscribing to the journal when I was a new graduate nurse, and these resources gave me the confidence to get through the tough transition during my initial years in clinical practice.
Q: What is the greatest challenge or barrier to scholarly writing affecting today's nursing students, and how do you encourage them? Share some mentoring techniques for students' publication success.
For this journal, I have co-authored more than 50 articles with students on topics ranging from rattlesnake bites to gastrostomy tube care. Their only barrier is confidence. Mentoring students through that first publication gives them the confidence to become leaders and pursue graduate studies or research. They know they can impact other nurses and their patients with these articles. It has been a great experience-for them and me.
I think the confidence barrier affects not only nursing students but also nurses overall. Many nurses say they "could never" author for publication, but their voices are powerful and important to patients and other nurses.
We all have a story to tell and a way to improve care for our patients. Share your stories and insights.