NurseWeek: Generation RN - With their sights set on the next generation, nursing organizations launch ambassador programs to help secure the future of the profession

Reaching out to a new generation

November 28, 2001


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Nursing has been getting a bad rap, and organizations such as the Coalition for Nursing Careers in California are trying to do something about it.

To help bring awareness of nursing as a varied, exciting and diverse profession, the CNCC has developed the Ambassador Program. This program encourages nurses to go out into the community to talk about the profession of nursing with young people aged 9 to 24. The program is divided into age-appropriate material for elementary school, middle school and young adult audiences.

For instance, young people aged 16 to 24 are often interested in using high-tech equipment, learning about the human body and helping others. However, they may not know that these are exactly the characteristics that make a great nurse. That's one of the messages contained in the Ambassador presentations available without charge to any nurse or friend of nursing.

You can find plenty of information and advice about how to become a good ambassador for nursing by visiting www.ChooseNursing.com. Download the slides directly from the Web site, or request overheads from the CNCC by calling (510) 987-2622. You also may e-mail the coalition at choosenursing@kp.org.

Where to begin?

Look for an opportunity in your community. Speak at schools, churches, career fairs, scout meetings, etc.
Check out the key messages, which have been developed for each group. Read over the ones for your selected age group, browse the objectives and download the slides or print a copy of the talk.
Make your presentation fun and interactive. Young people love hands-on activities, such as taking a pulse or temperature or blood pressure reading. Ask your health care organization to contribute supplies.
Do it with a friend. If you are working with a group of six or more people, take a friend or two to help with hands-on activities. The more nurses, the better.
Take a look at the feedback form. Before you give a presentation, take a look at the feedback form to familiarize yourself with the type of information we are asking you to provide.

Who should do this? Everyone. With the average age of nurses increasing and a majority of the profession close to retirement, we all have a vested interest in promoting nursing as a profession. Otherwise, who will care for future patients, your parents or yourself? After the presentation, you will be asked to evaluate the program.

If you complete the evaluation and return it to the CNCC, you will receive a duffel bag and certificate acknowledging your participation in the program. In addition, your name will be placed in a drawing for additional prizes.