Helping to inspire the next generation of nurses with passion and empathy

As the nursing shortage continues to be a major concern in health care, a nurse is addressing the problem by helping teach and inspire the next generation of nurses. Nichole Lauf, registered nurse and co-clinical nursing instructor at Aurora BayCare Medical Center in Green Bay, Wis., is committed to mentoring and guiding new nurses as they enter the field.

Lauf’s efforts to teach much-needed skills and to help foster compassion in the next generation of nurses are made possible by a state Workforce Innovation Grant and Aurora BayCare’s partnership with the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. The program aims to support the next generation of highly skilled ‘home-grown’ workers and remove workforce barriers in critical industries such as nursing. In her role, Lauf teaches UW – Green Bay nursing students both ‘hard’ technical skills and ‘soft’ skills onsite at Aurora BayCare, which includes handling tough conversations with patients. These mentoring sessions help nursing students transition smoothly into their roles and gain the knowledge needed to succeed as a nurse.

Lauf is passionate about her work and believes that mentorship is essential for the success of new nurses. She says it is an honor to teach and empower nursing students.

“As a nurse educator, it is important to guide, support and inspire nurses to become the best they can be. It is a privilege to be able to mentor and teach new nurses and help them develop the skills and confidence they need to provide excellent patient care,” explains Lauf.

Her dedication to nursing education and mentorship is making a real difference in the lives of new nurses and patients alike. But, Lauf says it is not work when you love what you do.

“Being a nursing instructor is not just a job, it is a calling. I am grateful for the opportunity to help shape the next generation of nurses in real patient care settings at Aurora BayCare to ensure that they have the support and guidance they need to provide the best possible care to their patients,” she says.

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