| Megan
Wilson earns doctorate
Megan Wilson, Family Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, recently received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The program included six semesters of study which took two years to complete. She attended classes online through a webcam, used interactive videos and periodically visited the Pittsburgh campus. 
The program also required clinical experience which was fulfilled by Wilson on her job with St. Mary’s Hospital and Clinics where she has worked since 2005. Her local advisor was Dr. Jack Secrest, SMHC Family Practice physician. “I wanted to obtain my DNP to be proactive with changes in health care. I feel there is always more to learn and I had the opportunity and desire to enhance my knowledge,” said Wilson. “I believe the experience has made me more informed and will improve my ability to provide enhanced evidence based care.” Wilson’s research project centered on educating local farmers and ranchers about Deep Vein Thrombosis. She developed an educational brochure, a display, a power point presentation and spoke to farming and ranching groups about the signs and symptoms and ways to prevent blood clots. She also completed a pre and post test to determine effectiveness of DVT education. She received her Masters of Science in Administration from Idaho State University and her Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia. Prior to joining the SMHC staff she worked in pediatric nursing five years; in an ER eight years and as a flight nurse for 12 years. “The DNP is a relatively new doctoral program developed within the past ten years. Obtaining the degree will not change my current role or the types of patients I see, but it will enhance my ability to provide patient care and, hopefully, improve my interactions with employees, peers and administration in a more synergistic manner,” said Wilson, who helps staff the five satellite SMH clinics. |
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