Illinois 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leaders Award Winner Highlight: Megan Kupferschmid
Meet Megan Kupferschmid, a Nursing Education and Research Scientist at OSF HealthCare. She has been nominated for the class of 2023 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leaders Award. Designed to highlight young nurses that are making a lasting difference in the healthcare industry, this award celebrates those who shape the future of nursing.
Megan Kupferschmid: Nursing Excellence and Community Engagement
Healthcare individuals who stand out for their dedication to improving patient care, fostering innovation, and promoting the nursing profession are vital. Megan, a nursing education and research scientist, is one such individual who embodies these values and more. Her contributions to the nursing field, active leadership in professional organizations, and commitment to community engagement are truly inspiring for all nurses.
Elevating Nursing Practice Through Research
Megan’s commitment to advancing nursing practice is evident through her role as the principal investigator for two significant research projects. Titled “Implementation of an extended unit-specific nurse education program to decrease nursing turnover in two pediatric critical care units” and “Standardized In-Bed Mobility Protocol to Increase Functional Outcomes in Three Pediatric Critical Care Units,” these projects exemplify her dedication to enhancing patient care and nursing education.
The first project focuses on exploring the impact of extended pediatric critical care-specific education on self-confidence, anxiety reduction in clinical decision-making, and its potential effect on nurse turnover. The second project delves into the use of an in-bed cycle ergometer to improve functional outcomes when compared to standard rehabilitation therapy alone. Megan’s dedication to these projects demonstrates her commitment to evidence-based practice and her determination to push the boundaries of nursing care.
A Leader in the Making
Megan’s pursuit of excellence extends beyond her research projects. She is an active member of three prominent professional organizations: the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN), the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM), and the SCCM Midwest Chapter. Through these organizations, Megan not only stays updated with the latest technological advancements and innovations in critical care but also connects with fellow professionals who share her passion for elevating patient care standards.
Her role as the Education/Simulation Chair for the SCCM Midwest Chapter showcases her leadership skills and her dedication to enhancing education and training opportunities for critical care professionals.
Nursing with Heart: Megan’s Community Involvement
Megan’s commitment to promoting nursing extends beyond the hospital walls and into the community. In June 2022, she volunteered for the Heart of Illinois Congenital Heart Walk. Her involvement in coordinating volunteers, setting up event stations, and providing support to participants underscores her commitment to making a positive impact beyond her professional role.
Megan Kupferschmid: A Driving Force for Nursing Advancement
In her current role as a nursing education and research scientist, Megan’s influence is undeniable. She’s a source of inspiration for her colleagues, always ready to offer support, brainstorm ideas, and think outside the box. Megan’s dedication to the advancement of nursing practice and her unwavering commitment to empowering fellow nurses to practice at the highest level of their scope truly capture the essence of nursing excellence.
Congratulations to Megan Kupferschmid and OSF HealthCare for this prestigious honor! The Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Award for Emerging Nurse Leaders is proven to open career doors for its recipients. INF is proud to celebrate nurses like Megan who have made a lasting impact in the healthcare industry.
For more information on the INF 40 Under 40 Award Ceremony, click this link.
Illinois Nurses Foundation: Support Education, Advocation, and Recognition for Nurses
The Illinois Nurses Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports nurses through various programs, empowering them, promoting excellence, and advancing the nursing profession while also recognizing and celebrating the remarkable achievements of young nurses through the INF 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leaders Award, highlighting their talent and potential for the field’s growth and evolution. Donate to INF today, and you can help empower nurses and improve healthcare!