Reprinted with permission from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, “A Day in the Life”

Staff Development Specialist: Eva Gómez
Eva Gómez, MSN, RN-BC, CPN, is a Staff Development Specialist at a major children's hospital. She impacts patient care by educating nurses about how they can improve their practice.

What is your job title?

I am a Staff Development Specialist in the Clinical Education and Informatics Department.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love teaching. I am passionate about educating nurses on how they can improve their practice and to help them reach their educational goals for their nursing career. My hope is that educated nurses will provide excellent care to all patients.

What is your biggest challenge?

I don't have one single biggest challenge, but my goal is to challenge myself every day to learn as much as possible so I can be ready to teach nurses the information they need, when they need it, and provide it in the most innovative way possible.

Describe a typical day.

On a typical day I can teach nursing orientation classes: how to communicate effectively in the clinical setting, how to de-escalate an upset person, and help nurses learn about cultural competence. I also participate in creating simulation scenarios for new graduate nurses dealing with how to recognize a patient's changing condition. We use a special manikin called Sim Man 3G; he can breathe, talk and has a heartbeat. Some days I will meet with the nursing education council, nursing subject matter experts and nursing leadership. During all these meetings I participate in the decision-making process for how nurses practice and take care of patients, plus I also offer the educational resources they will need to accomplish their goals. In addition, I mentor nurses who want to advance their education to reach a higher degree or obtain a certification in their area of specialty.

What education or experience did you need to achieve your role?

In order to become a Staff Development Specialist I worked as a nurse for over 12 years, I got a Master's Degree in Nursing Education, and I became certified in my two areas of specialty. I have my CPN (Certified Pediatric Nurse, of course!) and I am also Board Certified in Nursing Professional Development.

What advice would you give to students interested in your role?

Get experience working as a nurse first and understand what nurses do in every day practice. Pursue a higher degree in nursing, such a Master's or beyond. Learn how to teach, and teach well. Never stop learning; being a great educator means that you always continue to grow and learn as much as you can.