This page offers insight into my journey as a Registered Nurse (RN) to date, including my story, my values, and my identity as a nurse. This page also outlines my professional obligations and lists the organizations to which I belong as an RN.
Hello!
My name is Briana Sheppard. I am 25 years old, and I live in Calgary, Alberta. I have been working as a Registered Nurse for almost four years now! I obtained my Bachelor of Nursing from Mount Royal University in late 2021. My nursing career thus far has been working on multiple neonatal intensive care units (NICU) and a pediatric unit/ clinic. I currently work casually at three different hospitals on four different units. These units include two Level 2 NICUs, one Level 2/3 NICU, and a pediatric unit, which also features a day clinic. I knew before I even finished nursing school that my passion lay with the neonatal and pediatric populations, and my passion continues to grow stronger each day.
Fun fact about me: I was born prematurely at 31 weeks and 6 days of gestation and spent time at two of the NICUs I currently work at. I now work alongside some of the same medical professionals who were there when I was born 25 years ago - talk about a full-circle moment!
As for my personal life, I got married last year in beautiful British Columbia to my best friend. My husband and I are kept busy outside of work with our 9-month-old beagle puppy, Wynter.
My Professional Nursing Values & Identity
My professional nursing identity includes demonstrating values of compassion, empathy, accountability and commitment.
My professional identity is continuously evolving and shaping how I act, think and feel as a nurse.
Growth of my professional nursing identity through work experience and furthering my education is crucial for providing exceptional patient care.
Professional Organizations & Obligations
CNA is a professional organization that provides a voice to Canadian nurses, is a leader in health policy and supports nurses and patients in achieving better health outcomes. As a member, my key obligations include continuing to provide compassionate and ethical care, engaging in accountable practice and promoting health and well-being.
CNPS is a non-profit organization that offers professional liability protection, risk management, education services and legal assistance to eligible nurses across Canada. As a member, my key obligations include adhering to the laws and professional code of ethics, maintaining professional growth and competence and acting within my scope of practice.
CRNA is a regulatory body under the Alberta Health Professions Act that sets standards for nurses regarding practice and education. The CRNA issues permits annually that allow nurses to practice, hold nurses accountable and ensure competence is maintained. As a member, my key obligations include ongoing professional development, patient advocacy and taking accountability for my own practice.