Competition is brewing in the Emergency Department at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Alliance as nurses work their way down a Candy Land-like path toward higher NCAP (Nursing Career Advancement Program) levels. The creative board was created by Ashley Tietje-Crawford, M.S.N., M.L.S., R.N., CCRN, CEN, charge nurse in the Emergency Department and chair of the hospital’s NCAP Committee.
“Nurses are competitive, and the visual representation encourages participation and makes the process fun,” she said.
Tietje-Crawford’s commitment to growth and excellence led her to join NCAP. She said she “is a Level IV nurse on the road to a Level VI.” Activities that have helped her achieve Level IV include precepting, teaching CPR as a volunteer at local schools and earning her emergency nurse certification.
Through her enthusiasm and persistence, Tietje-Crawford is helping others see the value of NCAP, too.
“We have nurses who have been nurses for years who are now participating in NCAP thanks to Ashley,” said Kimberly Newton, M.S.N., R.N., manager, Emergency Department, Texas Health Alliance.
Many nurses don’t realize they are already doing some of the activities needed to participate in NCAP.
“NCAP is a way to recognize and financially reward nurses for advancing their leadership and professional development,” said Julie Balluck, D.N.P., R.N., NEA-BC, chief nursing executive, Texas Health. “If you don’t already participate, reach out to a leader like Ashley who can walk you through how to join.”
Drawing on her family roots in nursing
Inspired by her grandmothers, both of whom were nurses, Tietje-Crawford became a nurse in 2006. Though she once dreamed of becoming a midwife, she found her true passion in the fast-paced world of emergency medicine.
“I like being the ‘calm in the storm’ in situations that many people are uncomfortable in,” she said.
Tietje-Crawford also appreciates the camaraderie she has found in nursing.
“I don’t think there is a better industry where teamwork is the foundation of your work,” she said. “I truly feel like when it comes to nursing, we have some of the best team players anywhere.”
Phone a friend
Tietje-Crawford encourages nurses to leverage that team approach when it comes to NCAP.
“Find a mentor who can help walk you through the application process,” she said. “And find a friend in your department who can go on the journey with you to provide motivation and accountability.”
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