I Am TNA
by Chad Scott, MSN, RN, APRN, BC
I am a registered nurse and also hold licensure as an advanced practice nurse. I currently work as a family nurse practitioner in a primary care clinic in a small West Tennessee rural area. I am certified with the ANCC and AANP and am a member of TNA District 6. When not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife and three small children.
I have been a member of TNA for 10 years and was also a member of the National Student Nurses Association while in nursing school at Vanderbilt University. It was during this time that I became aware of some of the many activities that are supported and promoted by TNA. The mission of TNA–to promote and protect the registered nurse and to advance the practice of nursing in order to assure a healthier Tennessee–can be seen in the activities of the association. Just as we serve as advocates for our patients, TNA serves as an advocate for nurses across the state.
One such activity is the annual TNA Legislative Summit that takes place in Nashville. It serves to educate nurses on the political process involved in the lifespan of a bill. Nurses are also given an opportunity to physically visit Capitol Hill where the daily activities of our politics occur. What better way for a nurse to become aware of the process that affects our daily vocation?
Another annual event is the TNA Convention that is held in the fall of the year. Nurses from across the state can come together and spend three days with their colleagues and peers. Educational presentations are given, along with updates on current legislative information and bills that affect nurses. At the TNA Awards Luncheon, fellow nurses are recognized for their contributions to the profession. The convention serves to motivate and unite the nurses of the entire state.
The Tennessee Nurses Association also offers the APN Listserve which is an online tool that enables nurses to communicate and correspond about professional and legislative topics and to network with peers across the state as well. TNA is not limited to our state alone. It also provides opportunities to serve on the national level by being part of the American Nurses Association.
TNA offers opportunities for nurses in all disciplines and fields. Enjoyment of the activities and benefits of TNA is available to all nurses who take part by becoming a member. I enjoy TNA because I am a member and have been able to utilize many of these resources. My professional career and personal knowledge have grown because of TNA.
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