The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing welcomed six new faculty members for the Fall 2023 semester.
John Gallagher, RN, DNP, CCNS, CCRN-K, TCRN, RRT, FCCM, FAAN, joins the School of Nursing from the University of Pittsburgh where he was also an advisor/clinical nurse specialist for the Trauma Program at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia.
Gallagher specializes in trauma and surgical critical care, with expertise in respiratory monitoring, mechanical ventilation and intra-abdominal hypertension/compartment syndrome. He has served as director of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and as a reviewer for the American Journal of Critical Care.
Gallagher has received the Distinguished Alumni Award from LaSalle University School of Nursing in Philadelphia, the Victoria Rich Transformational Leadership Award from UPHS Nursing, and the Trauma Nurse of the Year Award from Penn Medicine.
He earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice from University of Pittsburgh, and a Master of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from LaSalle University, Philadelphia.
In what area will you be teaching this semester?
I will be teaching three courses this semester: NURS 380 Transitions to Practice, NURS405 Inquiry I-Theoretical Practice and NUMN 418 Introduction to Critical Care Nursing.
Why do you love teaching?
I see teaching as an investment in the future of the nursing profession and I love being part of that. I enjoy sharing my experience from years of clinical practice to help those entering the profession, as well as nurses transitioning to advanced practice roles.
What do you hope students learn from you and your classes)?
To see the connection between the coursework and its application to the care of patients and families, and the nurse’s role in the healthcare system. Also, that this is just the beginning of their education. Learning is a lifelong journey in our profession.
How did you get into nursing?
I had several positive role models including my mother who was a nurse. While working as a paramedic and respiratory therapist, I had that opportunity to work with nurses and see the impact they made. Many of them were my role models and later mentors. This also influenced my path to critical care and trauma nursing.
One piece of advice for nursing students.
Enjoy the journey! Also, join a nursing professional organization that interests you. You will make connections, build relationships, and have opportunities to grow professionally and personally.