About the Authors
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Leisa Sanderson, RN, BNSc, PGCertNSc(ClinTeach), MNLeadership, is a lecturer at James Cook University (JCU) dedicated to bridging theory and practice in nursing education. Leisa actively contributes to curriculum development, subject coordination, and teaching across clinical subjects within the Bachelor of Nursing Science degree. With over 25 years of clinical experience in surgical, high-dependency, and orthopaedic nursing, she brings practical expertise to her role. Her passion for inspiring and shaping future generations of nurses has been recognised through prestigious awards such as the JCU Staff Award for Excellence in ‘Educating for Excellence’. |
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Tracey Gooding RN, MN (Edu), GDipNurs (ICU), GradCertEdu, BN, is a registered nurse, academic and researcher with a Master of Nursing in education and extensive experience in both adult and paediatric intensive care. As a lecturer at James Cook University, she is committed to advancing nursing excellence through education and research, fostering compassionate, safe, and high-quality evidence-based care. |
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Penelope Coogan RN, BNSc, PGDipEmergNurs, PGDipPaeds, MN (NP). With over 25 years of clinical experience in emergency and rural and remote nursing, Penny began her academic career at James Cook University in 2015. She is passionate about fostering a student-centred approach to learning and is known for her ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of education. Dedicated to shaping the next generation of nurses, Penny takes pride in sharing her knowledge and experiences with undergraduate and graduate students. Her intuitive teaching style, coupled with an approachable demeanor, creates a positive learning environment that encourages high standards and professional growth. |
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Sandra Dash, RN, DipHlthSci, BN, GradCertNurs (Trauma), GradCertHlthSci (Nursing Ed), MHlthSci (Nursing Ed), GradCertPalCare, GradDipPalCare, GradCertLship&Management, MPhil (Cum laude), is a lecturer at James Cook University, Townsville. A registered nurse since 1993, Sandra has diverse clinical and academic experience. While her passion remains in nursing education, she also has an interest in nursing history and the development of nursing curriculum over time. |
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Kate Hurley, RN, STN, MN, BN, MACN is a registered nurse and university academic with extensive and diverse clinical experience. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals in the Australian context, Kate enjoys designing educational resources that champion lifelong learning and professional development. Kate is passionate about leveraging education to shape and inspire future generations of nurses. |
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Jessica Best, RN, MN (Clinical Education), GCert (Tertiary Edu), GCert (Intensive Care), BN, MACN, is a registered nurse specialising in intensive care nursing in both rural/remote and tertiary settings. Jessica is a member of the Career Development Association of Australia, with professional interests in nursing career development and career counselling. Jessica is a lecturer at James Cook University within Postgraduate Nursing Online. |
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Amy McCrystal, RN, BN, MN (Education) is a registered nurse with over 16 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings and a lecturer at James Cook University. Amy enjoys educating with a student focus and developing content relevant to the learning needs of nursing students. She is enthusiastic about the delivery of quality education and equipping students with the knowledge and skills to prepare them for the dynamic nursing profession. |