Victoria Nalls, PhD, GNP-BC, ACHPN, CWS
- Director of Clinical Training and Development, Aledade Care Solutions
- Part-time Adjunct Faculty, University of Maryland School of Nursing
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- University of Maryland School of Nursing – Master of Science in Nursing
- University of Maryland School of Nursing – Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
Describe a day in your life.
In February 2022, I changed jobs to become the Director of Clinical Training and Development for a start-up/subsidiary of a growing company. While I miss the bedside and direct patient care, I am learning how to build an education department from scratch and support interdisciplinary team members who provide 100% telehealth services to patients, mostly aged 65 and older. My day-to-day varies, from content development to resource support to training new hires. I learn something new almost every day. I also really enjoy the opportunity to teach/co-teach one class a semester for the University of Maryland School of Nursing. I was blessed with amazing mentors and hope to pay it forward.
What inspired you to work in geriatrics?
As a hospital nurse, I enjoyed caring for older adults on my unit. I quickly connected with them through conversations about our favorite Turner Classic Movies. I also have older parents and was doing simple wound dressing changes, and bolus tube feeds at age 13 when my father, at age 73, had a major medical event. He lived through that event to 92, and I had the honor of guiding and supporting his end-of-life care.
How do you see the field of geriatrics evolving in the future?
The field of geriatrics will be more mainstream, and older adults expect their providers to be geriatric trained. I hope to see universal, affordable access to well-trained interdisciplinary teams (specialized in geriatrics and palliative care) helping older adults remain in their homes for as long as possible.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Helping others.
What are your hobbies/favorite activities?
Palliative wound care – working with colleagues to research this arena, watching movies with my family, watching my kids play soccer, reading books, and laughing with friends.
Where do you hope to be in 5 years in your career?
I always find this to be a tough question. I usually answer with the statement, “I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up.” I do know that I hope that whatever I’m doing in 5 years is making a difference and contributing to quality care for older adults.
How long have you been a GAPNA member?
Since at least 2015 – maybe longer? I thought I’ve been a member since 2010 but can’t find evidence of that. (Vycki joined GAPNA in 2012!)
How and why did you get involved with GAPNA as a leader?
As previously mentioned, I’ve been fortunate to have amazing mentors. These individuals have all been a part of GAPNA leadership at some point and encouraged me to actively participate in GAPNA for my own professional growth. I’m very glad I followed that advice.