🎙️Emotional Intelligence is a Clinical Skill

I’m joined by Dana Smith, the founder of the EQ Nurse Movement. Dana is diving deep into an aspect of nursing education that often gets overlooked: emotional intelligence (EQ). In this conversation, we explore how EQ shows up in both our classrooms and our clinical settings, and why it’s just as critical as mastering pathophysiology or med math.

We talk about practical ways to model empathy, integrate emotional awareness into the curriculum, and support students in becoming not just competent, but compassionate nurses. Dana also shares how she uses student-driven projects and a set of creative engagement cards to boost participation and connection in the classroom. It’s a wonderful reminder that our students are human, and so are we.

🔑 3 Key Takeaways:

Emotional Intelligence Isn’t Optional

• Dana argues that emotional intelligence should be treated as a clinical skill because without it, technical expertise doesn’t go as far. She encourages educators to model empathy, self-awareness, and grace in both classroom and clinical settings.

Start with Gratitude

• A simple daily gratitude practice can foster trust, vulnerability, and classroom connection. It creates space for students to engage more deeply and show up more fully.

Make Participation Playful

• Dana’s classroom engagement cards, featuring characters like “Respiratory Ralph” and “New Grad Javier," add a layer of fun and structure to active learning. They help quiet student voices participate and shift the dynamic from instructor-led to student-centered.

Resources Mentioned:

• Ready to use this in your own classroom? Get the ACLS Unfolding Case Study Activity here: 👉 learninglabrn.com
• Subscribe to the show: learninglabrn.com
• Join the newsletter and explore active learning tools: breakoutrn.com
• Full transcript: HERE

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