Irene Molenaar

Education:
My education has been a pursuit of knowledge in order to share my experience and expertise with others. In 1986 I graduated with a Nursing Certificate from the Regional School of Nursing Assistants. This was followed by:
Diploma in Nursing (2004) Mohawk College
Critical Care Certificate, Honours (2005) Mohawk College
Post Diploma Nurse Program (BScN) Cum Laude (2009) Ryerson University
Canadian Nurses Association: Certification in Gerontology (2010)

Experience:
I am an active member in the Hamilton Chapter as a member of the Executive and Treasurer. Since 2005 I have attended every RNAO Annual General Meeting as a Voting Representative. As a result of this, I am very familiar with the resolution and voting process during the AGM.
Prior to the AGM each year, our Hamilton Chapter voting representatives discuss the proposed resolutions and we converse its impact to nursing and nursing practice as applicable.

Presently I work at Juravinski Hospital in Hamilton in the department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Teaching. As a staff nurse my focus is on the frail, older adult with complex medical issues. Prior to this, I worked for 5 years as an orthopaedic nurse specializing in fractured hips.

Philosophy:
As a Registered Nurse, I have the responsibility for professional advancement of nursing knowledge and practice based on the needs of my client in a way that fosters trust, respect, collaboration and innovation. Its importance is seen in areas of health teaching, health promotion and providing client- and family-centered care.