Nurse Practitioner Week Spotlight: Jacqueline Marsh

During Nurse Practitioner (NP) Week, we will be spotlighting NPs to highlight the important roles they play at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Today’s spotlight feature Jacqueline Marsh, NP-PHC, MSN.

Education and Training

I graduated from Lakehead University with my Master’s of Nursing, PHC-Nurse practitioner in 2024.

Why did you decide to become a Nurse Practitioner?

My experience as a COVID-19 nurse during the pandemic inspired me to become a Nurse Practitioner. That challenging time in healthcare made me realize the importance of health care providers and their role in patient care and education. I decided that I wanted to further my knowledge and education and expand my scope of practice.

Tell us about your role in your program.

In my program, my role is to triage endoscopy referrals, consult with patients prior to endoscopy procedures, and manage primary care gastrointestinal conditions for patients who do not have a primary care provider. I also work in collaboration with the general surgeons in surgery clinics for hernia repairs and cholecystectomies.

What is the most challenging part of your profession?

As a new graduate, one of the most challenging aspects is building confidence within my expanded scope of practice. Transitioning from a registered nurse to a nurse practitioner brings a new level of responsibility in diagnosing, prescribing, and managing care independently, which can feel overwhelming at times. Additionally, staying current with medical knowledge is essential, as new research, guidelines, and treatment approaches are constantly emerging. Balancing the demands of patient care with the commitment to continuous learning requires dedication and resilience. However, I view these challenges as opportunities for growth, both professionally and personally.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your profession?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my profession is working with patients without a primary care provider, managing their conditions and seeing their health improve over time. It’s incredibly fulfilling to build a therapeutic relationship with these patients and to play a role in helping them achieve better health outcomes. Additionally, I appreciate the diversity of my patient population, as it allows me to work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives that enrich my practice.

Do you have any advice for those considering a career as a Nurse Practitioner?

If you’re passionate about expanding your scope of practice, enjoy a wide range of career opportunities, and have a strong interest in primary care, becoming an NP can be incredibly rewarding. NPs can work independently and provide comprehensive care, building long-term relationships with patients and managing a variety of conditions. This role is particularly impactful in regions like Northwestern Ontario, where access to healthcare can be limited.