Meet Melanie Gall, DNP, RN, CCRN, and clinical assistant professor at the IU School of Nursing. (She is pictured above, far right.) Dr. Gall has worked as a nurse for 20 years and continues to practice as a critical care RN, allowing her to bring relevant and timely best practices from the bedside to the classroom. She teaches critical care nursing and ethics, along with other clinical courses at the Fort Wayne campus.
What initially drew you to Indiana University?
I completed my Master's in Nursing and felt called to pursue a career that would help prepare the next generation of nurses. IU Fort Wayne has been a great fit for me to be able to fulfill that call. IUFW is filled with wonderful people, and I am blessed to be a part of this University!
What is something you wish people knew about your area of study/research?
For my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project, I implemented a new protocol for patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), a heart-lung machine. These patients have a 50% survival rate nationwide. Survival rates of patients improved post-implementation of the protocol, which included minimizing sedation, early mobilization, and timely nutrition. Implementing a best-practice protocol does take work, but it’s worth it, especially when lives are changed and saved!
What are you currently working on that you’re excited about?
I am currently working with a group on a systematic review focused on the link between critical thinking and the use of concept mapping. I am also working on implementing a student assignment that increases adherence to evidence-based practice protocols in the acute-care setting.
What did you aspire to be when you were growing up?
In my 5th grade year, the hit drama “ER” debuted. Since then, I wanted to be a nurse. I am a first-generation college grad, and I am so thankful for my family who sacrificed for the higher education I received!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I still work as a nurse part-time in the Cardiovascular ICU at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. For nearly 20 years, this unit has been my home! My husband, Jeremy, and I have two boys and a girl, ages 13, 10, and 8. They keep us busy. If I’m not with my students or patients, I am in the car taking someone to practice! I enjoy being outside, running, and spending time with family.
