Nurse scientist shares more about her position as part of National Nurses Week

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- On the last day of National Nurses Week, we are learning about a unique position at UW Health.

Elise Arsenault Knudsen has 20 years of healthcare experience and a PhD in nursing.

Now, she has that wide range of knowledge to help fellow nurses across the UW Health System.

Knudsen is the new nurse scientist at UW Health -- the first in the system. She uses research to guide nursing practices -- even conducting her own research when needed.

"How can we make care better," said Knudsen. "How can we make practice easier for nurses? How can we do this thing called nursing in the most optimal way."

Knudsen says nursing is about more than caring for patient's bedside.

They have many roles, and as a nurse scientist, Arsenhault Knudsen is not only improving procedure, but helping care for nurses' mental health as well.

She hopes her work will help ensure nurses help patients and their families receive the best care possible.