Wendy Kooken currently teaches primarily at Level I (sophomores) in the Department of Nursing. She teaches both theory and clinical practica, with a focus in medical-surgical and psychiatric nursing.  She also has an interest in community nursing and vulnerable populations.   Creativity and hands-on experiences as well as exposure to a variety of ways to learn are the styles that Professor Kooken prefers to use in class.

Background

Professor Kooken's experience in the field of nursing has been diverse.  She has worked in post-anesthesia care, with pregnant and parenting adolescents, and with children at risk for abuse. She has also worked in the blood banking industry and with tissue donation.  She particularly enjoys work with vulnerable populations.  Her current research is focused on perceptions of vigilance as experienced by cancer patients, their family members, and the nurses who care for them.

Degrees & Certification

Professor Kooken received her BSN (1999) and MSN (2002) from Bradley University.   She received her AAS (1985) from Illinois Central College.  She is currently attending Indiana University – Purdue University at Indianapolis, pursuing a PhD in clinical nursing science.