Professional Introduction

My name is Heather Ostashek, and I am a Registered Nurse (RN) and nursing instructor from St. Albert. I have been working in nursing for over 20 years and have experience in several areas of healthcare, including cardiology, mental health nursing, long-term care, acute care, and nursing education. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to teach in practical nurse programs at several colleges across Alberta. I currently work as an instructor at NorQuest College, where I teach Mental Health Nursing, preceptorship, and clinical courses.

I am dedicated to supporting future nurses as they strengthen their confidence, critical thinking, and ability to provide holistic nursing care. My values include therapeutic communication, patient-centred care, advocacy, professionalism, and lifelong learning. My teaching philosophy focuses on creating supportive learning environments where students feel comfortable asking questions, reflecting on their experiences, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.

Outside of nursing and teaching, I am also a proud mom of two teenage boys and an animal lover. I try to maintain balance, kindness, and humour in everyday life — qualities that I also strive to bring into my teaching and nursing practice.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority in Alberta. Through my role in nursing education, I help support and mentor future nurses entering professional practice. Through clinical instruction, mental health nursing education, and student mentorship, I strive to help students become safe, compassionate, and confident nurses within Alberta’s healthcare system.

This ePortfolio is a space where I can reflect on my learning, experiences, and professional growth throughout the Master of Nursing program. It also allows me to share resources, experiences, and areas of nursing and education that are important to me.