This article is part of a captivating series on Sigma members who have recently achieved one of the highest honors in the field of nursing research: induction into Sigma’s International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame.
Similar to the majority of nurses in Taiwan, I initially pursued a nursing degree due to my parents' expectations. The motivation behind this choice was the thought that, as a nurse, I could earn a living to support myself and contribute to my family’s well-being.
However, during my first semester, I struggled in the laboratory due to my formaldehyde allergy, which made it difficult to keep my eyes open during classes. This experience prompted me to reevaluate my suitability for the field, and transferring to another department didn’t help. But I stuck with it. It wasn't until my senior year that I found a breakthrough during the psychiatric mental health nursing practicum.
I cared for a manic patient who resisted medication and consistently roamed the unit. In my determination to ensure she took her prescribed medicine, I closely followed her movements, ultimately contributing to her speedy recovery. This experience marked the first time I truly grasped the intrinsic value of being a nursing student. During that time, I collaborated with my instructor to draft my inaugural academic paper, focusing on the issue of elderly abuse. Following graduation, I transitioned into employment within an acute psychiatric unit.
Being a psychiatric nurse, I developed a deep understanding of the difficulties people with psychiatric illness and their family members face. With a passion for assisting them, I decided to pursue my graduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Mary Keller, my professor and mentor expected me to be a serious nursing scientist with a warm heart. Her expectations became the most important principles for my work with colleagues, students, clients, and research participants. She also opened the door for me to explore HIV-AIDS care.
To qualify for the in-state tuition fee, I took on roles as a teaching assistant and a research assistant during my PhD studies. This experience not only provided me with the opportunity to teach but also helped me realize that language could be a barrier, hindering interactions with my students. Consequently, I decided to return to Taiwan and assume the position of associate professor at Fu Jen Catholic University, aspiring to contribute my knowledge to Taiwanese students.
After a year, a former teacher recommended that I transfer to Tzu Chi University (TCU). This move facilitated my involvement in collaborative initiatives with Aboriginal nurses, working together to promote health within the Aboriginal community. Four years later, I chose to relocate back to Taipei to be closer to my parents and subsequently transferred to Chang Gung University (CGU).
Later on, I founded the Sub-Cultural Health Care Lab at CGU. The lab centers its research efforts on four main focuses:
- Mental illness care
- HIV/AIDS care
- Aboriginal health
- Elderly care
Recognizing that subcultural groups face disadvantages in healthcare—often lacking sufficient resources and facing misunderstandings from the broader society—the establishment of this research laboratory became imperative. Our mission is to champion health promotion for minority populations and their families. We aim to garner attention from the medical care system and professionals toward subcultural groups, advocating for appropriate healthcare interventions that address both physical and mental well-being. By breaking down societal prejudices and misunderstandings surrounding subcultural groups, we aspire to create an environment where these marginalized communities and their relatives can find acceptance and belonging in society.
My recent research has focused on suicide assessment and prevention among older adults; enhancing the quality of life for seniors dealing with knee osteoarthritis; and preventing harmful alcohol consumption. Additionally, I am actively engaged in two ongoing projects—one addressing the care requirements of adult orphans and the other investigating prolonged grief disorder in Taiwan. I collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to translate our findings into clinical settings.
Currently, I am the Director of the Human Research Protection Office at CGU. With over 20 years of experience as a member of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Chang Gung Memorial Foundation, I have remained consistently engaged in staying abreast of new developments and knowledge related to human subject issues. Balancing scientific development and safeguarding human rights is an ongoing and significant concern for healthcare providers and systems. In this role, my objective is to support researchers in uncovering ethical and responsible approaches to advance scientific knowledge, with a primary focus on prioritizing the well-being and rights of the individuals participating in their studies.
I think nursing is about companionship—accompanying patients and their families through moments when they need someone to listen and assist. This applies to students as well, providing companionship and assistance when they require support to navigate through their academic journey. Research, on the other hand, is an endless pursuit of truth that demands curiosity and a resilient heart to relentlessly progress on this path without regrets.
In the future, I anticipate maintaining a steadfast focus on subcultural groups and their health, striving to contribute valuable insights to the field. This involves a commitment to consistently publishing research outcomes in high-quality international journals, thereby drawing the attention of both local and international scholars to the critical health issues faced by minority populations. I am also dedicated to the ongoing mentorship of novice researchers. By providing guidance and support, I aim to foster the development of the next generation of researchers and healthcare professionals.
Furthermore, I recognize the importance of maintaining a work and life balance. I remain committed to nurturing a harmonious equilibrium that allows me to continue making meaningful contributions to the nursing field while also prioritizing personal well-being.
Yun-Fang Tsai, PhD, RN, FAAN, is a
Distinguished Professor at Chang Gung University School of Nursing in Taiwan. She also serves as the Director of the Human Research Protection Office at Chang Gung University and is a member of Sigma’s Lambda Beta at-Large Chapter.