Nurse Inventor Spotlight Series: Jennifer Colwill, DNP, APRN, CCNS, PCCN

The Nurse Inventor Spotlight series features Cleveland Clinic nurses who have embarked on the innovation journey. Here, they share what they find inspiring about their role, how they identified an unmet need, what innovation means to them and how their solution could affect both patients and caregivers.

In this installment, Jennifer Colwill, DNP, APRN, CCNS, PCCN, discusses the inspiration behind her innovations, how she copes with setbacks and what keeps her moving forward. Colwill, who began her nursing career in India, has been with Cleveland Clinic since 2003. She is a clinical nurse specialist at Hillcrest Hospital.

Q: How would you describe your innovation journey?

A: My journey with invention and innovation has been both personally and professionally fulfilling – but challenging, at times. Being creative and bringing new ideas to life gives me the energy and spark to keep going. Professionally, the process of innovation has been a rollercoaster ride. There are moments of great excitement and progress, but also times when it feels like you’ve taken two steps back. However, I've learned that resilience and passion are key to pushing through the challenges and moving forward. The experience has been a mix of excitement, setbacks – and ultimately, growth.

Q: Have you drawn career inspiration from anyone in particular?

A: I have been inspired and influenced by remarkable individuals throughout my career. One such person is Toby Cosgrove, MD, former President and CEO of Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Cosgrove was a highly innovative individual with numerous inventions to his name. His ability to draw inspiration from unconventional sources, such as modeling his mitral valve design after an embroidery hoop, greatly impressed me. Witnessing his capacity to integrate disparate elements into his professional work has also been impactful.

When I think of influential figures in nursing, Florence Nightingale immediately comes to mind. Her innovative spirit and resilience against all odds serve as a constant inspiration to me. Despite the challenges she faced, she was able to push boundaries and make significant strides in the field of nursing. Her ability to drive change and progress has greatly affected how I approach my work.

Q: Where did you derive motivation during your innovation journey?

A: One of the things that has been most inspiring is the realization that success often comes after a series of setbacks and challenges. It's easy to focus on the results and achievements of others – but by understanding the hard work and determination that goes into innovation, you can find true inspiration. Despite the difficulties and setbacks, it’s the passion that drives us.

Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing. This journey has taught me the value of perseverance and the strength of purpose.

I have had incredible support during my journey at Cleveland Clinic. One person who has been a tremendous advocate for me is Nancy Albert, PhD, CCNS, CHFN, CCRN, NE-BC, FAHA, FCCM, FHFSA, FAAN, Associate Chief Nursing Officer in the Office of Nursing Research and Innovation. She illuminates the valuable contributions that nurses can make and emphasizes the importance of our ideas.

I have also been fortunate to work with a team of individuals who have been instrumental in bringing my ideas to life. Every time I’ve presented a new concept or faced setbacks, they’ve offered unwavering support and encouragement to propel the innovation forward. Their willingness to explore and develop even the smallest spark of an idea has been invaluable.

Q: What advice would you provide a colleague who has an idea but is unsure how to develop it?

A: My advice is to just jump in! Don’t wait for everything to be perfectly aligned. Don't feel like you need to have all the answers before you start. Instead, take action and seek out colleagues who can guide you along the way. When you ask for help and express your interest – especially in a supportive environment like Cleveland Clinic – you'll be surprised by how many people are willing to assist you. It's essential for the inventor to put in the effort, but there are many allies who can help you reach your goals.

Q: What does innovation mean to you?

A: Innovation encompasses anything that offers a fresh perspective or approach. It extends beyond physical products to include processes and new ways of thinking. Whether it's a tangible item or a novel framework for addressing a problem, all these elements fall under the umbrella of innovation.

Q: Can you tell us about a few of the inventions you’ve explored?

A: Sure. I initially wanted to create a product that would help keep patients safe by preventing toilet-related falls. I developed a basic prototype of a product and began working with a nursing innovation coordinator. On further investigation, however, we found similar products that were already on the market.

Another idea I had involves improving quality outcomes related to pressure injuries. I collaborated with other nurses to develop a research project, which revealed there was no existing tool for measuring the supportive environment of care elements for pressure injuries. As a result, we developed a survey tool, Pressure Injury Care Environment Support (PrICES), and validated it using the research process.

We submitted PrICES as an innovation and are currently working toward making it available in the external marketplace for other nurses and hospital systems. It’s been a fun learning experience to complete a psychometric research study and – at the same time – develop a product.

Q: Can you tell us bout your experience with the Nursing Institute’s Step Forward program?

A: I’ve found the Step Forward program to be beneficial for nurses. It provides a quick, easy way to submit an idea and move through the innovation process. The support from both Nancy and Karen Schaedlich, MSN, RN, Innovation Program Coordinator, has been incredibly helpful in guiding me through each step.

When I first began my career at Cleveland Clinic, I found it difficult to know where to go and when, how, and whom to talk to. The Step Forward program has made a big difference.

It’s easy to get excited about an idea – but life can get in the way. By regularly checking in with me, Karen helps me stay focused and motivated to pursue my ideas.