Laura D Gardner

Laura D Gardner, MSN, RN, CNE

Clinical Lecturer

Department: Family, Community and Health Systems Science
Business Phone: (352) 273-6358
Business Email: lgardner@ufl.edu

About Laura D Gardner

Professor Gardner is a dedicated and experienced nursing educator, specializing in the principles and clinical reasoning of personalized nursing care. With a passion for fostering both theoretical understanding and practical skills, Professor Gardner teaches across a variety of key areas, including skills lab, simulation lab, and clinical practice rotations. In these settings, she strives to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world healthcare, equipping students with the critical thinking and hands-on experience necessary for successful nursing careers. Professor Gardner’s approach emphasizes the importance of individualized care, patient-centered practices, and the development of strong clinical judgment in every aspect of nursing education. Her commitment to student growth and professional development is at the heart of her teaching philosophy, ensuring that each student is prepared for the challenges and rewards of the nursing profession.

Teaching Profile

Courses Taught
2023-2025
NUR3227C Principles of Personalized Nursing Care 2
2023
NUR4766C Clinical Reasoning and Personalized Nursing Care: Adult Complex Conditions
2023
NUR4768C Clinical Reasoning and Personalized Nursing Care: Adult Chronic Conditions
2023
NUR3123 Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
Teaching Philosophy
As a nursing educator, my philosophy centers on the belief that nursing is both a science and an art, requiring not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for the dignity of each individual. My role as a teacher is to guide students in developing the knowledge, skills, and values that are essential to becoming competent, compassionate, and ethical nurses. I believe in creating a learning environment that fosters critical thinking, promotes active engagement, and encourages a reflective approach to practice. Nursing is a dynamic profession, and students must be equipped with the ability to adapt, think critically, and make informed decisions in real-world situations. My teaching approach emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and personalized care, ensuring that students are well-prepared to address the unique needs of each patient they encounter. I am committed to a student-centered teaching approach, recognizing that each student brings their own experiences, strengths, and learning styles to the classroom. I strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. By integrating hands-on learning opportunities, clinical simulations, and real-world scenarios, I aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering a deep understanding of nursing concepts. Ultimately, I believe that nursing education is a lifelong journey. As an educator, my goal is to inspire my students to be curious, compassionate, and committed to continuous professional development, ensuring that they are not only prepared for their role as caregivers but also for leadership, advocacy, and lifelong learning in the healthcare field.

Clinical Profile

Professor Gardner is a seasoned nursing professional with extensive expertise in medical-surgical nursing, home care, geriatrics, and telemetry. Throughout her career, she has developed a deep understanding of the complexities involved in providing patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings. Her experience in medical-surgical nursing allows her to manage acute and chronic conditions, while her knowledge of home care focuses on delivering compassionate, personalized support in patients’ homes. Specializing in geriatrics, Professor Gardner is adept at addressing the unique needs of older adults, ensuring they receive optimal care and attention. Additionally, her expertise in telemetry nursing has honed her ability to monitor and manage patients with cardiovascular concerns, using advanced technology to ensure the best outcomes. With her broad clinical knowledge, Professor Gardner brings a wealth of real-world experience to her teaching, enriching her students’ understanding of these essential areas of nursing.

Education

MSN-Nursing Education
2016 · Chatham University
BSN
2003 · University of Florida

Contact Details

Phones:
Business:
(352) 273-6358
Emails:
Business:
lgardner@ufl.edu
Addresses:
Business Street:
1225 Center Drive
College of Nursing
GAINESVILLE FL 32611