Self-regulation: From individual skill to system-wide strategy – Jennifer Luer, DNP, RN, CPPS, CPHQ

Episode 113 | Duration: 31:06

Self-regulation is the ability to recognize and manage our emotional, mental and physical responses to stress so we can think clearly, make sound decisions, and engage effectively with others. In healthcare and other high-pressure environments, self-regulation helps individuals move beyond instinctive "fight, flight or freeze" reactions and respond with intention, empathy and professionalism.

In this episode of Caring Greatly, Jennifer Luer, DNP, RN, CPPS, CPHQ, System Director of Employee Safety and Wellbeing at SSM Health, explores the powerful role of self-regulation in healthcare leadership and workplace safety. Drawing on her journey from critical care nurse to system leader, Jennifer shares how personal experience, patient safety work, and a passion for supporting care team members shaped her approach to building a healthier, safer work environment at SSM.

Jennifer also discusses why employee wellbeing deserves dedicated focus, how self-regulation helps individuals stay grounded under pressure, and why creating a culture of safety requires both personal skills and system-level support. From workplace violence (WPV) prevention to leadership communication, self-regulation techniques allow individuals to regain balance during challenging moments, reduce burnout, improve communication, strengthen relationships, and maintain the capacity to provide safe, high-quality care and effective leadership.

Jennifer is a registered nurse and system leader specializing in healthcare safety and quality through evidence‑based best practices and continuous improvement. Her work centers on advancing emotional, physical and psychological safety for care team members and patients alike. Pursing her passion and purpose as a nurse, she joined SSM Health in 2007. Jennifer also has than 11 years of experience in process improvement, event investigation and root cause analysis. In June 2021, she transitioned into her role as System Director of Employee Safety, following leadership of Regulatory, Infection Prevention, Risk, Quality and Patient Safety.

Jennifer has been instrumental in designing and implementing the Care for Caregivers program, including systemwide education on the second‑victim phenomenon. She has also helped lead key initiatives such as the rollout of WPV prevention training, simplified single‑icon WPV reporting, proactive EHR workflows for violence risk, and standardized tools that support a holistic approach to care team safety. 

Dr. Jennifer Luer is a leader who cares greatly.

Related links:

• Article: Built on safety, powered by people
• Jennifer Luer on LinkedIn