This book describes the path taken to acquire competencies as a Specialist Nurse and Master in Medical-Surgical Nursing, addressing and reflecting on the personal and professional growth developed. Among the topics covered, we highlight the development of a ventilator weaning protocol proposal and the analysis of literature on the humanization of care for people in critical situations. We would also add the relevance of the reasoned reflections on the clinical component, in the area of specialization, which have translated into implications for professional, ethical and legal practice; in programs for the continuous improvement of services; in the prevention, intervention and control of infection and antimicrobial resistance; in the management of nursing care; and in the development of professional learning, namely in self-knowledge and assertiveness. Thus, the book reflects a path rich in experiences that have enabled the development of a holistic approach to the person in a critical situation, contributing to more meaningful nursing for people.