Salute to Nurses 2008

National Nurses Week is May 6 - 12

Magnetic Moment

Sheryl Ehrman

In March of 2007, North Colorado Medical Center had a “magnetic moment.” It reached a goal which many dedicated individuals had been working toward for many years. The facility was designated as a Magnet™ hospital; the “gold standard” of nursing care. The Magnet Award for Nursing Excellence is the highest recognition awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Judie Walker, Director of Women’s and Children’s Services, who not only was a collaborator but wrote the entire application document, believes the award speaks volumes about the quality of nursing care at NCMC. “It focuses on the highest quality of care,” Walker said. “It proved how we measured up against industry benchmarks.”

The Magnet designation is given to those hospitals that meet or exceed rigorous standards of care and professional performance.

Magnet status not only sets NCMC apart as an excellent place to be a nurse, but as a facility which provides the very best in care for its patients as well. Recognizing excellence in nursing, the Magnet Recognition Program provides consumers with the ultimate benchmark to measure the quality of nursing care that they can expect to receive.

Out of approximately 6,000 hospitals nationwide, the ANCC recognizes just 287 health-care organizations in 45 states as deserving of this status. NCMC is one of only five in the state of Colorado. With more than 750 nursing professionals serving an estimated 16,000 inpatients annually, NCMC is the largest and longest serving medical center in Northern Colorado to hold the honor.

The Magnet program is based on quality indicators and standards of nursing

2008 Northern Colorado State Finalist

continued on page 2

(Story on page 3)

This section is a product of the Greeley Tribune, advertising department in association with Banner Health / North Colorado Medical Center.

Kris Cazer, Writer • Casey Pearson, Layout/Design • Peter Heacox, Photography

2 Salute to Nurses

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 Wednesday, May 7, 2008

S MAGNET’S 14 FORCES practice set as benchmarks within the industry. According to Walker, the necessary documentation took months of dedication and diligence by a number of individuals in all departments.

“It was quite an undertaking,” she said.

During the application and on-site visit, facilities are measured against 14 “Forces of Magnetism,” (see inset) to ensure they have obtained the level of excellence required to be designated as a Magnet facility. NCMC will not be resting on its laurels, however.

“We must continue meeting all the requirements; completing annual reports on how we are maintaining the status,” said Jack Burke, NCMC Chief Nursing Officer, who went on to explain

the application must be repeated every three years. “The process is very involved.”

The bar has been set high at NCMC; patients coming to the facility can have confidence in the quality nursing care they will receive. And nurses seeking employment know that a Magnet hospital offers increased patient satisfaction; better working relationships between nurses and physicians; increased job satisfaction; reduced turnover among nurses and advanced education opportunities.

It is a win-win situation... both excellence in nursing and greater patient satisfaction. As Walker put it,” it is about achieving quality outcomes.”

Just as strength is key to a

magnet, North Colorado Medical Center’s nursing staff is one of the most important elements to a facility focused on patient care. Banner Health’s Mission Statement states, “We exist to make a difference in people’s lives through excellent patient care”, and the Magnet Award for Nursing Excellence is one example how NCMC is delivering on that promise.

The 14 forces of magnetism, which NCMC and all other Magnet hospitals meet, are: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Quality of nursing leadership Organizational structure Management style Personnel policies and programs Professional models of care Quality of care Quality improvement Consultation and resources Autonomy Community in the hospital Nurses as teachers Image of nursing Collegial relationships Professional development

Salute to Nurses 3

NORTHERN COLORADO STATE

heryl Ehrman never met Florence Nightingale, but she emulates many of the qualities of the famous “lady with the lamp.” She sees needs and meets them…with compassion, caring, empathy and humor. These qualities, along with the admiration of both peers and patients, have placed Ehrman as one of the 15 Colorado finalists for the annual Nightingale Award.

As a health care provider extraordinaire, Ehrman has been providing primary care at the Johnstown Family Physician Clinic for the past ten years and has captured the admiration, appreciation and hearts of both her patients and her colleagues.

And they have won her heart as well.

Erhman commented, “I work with some wonderful caring doctors and staff at Johnstown Family Physicians and Greeley Medical Clinic Urgent Care. They are truly an inspiration every day.” She also appreciates the community where she practices.

“I enjoy working in a small community because you get to know people on a more personal level, Ehrman said. “ I see myself working in Johnstown as long as they’ll have me.” They do not plan to let her go anywhere soon.

“Sheryl gives remarkable care,” said Judie Walker, Director of Women’s and Children’s services at NCMC. “She demonstrates a deep level of caring and empathy

for her patients that range in age from birth to geriatric patients.”

A gracious compliment from a fellow nurse and event chair for this year’s Nightingale Awards.

“She continues to learn and grow and provides the most remarkable patient care as a nurse practitioner,” Walker said.

But most meaningful of all is how she cares for her patients.

Ehrman treats all of her patients as if they were a member of her family. “My patients entrust me to provide medical care for themselves and their families,” she explained. “From something as simple as having a child bring in a picture they drew for me, to being able to sit with someone at the end of life; I am grateful they let me be a part of their lives.”

Empathic and compassionate, Ehrman’s special touch with patients may be due in part to her own battle with cancer. In April 2008, she became a six year survivor of colon cancer and believes that her experience as a patient going through radiation and chemotherapy has broadened her understanding of what patients and families need from health care providers.

One patient explained it this way. “I got pretty sick with CMV and was unable to work for weeks. Sheryl kept in touch with me every day, either in the clinic or on the phone just checking in on me and encouraging me, like my mom used to do.” Others tell

of instances when Ehrman visited their home over her lunch hour, just to check in and provide “a safety net and a personal touch”.

Erhman has been an eager student of nursing, progressing from an Associates Degree in Nursing to her current advanced practice, a Masters prepared role. “While working at NCMC, I was fortunate to work in a variety of clinical and management positions until graduating as an FNP in 1997. While at NCMC, I obtained my BSN and my MSN. NCMC has always been very supportive in helping achieve educational goals, as well as leadership training,” she said.

Humbled by the nomination for the Nightingale Award, Ehrman said, “One of my patients nominated me for this award and I was very surprised because there are so many nurses who are more deserving than me.” There are

many in disagreement. They know that out of the thousands of nurses in Colorado, Sheryl Ehrman is one who stands head and shoulders above the rest.

Ehrman’s husband Donovan is also a nurse and is currently completing his own nurse practitioner education. They have been married for over 20 years and have two sons.

Registered nurses throughout the state are nominated in the fall of each year by solicitation from the Colorado Area Health Education Centers System (AHEC) and the Colorado Springs Nightingale Committee.

Fifteen finalists are selected by the regions and forwarded to the State Selection Committee, who determines the recipients.

• Nominations can be made by peers, patients or family members • Nominees must be a registered nurse (RN) currently practicing in Colorado or retired from practice in Colorado.

• Nominee may not be a previous recipient.

In February of that year, a week was designated by the White House as National Nurse Week, and President Nixon issued a proclamation.

1978

In January of that year, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) proclaimed that May 12 would be “International Nurse Day.” (May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale.) Since 1965, the ICN has celebrated “International Nurse Day.”

1974

Again a resolution was presented by the House of Representatives for the President to proclaim “National Registered Nurse Day.” It did not occur.

1974

National Nurse Week was observed from October 11 - 16.

The year of the observance marked the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea (For more on Nightingale see page 7). Representative Frances P. Bolton sponsored the bill for a nurse week. Apparently, a bill for a National Nurse Week was introduced in the 1955 Congress, but no action was taken. Congress discontinued its practice of joint resolutions for national weeks of various kinds.

1972

Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare sent a proposal to President Eisenhower to proclaim a “Nurse Day” in October of the following year. The proclamation was never made.

1954

1953

A Brief History of National Nurses Week New Jersey Governor Brendon Byrne declared May 6 as “Nurses Day.” Edward Scanlan, of Red Bank, N.J., took up the cause to perpetuate the recognition of nurses in his state. Mr. Scanlan had this date listed in Chase’s Calendar of Annual Events. He promoted the celebration on his own.

2 Salute to Nurses

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 Wednesday, May 7, 2008

S MAGNET’S 14 FORCES practice set as benchmarks within the industry. According to Walker, the necessary documentation took months of dedication and diligence by a number of individuals in all departments.

“It was quite an undertaking,” she said.

During the application and on-site visit, facilities are measured against 14 “Forces of Magnetism,” (see inset) to ensure they have obtained the level of excellence required to be designated as a Magnet facility. NCMC will not be resting on its laurels, however.

“We must continue meeting all the requirements; completing annual reports on how we are maintaining the status,” said Jack Burke, NCMC Chief Nursing Officer, who went on to explain

the application must be repeated every three years. “The process is very involved.”

The bar has been set high at NCMC; patients coming to the facility can have confidence in the quality nursing care they will receive. And nurses seeking employment know that a Magnet hospital offers increased patient satisfaction; better working relationships between nurses and physicians; increased job satisfaction; reduced turnover among nurses and advanced education opportunities.

It is a win-win situation... both excellence in nursing and greater patient satisfaction. As Walker put it,” it is about achieving quality outcomes.”

Just as strength is key to a

magnet, North Colorado Medical Center’s nursing staff is one of the most important elements to a facility focused on patient care. Banner Health’s Mission Statement states, “We exist to make a difference in people’s lives through excellent patient care”, and the Magnet Award for Nursing Excellence is one example how NCMC is delivering on that promise.

The 14 forces of magnetism, which NCMC and all other Magnet hospitals meet, are: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Quality of nursing leadership Organizational structure Management style Personnel policies and programs Professional models of care Quality of care Quality improvement Consultation and resources Autonomy Community in the hospital Nurses as teachers Image of nursing Collegial relationships Professional development

Salute to Nurses 3

NORTHERN COLORADO STATE

heryl Ehrman never met Florence Nightingale, but she emulates many of the qualities of the famous “lady with the lamp.” She sees needs and meets them…with compassion, caring, empathy and humor. These qualities, along with the admiration of both peers and patients, have placed Ehrman as one of the 15 Colorado finalists for the annual Nightingale Award.

As a health care provider extraordinaire, Ehrman has been providing primary care at the Johnstown Family Physician Clinic for the past ten years and has captured the admiration, appreciation and hearts of both her patients and her colleagues.

And they have won her heart as well.

Erhman commented, “I work with some wonderful caring doctors and staff at Johnstown Family Physicians and Greeley Medical Clinic Urgent Care. They are truly an inspiration every day.” She also appreciates the community where she practices.

“I enjoy working in a small community because you get to know people on a more personal level, Ehrman said. “ I see myself working in Johnstown as long as they’ll have me.” They do not plan to let her go anywhere soon.

“Sheryl gives remarkable care,” said Judie Walker, Director of Women’s and Children’s services at NCMC. “She demonstrates a deep level of caring and empathy

for her patients that range in age from birth to geriatric patients.”

A gracious compliment from a fellow nurse and event chair for this year’s Nightingale Awards.

“She continues to learn and grow and provides the most remarkable patient care as a nurse practitioner,” Walker said.

But most meaningful of all is how she cares for her patients.

Ehrman treats all of her patients as if they were a member of her family. “My patients entrust me to provide medical care for themselves and their families,” she explained. “From something as simple as having a child bring in a picture they drew for me, to being able to sit with someone at the end of life; I am grateful they let me be a part of their lives.”

Empathic and compassionate, Ehrman’s special touch with patients may be due in part to her own battle with cancer. In April 2008, she became a six year survivor of colon cancer and believes that her experience as a patient going through radiation and chemotherapy has broadened her understanding of what patients and families need from health care providers.

One patient explained it this way. “I got pretty sick with CMV and was unable to work for weeks. Sheryl kept in touch with me every day, either in the clinic or on the phone just checking in on me and encouraging me, like my mom used to do.” Others tell

of instances when Ehrman visited their home over her lunch hour, just to check in and provide “a safety net and a personal touch”.

Erhman has been an eager student of nursing, progressing from an Associates Degree in Nursing to her current advanced practice, a Masters prepared role. “While working at NCMC, I was fortunate to work in a variety of clinical and management positions until graduating as an FNP in 1997. While at NCMC, I obtained my BSN and my MSN. NCMC has always been very supportive in helping achieve educational goals, as well as leadership training,” she said.

Humbled by the nomination for the Nightingale Award, Ehrman said, “One of my patients nominated me for this award and I was very surprised because there are so many nurses who are more deserving than me.” There are

many in disagreement. They know that out of the thousands of nurses in Colorado, Sheryl Ehrman is one who stands head and shoulders above the rest.

Ehrman’s husband Donovan is also a nurse and is currently completing his own nurse practitioner education. They have been married for over 20 years and have two sons.

Registered nurses throughout the state are nominated in the fall of each year by solicitation from the Colorado Area Health Education Centers System (AHEC) and the Colorado Springs Nightingale Committee.

Fifteen finalists are selected by the regions and forwarded to the State Selection Committee, who determines the recipients.

• Nominations can be made by peers, patients or family members • Nominees must be a registered nurse (RN) currently practicing in Colorado or retired from practice in Colorado.

• Nominee may not be a previous recipient.

In February of that year, a week was designated by the White House as National Nurse Week, and President Nixon issued a proclamation.

1978

In January of that year, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) proclaimed that May 12 would be “International Nurse Day.” (May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale.) Since 1965, the ICN has celebrated “International Nurse Day.”

1974

Again a resolution was presented by the House of Representatives for the President to proclaim “National Registered Nurse Day.” It did not occur.

1974

National Nurse Week was observed from October 11 - 16.

The year of the observance marked the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea (For more on Nightingale see page 7). Representative Frances P. Bolton sponsored the bill for a nurse week. Apparently, a bill for a National Nurse Week was introduced in the 1955 Congress, but no action was taken. Congress discontinued its practice of joint resolutions for national weeks of various kinds.

1972

Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare sent a proposal to President Eisenhower to proclaim a “Nurse Day” in October of the following year. The proclamation was never made.

1954

1953

A Brief History of National Nurses Week New Jersey Governor Brendon Byrne declared May 6 as “Nurses Day.” Edward Scanlan, of Red Bank, N.J., took up the cause to perpetuate the recognition of nurses in his state. Mr. Scanlan had this date listed in Chase’s Calendar of Annual Events. He promoted the celebration on his own.

4 Salute to Nurses

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 Wednesday, May 7, 2008

ra Sandn cia, Vale LPN -workers have

ia’s co g abilities Valenc . in Sandra at her nurs recognition ts th rved l Care Unit b e u s o e d d ll a no her we nsition e daily earned se on the Tra derstands th in r n u u n n ncia patie ts y As a r C, Vale g with at NCM es of workin ides exempla d. g v e n o v r r e ll p e s a e h n h c o S t tting. opulati this se the unique p nts represen e ti to a are p e U ts C car n T e ti h a g Althou spectrum, p tegory of the l, age ecia ” ca the full the “elite old son with a sp the e r in e id v p n o e a r p ft s o It take patience to Valencia . ly r e . ry nd eld ecessa ssion a in her compa care that is n She excels to . l n in ia o d cor g ring spec uch a pers and ac ve s is just nication skills expert in deli g as u vin n r a m e s m is n o s c orker e care; ofte panishw o c r S iv e he sit ents ar lly sen scribed cultura ce when pati o-worker de r c u e o a n s O ndr a re ay,” Sa g only. d for speakin alencia this w ve and beyon such V o e b v y a a d h n s a e to o S lessed tently g consis ents. I am b my team.” n ti o a n p o her ers azing p an am

Roberta Skidmore, RN No one really wants to be in Care Center. the Wound But goes out of he Roberta (Robbie) Skidmor e r way to help each patient an give them com d fort and optim al care. Skidm said her nurs ing or she was sixtee career actually began whe e n n and a CNA in impacted by th an ER. She w e as “Her quiet reas example set by the ER nurs e. suring touch an calm in the m d presence of idst had the greate of tragedy, sorry and chao st influence on s me.”

That experienc e brought her is today. As a wound care sp to where she ec mostly with ou tpatients, she ialist working re importance of not only helpin cognizes the g them to heal focusing on on , bu e can’t ‘fix it’, bu day at a time. “Sometimes t t we can mak we e each day a better,” Skidm little ore said. “I try that patient w to focus on w hat if as my A clinic manag mom or my daughter.” er who works w commented, “R ith Skidmore obbie is alway happy. The pa s tients love the smiling and way she is concerned for th in the wound eir comfort during their ca re center. That is somewhere ou patients really r don’t want to be, but she pu them at ease ts and makes su re their care is painless as po as ssible.”

Julie Roth-Carter , RN The staff on th knows how to e med-tele (medical telem etry) unit at NC ease a patient ’s M or surgery to recovery. The transition from Intensive Ca C kn re to the training owledge they ha an Clinical Nurse d education provided by Ju ve is due in part lie Sp RN for 20 year ecialist on the 44-bed unit. Roth-Carter, a s.

She has been an “I love to teac h, ” Ro th -C ar ter explained.

I have a knack “And I‘ve been of making diffi to cult concepts She does this easily understo ld in od has the chance part by modeling concepts whenever she .” . Her responsib education, co ordinating orie ilities include providing staf ntat f incorporation of best practic ion and facilitating the es at the beds rewards occu ide. “My grea rw test learned,” Roth hen I see staff apply somet hing new they -Carte have Roth-Carter be r said. lieves her mos for the bedsid t important jo e caregivers.

“I have seen ov b is to advocate rising to the oc er and over nu ca rses she said. Roth sion to make positive chan ges -C the staff on th arter works primarily in a su in patient care,” e unit. Her co pp ortive role fo -workers appr compassion an eciate her hum r d or, a mentor to m expertise. As one commen te e …she looks for opportunitie d, “Julie has been care that is de s to improve th liver e night to help st ed at NCMC every day an dw aff with compl ex situations or orks into the unit concerns .”

Salute to Nurses 5

thyler, a K itz Fr RN l stay thantursing,

ta er in ng ospi od h e a care re as lo t o h d tha hil the rsu s a c er to pu s been ompted tients. e a w a l r t y pa n th be i er p Fritz ire h May Kathy the des Whatev the man y and o and e d l f r . s e e r o e r e i e t w t insp he kno ememb benefi se in Gr edCen is also r s but e can r n to the oat nur gional M h. She n Junio s h e fl as s has be s as a rling Re l in Bru heaster t e e path ler serv s at St Hospita at Nor he s n ct, s e Fritz ern Plai County t nurse in fa with th , r n e t n l s e a z y f my t d i a Ea Morg u r d t F o y ch hs er East lved wit erling. ot both ork ea he best flexibilit t w t invo ge in S l does n I go to eds to tes the ition. e .

Colle he trave ve it all ient’s n pprecia hat pos exist, a t o T l a o of t I p s inly l “ s it. eet my . She a stability g certa seeing ile e v o n l m said i e e r s h o r wh a t t u goal ty.” she ool and ges in n rewards s stress iles of m p i s l n s y i e t l e s” b l a e a tient chal ny. “M feel . “Th e flo of th lthough are ma ir family plained my pa back A ards the she ex ye from oming ng, the b and c ” si rew ” the atients y care, gs good I keep t of nur ursing. ” r p the are in m d the hu s well. e the a part of n v they ome an going a ng. I lo chnical welc Fritzler ve nursi d the te keep use I lo rsing an beca g of nu carin

ca Rebecrts, Robe RN

This year, Banner Health’s North Colorado Medical Center was proud to have five registered nurses (RN) nominated for the Nightingale Award and one licensed practice nurse (LPN) recognized as well. All nominees were honored at the regional event March 21 in Fort Collins.

On Saturday, May 10, 2008 the Colorado Nurses Foundation (CNF), will sponsor the black-tie Nightingale Event to be held in Denver. The evening recognizes the finalists and recipients; with nurses state-wide anxious to learn who will walk home with the coveted Nightingale

d, st-pace ry is fa oberts tu n e C 1st ky R in the 2 ach day; Bec ared her nursing rep ge Though nd challengin ucation has p er the heart wev d ed ch a high-te er training an hallenges. Ho been there. her s h c knows changes and ce has alway berts said. It is . ti o r rt c R fo ra ,” p ll e e r w rts apa he g a nurs y Robe ngs to she bri every day bein at sets Beck n years and th e “I enjoy ion and care nurse for sev ger at NCMC a a ss compa rts has been es Case Man orks closely at Robe rgery Servic about and w learned wh res ave ic Su Bariatr years. She ca xplained, “I h one who is e e e n r m d u o n s a fo r t someo fo for en her as r can do ch pati with ea of kindness ave described est friend. He b ts h little ac g.” Patients she was their is, “a great s n struggli ted them like g that Robert a in e y .” a tr e s o rs e h u w n rts the ers agre . ionate s Robe co-work and compass Surgery give ramatic ways bly a d ic listener, ing in Bariatr changing in eople comfort g ep lives in Work id v e u ri e g d s e is th nity to . lping to opportu s a role in he elping people ry rewarding.. y e “H g la v . in p s b s lp e e jo e h c y h S the pro akes m ce and through eryday that m ing a differen k v a e m e am forc lives.” g that I knowin change their ts patien

4 Salute to Nurses

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 Wednesday, May 7, 2008

ra Sandn cia, Vale LPN -workers have

ia’s co g abilities Valenc . in Sandra at her nurs recognition ts th rved l Care Unit b e u s o e d d ll a no her we nsition e daily earned se on the Tra derstands th in r n u u n n ncia patie ts y As a r C, Vale g with at NCM es of workin ides exempla d. g v e n o v r r e ll p e s a e h n h c o S t tting. opulati this se the unique p nts represen e ti to a are p e U ts C car n T e ti h a g Althou spectrum, p tegory of the l, age ecia ” ca the full the “elite old son with a sp the e r in e id v p n o e a r p ft s o It take patience to Valencia . ly r e . ry nd eld ecessa ssion a in her compa care that is n She excels to . l n in ia o d cor g ring spec uch a pers and ac ve s is just nication skills expert in deli g as u vin n r a m e s m is n o s c orker e care; ofte panishw o c r S iv e he sit ents ar lly sen scribed cultura ce when pati o-worker de r c u e o a n s O ndr a re ay,” Sa g only. d for speakin alencia this w ve and beyon such V o e b v y a a d h n s a e to o S lessed tently g consis ents. I am b my team.” n ti o a n p o her ers azing p an am

Roberta Skidmore, RN No one really wants to be in Care Center. the Wound But goes out of he Roberta (Robbie) Skidmor e r way to help each patient an give them com d fort and optim al care. Skidm said her nurs ing or she was sixtee career actually began whe e n n and a CNA in impacted by th an ER. She w e as “Her quiet reas example set by the ER nurs e. suring touch an calm in the m d presence of idst had the greate of tragedy, sorry and chao st influence on s me.”

That experienc e brought her is today. As a wound care sp to where she ec mostly with ou tpatients, she ialist working re importance of not only helpin cognizes the g them to heal focusing on on , bu e can’t ‘fix it’, bu day at a time. “Sometimes t t we can mak we e each day a better,” Skidm little ore said. “I try that patient w to focus on w hat if as my A clinic manag mom or my daughter.” er who works w commented, “R ith Skidmore obbie is alway happy. The pa s tients love the smiling and way she is concerned for th in the wound eir comfort during their ca re center. That is somewhere ou patients really r don’t want to be, but she pu them at ease ts and makes su re their care is painless as po as ssible.”

Julie Roth-Carter , RN The staff on th knows how to e med-tele (medical telem etry) unit at NC ease a patient ’s M or surgery to recovery. The transition from Intensive Ca C kn re to the training owledge they ha an Clinical Nurse d education provided by Ju ve is due in part lie Sp RN for 20 year ecialist on the 44-bed unit. Roth-Carter, a s.

She has been an “I love to teac h, ” Ro th -C ar ter explained.

I have a knack “And I‘ve been of making diffi to cult concepts She does this easily understo ld in od has the chance part by modeling concepts whenever she .” . Her responsib education, co ordinating orie ilities include providing staf ntat f incorporation of best practic ion and facilitating the es at the beds rewards occu ide. “My grea rw test learned,” Roth hen I see staff apply somet hing new they -Carte have Roth-Carter be r said. lieves her mos for the bedsid t important jo e caregivers.

“I have seen ov b is to advocate rising to the oc er and over nu ca rses she said. Roth sion to make positive chan ges -C the staff on th arter works primarily in a su in patient care,” e unit. Her co pp ortive role fo -workers appr compassion an eciate her hum r d or, a mentor to m expertise. As one commen te e …she looks for opportunitie d, “Julie has been care that is de s to improve th liver e night to help st ed at NCMC every day an dw aff with compl ex situations or orks into the unit concerns .”

Salute to Nurses 5

thyler, a K itz Fr RN l stay thantursing,

ta er in ng ospi od h e a care re as lo t o h d tha hil the rsu s a c er to pu s been ompted tients. e a w a l r t y pa n th be i er p Fritz ire h May Kathy the des Whatev the man y and o and e d l f r . s e e r o e r e i e t w t insp he kno ememb benefi se in Gr edCen is also r s but e can r n to the oat nur gional M h. She n Junio s h e fl as s has be s as a rling Re l in Bru heaster t e e path ler serv s at St Hospita at Nor he s n ct, s e Fritz ern Plai County t nurse in fa with th , r n e t n l s e a z y f my t d i a Ea Morg u r d t F o y ch hs er East lved wit erling. ot both ork ea he best flexibilit t w t invo ge in S l does n I go to eds to tes the ition. e .

Colle he trave ve it all ient’s n pprecia hat pos exist, a t o T l a o of t I p s inly l “ s it. eet my . She a stability g certa seeing ile e v o n l m said i e e r s h o r wh a t t u goal ty.” she ool and ges in n rewards s stress iles of m p i s l n s y i e t l e s” b l a e a tient chal ny. “M feel . “Th e flo of th lthough are ma ir family plained my pa back A ards the she ex ye from oming ng, the b and c ” si rew ” the atients y care, gs good I keep t of nur ursing. ” r p the are in m d the hu s well. e the a part of n v they ome an going a ng. I lo chnical welc Fritzler ve nursi d the te keep use I lo rsing an beca g of nu carin

ca Rebecrts, Robe RN

This year, Banner Health’s North Colorado Medical Center was proud to have five registered nurses (RN) nominated for the Nightingale Award and one licensed practice nurse (LPN) recognized as well. All nominees were honored at the regional event March 21 in Fort Collins.

On Saturday, May 10, 2008 the Colorado Nurses Foundation (CNF), will sponsor the black-tie Nightingale Event to be held in Denver. The evening recognizes the finalists and recipients; with nurses state-wide anxious to learn who will walk home with the coveted Nightingale

d, st-pace ry is fa oberts tu n e C 1st ky R in the 2 ach day; Bec ared her nursing rep ge Though nd challengin ucation has p er the heart wev d ed ch a high-te er training an hallenges. Ho been there. her s h c knows changes and ce has alway berts said. It is . ti o r rt c R fo ra ,” p ll e e r w rts apa he g a nurs y Robe ngs to she bri every day bein at sets Beck n years and th e “I enjoy ion and care nurse for sev ger at NCMC a a ss compa rts has been es Case Man orks closely at Robe rgery Servic about and w learned wh res ave ic Su Bariatr years. She ca xplained, “I h one who is e e e n r m d u o n s a fo r t someo fo for en her as r can do ch pati with ea of kindness ave described est friend. He b ts h little ac g.” Patients she was their is, “a great s n struggli ted them like g that Robert a in e y .” a tr e s o rs e h u w n rts the ers agre . ionate s Robe co-work and compass Surgery give ramatic ways bly a d ic listener, ing in Bariatr changing in eople comfort g ep lives in Work id v e u ri e g d s e is th nity to . lping to opportu s a role in he elping people ry rewarding.. y e “H g la v . in p s b s lp e e jo e h c y h S the pro akes m ce and through eryday that m ing a differen k v a e m e am forc lives.” g that I knowin change their ts patien

6 Salute to Nurses

N

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 Wednesday, May 7, 2008

The Practice of Nursing Takes Dedication

urses today have the advantages of the most current medical information at their fingertips, advanced educational opportunities and state-of-the art technology. Yet, what has remained unchanged is their hearts, said Jack Burke, the new Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at North Colorado Medical Center. ”The practice of nursing,” he said, “is still focused on the person, not the technology. What hasn’t changed is helping people process what is happening to them.”

Thirty-two years ago when Jack Burke went into nursing, he knew he was entering into a field not wellpopulated with men. It still isn’t. The U.S. Department of Labor reported that women still comprised 91.7% of registered nurses in 2007.

However, as an RN for 32 years, Burke has looked past the statistics and is making a significant mark in his profession as a nursing administrator over the past 23 years.

It’s all about his heart for the people he serves.

“I have had so much fun working in hospitals and hopefully making a difference for patients and staff,” Burke said. “I have never had a morning when I got up and wished I didn’t have to go to work.”

With just six weeks under his belt, Burke does not hide his enthusiasm about the quality of the nursing care at NCMC. It is why he chose to come to Greeley.

He explained, “I came here because of the hospital’s quality outcomes and Magnet™ status,” a highly recognized and well respected designation of nursing excellence. (See related Magnet article - Page 1) The fact that NCMC is a Magnet hospital was meaningful

“

I have had so much fun working in hospitals and hopefully making a difference for patients and staff.

“

to Burke. “It is a huge designation for a hospital,” and one he takes very seriously. “I always thought I would have the opportunity to get an organization to Magnet status… but I actually inherited one at NCMC,” a thought that brings with it a great sense of responsibility to keep that designation.

As CNO, Burke is responsible for all of the nursing practice that

takes place at the NCMC facility.

This includes the more than 600 nurses, managers and directors and their programs. He loves the challenges and variety that are part of every day.

“My role has so much diversity in it,” Burke explained. “One hour I can be with staff, another with a group of physicians and another time looking at new technology to buy for the staff and hospital.”

But he added, “No matter what the encounter, the focus is always improving the quality of care for the patients we serve.”

Although he is a native of Boston, (Yes, he is a Red Sox fan) Burke loves the West and the great outdoors. Fifteen years ago he decided it was time for a change, got out a map and headed for Montana. He spent nine years as the Vice President of Nursing and Patient care in Missoula, and knew the West is right where he wanted to be.

Burke took a five year detour to Milwaukee, where he served two hospitals as Vice President of Hospital Operations and CNO. Colorado then seemed a perfect choice for Burke to settle. “We love Greeley, the people are so incredibly friendly,” he said. “It is a wonderful place and why we wanted to come back West.” He is also enjoying the 350+ days of sunshine; taking long bicycle treks and running.

Burke believes the future is bright indeed and sets the bar

Jack Burke, Associate Administrator and Chief Nursing Officer at North Colorado Medical Center high for his tenure at NCMC. He would like to see the facility “hit the mark on all quality issues and endeavors…including becoming a Thompson 100 Top hospital in all areas of patient care.” If he does accomplish these lofty goals, his dream of NCMC becoming “internationally recognized” may very well become a reality.

Salute to Nurses 7

The Lady With The Lamp

F

lorence Nightingale, the daughter of the wealthy landowner, was born in Florence, Italy, on May 12, 1820. At the age of 17, Nightingale said she heard the voice of God telling her that she had a mission in life. It took her some years of searching to identify that mission, but once she discovered it, she pursued the mission to become one of the most famous nurses in the world.

By 1844, over parental objections, she chose a different path than the social life and marriage expected of her by her parents -- she chose to work in nursing, which was then not quite a respectable profession for women. While working in London, she met Elizabeth Blackwell, who later became the first female doctor in the US, who encouraged Nightingale to continue her mission.

Nightingale went to Prussia to experience a German training program for girls who would serve as nurses. She worked briefly for a Sisters of Mercy hospital near Paris, where her views of nursing began to be respected.

When the Crimean War began, reports came back to England about terrible conditions for wounded and sick soldiers. Nightingale volunteered to go to Turkey in 1854 and took a large group of women as nurses.

She and her nurses found

wounded soldiers being badly cared for by overworked medical staff in the face of official indifference. Medicines were in short supply, hygiene was being neglected, and mass infections were common, many of them fatal. There was no equipment to process food for the patients.

The men were kept in rooms without blankets or decent food. Unwashed, they were still wearing their army uniforms that were “stiff with dirt and gore”. In these conditions, it was not surprising that in army hospitals, war wounds only accounted for one death in six.

Nightingale and her fellow nurses began by thoroughly cleaning the hospital and equipment and reorganizing patient care. She also continued to visit the wards, sending letters back home from injured and ill soldiers.

Her rule that she be the only woman in the wards at night earned her the title “The Lady with the Lamp.” The mortality rate at the military hospital fell from 60% at her arrival to 2% six months later.

In 1856, she returned to England as a national heroine. Nightingale had been deeply shocked by the lack of hygiene and elementary care that the men received in the British Army and this experience would influence her later career, when she advocated sanitary living conditions as of great

Who was Florence Nightingale and why do we celebrate her birthday?

Did You Know?

importance. Consequently, she reduced deaths in the Army during peacetime and turned attention to the sanitary design of hospitals.

Florence Nightingale fought both the military bureaucracy and her own illness with Crimean fever to eventually become general superintendent of the Female Nursing Establishment of the Military Hospitals of the Army.

She founded the Nightingale School & Home for Nurses at St. Thomas’s Hospital in 1860 and was involved in the training of nurses for employment in the workhouses she helped establish years before.

In later life, Nightingale suffered from poor health and in 1895 went blind. Soon afterwards, the loss of other faculties meant she had to receive full-time nursing.

Although a complete invalid, Florence Nightingale lived another fifteen years before her death in London on

4

In the various U.S. Military branches, approximately one-third of all nurses are male.

4

About three out of every five registered nurses work in hospitals.

4

A Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) takes about 4 to 5 years.

4

Around nine million children visit emergency rooms in the U.S. each year due to injuries.

4

The demand for registered nurses is expected to rise 21 to 35 percent through the first decade of the 21st Century.

4

One out of every four registered nurses works part time.

4

Men and women between the ages of 25 and 44 account for 33 percent of all people in the U. S. who come to emergency rooms with injury-related wounds.

4

The most visits to emergency rooms occur during the warmer months of the year.

4

Nursing is one of the fastest growing occupations in the U.S.

4

There are more nurses than any other workers in the health profession.

4

Linda Richards became the first nurse to earn a nursing diploma in the United States in 1873.

The ANA initiated “National RN Recognition Day” on May 6, 1996, to honor the nation’s indispensable registered nurses for their tireless commitment 365 days a year. The ANA encourages its state and territorial nurses associations and other organizations to acknowledge May 6, 1996 as “National RN Recognition Day.”

1997

The ANA Board of Directors designated May 6 - 12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week in 1994 and in all subsequent years.

1996

The ANA Board of Directors expanded the recognition of nurses to a week-long celebration, declaring May 6 - 12, 1991, as National Nurses Week.

1993

The Nightingale Awards event was founded in 1985 to honor nurses who best exemplify the philosophy and practice of Florence Nightingale, a 19th century nursing pioneer who epitomized the art of helping people toward their optimal health.

1990

President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “National Recognition Day for Nurses” to be May 6, 1982.

1985

ANA, along with various nursing organizations, rallied to support a resolution initiated by nurses in New Mexico, through their Congressman, Manuel Lujan, to have May 6, 1982, established as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

1982

1981

A Brief History of National Nurses Week The ANA Board of Directors, at the request of the National Student Nurses Association, designated May 8 as National Student Nurses Day.

6 Salute to Nurses

N

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 Wednesday, May 7, 2008

The Practice of Nursing Takes Dedication

urses today have the advantages of the most current medical information at their fingertips, advanced educational opportunities and state-of-the art technology. Yet, what has remained unchanged is their hearts, said Jack Burke, the new Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at North Colorado Medical Center. ”The practice of nursing,” he said, “is still focused on the person, not the technology. What hasn’t changed is helping people process what is happening to them.”

Thirty-two years ago when Jack Burke went into nursing, he knew he was entering into a field not wellpopulated with men. It still isn’t. The U.S. Department of Labor reported that women still comprised 91.7% of registered nurses in 2007.

However, as an RN for 32 years, Burke has looked past the statistics and is making a significant mark in his profession as a nursing administrator over the past 23 years.

It’s all about his heart for the people he serves.

“I have had so much fun working in hospitals and hopefully making a difference for patients and staff,” Burke said. “I have never had a morning when I got up and wished I didn’t have to go to work.”

With just six weeks under his belt, Burke does not hide his enthusiasm about the quality of the nursing care at NCMC. It is why he chose to come to Greeley.

He explained, “I came here because of the hospital’s quality outcomes and Magnet™ status,” a highly recognized and well respected designation of nursing excellence. (See related Magnet article - Page 1) The fact that NCMC is a Magnet hospital was meaningful

“

I have had so much fun working in hospitals and hopefully making a difference for patients and staff.

“

to Burke. “It is a huge designation for a hospital,” and one he takes very seriously. “I always thought I would have the opportunity to get an organization to Magnet status… but I actually inherited one at NCMC,” a thought that brings with it a great sense of responsibility to keep that designation.

As CNO, Burke is responsible for all of the nursing practice that

takes place at the NCMC facility.

This includes the more than 600 nurses, managers and directors and their programs. He loves the challenges and variety that are part of every day.

“My role has so much diversity in it,” Burke explained. “One hour I can be with staff, another with a group of physicians and another time looking at new technology to buy for the staff and hospital.”

But he added, “No matter what the encounter, the focus is always improving the quality of care for the patients we serve.”

Although he is a native of Boston, (Yes, he is a Red Sox fan) Burke loves the West and the great outdoors. Fifteen years ago he decided it was time for a change, got out a map and headed for Montana. He spent nine years as the Vice President of Nursing and Patient care in Missoula, and knew the West is right where he wanted to be.

Burke took a five year detour to Milwaukee, where he served two hospitals as Vice President of Hospital Operations and CNO. Colorado then seemed a perfect choice for Burke to settle. “We love Greeley, the people are so incredibly friendly,” he said. “It is a wonderful place and why we wanted to come back West.” He is also enjoying the 350+ days of sunshine; taking long bicycle treks and running.

Burke believes the future is bright indeed and sets the bar

Jack Burke, Associate Administrator and Chief Nursing Officer at North Colorado Medical Center high for his tenure at NCMC. He would like to see the facility “hit the mark on all quality issues and endeavors…including becoming a Thompson 100 Top hospital in all areas of patient care.” If he does accomplish these lofty goals, his dream of NCMC becoming “internationally recognized” may very well become a reality.

Salute to Nurses 7

The Lady With The Lamp

F

lorence Nightingale, the daughter of the wealthy landowner, was born in Florence, Italy, on May 12, 1820. At the age of 17, Nightingale said she heard the voice of God telling her that she had a mission in life. It took her some years of searching to identify that mission, but once she discovered it, she pursued the mission to become one of the most famous nurses in the world.

By 1844, over parental objections, she chose a different path than the social life and marriage expected of her by her parents -- she chose to work in nursing, which was then not quite a respectable profession for women. While working in London, she met Elizabeth Blackwell, who later became the first female doctor in the US, who encouraged Nightingale to continue her mission.

Nightingale went to Prussia to experience a German training program for girls who would serve as nurses. She worked briefly for a Sisters of Mercy hospital near Paris, where her views of nursing began to be respected.

When the Crimean War began, reports came back to England about terrible conditions for wounded and sick soldiers. Nightingale volunteered to go to Turkey in 1854 and took a large group of women as nurses.

She and her nurses found

wounded soldiers being badly cared for by overworked medical staff in the face of official indifference. Medicines were in short supply, hygiene was being neglected, and mass infections were common, many of them fatal. There was no equipment to process food for the patients.

The men were kept in rooms without blankets or decent food. Unwashed, they were still wearing their army uniforms that were “stiff with dirt and gore”. In these conditions, it was not surprising that in army hospitals, war wounds only accounted for one death in six.

Nightingale and her fellow nurses began by thoroughly cleaning the hospital and equipment and reorganizing patient care. She also continued to visit the wards, sending letters back home from injured and ill soldiers.

Her rule that she be the only woman in the wards at night earned her the title “The Lady with the Lamp.” The mortality rate at the military hospital fell from 60% at her arrival to 2% six months later.

In 1856, she returned to England as a national heroine. Nightingale had been deeply shocked by the lack of hygiene and elementary care that the men received in the British Army and this experience would influence her later career, when she advocated sanitary living conditions as of great

Who was Florence Nightingale and why do we celebrate her birthday?

Did You Know?

importance. Consequently, she reduced deaths in the Army during peacetime and turned attention to the sanitary design of hospitals.

Florence Nightingale fought both the military bureaucracy and her own illness with Crimean fever to eventually become general superintendent of the Female Nursing Establishment of the Military Hospitals of the Army.

She founded the Nightingale School & Home for Nurses at St. Thomas’s Hospital in 1860 and was involved in the training of nurses for employment in the workhouses she helped establish years before.

In later life, Nightingale suffered from poor health and in 1895 went blind. Soon afterwards, the loss of other faculties meant she had to receive full-time nursing.

Although a complete invalid, Florence Nightingale lived another fifteen years before her death in London on

4

In the various U.S. Military branches, approximately one-third of all nurses are male.

4

About three out of every five registered nurses work in hospitals.

4

A Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) takes about 4 to 5 years.

4

Around nine million children visit emergency rooms in the U.S. each year due to injuries.

4

The demand for registered nurses is expected to rise 21 to 35 percent through the first decade of the 21st Century.

4

One out of every four registered nurses works part time.

4

Men and women between the ages of 25 and 44 account for 33 percent of all people in the U. S. who come to emergency rooms with injury-related wounds.

4

The most visits to emergency rooms occur during the warmer months of the year.

4

Nursing is one of the fastest growing occupations in the U.S.

4

There are more nurses than any other workers in the health profession.

4

Linda Richards became the first nurse to earn a nursing diploma in the United States in 1873.

The ANA initiated “National RN Recognition Day” on May 6, 1996, to honor the nation’s indispensable registered nurses for their tireless commitment 365 days a year. The ANA encourages its state and territorial nurses associations and other organizations to acknowledge May 6, 1996 as “National RN Recognition Day.”

1997

The ANA Board of Directors designated May 6 - 12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week in 1994 and in all subsequent years.

1996

The ANA Board of Directors expanded the recognition of nurses to a week-long celebration, declaring May 6 - 12, 1991, as National Nurses Week.

1993

The Nightingale Awards event was founded in 1985 to honor nurses who best exemplify the philosophy and practice of Florence Nightingale, a 19th century nursing pioneer who epitomized the art of helping people toward their optimal health.

1990

President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “National Recognition Day for Nurses” to be May 6, 1982.

1985

ANA, along with various nursing organizations, rallied to support a resolution initiated by nurses in New Mexico, through their Congressman, Manuel Lujan, to have May 6, 1982, established as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

1982

1981

A Brief History of National Nurses Week The ANA Board of Directors, at the request of the National Student Nurses Association, designated May 8 as National Student Nurses Day.

A rare honor for something our nurses do everyday.

North Colorado Medical Center is proud to have achieved MagnetTM recognition status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Receiving this distinction for providing the highest quality of nursing practice and patient care is a rare honor. Less than 300 hospitals nationwide have received this status. We’re pleased to recognize all of the people who made this happen. But we’d like to especially recognize the dedicated and compassionate nurses who are committed everyday to making a difference in people’s lives.

1801 16th Street • Greeley (970) 352-4121 www.BannerHealth.com Keyword: NCMC Job opportunities: www.BannerHealth.com or 866-377-5627 Banner Health is the leading provider of nonprofit healthcare in northern Colorado