The Florida Nurse - November 2022

THE FLORIDA NURSE

OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE FLORIDA NURSES FOUNDATION

President’s Message

Janice Adams, DNP, MPA, BSN President FNA

Welcome to Fall 2022!

The past couple of years have been an extraordinary time for all and just recently a hurricane has severely damaged our neighbors in south Florida. The demonstration seen from our neighbors that have come together to help and support each other is wonderful to see. However, we know we are still facing some uncertainty. This includes economic struggles, political concerns and nursing care delivery issues that continue in our state. FNA thanks you for supporting each other during this unprecedented time! If you are able, we also ask that you consider making a small donation to our Nurses in Need fund to support small grants for nurses impacted the hurricane. Go to www.floridanurse.org/ NursesInNeed for more information.

FNA had a productive spring and summer 2022. In May 2022, we attended the Chamber of Commerce Legislative Interviews. Candidates were interviewed by a host of Chamber members regarding many issues. While attending with our lobbyist team we were able to talk to many legislators running for office about nursing issues. The candidates were overwhelmingly supportive of nursing issues. They stand by waiting to hear from nurses about the profession and concerns that nurses have. As we approach Election Day on November 8, 2022, we ask all nurses to step into the polling booth and vote. On June 8, 2022, FNA partnered with the Florida Center for Nursing and the Nursing Action Coalition of Florida to present Conversations with a Purpose: Nursing Workforce Strategies and Solutions. A presentation from experts in our state regarding workforce solutions that work. A very rewarding discussion about solutions, innovations, nursing education changes to increase the workforce, and self-care opportunities. This information has been presented to leaders around the state.

FNA recently participated in the drafting of a White Paper regarding the state of nursing in Florida. This document has been shared with legislators, Deans and Directors at schools of nursing and our lobbyist.

In September many of you attended the Membership Assembly in person at the Mission Inn just outside of Orlando. It was wonderful to see everyone, and we proudly welcomed many members to their very first Assembly! During our meetings we continued our focus on our theme this year to Regain, Retain and Reconnect. Our presenters kept us engaged while gathering CEU’s. We had a variety of vendors present to support FNA. Several great raffles and gifts were bestowed including a weekend stay at the Mission Inn with a round of golf for two! Lastly, a spectacular Awards Dinner was held where many of our colleagues and friends were awarded and thanked for their service to FNA and the community. We also welcomed Rep. Kamia Brown (running for Senate in District 15 and endorsed by FNA) to our dinner to personally thank her for her support and to accept her award in person. Rep. Brown was responsible for obtaining the funding we received to reestablish the Center for Nursing…. $5M for nursing!

Our members are the reason we forge forward offering opportunities, advocating for nursing in Florida, looking for ways to relieve the stress and continue to up the volume of our voice.

FNA continues to support our mission to advance the profession of nursing and promote a healthy Florida. We continue to support our membership via Nurse Advocacy, Member Services, Nurse Development & Support, Public and Professional Awareness, Professional Unity, and Organizational Excellence. FNA will continue our focus on diversity, equity, inclusivity, and accessibility to the nurses of Florida. FNA has many ways for our members to get involved. Go to https:// www.floridanurse.org and join a committee or task force! We need your involvement to make our voice even louder.

Have a wonderful fall, Thanksgiving and a celebration of your religious holiday of choice!

Notes from the Executive Director

National Commission on Racism: Difficult, but Fruitful Conversations

Willa Fuller, BSN, RN Executive Director, Florida Nurses Association

Brief Overview

On January 25 of last year, national nursing organizations came together to launch the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing (the Commission). The Commission was convened to explore the issues related to racism within nursing with a focus on the impact on nurses, patients, communities, and health care systems. One of the goals was to educate nurses about racism as it exists in the past and in the present and to motivate them to confront individual and systemic racism. I have the distinct pleasure of serving on the Commission representing the Southern States within ANA.

The members of the Commission and participating organizations are representative of the diverse nature of nursing practice. They represent the various areas of nursing practice, racially and ethnically diverse groups, and many geographic regions of the country. The Commission was convened and is led by a collaboration of the American Nurses Association (ANA), National Black Nurses Association (NBNA), National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurse Associations (NCEMNA), and National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN).

The Relevance of the Work

Racism is historically rooted in the nursing profession and continues today. The work of the Commission provides irrefutable evidence that this is true. Through surveys, listening sessions and other data gathering activities, along with documented nursing history, the Commission has made the case for the necessity of this work. The heart-wrenching stories that were shared not only in the listening sessions but in the Commission meetings where Commissioners were invited to share a “Walk in my Shoes” at each meeting.

Even more disheartening was some of the responses to the surveys and even to the very existence of the Commission.

This is a problem that cannot be swept under the rug. It is essential that we continue to seek and exemplify inclusion, diversity, and equity. We must not only fight racism but we must promote antiracist practice and work environments. (See the infographic at https://www.nursingworld.org/ practice-policy/workforce/racism-in-nursing/ national-commission-to-address-racism-innursing/antiracism-in-nursing/ ) The Commission is continuing to lead a national discussion to create safe and liberating environments as well as an antiracist profession for all nurses.

The Commission has brought together nurses from marginalized and under-represented populations, along with predominantly white nurses

who have advantages and privileges from the existing systems. These professionals have worked together, listened to each other, educated and corrected each other about their perceptions and ways to address this problem.

While the “idea” of cultural diversity is replete in the nursing literature and even in our textbooks some of the shared stories have demonstrated clearly that this concept does not always make it to the bedside. Some of the indigenous nurses shared stories of being prohibited from allowing certain rituals that would clearly lead to a patient’s comfort and overall health while not causing any interruption in the facilities operations. The resistance to hiring diverse staff to create an environment where all feel safe and cared for is antithetical to the goals of quality care.

Story Time

As a bedside nurse, I frequently worked with students (one of my favorite things to do). I once had a 90-year-old black male patient who had been assigned this beautiful young Caucasian nurse. I introduced them and left the room, but soon she came out and told me that he wanted to talk to me. I went back in and he literally had terror in his eyes as he expressed that I could not leave him alone with “that little white girl.” He was specifically terrified about her helping him with his bath. He said to me, “They will lynch me.”

On the other hand, she was excited to take care of him as she wanted to be a geriatric nurse and was completely enthralled with older people. She loved their stories and she loved that they would mostly be excited that she wanted to listen to them. So, in order not to rob her of that experience, I told him I would be taking care of him with her, and we actually left him alone to do his own bath at his request. I did share with her what his concerns were as a teachable moment and she was shocked. Of course, she was too young to have very much exposure to someone who had lived through that history. She believed, like many falsely believe today, that that is the past and that it should not be an issue. But even today, it continues to be an issue.

The personal impact of racism is devastating. Racism within the context of a caring profession adds an even deeper impact. A legal scholar, Patricia Williams first described the concept of spiritmurdering as a product of racism which not only inflicts pain as a form of racial violence, but also steals and kills the humanity and spirits of people of color. If you conceptualize this statement as it effects millions of people everyday at all ages and all walks of life, the impact is devastating. And in thinking about this, we must also include other marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ+ population that we both work beside and care for. Hate and discrimination have no place in an environment where we strive to bring optimal care to our citizens.

If you are not familiar with this outstanding work, please review the resources on the ANA website at https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/ workforce/racism-in-nursing/national-commissionto-address-racism-in-nursing/

If you feel defensive, triggered, angry or any other negative emotion about the fact that racism is an ever-present threat in this country, then perhaps some introspection and self-examination might be helpful. A conversation about racism is only triggering if you have some measure of racism. Facing it is the first step. Striving to do no harm is the goal.

Reference Williams, P., (1991). The alchemy of race and rights: The diary of a law professor, Cambridge: Harvard `University Press, p. 263.

FLORIDA NURSE THE

Owned and Published by, Florida Nurses Association

1235 E. Concord Street, Orlando, FL 32803-5403

P.O. Box 536985, Orlando, FL 32853-6985

Telephone: (407) 896-3261

FAX: (407) 896-9042

E-mail: info@floridanurse.org

Website: http://www.floridanurse.org

Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday

For advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc., PO Box 216, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613, (800) 626-4081, sales@aldpub.com. FNA and the Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. reserve the right to reject any advertisement. Responsibility for errors in advertising is limited to corrections in the next issue or refund of price of advertisement.

Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement or approval by the Florida Nurses Association of products advertised, the advertisers, or the claims made. Rejection of an advertisement does not imply a product offered for advertising is without merit, or that the manufacturer lacks integrity, or that this association disapproves of the product or its use. FNA and the Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. shall not be held liable for any consequences resulting from purchase or use of an advertiser’s product. Articles appearing in this publication express the opinions of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect views of the staff, board, or membership of FNA or those of the national or local associations.

Published quarterly, February, May, August and November by FNA, a constituent member of the American Nurses Association.

Editor – Kaitlin Scarbary, 1235 E. Concord St., Orlando, FL 32803-5403

Subscription available at $20.00 plus tax, per year. Members of FNA receive the newspaper as a benefit of membership.

COPIES of The Florida Nurse are available on 35mm microfilm, 106mm microfilm, article reprints and issue copies through Bell & Howell, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106

Board of Directors

2021–2023

Officers

Janice Adams, DNP, MPA, BSN, President

Marie Etienne, DNP, APRN, FNP, PNP, PLNC, President-Elect

Debbie Hogan, RN, BSN, MPH, Vice President

Valerie Halstead, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, Secretary Mavra Kear, PHD, APRN, BC, Treasurer

Region Directors

Jake Bush, MSN, RN, Northwest Region

Kellyann Curnayn, DNP, APRN-BC, North Central Region

Susie Norman, MSN, Northeast Region

Marcos Gayol, EdD, MSN, MPH, RN, East Central Region

Meghan Moroney, BSN, RN, West Central Region

Cynthia Tagliaferri, RN, BSN, DNP Student, Southeast Region

Camille Baldwin, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE, CHSE, Southwest Region

Linda Washington-Brown, PHD, EJD, MSN, APRN-C, FAANP, FAAN, South Region

Director of Recent Graduates

Danielle Weaver, BSN, RN, CEN

LERC Liaison

Marsha Martin, RN

FNA Office

Willa Fuller, BSN, RN, Executive Director

John Berry, Jr., Director of Labor Relations & Government Affairs

Kaitlin Scarbary, Director of Member Programs, Technology, and Marketing

Willa Fuller

Focus on the Foundation

Donations Needed for Hurricane Relief Service Opportunity: Foundation Trustees Needed

The Florida Nurses Foundation (FNF) is currently seeking to fill several Trustee positions. This is a great opportunity to bring your bold and innovative ideas to support the future of nursing. Trustees govern the philanthropic mission of the Foundation as outlined in its bylaws. They are responsible for guiding the strategic work of the Foundation as well as supporting fundraising activities.

Requirements for the Role: Nurses must be an FNA member in good standing to serve on the Foundation. Fundraising or other experience on foundations or other boards is not required but is a plus. Mentorship will be provided by tenured trustees. Bold, innovative ideas are welcome and we would love to have a recent graduate on the board to get the perspective of early career nurses as we move toward the future.

Board of Trustee meetings are held quarterly. There is usually one face-to-face meeting with the rest being held electronically by videoconference or conference call. To apply, please download and complete the application at www.floridanurse.org/Foundation

NOW HIRING

The Florida Nurses Foundation has a Nurses in Need Fund that provides small grants to nurses in immediate need of help. Since Hurricane Ian devastated parts of the Southwest Florida coast, we have been inundated with applications for assistance. Nurses applying for assistance are primarily from the Southwest region and in need of funds to support their path to recovery in the wake of the hurricane. We are in immediate need of donations to be able to provide these assistance grants. Please consider donating to the Nurses in Fund to help provide grants for nurses in these hard-hit areas. To donate to the fund please go to www.floridanurse.org/ NursesInNeed or scan the QR code with your phone.

Apalachee Center, Inc

Research Grants Available - Deadline to Apply is December 1

The Foundation has opened a second window of applications for Research Grants in 2022. The deadline for submission is December 1, 2022. The principal investigator must be a registered nurse and be licensed to practice nursing in Florida. Applications for the research grant must be for a study (proposed or underway) that has not been completed prior to application deadline. View full guidelines and criteria at www.floridanurse.org/ScholarshipsGrants

JOIN OUR TEAM

Focus on the Foundation

Annual Luncheon Recap and 2022 Scholarship Winners Announced

The Florida Nurses Foundation held its Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon on September 24 during the 2022 FNA Membership Assembly in Howey-in-theHills, FL. Scholarship recipients were recognized and several attended in person to accept their scholarship checks. Through several raffles and generous donations by attendees, the Foundation raised $2,745 to support nursing scholarships and grants! Several donors who made contributions of $250 or more received prints of beautiful paintings done by the late Sandra Walsh. The Foundation established a scholarship and research fund honoring Sandra Walsh in late 2020, which is now fully endowed.

Congratulations to the 2022 Scholarship Recipients listed below! We wish you the best as you continue your journey into your nursing career. The Foundation is honored to support the future generation of nursing! The application window for 2023 scholarships opens on January 1. Applicants must have resided in Florida for at least one year, be enrolled in a nationally

accredited nursing program (all degree levels accepted) and must have completed at least one semester of their current nursing program by the application deadline. Detailed guidelines and application forms are located at www.floridanurse.org/ScholarshipsGrants The Foundation awarded 35 scholarships this year! Here are the recipients*:

- Monica Amador (University of St. Augustine)

- Tihara Arias Rosell (Nova Southeastern University)

- Saria Ayonan (Rasmussan University)

- Sarah Baldeo (Palm Beach Atlantic University)

- Hailey Barker (Pasco Hernando State College)

- Alena Berry (State College of Florida)

- Ingrid Bozeman (Regis College)

- Ashley Davis (University of South Alabama)

- Shavonata Davis (South University Tampa)

- Carolina de Almagro (Florida International University)

- Laura Florestal (Polk State College)

- Camila Fred (Florida Atlantic University)

- Selenne Garnelo (Lincoln Memorial University)

- Mathew Glarum (Southern Technical College)

- Fernando Guevara (University of South Florida)

- Gabrielle Hounigringer (Keiser University)

- Lacey Joseph (Florida State University)

- Paolina Juan-Sebastian (Florida Atlantic University)

- Karen Laing (University of South Florida)

- Isaac Levine (Miami Dade College)

- Natalie Lopez (Nova Southeastern University)

- Karen Marius (Florida Atlantic University)

- Seren Ozoglu (John Hopkins University)

- Jessica Penate (Florida International University)

- Gabrielle Phillipps (Seminole State College/UCF)

- Olivia Rivera (University of South Florida)

- Kelly Rolen (University of South Florida)

- Allison Seliga (The University of Tampa)

- Olivia Sleight (Florida Southern College)

- Iyanni Smith (University of Miami)

- Ashley Toledo (St. Thomas University)

*Some recipients names have been omitted due personal privacy preference.

Scholarship Winners Lacey Joseph, Tihara Arias Rosell, Camila Fred, and Ingrid Bozeman accept their awards at the Annual Luncheon

News From Headquarters

2022: A Year in Review

2022 was an eventful and busy year for FNA members, volunteers, board of directors, and staff. Here some highlights from this productive year:

• FNA supported the launch of the Florida Center for Nursing by seeking the funding needed to re-open. We successfully lobbied for the continued funding of the Center which received $5,000,000 dollars in recurring funds.

• An FNA Member, Dr. Edward Briggs was elected to the ANA Board of Directors.

• Virtual Advocacy Days held January 19-20 with private Zoom meetings allowing participants to meet their legislators and advocate on behalf of nurses.

• New scholarship and research grant created through the Florida Nurses Foundation in honor of Dr. Sandra J. Walsh.

• FNA became a member of the Florida Chamber Policy institute to increase our ability to reach legislators.

• Multiple regional events were held across the state with educational and networking opportunities.

• Nurses Week and Nurses Month celebrations were held in several areas of the state with opportunities for self-care and nurse appreciation.

• FNA Research and EBP Conference returned to face-to-face, participants from across the state shared their valuable findings.

• Several townhalls were held to address issues in the nursing workplace and discuss creative solutions.

• The Pandemics and Disasters Task Force launched a video project highlighting nurses’ experiences during the pandemic.

• The JEDI Task Force deployed a member-wide survey to gain a greater understanding of the demographic profile of the FNA membership and assess the association’s inclusivity.

• New website launched by the Holistic Nursing Special Interest Group - the Nurse Zen Zone features self-care resources for nurses to deal with daily stressors including guided meditation, mental health resources, and healthy habit building guides.

• Membership Assembly returned to an in-person event for the first time since 2019. ANA President, Dr. Ernest Grant delivered an inspiring keynote address and stayed with us to engage with FNA members.

• FNA partnered with Ron Sachs media firm to complete a state-wide survey of nurses on working conditions and report is forthcoming.

• FNA continued to promote its grassroots lobbying program to develop ongoing relationships with state legislators.

• FNA participated in developing a White Paper which addressed several key issues that have emerged in Florida during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

• FNA became the Co-Lead of the Florida Action Coalition.

• FNPAC interviewed candidates for the primary and general elections; several candidates were endorsed based on their alignment with FNA’s legislative agenda.

…And Where We’re Heading in 2023

As we wrap up an eventful and productive year, we are beginning to look forward to another busy year ahead! Here are some of the events and milestones you can look forward to in 2023:

Elections of FNA Officers and Directors

2023 is an election year for FNA! The call for nominations will go out in January with an initial deadline in early April to appear on the sample ballot printed in the May edition of The Florida Nurse. Additional nominations are accepted through mid-July with voting to take place during the first two weeks in August. Results of the Election are announced in September at the Annual Membership Assembly. If you are interested in running for a position and would like to learn more about the responsibilities of leadership, the Nominating Committee will be holding informational webinars early in the year to address your questions.

Events

FNA will be kicking off the year with a LGBTQ+ Health Conference on March 10 in the Tampa/St. Pete area. We will also be hosting our Annual Advocacy Days during Legislative Committee Week on February 8-9, 2023 at the Residence Inn in Tallahassee, FL. Other events to look forward to with dates to be announced are the FNA Story Conference, an FNA Public Health Summit, the 9th Annual FNA Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Conference, and the 2023 FNA Membership Assembly. Bookmark our event calendar and follow us on social media to stay informed about upcoming events.

Committees - Applications are Open for 2023 Terms

Are you looking for a way to get more involved in FNA? We are currently seeking additional volunteers to fill vacancies in several committees. Like most organizations, FNA has standing committees that are a part of the governance structure. Committee members are critically important in steering the association. Their input drives the work of the association and ensures that the member’s voice is a key factor in planning activities and initiatives. To submit your committee application, please complete the form at https://www.floridanurse.org/ volunteercommitteeapp no later than December 1, 2022.

Speaker Proposals

Did you know that the majority of educational presentations provided by FNA are presented by FNA Members? Presenting for FNA is a great way to give back to the nursing profession and to build your resume of curriculum vita. We are always seeking new ideas for topics that are relevant to the nursing profession. We encourage you to submit your proposal for a topic you’d like to present on at www. floridanurse.org/Speak. For more information, please contact Kaitlin Scarbary at kscarbary@floridanurse.org

Legislative Action Team

The Mid-terms are almost over but that means our work is just beginning. We need a team of dedicated volunteers to select a legislator, read their bios and educate themselves about that individual and become their FNA “go-to” person. The way we make a difference is through the local grassroots connections. We have resources to help, you can go to our website and click on the Legislative Tab but you can also call us and we will be happy to share information to support you.

Share your Ideas or Challenges

This is often the way proposals are brought to the Assembly for discussion. We often hear these ideas after the Assembly when it is too late to adopt them as an FNA position. This may relate to products, services or initiatives FNA can engage in. While we may not always be able to enact the exact idea, we may be able to start work on an issue or develop an education strategy.

Greetings everyone! Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the 5B documentary event. Please let me know if you are interested in being part of the Northwest Region Leadership Council. You would be instrumental in planning collaborative events in your local area. If you would like to be part of our region’s leadership council, share any professional accomplishments, or have any regional activity ideas/questions, please feel free to contact me at info@floridanurse.org. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve our region!

Dr. Jake Bush

The North Central Region had a great showing of nurses representing our Region at the FNA Membership Assembly. One member from our Region was the recipient of an FNA Phoenix Award. Congratulations to Carolyn Lightner for this achievement! Region members met during the Assembly and discussed ideas for future engagement projects in the Region. Stay tuned for more announcements. We look forward to connecting in the New Year!

Hello Northeast Region! Welcome past, present, and future members. The FNA Annual Membership Assembly was held Sept 22-24 where we had several opportunities to network with each other in a beautiful venue. There were interactive sessions, luncheons, poster displays, and guest speakers including Dr. Ernest Grant, President of the American Nurses Association. Congratulations to Dr. Valerie Morrison of the Northeast Region for receiving the 2022 FNA Nursing Administration Icon Award!

During assembly, we also were able to hold our first Regional meeting of the year. We have a very engaged group of members who have many ideas and suggestions as to how we can better advocate within our local area. Topics of discussion were future legislative bootcamps, town hall meetings, local delegation meetings, partnerships with local universities, regional events every quarter, and discussion surrounding upcoming Advocacy Days. A planning meeting will be held sometime in the month of October to organize regional events for 2022/2023. If you have suggestions for activities in our region, please feel free to contact me via FNA at info@ floridanurse.org. Happy Fall and I hope everyone stayed safe and continues to be safe during a very unpredictable hurricane season.

We had a wonderful representation of members from the East Central Region that attended the FNA Membership Assembly. Our conversations focused on workforce shortages, sexual & reproductive health education and DEI, and PPE supplies. During our meeting, we solidified several initiatives that we will be focusing on in the coming months. Within our Region, we will be forming a taskforce to develop strategies that address each of those issues. We are looking forward to a productive year!

Congratulations to the 2022 FNA Icon Award recipients from East Central Region! Stephen Applegate, RN - winner of the Undine Sams Award for Collective Bargaining Orlando VA Healthcare System Quality Management Department - winner of the Promoting Environment for Excellence in Nursing Practice Icon Award

Here’s what’s happened:

Summer rolled into Fall with the Legislative Advocacy Training program offered through my FAU College of Nursing DNP project Out of the Shadows and Into the Light: Illuminating the Path to a Bright Future for Nurses through Increased Legislative Advocacy Training. All four sessions were well attended, interactive, and informative. Guest informant participants included FNA’s lobbyist Jack Cory with Public Affairs Consultants, and state legislators Senator Bobby Powell, (District 30) and House Representatives Mike Caruso (District 89), House Representative Joe Casello (District 90), and House Representative John Snyder (District 82), who all provided valuable insight during lengthy talk back Q & A sessions with our members. With an 84% post survey response and the data analysis underway, I expect we will continue to develop this Grassroots Legislative Training Program, so stay tuned!

Immediately following the close of the project, Membership Assembly was underway. A big thank you to all who joined our annual membership assembly this year - you represented the SE Region well! Our region’s September monthly leadership meeting was held live, with members from our region who traveled to the Assembly, many of whom are on our event planning committee. Our upcoming event – The Legislative Congratulatory Happy Hour Event being held in Martin County on November 18th, from 4:30p-8:30p - was the main topic of discussion and we are nearly there! Meeting minutes and event information are posted on the FNA website on the SE Region member platform. See you there!!

Congratulations to all award recipients honored during Membership Assembly for their outstanding commitment to Nursing, and a special shout out to our SE Region members who were recognized with awards: Dr. Charlotte Barry, Dr. Shirley Gordon, Dr. Beth King, Sherry Phillips, RN, and Christina Genson, RN, I am so thankful to be in your company.

Once home, the event planning committee hit the ground running by expanding our committee with the addition of the Indian River State College’s Student Nurses Volunteer Committee in Martin and St. Lucie Counties, whose 15 new members (and growing!) have been working diligently to ensure a successful event at their Martin County Chastain Campus – the upcoming Legislative Congratulatory Happy Hour Event. Well done everyone! Show your support by attending the event!!

And let’s not forget our Legislative committee! On October 4th, Capt. Deirdre Krause, dedicated committee member and enthusiastic leader in legislative advocacy, was joined by fellow FNA member, Bostella Walker, in showing support for Senator Bobby Powell, District 30. The two members generously represented our region and thanked Senator Powell for his contribution to nursing through his continued support of funding the Florida Center for Nursing. Thank you, ladies! Openings are always available for those interested in joining the committee.

Southeast Region Member Spotlight

While we were all busy at work, Hurricane Ian was busy gaining ground and although our friends to the west were scrambling to prepare, devastation fell upon our beloved west coast. But as caring, generous nurses do, one of our SE Region members attending the DNP program at Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing jumped into action, established a Venmo account the very next day, and after receiving $1,400.00 of donations in less than 24 hours, went to Costco on Friday, purchased and delivered products including water, non-perishable foods, baby formula, diapers, first-aid items, toilet paper and other essentials to underserved populations hand-to-hand, amidst the immediate, horrific, aftermath conditions. Exemplary of the compassion and service indicative of a nurse!

Bravo Olivia Stala, APRN, MSN, DNP Student! And warm thanks to the many of you who participated in and continue to provide Disaster Relief work over these past weeks.

We honor you and your commitment to service.

And to those who have experienced losses during this tragic storm, our thoughts and prayers remain with you and your families.

Many communities within the Southwest Region were devastated by the impacts of Hurricane Ian in late September. Our hearts go out to all the families impacted. We would like to express our gratitude to all the nurses who continued to work during and after the storm to care for their patients even while dealing with personal catastrophes of their own. After the storm, FNA sent out information about the Nurses in Need fund which provides grants to nurses in immediate need of financial assistance. We have done this for most of the major storms in the last several years but we have never received so many applications as we did from Hurricane Ian. Many of the stories shared from these nurses told of total losses experienced during the storm. A lot of those who applied are in the process of completely rebuilding their lives. The fund is desperately in need of donations to be able to provide for these nurses who continue to show up to work despite their difficulties. We ask that anyone who has the capacity to do so, please consider making a donation to the fund to help provide these much need grants to nurses in our community. Thank you to everyone who has already made a contribution. Together we are stronger!

Region News continued on page 10

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Contact: Human Resources, Jaime El Georr Jelgeorr@LNMR.org 561.655.8544, Ext. 2045 or we encourage you to apply online at: www.LNMR.org

Region News

Greetings South Region Members and Nurses Across Florida,

The goal of South Region is to support the Mission of the Florida Nurses Association by “Advancing the profession of nursing and promoting a healthy Florida.” Kudos to South Region for being number one in attendance at the 2022 FNA Membership Assembly. Your presence and enthusiasm were felt throughout the assembly. Thank you for attending our South Region meeting and for your invaluable input into planning our upcoming events.

The Membership Assembly was buzzing with updates on COVID-19, Long COVID, COVID-19 Bivalent Vaccine Boosters, enhanced barrier protection guidelines for Long-term Care Facilities, and most importantly, clinical updates on Monkey Pox by our South Region member and infection control expert, Barbara Russell during her presentation on “Emerging Infectious Disease Update.” If you ever had questions about the reality of climate control, and climate change’s devastating impact on older adults, low-income communities, children, and people of color, our Public Health Specialist, Deborah Hogan

was able to dispel those mysteries in her climate control presentation titled “Nursing: Protecting Our Planet, Protecting Ourselves.” Another eye-opening presentation for nurses was presented by the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Task Force that addressed the results of their survey exploring how well FNA is fostering diversity and cultivating inclusion and collaboration among its members and meeting the needs of Florida nurses across generational and cultural diversities. The panel included South Region’s immediate past Director, Dr. Marie Etienne, Dr. Susan Fowler, Dr. Charlie Buscemi, and Karen Kuperberg.

The vendors and poster sessions were vibrant, informative, and provided attendees with academic, educational, and career options. See South Region’s Dr. Patricia Messmer, posing with Dr. Trilla Mays from Chipola College following Dr. Mays mini presentation on the findings of her research involving “Student Nurses” Senior Practicum Experience and its Role in Transition to Practice. Although I did not win one of the great prizes, the takeaways provided by the vendors were nice and made great gifts for staff and students back home.

There were three major highlights of the 2022 Membership Assembly in this order: (1) Florida Center for Nursing’s presentation by Dr. Rayna Letourneau, Interim Director for the Florida Center for Nursing, which highlighted “the significance of research in assuring an adequate, qualified nurses’ workforce;” (2) ANA President Dr. Ernest J. Grant’s Keynote Address that reminded us that our 4.3 million nurses ranked number one (#1) in the annual Gallup’s poll as being the most honest and ethical profession; and (3) The Membership Awards’ Ceremony, chaired by South Region’s Dr. Luzmary

O’Campo, highlighted the best of 2022’s trailblazers. The following South Region members were recognized for their dedication, commitment, and work in nursing and for the people of Florida: Dr. Marie Etienne, Dr. Carmen Framil, and Dr. Luzmary O’Campo. The Honorable Kamia L. Brown, Democrat District 45 was also awarded for her support in passing key legislation on behalf of Florida Nurses. South Region also surprised FNA’s Executive Director with flowers and a gift card, thanking her for supporting all South Region initiatives and leading the greatest state nursing organization in America, FNA.

To close out my report, I want to thank FNA’s leadership team, beginning with Dr. Jan Adams, who has done an amazing job for our organization, the members of the Board of Directors, committee chairs, and most importantly, the FNA staff, who make themselves available to assist Florida nurses as needed. Congratulations to all Region Directors for their hard work and dedication to FNA over the past year.

Linda Washington-Brown, PhD., EJD, APRN-C, PNP, FNP, ANP, FAANP, FAAN

American Nurses Association, Minority Fellow, Alumna

Post-Doctoral Fellow, University of Pennsylvania, Center for Women, Children, and Families, Alumna Director, Florida Nurses Association South Region Vaccinations Clinical Coordinator, Caring Place Clinic

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn”

–Benjamin Franklin

Region News continued from page 9

Student Forum Special Interest Groups

The FNSA held its’ first face to face convention in two years at the Daytona Oceanfront Hilton on October 27-29. The Theme, “Excellence in the Face of Challenges: Embracing the New Normal” was brought home by keynote speaker Anne Peach who encouraged the future nurses with inspiring words she solicited from nurse leaders across the U.S. Mrs. Peach is a long-time friend of FNSA and a well-known mentor to many nurse leaders. Over 800 students attended this exciting event.

Congratulations go to the outgoing board who pulled together a successful convention in spite of never having attended a state meeting of this magnitude. Second Vice-President Vanessa Iturri was the planner and she created an impressive educational program as well as some fun activities for the attendees, including the Opening Night Luau party complete with a Limbo Challenge! The outgoing board is:

• Caroline Porter, President

• Lauren Fuller, First Vice President

• Vanessa Iturri, 2nd Vice President

• Leah Biddy, Corresponding Secretary

• Alexandria Moran, Recording Secretary

• Judith Philpott, Treasurer

• Christian De La Cruz Cancel, Region 3 Director

• Chris Greene, Region 4 Director

• Allison Kifer, Region 5 Director

• Ellie Noel, Region 6 Director

• Chloe Johnson, Region 7 Director

Two resolutions were submitted for consideration of the House of Delegates. The University of North Florida submitted a resolution entitled In Support of Mandate and Increasing Awareness for the Protection of Nurses from Patient Violence. The University of Central Florida submitted In Support of Education about Human Milk Feedings in Neonates to Prevent Necrotizing Enterocolitis.

A new board was elected and they will focus on rebuilding state membership and re-orienting school chapters and engaging them in the FNSA and NSNA activities. FNSA is a seven-time State Excellence Award Winner at the national level and with the support of the Deans and Consultants, chapter development is within reach.

A fun highlight of the convention is the annual Nursing Jeopardy game. This year for the second time, Dr. Brian Peach of the University of Central Florida was our “Alex Trebek” as schools squared off with each other for this fun game.

The coveted Diamond Chapter Award was given to The UCF Orlando Chapter of FNSA. This award goes to chapters who fulfill the criteria of excellence in several categories of association activities. Some of these include having members on the board, participating on committees, campus activities such as community service and legislative education and participation.

In the past few years FNSA boards have faced challenges in bringing boards together to do the necessary work. Even before COVID, the variation in clinical schedules and student work schedules have made planning regular meetings more difficult. The new board will be seeking creative solutions since our traditional Saturday meeting times have met with some difficulty.

We are also seeking to fill two vacant positions that were not filled by the election. The positions of Region 1 Director and Region 6 Director are currently vacant. The preference is for students from those Regions to fill these vacancies. If you are a faculty consultant or a student reading this article and can recommend a candidate or if you fit the description for one of these positions, please contact newly elected president Kelly York at fnsapresident@gmail.com and copy wfuller@floridanurse.org to apply.

The FNA Special Interest Groups: An Evolution

In 1998 FNA underwent a structural transition from Districts to Regions. As the structure was being re-designed, the members sought to provide an outlet for members who might have specific interests. This is how the Special Interest Groups (SIGs) were formed. Policies were crafted and it was established that five members were needed to form a Special Interest Group. We sent out a call to members to share their interests and at that time about nine SIGs were formed. Each group was asked to determine their purpose and to set goals. Over time, some groups determined there was no need for a SIG because other professional groups already existed that served the purpose. Others simply faded naturally.

Those that remain active are the Health Policy Special Interest Group, the Research Special Interest Group, the Ethics Special Interest Group, the Recent Graduate Special Interest Group and the Holistic Nursing Special Interest Group. People may express an interest when they join FNA or they can join at any time by emailing Iris Lopez at info@floridanurse.org

The Health Policy SIG meets monthly to discuss issues related to Health Policy and nursing Advocacy. We often promote our grassroots advocacy activities and provide education and instruction about communicating with legislators and participation in elections. Legislative updates are usually shared and educate students regarding how they can become involved in advocacy efforts. Chair: Karen Perez

The Research SIG is comprised of nurse researchers or those who have an interest in research. These members serve as reviewers of research proposals for deployment to FNA members, and they also review abstracts for our Research Conference and FNA Membership Assembly. This group serves as the planners of the Annual Research and Evidence Based Practice Conference as well. Chair: Lois Marshall

The Ethics SIG serves as a Think Tank for members interested in ethical issues that have an impact on nursing practice, healthcare and the patients we serve. They engage in interesting discussions to bring to light ethical issues nurses may be facing. They might also propose strategies or actions to the board, based on these discussions. This group is considering a Journal Club format for future discussions where an article will be sent to members to review for discussion. Chair: Jean Davis

The Holistic Nurses SIG is our newest group and they were formed to explore ways to make sure Holistic Nursing is visible and in the forefront of nursing practice. They have recently focused on the mental health of nurses which was thrust into the forefront during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and still remains a serious concern today in the aftermath of this devastating event. To that end, they came up with the idea of a Nurse ZEN ZONE on the FNA Website with resources to support nurses in their mental health practices. This website is under development and suggestions are welcome. This can be found at www.floridanurse.org/NurseZenZone. Chair: Vacant

The New Graduate SIG is dedicated to support new graduates in their transition to practice as well as to identify and develop future leaders of the Florida Nurses Association. Past new graduate groups have developed a mentoring program, a new graduate packet to be sent to each school at graduation time and a booklet to support new graduates. An update of these products is currently being discussed. Chair: Danielle Weaver

These Special Interest Groups are open to all interested members and members are also welcome to submit new ideas for Special Interest Groups that they think may be of a benefit to the membership. To join any Special Interest Group, you may email info@ floridanurse.org. To propose a new Special Interest Group, please write a letter of interest to the FNA Board of Directors and email it to info@floridanurse.org

Kelly York

Focus on New Grads Committee Updates

Recent Graduate Advisory Board is Essential to our Future

Recently, we found that a significant portion of our membership has been in practice five years or less, which was a wonderful discovery. With that revelation, we really started to examine what we could offer specifically to new graduates as they begin their careers or as they transition at different points in their careers.

It was determined that it would be best to work with new graduates (for our purposes, nurses who have been in practice five years or less) to determine what their needs are as well as what strategies would be effective in engaging recent grads. We are seeking to form an Advisory Board made up primarily of recent graduates with the goal of developing programs and products to support these valued members.

If you are interested in participating in this group, it will meet virtually (unless the group decides otherwise) to facilitate immediate action on these issues. Please email Iris Lopez at info@floridanurse.org

Task Forces

Task Forces Continue their Work

The FNA Pandemic and Disaster Task Force has moved forward their agenda with substantive work over the past two years. From their original reference proposal to education programs including the upcoming Mental Health Webinar, their work has been prolific. Currently, a video is under production which will tell nurses’ stories of their experiences during the Pandemic. Deirdre Krause is the chair of this group.

The Social Justice Task Force and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force merged to become the JEDI Task Force. The DEI Task Force conducted a survey of the membership to determine the DEI status of the FNA, looking at member perception of inclusion and engagement as well as many other factors. The Social Justice group planned education offerings to address disparities and other issues. The Task Force conducted a Plenary Session at the Membership Assembly which was followed by workgroups who came up with recommendations for the Task Force to continue their work. The group met after Membership Assembly to prioritize the recommendations and will be meeting in December to finalize the plan. Marie Etienne and Sue Fowler are co-chairs of this group. There has been discussion about this group becoming a Special Interest Group as these concepts should be a constant objective of the work of the FNA.

Those wishing to join either of these groups can email Iris Lopez at info@floridanurse.org and state their intention to join.

Are you looking for a way to get more involved in FNA? We are currently seeking additional volunteers to fill vacancies in several committees. Like most organizations, FNA has standing committees that are a part of the governance structure. Committee members are critically important in steering the association. Their input drives the work of the association and ensures that the member’s voice is a key factor in planning activities and initiatives. Read below for more information on each of the committees. To submit your committee application, please complete the form at https://www.floridanurse.org/ volunteercommitteeapp no later than December 1, 2022.

The Bylaws Committee oversees the governing document of the association and reviews them regularly to ensure that they are serving the organization in a way that supports the mission and complies with best practice. This committee is great for individuals who love organization, structure, and order.

The Reference Committee promotes, receives and reviews Reference Proposals from members or structural units. Each proposal contains a statement of importance and recommendations for actions that the association might make. These are brought before the Membership Assembly and discussed and voted on. If they are adopted, they become a position of the association. This committee would be great for a member who understands and is passionate about an issue and who is adept at editing and evaluating content.

The Membership Committee works on initiatives and strategies to promote and preserve membership in the professional association. This committee would be great for a creative member who is excited about the association and wants to inspire and motivate others to join. Creativity is a great attribute for a member of this committee. We are particularly interested in having recently graduated nurses join this committee to ensure the needs of new nurses are being addressed.

The Awards Committee reviews and scores nominations for FNA Peer Recognition Awards each year. The awards have been created by leadership over the years and also have been amended or completely changed by various committees. Nominations are sought from the membership and the committee receives those nominations. This committee is great for members who are passionate about recognizing professionalism.

The Membership Assembly Planning Committee serves as the Peer Review Committee for the selection of educational content at the annual Membership Assembly. Speaker proposals are accepted from the membership and reviewed by committee co-members. The committee also makes recommendations to the board regarding various aspects of the conference. This committee is great for members who are passionate about bringing nurses together. Experience in reviewing/creating educational content is a plus but not required. Submit your committee application at https://www.floridanurse.org/ volunteercommitteeapp no later than December 1, 2022.

Injuries & Illnesses Among Registered Nurses at Work

John Berry, Director of Labor Relations

Registered Nurses (RNs), while performing routine tasks and responsibilities, experience an increasing amount of workplace challenges during their shifts, which can lead to a greater incidence of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. Workplace injuries and illnesses, as well as type and severity, will vary according to worker age, physical condition and work environment.

John Berry

Registered Nurses are a key component of our health care system as they are the largest group of professionals that provide direct care to patients. They also contribute to and promote public health by providing educational services, health screenings, working in clinics, and performing numerous healthrelated responsibilities. While nurses work in many environments, sixty-one percent of nurses work in hospitals. Research in hospitals has shown that hospital employees have a higher number of incidents for rate of injury and illnesses. RNs experience some of the highest injury and illness rates in the healthcare and social assistance sector.

According to the article, Occupational Injuries and Illnesses among Registered Nurses, “Many of the approximately three million RNs working across all industries face workplace hazards in performing their routine duties. Because RNs spend time walking, bending, stretching, and standing, they expose themselves to possible fatigue, slips, trips and possibly falls. They are often required to lift and move patients which renders them vulnerable to back injuries. They are exposed to potentially harmful and hazardous substances, including drugs, communicable diseases, radiation, accidental needlesticks, and toxic chemicals used for cleaning, which create risk of injury and illness. In 2016, it is reported that workplace hazards for RNs resulted in 19,790 non-fatal injuries and illnesses that required at least one day away from work. This is an incidence rate of 104.2 cases per 10,000 full-time workers in private industry. (Dressner and Kissinger)

Workplace injuries and illnesses for RNs result in a large monetary impact to institutions and to society. It is imperative to reduce future hazards through

improvements in policy and technology by gaining a better understanding of current injuries and illnesses. RNs are essential to the healthcare workforce , and we must work to strengthen the system at its core and improve patient care, by implementing better injury and illness prevention programs.

Although, as previously stated, sixty-one percent of all RNs work in hospitals, 74.1 percent of all nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses to RNs in 2016 happened in hospitals, clearly demonstrating that there are more RN injuries in hospitals than in all other work environments.

In reviewing the data from 2016, “female RNs sustained 91.2 percent of the 19,790 total injuries and illnesses that occurred within the profession. In the same year, about 90.0 percent of all RNs in the United States were women. Nurses ages 45 to 54 accounted for 27.0 percent of all injuries and illnesses. About half (9,580) of the injured RNs were long-term employees who worked for their employer for five or more years.” (Dressner and Kissinger)

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs. Sprains or strains that result from overexertion in lifting are considered MSDs. The Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII) estimates the number and incidence rates of MSD cases requiring days away from work.

According to the data from 2016, “RNs in the private industry experienced 8,730 days-away-fromwork cases classified as MSDs. These MSDs occurred at an incidence rate of 46.0 cases per 10,000 fulltime workers, significantly greater than the rate for all occupations (29.4 cases per 10,000 workers). SOII data shows that MSDs accounted for 44.1 percent of all RN cases in 2016. Patients were the primary source of these MSDs, causing 5,850 (67.0 percent) of all nonfatal MSD cases. The most affected part of the body was the back which accounted for 51.8 percent of all MSD cases.” (Dressner and Kissinger)

The data reveals that RNs experienced a higherthan-average incidence rate in MSDs. The majority of nonfatal injuries and illnesses among RNs resulted from overexertion and bodily reaction, and the case circumstances of nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the occupation varied by worker age.

In May of 2022, the U.S. Department of Labor published in The Economics Daily a study entitled Nonfatal injuries and illnesses resulting in days off work among nurses up 291 percent in 2020. The study found that “there were 78,740 cases of non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses that resulted in at least one day away from work among RNs in the private sector” (U.S. DOL, Bureau of Labor Statistics). This marked a 290.8 percent increase, about four times the amount of cases compared with 2019, when there were 20,150 cases. The study found that exposure to harmful substances or environments was the primary factor in the drastic increase from 2019 to 2020. There were just 660 of these cases in 2019 compared with 55,750 in 2020. (U.S. DOL, Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Awareness of the injury data from the work environments, age groups, and the health effects of the workloads, and types of injuries, give us information that is useful in presenting a case for determining the most effective strategies for reducing the high rates of injury and illnesses in nurses. This work is essential for the health and well-being of the nursing workforce as well as for safe and effective quality patient care.

References:

Michelle A. Dressner and Samuel P. Kissinger, “Occupational injuries and illnesses among registered nurses,” Monthly Labor Review, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, November 2018. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, The Economics Daily, Nonfatal injuries and illnesses resulting in days off work among nurses up 291 percent in 2020, May 2022.

Legislative Update

‘Tis the Season… for Grassroots Advocacy

Election season is over and now it is time to focus on grassroots! You can find your newly elected members of the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate on their respective websites or by going to www.floridanurse.org/ FindMyLegislator

While it will take time for new members to get offices set up, you can still reach out and meet with your members in the district. We suggest first reaching out by email and congratulating the new member. Let them know what kind of nurse you are and that you are a member of FNA. Then simply request a meeting to discuss the FNA priorities for this coming Legislative Session. If they don’t have an office, offer to meet them for coffee.

Remember, these newly elected members are ready to learn about the issues facing their constituents, so make sure you only visit your member.

Also, be on the lookout for the Legislative Delegation Calendar. This shows when and where every delegation (meaning your county’s elected officials) will have an open meeting to discuss issues affecting their area. Please attend these delegation meetings and share the FNA 2023 Legislative Priorities with the Delegation.

Additionally, be sure you are still meeting with your re-elected Legislative Members. Reach out to them and set up meetings to discuss the 2023

FNA Legislative Priorities, as well as thank them for their continued support of FNA’s priorities with the generous funding given to the Florida Center for Nursing.

Download the 2023 FNA Legislative Platform at www.floridanurse.org/Advocacy.

As always, should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jack, Keyna or Erin. We are here to help you continue to grow FNA and provide for a healthier Florida.

Erin Ballas, Jack Cory, and Keyna Cory of Public Affairs Consultants represent the interests of the Florida Nurses Association’s Legislative Program

2022 – 2023 Calendar of Events

Some meetings such as committee meetings and recurring regional meetings are not included in the list below. View the Full FNA Calendar at www.floridanurse.org/events

Mental Health PPE: Protecting Personal Emotions Webinar

November 14, 2022 | 6:30pm - 7:30pm ET

Southeast Region Legislative Congratulatory Happy Hour

November 18 | 4:30pm - 8:30pm ET

Indian River College Chastain Campus, Stuart, FL

Workplace Rights: What Nurses Need to Know Webinar

December 6 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm ET

2023 FNA Advocacy Days

February 8-9, 2023 | Residence Inn, Tallahassee, FL

LGBTQ+ Health Conference

March 10, 2023 | Location Pending - Tampa, FL

Health Policy Special Interest Group

Every Second Tuesday | 7:00-8:00pm EST | Zoom Meeting

Ethics Special Interest Group

Every Third Tuesday | 6:00-7:00pm EST | Zoom Meeting

Holistic Nursing Special Interest Group

Every Third Thursday | 5:00-6:00pm EST | Zoom Meeting

Interested in presenting for FNA? Go to www.floridanurse.org/speak

Members of FNA/ANA will be given priority.

We welcome all nursing students and Registered Nurses regardless of membership status to all of our events unless otherwise noted. For registration and more information about FNA events, go to www.floridanurse.org/events

State Employee News

Welcome New Leadership!

What an incredible time it has been for the field of public health, as you and other public health care professionals here in the state of Florida have battled the COVID 19 virus, (as well as Monkeypox and others) and provided hurricane protection for our residents, the wards of the state and our visitors. As “first responders” on the front lines, we here at the Florida Nurses Association are forever grateful for your hard work, expertise and dedication!

Join us in welcoming your newly elected Health Care Professionals Bargaining Unit state officers!

As meetings for a new contract begin, we will be working hard to represent you in our state negotiations again this year. Just as we worked hard and successfully for the pay increase for state employees in 2022, we will continue that effort in 2023, so that salaries will become more competitive with nurses and health care professionals in the private sector. We will also continue to represent our members in grievance issues, and threats to their employment.

How can you help? What decision can you make to help strengthen your Bargaining Unit? First, thank you for your membership. Encourage your co-workers to join as well. A large and strong membership brings respect which helps with successful negotiations. Next, let us hear from you regarding any issues affecting your work sites. Many state employees have participated in ZOOM calls scheduled by John Berry, our FNA Director of Labor Relations and Government Affairs. Please email John (Jberry@floridanurse.org) or Bibi Lowton (govt@floridanurse.org) to join and learn more. You can also become a leader by volunteering to represent your workplace.

Lastly, become a Legislative Advocate on your personal time with your local Legislators! It is essential that they meet you and learn more about the important work that you as state health care employees do to protect our Florida residents! You can learn more about this role by accessing the FNA website and by joining us in February at Advocacy Days.

Let’s all resolve to support our Health Care Professional’s Bargaining Unit and our new leadership! Together we can build a stronger union!

In Solidarity, Debbie Hogan, RN, MPH | HCP Secretary/Treasurer

Carolyn Lightner President Vivienne Treharne Vice President

Debbie Hogan Secretary/Treasurer

Aron Bell Director at Large Matthew Honan Director at Large

FNA Returns to the State Capitol in Early 2023

Nurses are preparing for their annual trip to Tallahassee to advocate on behalf of nursing issues during the 2023 FNA Advocacy Days, scheduled for February 8-9, 2023. Advocacy Days is an annual event that empowers nurses to have a VOICE about legislative issues that affect their ability to practice and serve their patients.

The mission of the Florida Nurses Association is to advance the profession of nursing and promote a healthy Florida. One of the key foundations supporting that mission is a vibrant grassroots advocacy program involving the combined efforts of FNA’s lobbyists, staff and most importantly - its members. Each year, FNA releases a legislative agenda that identifies the top legislative priorities of the association for that year. Some issues, such as the protection of practice rights and safe work environments, stay on the agenda year over year while others come and go as the health policy landscape evolves and needs are identified. During the annual Advocacy Days, nurses and nursing students learn about the issues on the legislative agenda and how to effectively advocate on behalf of FNA. Advocacy Days is typically held during the Legislative Session, when state representatives and senators are in their capitol offices in Tallahassee. Attendees at Advocacy Days are instructed in the methods of effective grassroots advocacy and provided materials to share with their legislators prior to be taken to the State Capitol building for face-to-face meetings with legislators and their staff. The experience is one that lends itself to both seasoned advocates and those who are new to the process.

Participating in grassroots advocacy makes a difference. If nurses do not make themselves visible and their voices heard, how will legislators know what the collective needs of the profession are? It is critical to build relationships with elected leaders and establish a connection that allows for an informative dialogue on nursing issues. Legislators need to hear from nurses about issues that affect healthcare and the nursing profession. FNA’s members have a long history of advocating on behalf of nurses. Some of the most impactful legislation for the nursing profession, including the Nurse Practice Act, passed in large part due to the advocacy work of FNA members. Members have also helped protect the nursing profession by blocking the passage of legislation that would be detrimental to nursing such as those that would limit RN and APRN scope of practice. It is critical for nurses to carry on this advocacy work and to continue staying vigilant of proposed legislation.

If you are interested in being a part of this dialogue, we strongly encourage you to attend the FNA Advocacy Days in Tallahassee. More information on registration can be found on our website at www.floridanurse.org/AdvocacyDays

Nursing Community

QUIN Council

This past September, QUIN Council and a sub-group of the Florida Action Coalition joined forces to address some issues that have persisted in nursing for the past several years. QUIN Council is made up of over 20 nursing organizations and partners in nursing. The Action Coalition are leaders and members of the nursing community who came together after the 2010 report from the Institute of Medicine, Advancing Health, Leading Change. These are state-based groups who work in harmony with the Future of Nursing Campaign for Action through empowering nursing leadership and nurses to improve the health of the nation. The Florida Nurses Association is a founding member of QUIN and an organizational lead of the Action Coalition.

NCLEX pass rates have been a concern in Florida as they have plummeted in the past several years. At this meeting, the group heard a preliminary report from Rayna Letourneau, the Interim Executive Director of the Florida Center for Nursing, which focused specifically on NCLEX pass rates. This has been a focus of both QUIN, FNA and the Action Coalition as well as Nurse Educator organizations. The issue is not only a quality of care issue but also an education issue as well as a consumer issue because certain members of the public are affected by this problem if they attend a school, take out loans for their education but are then unable to practice. QUIN also addressed this problem in a recent white paper which will be distributed to stakeholders and available to interested parties by request. If you would like a digital copy, please send your request to Iris Lopez at info@floridanurse.org

Visit the QUIN Council website at www.quincouncil.org and also QUIN had developed a website to education potential nursing students at www.choosewithcare.education

Empower Patients with Diabetes –Florida 2-1-1 Network

Leigh Montejo

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes is a diagnosis that knows no boundaries. It affects all ages, all families, all communities. While it sometimes abruptly and impolitely enters into the lives of individuals, however more often it is sly and polite and enters over time.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) describes diabetes as an expensive epidemic with devastating consequences. In the state of Florida, 48.2% of the adult population are at risk for or currently have a diabetes diagnosis. Diabetes costs our state an estimated $25 billion dollars a year. Here, in the sunshine state, we must be prepared to prevent and overcome the effects of this diagnosis that often seems to quietly, yet significantly affect our community.

The Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu, the founder of Taoism, wisely said, “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” It can be a complicated and complex endeavor of a nurse (teacher) to empower a patient (learner) with the knowledge they need to succeed in the prevention or management of diabetes. However, it is an endeavor with the greatest potential for overcoming the devastating consequences of a disease that knows no limits.

In 2018, the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) was awarded a 5- year $1 Million dollar grant from the CDC to increase and expand the availability, access, awareness, and coverage of the National Diabetes Prevention and self-management programs throughout our state.

The Florida Alliance of Information and Referral Services (FLAIRS) in conjunction with the FDOH has played a valuable role in empowering Floridians with diabetes. Their support of the Florida 2-1-1- Network, a free, confidential service that answers questions and connects individuals with local community-based organization, programs, and services across our state ensures Floridians with diabetes or those at risk are provided with access to quality resources to improve and manage their health outcomes.

Florida nurses can equip patients with diabetes with the knowledge they need to manage their health – encourage patients to call 211 now to avoid having to call 911 later. Let’s empower them to succeed in achieving their lifetime goals.

References

1. American Diabetes Association. The Burden of Diabetes in Florida. Retrieved from: http://main.diabetes.org/ dorg/PDFs/Advocacy/burden-of-diabetes/florida.pdf

Author Biography

Leigh Montejo, DNP, FNP-BC is a certified family nurse practitioner (FNP) and provides onsite and virtual care for employer-sponsored wellness clinics in Tampa, FL. Additionally, she is an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing in Baltimore, MD. Dr. Montejo is committed to implementing evidence-based best practices in her roles as educator and clinician

The Miami VA Health Care System is seeking highly engaged RNs & LPNs for staff nurse positions in all settings, and RNs for Chief Nurse, Nurse Manager, and Assistant Nurse Manager positions in MedicalSurgical, Critical Care, Ambulatory Care.

Requirements for all positions: U.S Citizens and Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN and LPN licensure in a State, Territory or Commonwealth (i.e., Puerto Rico) of the United States or the District of Columbia. Graduate from an approved RN or LPN school accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and/or The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Current BLS/ ACLS.

Leadership qualifications: 3-5 or more years progressive management experience preferred. BSN or MSN (preferred) in nursing or related field.

Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) may be authorized to highly qualified RN Candidates.

The Miami VA Health Care System is seeking Medical Supply Technicians (Sterile processing)

Minimum high school diploma and one-year surgical technician or 1 YEAR SPS experience Preferred SPS national certification IAHCSMM(HSPA) OR CBSPD

For information and/or submit resumes contact: VHAMIANURSMSSRECRUIT@va.gov or please visit www.USAJOBS.gov

Highlights from the 2022 FNA Membership Assembly

The Florida Nurses Association held its first in-person Membership Assembly since 2019 at the Mission Inn Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills, FL on September 22-24, 2022. Attendees were excited and enthusiastic to be back together and enjoyed networking and comradery with their fellow nurses. Several pre-conference breakout sessions were offered on Thursday with topics ranging from the impact of climate change on healthcare to fostering global social change for nursing practice. These sessions were a bonus opportunity for attendees arriving early.

The main conference kicked off on Friday morning with a dynamic presentation from leaders within the FNA Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (JEDI) Task Force. In 2021 and 2022, the JEDI group launched a membership survey with the aim to 1) assess the current status of FNA’s focus, its members, and activities related to diversity and inclusion and 2) explore whether or not FNA fosters diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. Leaders Sue Fowler, Marie Etienne, Karen Kuperberg, and Charles Buscemi presented the results of the membership survey and led participants in an engaging work session discussing how inclusion and equity can be encouraged within practice, education, research, and leadership.

FNA was honored to be joined by the president of the American Nurses Association, Ernest J. Grant, who presented this year’s keynote address. His presentation served as an excellent reminder and update on all the ways in which the American Nurses Association is leading the nursing profession forward through advocacy and action. Multiple breakout sessions with a range of diverse topics were enjoyed by conference attendees on Friday afternoon. In addition, attendees enjoyed an in-depth presentation on workplace rights presented during the Saturday Advocacy Breakfast and received an update on the Florida Center for Nursing’s progress in assessing the nursing workforce prior to the Saturday Business Meeting.

The Annual FNA Icon Awards Celebration was held on the evening of Friday, September 23. Many outstanding nurses were honored for their contribution to fields within the nursing profession. This year, the Awards Committee instituted a new award category called the “Phoenix Award” to recognize the incredible sacrifices of nurses working at the bedside during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Three nurses were honored with this award. FNA also recognized members with

sustained membership for 25 and 50 years as well as star recruiters for their work in bringing new members to the organization. The full list of award winners recognized in 2022 is listed on page 19.

Outcomes from the Business Meeting

The official business meeting of the Florida Nurses Association was held on Saturday, September 24 with several actions for consideration presented to the assembly. Representatives from all eight Regions of the association were present. Several bylaws changes were presented, discussed, and adopted. In addition, the assembly adopted three position statements entitled Empowering Florida Nurses in Delegation to Assistive Personnel, Supporting a Safe Staffing Nursing Model, and Surgical Smoke Evacuation Legislation Resolution.

The assembly also received an update from FNA Lobbyist, Jack Cory, on the importance of grassroots advocacy. Jack encouraged all FNA Members to familiarize themselves with FNA’s Legislative Priorities and meet with their legislators to build relationships and share the FNA Legislative Agenda.

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Welcome New FNA Members

Siana

Susan

Sonya

Lisa

Laura

Icy

Candi Owen-Heaton

Cinia Pineda

Rowena Bisagas Christine Bogner

Mary Bottorf

Eric Brown

Leila Bucheck

Kataya Caples

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Olyvia Corbisiero

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Annalise Escalona Gabriel Figueiredo

Nascimento Freitas

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Bobbie Powell

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East Central

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Guerrero

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Angela Maricle

Zoralda Martinez

Gloria Massey

Renalyn Mauricio

Dianne Mazzo

Dorrett McDonald-Lovell

Jenna Mcmillan

Stacey Milliman

Member Spotlight

FNA Member, Rebecca Falanga, MBA, RN, CCM-R was recently published in the American Nurse. Her article, Embrace the Power of Virtual, reviews strategies using existing technology to support bedside nurses, professional care collaboration and expand the capacity for education. Go to https:// www.myamericannurse.com/ embrace-the-power-of-virtual/ to learn about creative collaborative practices to broaden the reach of expert nurses.

FNA member Melisa Hayman recently completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice at the University of Central Florida. Her doctoral project was Applying a Mindfulness Based Intervention to Improve Resilience and Decrease Occupational Stress in Clinical Nurse Managers. Melisa is the Director of Nursing Excellence and Magnet Programs at Tampa General Hospital in Tampa.

Addressing Nursing Workforce Issues

The nursing workforce is facing critical shortages which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 Pandemic. FNA has actively sought input from frontline nurses and nurse leaders around the state about the various ways in which nursing staffing issues and work environment issues create significant challenges within healthcare systems. In addition, we seek to continue providing support for nurses by garnering feedback that drives our actions with the goal of being an effective advocate. To that end, we will be featuring member articles related to solving nursing workforce challenges in this new feature column. For more information please contact Kaitlin Scarbary, Editor, at kscarbary@floridanurse.org

Hospital RN Shortage Call to Action: Modern Problems Require Modern Solutions

Sandra D. Shapiro, DNP, CNL-BC, FNP-BC

Healthcare is on the verge of impact with a widening gap. Patients are living longer with more comorbidities, requiring more human resources (Haddad, Annamaraju & Toney-Butler, 2022). Moreover, the labor market has declined as RNs are leaving the hospital bedside due to various factors outpacing new entrants: moral injury, pursuance of nursing roles elsewhere and accelerated retirement. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022) project 500,000 seasoned nurses are expected to retire between now and the end of 2022, creating a shortage of 1.1 million nurses. This number is expected to increase exponentially causing a further dent into the labor market, enlarging the deficit. This widening shortfall is palpable in many clinical settings.

In the past, the healthcare industry has identified methods to bandage our ongoing shortage. Because of its lucrativeness, many nurses left the hospitals for travel nursing positions. Travel nurse companies saw a 35 percent growth over the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (Yang & Mason, 2022). Unfortunately, utilizing travel nurses isn’t a sustainable model and is a temporary fix to the long-term problem.

Hospitals have also been recruiting LPNs to fill these gaps. Because research shows higher levels of nurse education are linked to better patient outcomes, LPNs

are usually first to be replaced as RN recruitment gains momentum again. Although LPNs are a lower expense than an RN, from the administrative perspective, better patient outcomes yield higher reimbursement, which is needed for recruitment and retention, improved technology, advancing healthcare and access to it.

Nursing schools and colleges also offered a solution. In the early 2000s, the accelerated BSN program was created to rapidly generate more RNs and alleviate our shortfalls. This allows any college graduate to be NCLEX prepared from an accredited nursing program in as little as 14 months. This does not include prerequisites, which can also be done in as little as two semesters. Thus, a student with no prior medical experience can graduate with a BSN and be NCLEX eligible in less than two years.

Nursing must begin to recognize the previous training and experience of LPNs and provide them with an opportunity to become BSN prepared and NCLEX eligible just as efficiently as the accelerated BSN programs. We need to call upon our nursing colleges, schools and hospitals to create an affordable, efficient and direct pathway of LPN-BSN licensure. While we do have standard LPN to RN programs, requiring at least three years to complete compared to the previously mentioned accelerated BSN programs. Moreover, many LPN-BSN programs are offered by costly private pay institutions, which don’t always have clinical site

availability, leaving students stranded to find their own preceptors.

We have the ability to create a new solution to an old problem: accelerated LPN to BSN programs. Nursing schools and colleges are urged to collaborate with the AACN and local hospitals to foster an innovative curriculum. Hospitals with LPNs at the bedside can support an accelerated program by providing capital, clinical sites and engaging in Academic Partnership Units, which have demonstrated lower turnover rates from 7% to 24% after one year (Aull & Nobles, 2022). This is a win-win solution and the sooner the better for everyone.

Sources:

Haddad LM, Annamaraju P, Toney-Butler TJ. Nursing Shortage. [Updated 2022 Feb 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493175/ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses (2022) https://www. bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm

Yang, Y.T. and Mason, D.J. (2022). COVID-19’s impact on nursing shortages, the rise of travel nurses, and price gouging. Health Affairs. https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/ forefront.20220125.695159/

Aull, M. and Nobles, P. (2022). The academic partnership unit: Educating, recruiting, and retaining BSN nurses. Journal of Nursing Administration, 52, E1-E2. https://doi.org/10.1097/ NNA.0000000000001113

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