Connecting with the Community
Tina Wilson, Chief Nursing Officer
HGH is a vital pillar of our healthcare community and proudly serves Winnemucca and the surrounding areas as a large critical access hospital We are deeply committed to growing and developing talent from the very beginning. Here at HGH we actively welcome new nurse graduates, valuing the fresh perspectives, energy, and passion they bring to our team Giving them the opportunity to learn alongside experienced professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and expertise. Helping them foster clinical competence, confidence, and resilience while laying out a strong foundation for their future career. Our shared purpose is unwavering: to deliver exceptional patient care with compassion, dignity, and respect at every encounter. Nurses have always played a critical role in our success. I invite you to consider joining our dedicated team at HGH. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve while pursuing personal and professional growth in a supportive and inspiring environment. Learn more about our nursing positions on page 14
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Humboldt General Hospital (HGH) is a County Hospital District, meaning it is a community-focused healthcare facility established and governed under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 450).
HGH is overseen by an elected board of trustees, who are responsible for ensuring that the hospital operates in the best interests of the community. As a County Hospital District funded in part by tax dollars, HGH is committed to being fiscally responsible with public funds, ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely to benefit the health and well-being of our community.
HospitalWeek HospitalWeek at HGH
“Healing
Happens Here”
HospitalWeekismorethanjustacelebration.Itisatimeto recognizeandthanktheincredibleemployeesofHumboldt GeneralHospitalwhodedicatethemselvestoourcommunity eachandeveryday.
Everydepartment,role,andemployeeplaysapartincaringfor ourpatientsandsupportingoneanother.Whetherworkinglong shifts,comfortingfamilies,respondingtoemergencies,preparing meals,cleaningrooms,answeringphones,orkeepingthe hospitalrunningbehindthescenes,HGHemployeescontinueto showheartwitheverythingtheydo.
Thisyear’sHospitalWeekcelebrationwasmadepossible throughtheeffortsofHGH’sLeadershipTeam,whoworkedhard tocreateaweekfocusedonrecognizingandupliftingstafffor thecommitmentandcaretheyprovidethroughouttheyear.
Departmentsacrossthehospitalhostedgamesandactivities thatbroughtemployeestogetherandfilledthehallswith laughterandfun.FromracecarsinAdministration,dartsinIT andmusicalchairsinHarmoneyManor,eachdepartmentadded itsownfunandcreativitytotheweek.Employeesvisited differentareasofthehospital,playedgames,collectedprizes, andcelebratedthepeopletheyworkalongsideeveryday.
Butbeyondthegamesandactivities,HospitalWeekwastruly aboutappreciation.Itwasaboutrecognizingtheemployeeswho continuetoshowupnomatterhowbusyorchallengingtheday maybe.
To every HGH employee: thank you for your compassion, your resilience, and the countless ways you care for others. This hospital would not be what it is without you, and we are deeply grateful for everything you do.
During Hospital Week, Humboldt General Hospital Celebrated the Nightingale Awards. An award that was made after Florence Nightingale to celebrate the dedication, skill, and critical role our nurses play in delivering quality care to patients in every setting.
This year, a total of 24 nurses were nominated for the Nurse Nightingale Award.
ThenomineesincludeKathrynOurada,Estefani Juarez,MelissaMoriera,CaitlynnDennis,KylieLewis, MariaMartinez,TiayraAndrus-Judy,LisaDavis,VaiFuli, BeckyTisue,SabrinaJensen,AmeliaMoye,TonyaStill, JacquelineDalley,DebbyWilliams,JenniferFernandez, CynthiaMarsden,HeatherBeach,JessicaGrannis, KellyCrossett,JoelYoung,AdrianaCalderon, RobertRives,andKyleKelly.Congratulationstoallof
these nurse nominees and their extraordinary compassion, skill, and dedication!
From OB, Acute, to Harmony Manor, the Walk in Clinic, Surgery, Quail Corner and ER, we want to recognize the incredible nurses of Humboldt General Hospital for the compassion and strength you bring to our patients and community.
Nursing is more than just a profession; it is a calling Every shift, they are working as the heart of patient care. Providing comfort during hard times, delivering expert care with professionalism, and working in a field that takes courage and spirit like no other.
“To all of our nurses thank you. Thank you for the countless hours, the compassionate hearts, and the incredible skill you bring to your work every day.
difference in the lives of so many, and we are honored to celebrate you during Nurses Week and always.”
-Bertha Higbee, CNO
This year’s Nurse Nightingale Award was given to Adriana Calderon.
Adriana has dedicated many years of her career serving patients and community with compassion, kindness, and unwavering commitment She has served as an RN, ICU RN, a charge nurse and a position management. Touching countless lives, always leading with a caring heart and a passion for nursing.
“Adriana embodies the very best of nursing. Through her compassion, clinical expertise, and unwavering commitment to those she serves, she makes a profound difference every day. She consistently goes above and beyond not only for her patients, but also for her colleagues serving as a role model of professionalism, kindness, and dedication.” -Bertha Higbee
Congratulations Adriana, thank you for making HGH a better place.
MonarchAwards
During Hospital Week, Humboldt General Hospital presents the MONARCH Awards. The MONARCH Program was created to honor those who go the extra mile to support patients, coworkers, and HGH’s mission
Motivate • Optimistic • Nurture • Adapt • Respectful • Care •Helpful Here are this years nominees and winners!
The Provider Category recognizes the providers of the hospital. Whether they are caring for patients in the clinic, responding to emergencies, performing
procedures, or simply taking the time to listen, their dedication and compassion help make HGH a place of quality care. Kyle Kelly was the winner of the provider category. Taking the time to care for every patient who comes to the Walk-In Clinic. Showing compassion and care while treating each patient.
The EMS category recognizes our first responders here at HGH. They are often the first to arrive on the scene of an accident and the first to provide care. Frances Peterson was the winner of the EMS category
'Frankie' has been with Humboldt General Hospital for years. She has always been active in reaching out to the community; helping with community education however she can. She is a joy to be around at all times. EMS truly would not be the same without her on the team!
The Direct Patient Care Category is meant to recognize those who care for patients before the providers even arrive. Sarah Crews was the winner of the Direct Patient Care category She cares
deeply for her patients, with compassion like no other Whether it’s day or night, Sarah is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure her patiens recieve the care and support they deserve. Thank you Sarah for everything you do for this hospital.
MonarchAwards
and patients are well informed and receive quality care. Alma Carrillo was The Business Office / Patient Access Category recognizes the individuals who work tirelessly to make sure that both staff
the winner of the Business Office / Patient Access category. Alma brings her best to work each and every day. She is always ready with a smile, a helping hand, and words of encouragement for both patients and coworkers
The Indirect Patient Care Category is meant to recognize those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support exceptional care throughout the hospital. Odali Ruiz was the winner of the
indirect patient care category. Odali is a joy to be around. Whenever you see her in the halls, she always has a smile. No matter the task or challenge, she is always willing to step up, lend a hand, and give her very best
ho work tirelessly to make g y er category As the head of Materials,
she is always making sure each department has the proper supplies they need in order to get their job done.
Devoting countless hours, in and out of work, into making sure everything runs smoothly. Her hard work and dedication just go to show how much this hospital means to her, and how much she means to the hospital
A congratulations to all of the MONARCH Award no winners. Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. Thank you for being a part of the community that makes HGH truly special.
StaffGraduations Staff Graduations
2 2 0 0 2 2 6 6
aduation is a time of celebration, a chance to recognize achievement t has gone into completing each program. From balancing work, fam duation is no small accomplishment. This year, we are proud to hono duates from various programs, each with their own unique journey.
From Great Basin College, several of our employees have reached important milestones. Cecilia Quirarte, our Insurance Claim Biller, graduated with a Medical Coding and Billing certification. Edith Barrera, an apprentice nurse in SNF, graduated with an Associates of Arts in Nursing.
Mary Cassell graduated HGH’s M.A.P.E Program this year and is now working as a medical assistant for HGH. We hired on a range of New Grad Nurses as well. Jessica Mendoza will be going into SNF. Edith Barerra will be going into Med/Surg, and Joslynn Quintero will be going into the ER.
Our Social Services Coordinator, Tasheena Egan, graduated with her Bachelor of Social Work Alexa Goddard who graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing. An extra congratulations to Kaylee Baisley who has graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing.
We also want to celebrate the nine graduates from the Lowry High School EMT class: Allyssa Venzor, Jace Frydendall, Caden Stovall, Georgia White, Tessa Rodrigues, Vyctorya Ponce, Jonathan Moser, Israel Contreras, and Misael Gutierrez.
“I’ve seen your hard work, your growth, and the way you supported each other through every challenge This class will forever hold a special place in my heart Congratulations to my EMT graduates. Words cannot express how proud of you I am." -Bree Dunckhorst, EMT Instructor These students all plan on pursuing a medical career after graduation from Lowry.
We could not be prouder of all the graduates this year Your success not only reflects your passion for learning, but also strengthens the care we provide to our community, both now and in the future. Congratulations graduates, we are excited to see what you may accomplish next!
Awarded Scholarships 2026
The Employee Committee is committed to supporting both our staff and the broader community. As part of the HGHEC Giving Campaign, we’re proud to announce that $10,000 in scholarships have been awarded to Lowry High School students. Each recipient was selected for their hard work, perseverance, and dedication to continuing their education. These students have shown remarkable determination, and we are proud to support them as they take the next step in their academic journey.
The best way to keep our community thriving is to support its members, something the HGHEC works to do every day. Through their generous donations, they are helping these students achieve their dreams and return with new skills.
This year’s award recipients include Lucy Brock, Kylee Wilkinson, Jon Moser, Madalynn Tagle, Audry Mason, Ashley Paniagua, Maite Avalos, Jace Sartor, Erick Valencia, Adelyn Quirarte, Kyra Schiermeister Jace Frydendall, Brynn Barto, and Adan Morfin.
Amanda Pratt
Saying Goodbye and Saying Hello
Bertha Higbee Retires
Amanda Pratt is Humboldt General Hospital’s Director of Clinic Services. She has been in this new position since January; working across departments to align clinic operations to help create seamless and coordinated experiences for our patients. “I am proud to be part of a team that values collaboration, innovation, and service to our community,” says Amanda, “and I look forward to continuing to help expand and enhance the healthcare services available to the people we serve.” Amanda is diligently finding ways we can improve our patient experiences at HGH, taking on each challenge with vigor and determination We couldn’t be more excited to have her on our team!
Casey Katzenmeyer
Casey Katzenmeyer is our new Plant Facility and Safety Director. With a family in healthcare, it seemed to be a natural fit for Casey to work at Humboldt General Hospital. As the new director, he already has filled the previous shoes of Duane who will be retiring this August. From fixing the cooling around the hospital, to passing boiler inspections from the state, his dedication goes far beyond maintaining the hospital. He has already become a meaningful part of the HGH team. Making sure that patients, staff, and visitors have a safe environment. His work may not always be seen, but his impact is felt through every department.
Bertha has been a part of Humboldt General Hospital for 22 years. This June 18 , she decided to retire. th Bertha first started her healthcare journey as a CNA. As the years went on, she took on each new position with determination and passion. Till finally she found herself as the Chief Nursing Officer of Humboldt General Hospital. “I am grateful for both the professional and personal growth this position has given me. I am excited for what new adventures and journeys that are yet to come. But I will miss everyone in this Hospital.” -Bertha We will miss Bertha, from the long nights and the hard days, from the rewarding moments and the big wins, her impact on this community will be remembered We wish you the best as you enjoy your retirement.
Tina Wilson, New Chief Nursing Officer
For the past 33 years Tina Wilson has been working with Humboldt General Hospital as the Director of Nursing Education. Working closely to train nurses coming into the hospital. and now she is stepping into the role of Chief of Nursing. She plans to continue working alongside our nursing team, rolling up her sleeves, putting on her scrubs, and supporting nurses whenever needed. Tina's experience, leadership, and dedication to HGH make her an outstanding fit for this role. We are excited to see her lead our nursing team into the future and look forward to all she will accomplish as Chief Nursing Officer.
Family Medicine Residency
Clinic: Graduation and New Residents
Since 2016, the Family Medicine Residency Program at Humboldt General Hospital (HGH) has been instrumental in training future physicians and supporting rural healthcare in Nevada. In collaboration with the UNLV Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, this program prepares compassionate, community-focused doctors who are committed to serving underserved areas in healthcare. Giving them real world experience.
This July, we proudly congratulated Dr. Carl Ketcham and Dr. Kyle Shepherd on their graduation from the Family Medicine Residency Program. Over the past two years, they have been integral to our care team building meaningful relationships with patients, gaining real-world experience, and providing high-quality medical care. While their graduation marked the end of their residency, it was a celebration full of heartfelt moments. CEO Robyn Dunckhorst shared a memorable opening speech, UNLV reflected on the start of our resident’s journey, and Shepherd and Kyle reminisced on their time with the hospital. Our Dietary Department helped make the day even more
Our 2026 Graduates
Our New Residents
special with a spread of delicious treats. Coworkers, family, friends, and community members gathered to celebrate this milestone. This graduation also marked the start of their new chapters. Dr. Shepherd will be continuing his medical journey at a VA in southern Utah as a primary care provider. Dr. Ketcham will be staying at Humboldt General Hospital as a family provider. They have formed meaningful relationships and have become trusted members of our healthcare team. We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished. And now you pass the torch to the two new residents in our Family Medicine Program Dr. Nabeel Qureshi and Dr. Danielle Eames. Nabeel Qureshi is a former High School Biology, Chemistry, and Math teacher. He has gone to school at Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine and has done multiple rotations in rural Idaho. Danielle Eames is a longtime Las Vegas resident who is committed to working in Nevada. Having her undergraduate School being UNLV and a 1-year Prelim Surgery resident at Creighton University Phoenix. We are excited to see what these two new residents will accomplish here at HGH!
Dr. Kyle Shepherd Dr. Carl Ketcham
Dr. Nabeel Qureshi Dr. Danielle Eames
FIT KIDS FIT KIDS
FREE SUMMER PROGRAM FREE SUMMER PROGRAM
Fit Kids is HGH’s Free Summer Program that encourages kids to get outdoors and be active.
Each event offered these kids something different to do each week. Whether it was dancing, obstacle courses, or hikes, these kids were learning how to care for their health and have fun while doing it.
A thank you to all of our volunteers, community members, community partners, staff, families, and kids for making these events possible.
Each event, kids were put into a raffle to win one boy's bike and one girl's bike. The winner of the Boys bike raffle was Kaiden Jones. The winner of the Girls bike raffle was Lily MacFarlane. Congratulations you two, we hope you enjoy your bikes the rest of the summer!
Thank you for helping us encourage healthy habits, active lifestyles, and lasting summer memories; we can't wait to see you all next year!
FIT KIDS KICK OFF FIT KIDS KICK OFF
BLACKOUT NATURE BINGO BLACKOUT NATURE BINGO WITH JACKLYN WITH JACKLYN
Tips to Beat The Summer Heat!
During extreme heat, avoid strenuous activity. Especially during peak heat times and high UV index times between 10AM to 4PM. Instead find a shady tree or shadow to relax under.
It’s summertime, and it is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything the community has to offer. Go for a hike, walk in the park, but most importantly, keep yourself safe from the summer sun. And here are some ways you can do just that.
Keep your body healthy and working properly by making sure to drink enough water. Don’t wait till you’re thirsty; sip throughout the day. A little tip, carry a water bottle and refill it often!
Applying broad spectrum sunscreen every 2 hours (SPF 30 or higher). Clothing choices help as well, like wearing wide-brimmed hats for head/neck/ear protection and sun protective clothing when outside. Sunburns can make it harder for your body to stay cool.
Call 911 if someone shows signs of heatstroke: a temperature above 103 degrees; red, hot and dry skin; a rapid pulse, dizziness; confusion; or unconsciousness. Heat related illnesses can be serious or even deadly.
Look before you lock. Never leave a child or pet in a parked car. Check your car for animals and children, as the temperatures inside an exposed car are greatly increased. Cracking a window won’t stop the car from reaching dangerous temperatures quick. Make sure to Make sur
Upcoming Events
Childbirth Education Classes
Be sure to register for any of our classes this coming month of August. Each class covers different healthy practices and provides information to keep you informed about your care.
Education Classes start back up.
Childbirth Education Class: August 8th
Newborn Care Class: August 17th
Lactation Class: August 10th
Pre-register for childbirth education classes here at:
https://www.hghospital.org/calendar/
Connections Challenge
I'm filled with caring hearts, helping hands, and hopeful moments.
My purpose is simple: providing quality care to every person who walks through my doors.
Because Healing Happens Here. What am I?
Night in the Country
Each year, EMS heads out to Night in the Country, July 23rd - 25th to help ensure everyone stays safe and well cared for. We love seeing the community come together, but safety remains a top priority throughout the event. Whether it’s dehydration, an injury, or something more serious, our Emergency Medical Staff is always ready to help.
National Night Out
National Night Out is one of the wonderful ways our community comes together to promote health and safety in Winnemucca. Hosted by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, the event features a variety of vendors and activities. Last year, some of our EMS staff participated by teaching effective CPR to attendees. We look forward to joining the festivities again this year August 4th and continuing to promote the importance of health and safety.
Spotlight on our Services: Orthopedics
From knee pains to planned surgeries, your orthopedic care is out top priority.
At Humboldt General Hospital Orthopedic Clinic, your orthopedic care is our top priority. We understand that you can’t plan for unexpected twists, strains, sprains, and breaks. However, you can plan on us making sure you get the care you deserve and the treatment you need.
Our Nonsurgical treatment and interventions include:
Arthritis
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Tennis elbow
Back and spinal issues
Bone fractures
Muscular disorders
Sports injuries
Hip Displacement
Cerebral palsy
Our Surgical treatments include:
Hip replacement
Knee replacement
Shoulder replacement
ACL reconstruction
Arthroscopic Surgeries
Trauma & Fracture care
Anterior Approach for hip surgery
Sports medicine
Please note that we do not provide treatment for cerebral palsy, most muscular disorders, or spine and back conditions. We offer both anterior and posterior hip replacement procedures, including the increasingly popular anterior approach, which many patients choose for its minimally invasive technique and potential for a faster recovery. Our partnership with the ROC orthopedic clinic brings expert orthopedic care close to home. Blending local, compassionate care HGH is known for with ROC’s specialized expertise, cutting edge treatments, and advanced technology. Allowing wide range of orthopedic care subspecialties that ensure treatment options are available for each unique needs of our patients. Having orthopedic concerns? Stop by HGH today!
Meet Kristin Pointon, APRN-CNP and Yolanda Gardner, APRN-CNP, your trusted orthopedic care providers.
. Kristin Pointon is a patient-focused family nurse practitioner who brings years of RN experience to and more than 670 hours of supervised clinical training to her advanced practice role. Known for her adaptability and motivation, she embraces new challenges and continues to grow her expertise.
Yolanda Gardner has more than two decades of clinical experience. She completed her undergraduate school here in Winnemucca at GBC, while completing her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of Nevada Reno. With more than two decades of clinical experience, she is known for her sound clinical judgment and collaborative approach.
Your orthopedic needs are sure to be cared for in the hands of these nurse practitioners. .
To schedule an orthopedics appointment call:
Are You Recently Graduated?
Check Out Job Opportunities Here at HGH Nursing
A registered nurse provides and coordinated professional patient care for patients on the medical, surgical, obstetrics, intensive care, emergency room, or skilled nursing facility according to established standards and practices. Educating patients and family members on treatment care plans, as well as answering their questions.
Environmental Aide (EVS)
Help keep Humboldt General Hospital clean, safe, and welcoming for our patients, visitors, and staff. As an Environmental Aide, you'll clean and disinfect patient rooms, restrooms, and public areas, handle linens and waste, operate floor care equipment, and help maintain a safe, sanitary environment throughout the hospital. A job where you can work both as a team and independently, if your goal driven we encourage you to apply!
Cook/ Dietary Aide
This role plays an important part in providing quality service and care to our patients, staff, and visitors each day. Responsibilities include delivering meals and nourishment carts to nursing units, preparing and serving patient trays, washing dishes and cookware, handling cashier duties for
staff and visitors, and maintaining a clean and sanitized
environment throughout the kitchen and serving areas. If you enjoy working in a team-focused environment and take pride in helping others, we encourage you to apply!
EMSWEEK EMS WEEK
May 17 through 23 was National EMS week. Whether responding to emergencies, providing comfort during difficult moments, or working behind the scenes to keep others safe, EMS’s impact on the community is immeasurable. We could not thank them enough for all that they do. We would like to recognize EMS for all that they have done these past months. From community outreach, car seat education, and th nd graduating a high school EMT class; here is just a little bit on what EMS was able to accomplish in a short amount of time!
For the Month of April
EMS:
Hosted one car seat safety class
Installed 17 car seats Provided 10 car seats to community members
April was one of the busiest months of the year so far for car seat checkpoints. EMS was out and about the community as they helped families learn the importance of keeping their children safe on the road.
EMS Visiting Schools
EMS went around to Rural schools in: Kings River, Orovada, Paradise Valley and McDermitt. They directly connected with students and teachers as they provided education on: Hands-only CPR, Stop the Bleed, and what to expect when calling 911. Helping these children be prepared in case of a future emergency
Each year, the Moving Honors Procession travels across the country to honor EMS providers who lost their lives in the line of duty. From California to Virginia, the procession makes stops at local agencies; holding formal ceremonies where the names of the fallen are read aloud, honor guards stand watch, emergency vehicles line the streets, and fellow providers gather to pay their respects The journey concludes in Arlington Virgina during National EMS Weekend of Honors. EMS stood over the bridge and saw the procession off as it continued the journey state to state.
Recipe
Triple Chocolate Cookies Recipe
Courtesy of Bobby Flay
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a sweet treat, and these Triple Chocolate Cookies are rich, chocolatey, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate
1/4 plus cup plus 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 stick unsalted butter
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (Medaglia D'Oro)
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup best quality white chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups toasted pecans, coarsely chopped
Connections Challenge Answer
The answer for this issue is: Humboldt General Hospital
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Melt the unsweetened and bittersweet chocolate together over simmering water until smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Beat butter and sugar together, then add eggs, vanilla, and espresso powder. Mix on high for 2 minutes
Slowly mix in the melted chocolate. Fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips and pecans.
Scoop dough onto a parchmentlined baking sheet, spacing cookies apart
Bake for 10–11 minutes. The tops should look dry while the centers remain soft.
Let cool on the baking sheet and enjoy!
