Nursing Awards

2012

Navigator presents a celebration of the nursing profession.

Excellence in

Nursing

In partnership with Alacare Home Health and Hospice Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing at Samford University Princeton Baptist Medical Center UAB School of Nursing

Innovative leaders transforming health for tomorrow.

Academic Programs Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Graduate: Accelerated Master’s in Nursing Pathway (AMNP)•For individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree

Graduate (Distance Accessible) :

RN to Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN): • Nurse Practitioner • Clinical Nurse Leader • Nurse Educator

• Informatics • Nursing Administration

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

2 b-metro.com

It was five years ago when Navigator was established in partnership with nursing programs at four schools across the Birmingham area—Jefferson State Community College, Lawson State Community College, Ida V. Moffet School of Nursing at Samford University, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing.

Navigator, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to mentoring high-risk nursing students who are confronted with personal and/or financial challenges during their nursing education process. Assistance is provided to students through two programs: the Navigator Enrichment Awards for Nursing School Success and the Navigator Nurse Mentorship Program, conducted in partnership with the Birmingham Black Nurses Association.

The majority of students enrolled in Birmingham area nursing School’s work 31+ hours while in school, and many also have small children and families at home to care for. According to these students, money / financial assistance is the number one factor essential to their continuation in school, followed by tutoring / mentoring. The financial strain of unexpected personal life events such as a loss of employment or divorce often forces students to drop out of school, and once they drop out, many never re-enroll.

In fact, promising students often leave school due to the lack of relatively small amounts of money, often well under $5,000. To help combat this problem, Navigator provides financial assistance of up to $1,500 to promising nursing students completing their final year of studies. Since 2009, Navigator has provided $81,500 in assistance to 64 students. Of these awardees, 62% have graduated from their nursing program, and another 20% are on-

track for graduation.

Another important way Navigator is helping support the development of nurses is through the Navigator / Birmingham Black Nurses Mentorship Program. The goals of the program are to foster professional growth among mentees, to increase the number of students graduating into the nursing profession and to increase student exposure to information related to nursing career choices. Students participating in this program are paired with experienced nurse mentors for monthly sessions on such topics as preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination, success in the clinical setting, and interview skills. Mentees are also sponsored for attendance at the National Black Nurses Association annual conference.

Nurses constitute the greatest percentage of providers of health care today and they have a significant impact on the quality and quantity of healthcare available. Navigator applauds our community’s nurses for their tireless energy, commitment beyond the call of duty, and passion for helping others. We are proud to help support the future of nursing in our community.

For more information on Navigator and its programs, go to www.navigatorpipeline.com.

Meet some of the outstanding students who earned Navigator Enrichment Scholarships for Nursing School Success: Nelvena Albert “A nurse plays a vital role in the therapeutic care and healing process of patients, and the ability to render competent care is the foundation to being a great nurse. I chose to become a nurse because of my genuine desire to help others.

But nursing is not an easy profession and it requires dedication and sacrifices. My

husband was a great support system and the sole financial provider for our family as I worked to obtain my nursing degree from Jefferson State Community College. The Navigator Scholarship was a tremendous blessing to me and to my family and helped me achieve my goal of becoming a nurse.

I am now working as a Nurse in a Nursing Home. I have always had a love for the elderly and I was blessed to find

employment within two weeks of passing my licensure exam last July. It is truly a fulfilling career choice and I plan to pursue further education because I would love to teach in the field of Nursing.”

Rachel Brandy “It’s recommended that you don’t work when you’re in nursing school because it’s such a strenuous field of study, requiring excellence in nursing 3

4 b-metro.com

Rachel Brandy

Erica Spraggins

Richard Cooks

Bridgette Gee

long hours and tremendous focus. I was in my senior year at Lawson State when I applied for and received assistance from Navigator. Navigator’s funds provided supplemental income that helped me through my clinical preceptorship, put gas in my car and food on my table. As I have a son who also depends on me, it was such a blessing to have that help.

I recently graduated from Lawson State with my R.N. and I will be taking State Board examinations in Nursing in the next couple of weeks. I am very grateful to Navigator for their support.”

Richard Cooks “I received information about Navigator from the nursing faculty at Lawson State Community College. Prior to nursing school I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Berea College, which made me ineligible to receive a Pell Grant while in nursing school at Lawson. I paid my nursing school tuition with funds I accumulated from working and help from family. In my last semester of nursing school, I did not know how I was going to fully pay for my classes; therefore, several members of the nursing faculty encouraged me to apply for a Navigator award through Dr. Sheila Marable.

Navigator’s support was helpful because it alleviated a portion of my financial burden. In addition, it allowed me to participate in a mentorship program conducted by Navigator and the Birmingham Black Nurses Association.

I am currently employed as a Registered Nurse at Princeton Baptist Medical Center on a Cardiology unit and I am in the process of applying for Master level programs in the healthcare profession.”

Cassie Crauswell Cassie grew up in an underprivileged family with a mother working in a school cafeteria earning a very low salary while raising three children.

Her father, incarcerated since she was a junior in high school, could not offer financial support.

She was able to attend BirminghamSouthern on a partial academic scholarship while working full-time. Prior to entering the AMNP program, Cassie made financial decisions to become a full-time student.

She quit her full-time job, terminated her lease, and moved in with her mother and

two sisters. After significant family issues, Cassie was forced to move out and support herself. She found employment as a waitress, against advice from her faculty, to make ends meet. She then landed clinical on the weekends, which is when money is best made in the service industry, and hit rock bottom financially.

Cassie was identified for the Navigator Award by her faculty. At the time of the award, Cassie was precepting 36 hours a week, working 25-30 hours a week, and attending 8 hours of class. The Navigator Award allowed her to cut back on her work hours and focus on her studies and preparations for the certification exam.

Cassie completed Phase I of UAB School of Nursing’s Accelerated Master’s in Nursing Pathway (AMNP) program May 2011, passed her licensure exam and is working at UAB Hospital. She currently has a 3.13 GPA and is expected to graduate as a Clinical Nurse Leader and receive her Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) August 2012.

Bridgette Gee “I heard about Navigator while attending Lawson State Community College. The Navigator award afforded me the opportunity to purchase the books and school supplies I needed for my studies.

I recently graduated with an Associate Degree in Nursing from Lawson and I have accepted a job in the medical / surgical department of a local hospital.

Crystal Nwagwu “As a second-degree student there weren’t many scholarship opportunities available to me. I financed my education through loans that will become a burden to pay back after graduation. But I try not to think about debt because I know that the education I received at Samford University’s School of Nursing was invaluable. I’m very optimistic about my nursing career and excited about the possibilities for professional growth and promotion. The Navigator award helped me achieve my goals by lifting some of the financial burden and encouraging and inspiring me to immerse myself in my field. Any organization that can provide these gifts and blessings to students is a tremendous asset to the field of nursing. I hope to have the opportunity to mentor and guide future nurses through Navigator’s

Mentorship Program.”

Nicole Sargent “As a future nursing leader my commitment is to provide Alabamians and those beyond with stellar nursing care via the philosophy of ‘personal care with a loving touch’. As a nursing student and a mother of two, with one of my children having special needs, the past three years were extremely difficult for me financially.

Nonetheless, I have been dedicated to graduating and securing a position that will allow me to take care of my children, consistently better myself and the care I provide to my patients, and become a dynamic leader / educator in the field of nursing. The Navigator Enrichment Award helped me deal with pressing financial needs and to press on to my higher calling in nursing. I graduated from Samford University’s School of Nursing in May of 2012 and I anticipate working as a medical / surgical nurse and participating in policy and protocol development and implementation.”

Erica Spraggins ”As I near the end of my undergraduate nursing program at UAB, I am completely confident that my decision to pursue a career in nursing was the right decision. I absolutely love nursing! Nurses are often the first line of contact for patients and give the daily care necessary to develop patient trust and effectively administer the recommended treatments.

I have successfully completed my coursework with a 3.76 GPA, while cultivating meaningful relationships with my peers, instructors and patients. Upon completion of my program, I plan to practice in the area of medical / surgery or critical care in the Birmingham area and continue towards obtaining a Nurse Practitioner certification and a Doctor of Nursing degree.

As a non-traditional student pursuing a second bachelor’s degree, I am not eligible to receive some of the financial assistance that is available to traditional undergraduate students. The Navigator Enrichment Award has helped relieve some of my financial stress as I finish my education. This award is allowing me to focus more of my energy and efforts on my education to ensure successful completion of the program.” excellence in nursing 5

Navigator, a non-profit organization created to foster nursing as a profession in Birmingham, is pleased to sponsor once again B-Metro’s Excellence in Nursing Awards. Navigator, Inc., is a community based partnership that includes Nursing Schools across the Birmingham area—Jefferson State School of Nursing, Lawson State School of Nursing, Ida V. Moffet School of Nursing at Samford University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing.

I truly believe that one can judge the quality of a community by its quality of nurses. When you read the profiles of this year’s Excellence in Nursing winners, you will be impressed by the quality and commitment of these everyday heroes.

The nurses highlighted here are a small sample of the highly-trained professionals who are vital to delivering outstanding quality healthcare to the Birmingham Region. In these changing times, nurses are playing an ever more important role in improving the health of our community.

From critical care to hospice, informatics to education, education to research labs, nurses practice in a wide variety of settings in today’s healthcare marketplace. They comprise the largest percentage of healthcare professionals and are uniquely trained and positioned to have a tremendous impact on healthcare practices and outcomes.

With a nursing shortage that is expected to intensify as baby boomers age, dedicated nurses are crucially needed.

Navigator believes you will be inspired by the men and women who are our accomplished finalists. We hope you will have an enhanced appreciation for the value of nurses in our healthcare delivery system. Their tireless energy, commitment beyond the call of duty, and passion for helping others will amaze and uplift you.

Sincerely,

Nancy E. Dunlap, M.D., Ph.D., MBA Founder, Navigator, Inc.

6 b-metro.com

Rich in tradition, Samford University’s Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing celebrates 90 years of nursing education.

Academic Programs Offered Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Traditional 4-year B.S.N. • Second-degree B.S.N. • Accelerated second-degree B.S.N.

Master of Science in Nursing*

Nurse Anesthesia • Nursing Educator • Family Nurse Practitioner • Nurse Manager RN to M.S.N.

Doctor of Nursing Practice * Administration • Advanced Practice

*With the exception of nurse anesthesia, all graduate programs are online.

www.samford.edu/nursing

Samford University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Employer.

excellence in nursing 7

The Alacare family couldn’t be more proud of Becky and her recent honor of being awarded B Metro’s Excellence in Nursing award.

Becky has also recently been voted the Top Home Health & Hospice Nurse in Alabama and is representing our state on a national level competing for the

We reflect on the past 90 years R AT I N G 9 0 Y E EB A

best nurse in the country.

B Metro couldn’t have awarded a more caring, compassionate and truly kind person to represent Alacare for all of her success. Becky is a great role model for Home Health and Hospice nurses not only in Birmingham but across the

90 CE

L

RS

TH 2012

1922

entire state of Alabama. She is truly dedicated to her patients and that really shines through her quality of care and recent accomplishments.

ANNIVERSARY

OF

ME

DICAL MINIS

TR

Y

Becky once said to me that keeping her patients happy, healthy and comfortable at home is one of the most rewarding aspects of her job. Becky Williams is a one of a kind and we are

and look ahead to the next 90.

happy that she is a part of our family.

Sincerely,

Susan B. Brouillette, MBA, MPH CEO, Alacare Home Health & Hospice

1-888-alacare (1-888-252-2273) or visit www.alacare.com

8 b-metro.com Princeton 90th B-Metro Baptist ad.indd 1

6/14/12 4:15 PM

Our nurses are here for the few they can’t.

Congratulations to our nurses honored in the Excellence in Nursing Awards!

Giving hope to parents and providing care to children is what we’ve done for over 100 years. Our nationally ranked healthcare team treated children from 43 states and 5 foreign countries just last year. Children’s of Alabama is recognized locally and around the world as providing a level of care that presents children with a much brighter future.

1600 7t h Av e N U e S O U t h B i r m i N G h A m , A L 35233 (205) 939-9100 ChildrensAL.org

excellence in nursing 9

Join us as we honor B-Metro’s 2012

e cellence in nursing

Award Winners presented by

Friday, August 17 at 7 pm

B&A Warehouse

Featuring B&A Warehouse s’ “One of a Kind” Food, Awards Presentations and Celebration of Nursing as a Profession Individual Tickets: $75 each Table of 8: $575 To reserve tickets or a table: b-metro.com Deadline: Thursday, August 9

It is my pleasure to congratulate the 2012 Excellence in Nursing Award recipients. These individuals have gone above and beyond the call of duty and have selflessly demonstrated their commitment to improving the lives of patients and families.

Caring for others is no easy task. Our school’s namesake, the late Ida V. Moffett, was right when she said, “It takes courage to care, to open one’s heart and act with sympathy and compassion.” Nurses know that nursing is much more than a profession—it is a calling. Nurses are called to care for individuals and families, and truly excellent nurses embark on this journey with a passion for service and a determination to make a difference.

Mrs. Moffett’s legacy is for patient care and nursing education is alive within the Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing. Throughout our 90-year history, her vision for preparing caring, compassionate and academically excellent nurses has remained at the heart of our programs. Year after year, we welcome students who are just as enthusiastic about the profession as the thousands of Moffett Nurses who have gone before them. They are compassionate, driven, and committed to serving others—Mrs. Moffett would be proud!

These students, our alumni and the outstanding nurses featured in this issue, serve as a constant reminder of the importance of compassionate caring.

Nurse, or not, may we all be encouraged and inspired by the Excellence in Nursing award recipients to have the “courage to care.”

Sincerely,

Nena F. Sanders, DSN, RN Ralph W. Beeson Dean and Professor Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing, Samford University

Sponsored by

10 b-metro.com

Congratulations To PRINCEToN E x C E l l E N C E in N u R s I N g awa R d w I N N E R s Jennifer Chandler, RN 2 0 1 2 I d a V. M o f f E T T R E C I P I E N T

John Norris, RN Michael Cofer, RN Nancy Marrs, RN Linda Plan, RN Sheila Popwell, RN

Mrs. Ida Moffett, who embodied the spirit of nursing at Princeton, joined the West end Baptist nursing program in 1923. as a student, and over the next 74 years she left her personal mark on nursing care and nursing professionalism within the Baptist Health system. each May during National Nurses Week, we remember Mrs. Moffett and honor Princeton’s rich history of nursing excellence by recognizing nurses for their exceptional performance and also by selecting one nurse as the Ida V. Moffett

bhsala.com

excellence in Nursing award Winner.

If you would like to become part of Princeton’s focus on nursing excellence or to speak to one of Princeton’s nurse leaders, please call 783-3900.

Excellence in Nursing Peggy Abbott , UAB Medical Center

Peggy Abbott of UAB Medical Center exhibits a high level of expertise in nursing practice through consultation and evidence-based nursing initiatives.

Peggy designs and develops educational initiatives for UAB’s Surgery Intensive Care Unit (SICU).

Peggy also serves as co-chair to the hospital-wide education committee, a multi-disciplinary group to address educational concerns. In this role, she also coordinates an annual workshop for educators that is open to the entire community. In 2010 and 2011, healthcare educators from various disciplines across Alabama attended.

Peggy is also the program chair person for UAB’s annual nursing conference, coordinating topics and speakers for the three-day event. This workshop along with the educator workshop provides an opportunity for UAB to shine in the state and to help healthcare peers from other hospitals grow professionally.

Lahetta Abts, Trinity Medical Center

You must be pretty exceptional when your work as a health care provider prompts families of patients to visit years later. Such is the impact Lahetta Abts has as a registered nurse at Trinity Medical Center. Recently a mother and father wanted to thank her for her care and support of over a decade ago, and to show her their happy and healthy 15-yearold “baby” today.

This was not a isolated event.

Lahetta cares for acutely ill babies at the hospital, where she forms an inseparable bond with families during some of the 12 b-metro.com

most emotional times in their lives. A strong patient advocate, she has the history and wisdom that comes from 30 years of experience as a nurse, and recognizes the importance of imparting that wisdom on younger nurses. Lahetta chairs Trinity’s hospital wide Nurse Leadership Group and is a Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse, the highest level certification in her field.

Valerie Alford, Brookwood Medical Center

Valerie Alford is a Psychiatric Nursing Director in Brookwood’s Behavioral Health Unit.

For 17 years, Valerie has devoted her career to the mentally ill. Her job can be intellectually, physically and emotional demanding.

Valerie often shifts her role to include being a occupational therapist for the patient who is easily distracted, a psychotherapist for a patient in a confused state of mind, a dietician to a patient who is so depressed that they cannot eat and a social worker for a patient who needs arrangements for a place to live when they are discharged from the hospital.

The fact that Valerie is assumes these roles is what sets her apart from other nursing specialties. Valerie is currently pursuing her BSN/Masters in Nursing Leadership. Valerie’s patience, maturity, self discipline and critical thinking skills set her apart.

Valerie implemented the Psychiatric Rapid Response Team at Brookwood Medical Center in 2009, which was recognized as a Best Practice by JCAHO for 2010. Valerie also received the 2010 Tenet Clinical Innovations Award.

Ninfa Austin, St. Vincent’s East

“Positive” and “uplifting” are just a couple of words that co-workers use to begin to describe the community outreach and mission work that Ninfa Austin has participated in during her nurse career at St. Vincent’s East. Ninfa always has an

infectious spirit at work, encouraging associates and patients alike. But beyond the walls of St. Vincent’s she also donates her time beyond traditional work hours in the mission field, abroad serving the poorest communities in underserved countries, as well as at home working in women’s ministries and St.Vincent’s Camp Bluebird, a recreational program for adults living with cancer. Ninfa lives the mission of serving others everyday.

Wendell “Brian” Bowman, UAB Medical Center

Co-workers call Wendall “Brian” Bowman a “blessing” to the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at the UAB Medical Center. He has a keeps a cool head even during the most medicallychallenging situations, which helps others cope with stressful moments. A recipient of the BMT Program Director’s Award 2010, Brian is a true leader, compassionate nurse, and a source of spiritual support to patients, families and coworkers.

Brian has even spoken at the eulogy for the husband of one of the BMT Unit’s most beloved staff nurses; the husband had also been a patient on the unit.

Following the 2011 tornadoes, you often would find Brian on his off day cutting trees and removing debris from strangers’ driveways and yards. Additionally, Brian hosted a deer hunt for BMT “survivors” to a lodge, which funded in 2009 by television hunting show host Brock Ray. This is gave back a little sense of normalcy to a group of patients who love to hunt and had not been able to go because of their health condition. Brian is a source of comfort on the unit, keeping everyone laughing, while also earning his

Honorees 2012

co-workers’ respect.

BMT Staff RN, Brian Bowman hosted a BMT deer hunt for our patients for two years. It involved taking BMT patients who have recovered from transplant, “survivors”, to a lodge, which was funded in 2009 by a television personality hunting show host Brock Ray. Eligible and interested patients were invited for a 3 day hunt and each hunter had a camera person, a guide, and a designated hunting spot to sit comfortably in. There were also 2 RN’s present to monitor their health status. Their families were welcome to join them and stay at the Lodge. Brian arranged for a band for entertainment and plenty of great food. This is gave back a little sense of normalcy to a group of patients who love to hunt and had not been able to go because of their health condition.

Brian is no stranger to personal challenges. His oldest son has a severe health issues and he is also a foster parent for children as well as an adopted parent of a child with disabilities from another country.

Felicia Bryan, St. Vincent’s East

St. Vincent’s East’s MICU (Medical Intensive Care Unit) has received many compliments from visitors, family members and patients regarding the care they have noticed or personally received from nurse Felicia Bryan. One of the most heartfelt stories about Felicia and her good works revolved around a teenager who attempted suicide. She called her mother and grandmother, who arrived before any long-term harm was done. The patient wrote a poem about the care, physically and emotionally, she received from Felicia. She said Felicia made her see there was a reason to live and decided to give life another chance. The poem said Felicia treated her like she was her own child, giving her smiles and hugs during her recovery. Today, this patient is enrolled at a state college.

Tracey Cartwright, Children’s Hospital

Tracey Cartwright of Children’s Hospital is CONSTANTLY looking for ways to improve processes that benefit patients and staff. Tracey is the epitome of customer service, constant looking for ways to assist patients, whether it is to assist with an out-ofstate referral, moving a patient up a waiting list whenever possible, or preparing custom patient packets, i n c l u d i n g directions, information on restaurants, and area hotels. Tracey volunteers with numerous organizations. After the April 2011 tornadoes, she assisted a co-worker who was impacted physically, financially, and mentally. In addition to collecting resources from others, she personally cleaned debris, coming to work scratched and bruised. Tracey is a true inspiration to all who know her.

Jennifer Chandler, Princeton Baptist Medical Center

Princeton Baptist Medical Center’s Ida V.

Moffett award winner Jennifer Chandler is a charge nurse on the Oncology Unit. Jennifer was recognized by a nursing supervisor who wrote “Jennifer consistently displays exemplary behavior managing a very busy nursing unit with instinctive actions which are calming and supportive….she consistently gives the needs of our patients and families the highest priority.” A physician added,“… she always treats the patient as the most important person in the hospital. When I call to the unit for a patient assessment her nursing skills are outstanding… when there is any evaluation of a critically ill

patient she is the go-to person. In all of my years working on the Oncology Unit at Princeton I have not found a young woman more dedicated to the nursing care of oncology patients than Jennifer.”

Tandy Chiz, Cooper Green Mercy Hospital

Tandy Chiz is the charge nurse for the Medical/Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) at Cooper Green Mercy Hospital. Co-workers say Tandy is calm, pleasant, friendly, and professional when interacting with patients, families, coworkers, physicians and supervisors. She demonstrates clinical proficiency and willingly serves as a clinical resource in assisting her team. She willingly makes recommendations, initiates and implements plans for process improvement to achieve quality patient care. She serves as a mentor and preceptor for current staff and new personnel.

To underscore her understanding of the value of teamwork, Tandy was awarded Cooper Green’s Housestaff Appreciation Award for 2011-2012 “in appreciation of her exemplary support of the medical housestaff and their patients.”

Michael Cofer, Princeton Baptist Medical Center

Michael Cofer is a charge nurse on

the Cardiac Unit at Princeton Baptist Medical Center. Concerned about always living the hospital’s mission of service in everything he does, Michael takes time to patiently and completely explain procedures and answer questions from patients and their families. His peers concur that he is an excellent resource for excellence in nursing 13

clinical management, truly caring about all with whom he interacts in his daily nursing responsibilities.

Michael’s positive attitude always helps him to exceed expectations in going the extra mile.

Kimberly Hope-Crowell, Cooper Green Mercy Hospital

Kimberly Hope-Crowell currently works in the Recovery Room at Cooper Green while a fellow nurse is on military leave. She is caring and compassionate, treating patients and co-workers with dignity and respect. She speaks directly to patients’ families by phone when feasible to inform them of their loved one’s status.

Many then ask to speak to her directly because of the pleasant conversation they had with her by phone.

Kim also is a mentor and loves to teach nurses who are new to the department.

She is currently pursuing her Bachelors of

Nursing Degree while working full-time hours many weeks.

Mary Ann Duncan, Trinity Medical Center

Mary Ann Duncan has been with Trinity Medical Center since 1993. Today she works as a Nursing Director for One Day Surgery, PreAdmission Testing, Five Short Stay, and Early Morning Admissions. During the hospital’s annual employee satisfaction survey, all her departments ranked in the top ten at Trinity, a phenomenal feat that has never happened before. Additionally, patients who are cared for in these departments routinely rank their care as the best within the hospital. As a Patient and Nurse Advocate, Mary Ann’s strength lies in building and managing high functioning patient care teams. Her leadership skills are exceptional and her influence on the organization is felt by the hundreds of patients who entrust their care

and safety to her weekly.

Cynthia Frazier, VA Hospital

Cynthia Frazier was introduced to kidney disease in 1971 as a nursing student at UAB when a friend’s mother needed dialysis.

Little did she know this experience would inspire her career. Since 1975, she has seen advances in the care of renal patients and observed the increased number of patients. While working in Nephrology at the VA Hospital, Cynthia has promoted safety in nephrology nursing care. She is involved in the American Nephrology Nurses Association and volunteers with the Alabama Kidney Foundation.

Cynthia always emphasizes the need for collaboration to address the challenges faced by patients and professionals in the ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) community.

As a manager and leader, Cynthia acknowledges triumphs, losses, and personal challenges, and

Only 2% of nursing staffs worldwide have earned the honor of Magnet recognition.

TheNursingDifference.com

she is always willing to listen, support and encourage. Her dedication to nephrology nursing, exceptional leadership skills, passion for professional development, and volunteerism makes her truly one of a kind.

Alison Garretson, Brookwood Medical Center

Alison Garretson has worked in the Health Care sector for over 15 years. In 2004, Alison returned to nursing after a stint as a healthcare consultant; this was the year she joined the Case Management staff at Brookwood Medical Center where she currently served as the Director of Case Management. In this role, Alison assures that quality, service and cost targets are met for Brookwood patients, families, employees and physicians.

She has a gift for implementing global strategies in simple, concrete steps to assure success.

One of her biggest accomplishments is authoring a clinical

documentation guide for nurses, case managers, coders and physicians that was adopted by all TENET facilities. Her most recent clinical project is reengineering patient care conferences which now occur bedside with the patient, family, nurse and case manager. During these conferences, all participants agree on a daily clinical milestone to progress the patient’s recovery and facilitate discharge from the hospital. If you are sick, you want Alison in your corner to help you get home as quickly as possible!

James J“ amey” Hammock, UAB Medical Center

James “Jamey” Hammock has worked in UAB’s Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (NICU) since 1996. He also works part time as a clinical nursing instructor for Wallace Community College and is involved in his community as a Head Trauma/ DUI presentator and Cold Springs High School Prom Promise volunteer.

As a day charge nurse, Jamey supervises the movement of UAB Medical Center patients. He is tireless in his efforts to share his vast knowledge and expertise with newer staff and students on the unit gaining critical care experience. He has the ability to break down complex topics so that others may understand.

Because of his proactive interventions, he is able to not only prevent problems, but teach others by example. Jamey is a very calming influence with his friendly manner. He keeps our patients at the center and reminds all the families that the patient is our primary focus.

Lindsey Harris, UAB Medical Center

During Lindsey Harris’ time on the Gynecology Oncology Unit at UAB Medical Center, she has taken special interest in the hospital’s H i s p a n i c population.

Lindsey had a Hispanic patient who was newly

diagnosed with Stage IV Ovarian Cancer and was returning to Mexico to be with family. Her family lacked money for the journey; Lindsey collected over $500 to assist. Lindsey is a Clinical Nurse Level III. Lindsey is always willing to assist when there is a staffing need on the unit. Lindsey is the unit’s Basic Life Support Instructor and the past chair of the Professional Nurse Practice Council. Lindsey is also a role model in the community. Lindsey was a proud member of the P8 Race for the Cure team, “Pink Blazers” and participated in the Sickle Cell Walk. She proudly serves as a basketball coach for a local elementary school and as a Big Sister. She recently graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing from UAB and was recently inducted into Sigma Theta Tau.

Taylor Hodges, Trinity Medical Center

Taylor Hodges works as a Registered Nurse on Trinity’s Mother Baby unit, caring for newborn babies, new mothers and female gynecologic surgery patients.

Her supervisors say no other nurse at Trinity receives more compliments from patients than Taylor, working hard to ensure that all of their needs are met.

She has a positive and uplifting attitude, and exceptional skills that are more typically associated with much more experienced nurses. Taylor recently became the youngest nurse in recent memory to win Trinity Medical Center’s prestigious Night Shift RN of the Year award. In addition Taylor has won assorted other awards at the hospital, including the Sense of Ownership Award that shows an enhanced level of dedication to her work. Taylor’s commitment to the health and well-being of her patients makes her a role model for nurses not only at Trinity Medical Center but everywhere.

Laura Jones, Children’s of Alabama

When opportunity presents itself, Laura Jones of Children’s of Alabama is often the first to volunteer. With only two years’ experience, she volunteered to 16 b-metro.com

serve as lead nurse when the usual shift lead needed to take family leave. During the summer, Laura dedicates many hours of her off week to the Children’s Fresh Air Farm. On one occasion, she even arrived early to take a patient on a therapeutic outing for prom dress shopping! She is continually seeking new learning opportunities, as evidenced by her pursuit of her Master’s degree as Nurse Practitioner in the graduate program at UAB.

Keely Kennedy, St. Vincent’s Birmingham

A positive attitude and a winning smile are some of the first things that patients and co-workers notice about St. Vincent’s Keely Kennedy. Based on Surgical ICU (SICU), those who know her say that Keely is always willing to go the extra mile.

“Patients love her and coworkers admire her,” making Keely “a great asset to SICU.” Intelligent, compassionate and smart, she shares her knowledge with coworkers, patients and families. Keely goes above and beyond in helping those dealing with special challenges.

“My dad lost his ability to speak due to cancer. Keely has been absolutely great in helping him and us adapt to this huge impact. It’s nurses like her that the define the true meaning of nursing. Thank you Keely!!”

Barbara McClary, Brookwood Medical Center

As a nurse in Non-Invasive Cardiology, Brookwood’s Barbara McClary administers tilt table tests, to identify patients with Dysautonomia. When a young father flatlined for 45 seconds, “her quick response” saved his life. Barbara has taught paramedics, eventually becoming one herself, This experience proved beneficial when Barbara and her husband

established C a l e r a ’ s P a r a m e d i c program. Barbara has received numerous awards including the Alabama League for Nursing’s Lamplighter Award, Alabama H o s p i t a l Association’s Healthcare Hero, and the Brookwood Medical Surgical Nurse of the Year.

After Hurricane Katrina, Barbara was one of the first Brookwood nurses called to offer triage services and patient care. She also co-authored a book with Dr. John Morris on Jerome Cochran, the Father of Alabama Medicine. After 54 years of nursing, she describes herself as “72 going on 16” and plans to work to the young age of 88.

Langley Monasco, St. Vincent’s Birmingham

Polite and friendly, informative and caring, Langley Monasco shares these traits on St. Vincent’s Birmingham’s Four West Unit. Just as being a good listener and communicator is vital in many aspects of life, they are also imperative characteristics for those in the healthcare profession. Family members of Langley’s patients describe him this way: “What I found to be very important was that he ‘listened’ to us as he took care of my mom. I was pleased with the outstanding care and service my mother received” Or consider: “He demonstrated concern and compassion towards my son. I loved the fact that he explained what he was doing and what medications he was giving my son. . . For me it is very important to feel comfort and trust from the person who is caring for your loved one and Langley definitely gave us this sense of peace.”

Chironda Moore, St. Vincent’s Birmingham

Chironda Moore provides the care

that patients deserve and that St. Vincent’s Birmingham believes in. As a nurse on 7 Main, Chironda has developed a relationship with her patients that goes beyond the traditional -trusting her with all their needs and the needs of their loved ones. Her coworkers also praise her great attitude about everything, timeliness and strong work ethic. Chironda treats patients like friends or members of her own special family -- sitting at their bedside talking with them or even feeding them. Supervisors say that Chironda never complains about the workload or has anything negative to say about her coworkers.

Dani Nesmith, St. Vincent’s Birmingham

Dani Nesmith has been an RN in the St. Vincent’s Birmingham’s Birth Suites since October 2004. Dani has served a vital role by leading the Healing Hearts Perinatal Bereavement Program. She

also serves on the Perinatal Clinical Practice Council and the Birth Suites Unit Council. She is a preceptor to new nurses and nursing students and serves as a clinical instructor for Samford University. Dani has achieved certification in Inpatient Obstetrics as well as Fetal Monitoring and has achieved Level V on the RN Clinical Ladder, the first RN at St. Vincent’s to achieve this level! Dani will complete graduate education in August in the Clinical Nurse Leader program at the University of Alabama.

John Norris, Princeton Baptist Medical Center

John Norris deals with life and death situations on a regular basis as a cardiac critical care nurse with Princeton Baptist Medical Center. Eager to offer assistance when needed, John’s positive attitude radiates to other staff members. The Bevill State graduate routinely goes

above and beyond the call of duty with an abiding faith that manifests itself by the compassionate care he gives to his patients and their families.

Lillian Parker, Cooper Green Mercy Hospital

Lillian Parker of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital has taken charge. Last year, she effectively transitioned into the role of Charge Nurse from a staff position.

This is no small feat, given the intrinsic challenges of Med/ Surge Units which are fast paced, with frequent patient turnover and staffing challenges.

Supervisors say Lillian embraces these challenges with a calm and reassuring

excellence in nursing 17

manner. She knows the “pulse” of the unit and is able to effectively communicate changes and concerns. Professional and compassionate with patients, she goes the extra mile to resolve issues. Lillian is a team player and has developed a good rapport with both staff and physicians.

She volunteers to work over or fill in on her off days to cover the unit.

Kelly Pinion-Smith, Children’s of Alabama

According to co-workers in both the Burn and 6NW Units, Kelly Pinion-Smith of Children’s of Alabama is a hands on and committed healthcare professional. Kelly represents her units at national and regional conferences as well as in the greater community.

Currently, she is planning the International Association of Burn Camps workshop, to be held in Birmingham in October 2012. As busy as she is, her peers say she is always willing to listen and be an integral part of the team.

Linda Plan, Princeton Baptist Medical Center

Princeton Nurse Educator Linda Plan recently received the Baptist Health System Leadership Award. For those who know Linda, they automatically think of the f o l l o w i n g characteristics: leadership, excellence, integrity, and accountability.

Linda has served as a mentor in developing charge nurses and staff for future leadership.

She is extremely detail oriented. She has successfully helped with the EPIC electronic medical records and computer system implementation, being viewed by the EPIC team as a role model in leading process change. Linda currently serves 18 b-metro.com

as the Manager of the Nursing Education Department and is about to return to the Medical Intensive Care Unit as a Nurse Manager. Many at Princeton notice her commitment to excellence in the patient care environment; not just nursing staff, but medical staff as well.

Sheila Popwell, Princeton Baptist Health Center

As an admitting nurse with Princeton Baptist Health Center, Sheila Popwell makes the hospital experience a little less intimidating for “visitors.” She helps patients become oriented to Princeton by answering their questions, no matter how seemingly small, with sincerity and compassion. Above and beyond her own responsibilities, Sheila willingly helps her co-workers in completing their own tasks. She has become an expert on the new EPIC electronic medical records management and computer software system. By putting in late hours and early mornings, she has helped the EPIC installation process run smoothly. In so many ways, Sheila is an invaluable asset to staff and physicians.

Cindy Richards, Children’s of Alabama

Cindy Richards of Children’s is multi-faceted, in addition to being multi-lingual. As part of the Solid Organ Transplant Unit team, Cindy has written bilingual pre- and posttransplantation teaching materials (in English and Spanish), developed a critical path for staff and resident physicians of 7 NW to help guide patient care, and helped create policies & procedures for the Transplant Center. She participates with the Interdisciplinary care team to select candidates for transplantation. She provides one-on-one education to patients and families before, during, and after transplant, as well as clinic follow-up.

Cindy also works with Camp BRIDGES, a camp program for transplant patients and their families. She was recently elected the board of directors for the American Nephrology Nurses’ Association.

Gabby Rozell, UAB Medical West

Co-workers say that Gabby Rozell is one of the most exceptional Patient Care Technicians with whom they have ever worked. The UAB Medical West ICU staff love Gabby’s demonstrated compassion and commitment to meeting the needs of her patients.

“Gabby takes excellent care of each and every one of them,” they tell us of this healthcare hero. Gabby is hard working and self directed, anticipating patients’ needs and supporting the Nursing Staff as well. Co-workers marvel at her apparent ESP; she often completes a task before it is asked of her. Kind and compassionate, Gabby is a true patient advocate.

William “Brad” Scoggins, UAB Medical Center

Whether it is giving a ventilator-bound patient a pick-me-up with a mani/pedi or the chance to sit outside on a warm afternoon after months in a hospital room, William “Brad” Scoggins is always thinking about putting patients first.

Brad exhibits his sunny disposition as a nurse in the Pulmonary & Intermediate Care Unit at the UAB Medical Center. A group of physicians who work with Brad said the following:”Brad is ”hands down” the most kind hearted and hardworking nurse we have worked with.” A Marine, Brad brings a strong commitment to others with superb clinical skills and critical thinking. In addition to providing

excellent clinical care, he strives to make each day a little brighter for patients, families and co-workers. It is common for Brad to come to work carrying his guitar and be heard singing to patients to make their day a little brighter. Outside the hospital, Brad has a personal ministry of renovating rundown homes to make affordable housing for the less fortunate.

as she exemplifies nursing at its best. She is willing to help at any given time, and does it with a smile.” Co-workers also tout her willingness to learn new tasks, and going above and beyond to make her patients feel more comfortable and at ease. In addition to caring for patients, co-workers say it is always a pleasure to count on Kim as outstanding, friendly, and loyal.

Kim Sims, UAB Medical West

Lorraine Slaughter, UAB Medical Center

An avid puzzler in her spare time, there are no pieces of the puzzle missing when it comes to Kim Sims and her work at UAB Medical West. Kim has spent the majority of her nursing career at UAB Medical West, having spent 12 of her 18 years in the profession there as a member of their health care team. Kim has worked in numerous areas of the hospital, as well as several of the hospital’saffiliated clinics.

Her supervisor states: “We are blessed to have Kim on our team at Medical West,

Lorraine Slaughter of the UAB Medical Center works as both a Charge Nurse and Admission/Discharge/Transfer nurse on an as-needed basis. Lorraine has taken an active role in the Staff Conference Funds, Standards, and Blood Committees.

Lorraine has provides excellent teaching materials and presentations from the educational offerings attended.

Lorraine also takes an active role in the

community as a dedicated walker in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and March of Dimes Walk for Babies. She is truly dedicated to the nursing profession, pursuing becoming a Clinical Nurse II and an Oncology Certified Nurse. One project I was proud to see her involved was the effort to change our blood transfusion process on the unit. During this process she oversaw the research, presented the research to the physician group as well as the blood transfusion champion group; she provided education of staff and implementation of the new process when buy-in was obtained from the physicians.

Rhonda Snow, UAB Medical West UAB Medical West’s Rhonda West became manager of Three East in October 2011 after serving as a Staff Nurse and Charge Nurse on the same unit since her graduation from Nursing School in 1998. A solid, caring and compassionate health care provider, Rhonda has

excellence in nursing 19

demonstrated her commitment to excellence in serving her patients and staff. This has been validated through the unit’s consistently high patient satisfaction scores and high staff morale. Rhonda has earned and maintained the respect and confidence of the entire medical team at UAB Medical West with her can-do attitude.

Heather Swindle, St. Vincent’s East

As a nurse educator, Heather Swindle has been an important part of the St. Vincent’s East team for many years. She is a dedicated employee, often working on short notice to help fill needed shifts.

Heather has been helping education resources by teaching and coordinating ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)/PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)/BLS (Basic Life Support) classes for over a year and teaching at other St. Vincent sister facilities when needed. Heather has also helped coordinate and train new Education Department associates by serving as a mentor. She also teaches Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC), ED Protocols and ED Update topics as requested.

Susan Turner, Cooper Green Mercy Hospital

Susan Turner, RN, won a “Legends in White” award at Birmingham’s Cooper Green Mercy Hospital earlier this year. Susan’s supervisors say she is appreciated for her ability to be consistently pleasant and tackle assignments with a smile. A preceptor for the unit, Susan also volunteered for the Glycemia protocol work group and was selected as a super user for the hospital and unit for the new electronic medical record computer program.

Forward thinking and disciplined, Susan often makes recommendations for 20 b-metro.com

improving units’ processes and remains positive when unpopular decisions are made.

Crystal Walker,

international medical mission work with a focus on Haiti and Jamaica. Her research and outreach has impacted hundreds of lives as she continues to ever expand her reach.

St. Vincent’s Becky Williams, Alacare East Alacare’s Becky Williams performs St. Vincent East’s

Crystal Walker has done an exceptional job as chairperson of the Nurse Quality Improvement/ R e s e a r c h / E v i d e n c e Based Practice Council. In this role, Crystal has provided the evidence necessary for the research and clinical practice council to draft an ICU Mobility Protocol that is pending committee approval. The resulting protocol will provide a nursedriven protocol for initiating physical therapy in the ICU’s at an earlier phase in the hospital stay, resulting in better, more effective patient care.

Debra Whisenant, Ida V. Moffet School of Nursing at Samford University

Often when thinking of nurses, what comes to mind is the person at your bedside; however, nursing expands far beyond the confines of traditional health care settings. Dr. Debra Whisenant, Associate Professor in Samford’s Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing, is one such example. Her extraordinary outreach and commitment to improving the health of others through research is transforming lives around the globe. For example, she is the principle investigator of a project assessing the health education needs of rural Jamaicans, with a special focus on women and children. In addition, she is researching the effects of promoting healthier lifestyles with proper nutrition and exercise in Alabama and Tennessee. She is also involved in a project evaluating the role of spirituality in weight loss. Debra also frequently participates in

patient assessments and is an integral part of the interdisciplinary team approach to providing care to hospice patients. This year, Becky was named one of the 50 Top Home Care and Hospice Nurses in the nation and has been honored in CARING Magazine as the Home Health and Hospice Nurse representative for the state of Alabama. Becky is highly skilled, compassionate, a sound critical thinker, a collaborator and consistently displays the highest standards. Through enormous effort and innovation, she is able to establish a level of trust and cooperation that facilitates mutually agreed upon and improved outcomes between patients, physicians, families and staff. Two months ago a hospice patient was actively dying and the family wanted to seek aggressive treatment in noncompliance with the patient’s plan of care. Becky met with all parties and was able to get them to come to a mutually agreed upon plan. Becky epitomizes nursing at its best.

Kellie Williams, St. Vincent’s Birmingham

Kellie Williams goes out of her way to make others feel welcome and included on 7 Main. Kellie does this by being proactive regarding plans of care, and aggressively accessing resources every day. Kellie gives 110% everyday and encourages others around her to do the same.

As a fellow nurse states: “Kellie‘s strong moral character drives patient care. The results of her care prove the fact that I am a better

Recognizing care that goes above and beyond.

Lahetta Abts, R.N.

MaryAnn Duncan, R.N.

Taylor Hodges, R.N.

Being a great nurse demands the knowledge to provide attentive medical care, as well as the compassion to sense when a hug is the best medicine. It takes teamwork and a selfless devotion to patients. At Trinity Medical Center, we thank our wonderful nursing staff. And out of this very special group, we congratulate Lahetta Abts, R.N., MaryAnn Duncan, R.N., and Taylor Hodges, R.N., on their nominations for Excellence in Nursing awards.

To learn more about nursing opportunities at Trinity, visit the Career Center at TrinityMedicalOnline.com.

63003_TRIN_Nurses_7_25x10c.indd 1

6/13/12 2:47 PM

nurse because I have worked so closely with her.” She actively participates in St. Vincent’s Clinical Practice Council, ICARE Committee, and is the Unit Council Chair. She is double board certified in medical surgical nursing and is a level 3 ICARE nurse. Kellie will graduate the University of Alabama this August with her CNL degree. She is a member of ANA, AMSN, Sigma Theta Tau and the Phi Kappa Phi Honor society.

PARTNERS IN CARE The Auburn University/ Auburn Montgomery Joint MSN Program offers two tracks: Nurse Educator (33 hours) or Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (43 hours).

Shannon Young, St. Vincent’s East

Although she has not been with St. Vincent’s East -- or even been a nurse -- for very long, Shannon Young has already made an impression as a truly exceptional nurse. Shannon’s supervisors describe her as an enthusiastic, new healthcare professional who takes instruction well and is very committed to quality nursing care of patients. “Sometimes it’s difficult for new nurses to excel in critical care but Shannon has far exceeded our expectations,” her employers at St. Vincent’s East note.”

By being mentioned frequently in patient rounds, it is obvious she is an excellent patient advocate.” Just imagine what she will accomplish as Shannon grows in her nursing career.

Both offer full-time admission in summer.

Each track is a hybrid, with a combination of face-to-face and online instruction. auburn.edu/nursing

Teena McGuinness, PhD, CRNP, FAAN., UAB School of Nursing

Coming in the november issue of

Nursing_B Metro Ad_0611.indd 1

6/8/11

Dr. McGuinness is a professor at the UAB School of Nursing where she serves 3:07 PM as Faculty Organization Chair, Honors in Nursing Program Coordinator, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track Coordinator. She is transforming health through teaching, research, and service.

From her faculty practice to disseminating new discoveries to mentoring students, she fosters news ideas, teaches others how to give back, and inspires others to reach for excellence in any endeavour. She understands the importance of life-long learning and infuses students with a love for learning and a belief that they can achieve whatever they set out to do. A former student shares, “She believes in us, which convinces us to believe in ourselves, and makes us want to push beyond the usual limits.”

HONOR ROLL 2012 Reagan Mitchell, St. Vincent’s Birmingham

Ashley Riley, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Jessica Sanford, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Sarah Toles, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Bethany Weathers, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Traci Bacon, St. Vincent’s East Nancy Marrs, Princeton Baptist Medical Center Tammy Alexander, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Paige Brown, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Cindy Hill, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Vita Johnson, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Tiffany McGhee, St. Vincent’s Birmingham Mary Davis, St. Vincent’s East

22 b-metro.com

Libby Harvey, St. Vincent’s East Patti Holbrook, St. Vincent’s East Birdena Pope, St. Vincent’s East Carla Scarpulla,St. Vincent’s East Emily Starling, St. Vincent’s East Heather Cumbest, UAB Medical Center Erica Lumpkin, UAB Medical Center Michell McClenny,UAB Medical Center Terri Middlebrooks, UAB Medical Center Jimmy Smith, UAB Medical Center Tina Spencer, UAB Medical Center Gayle Lombard, UAB Medical Center Misty Bradshaw, UAB Medical Center Kimberly Suggs, UAB Medical Center Deana Jackson, St. Vincent’s

Online Convenience Online Convenience with awith Tradition Excellence a Traditionof of Excellence

DISTANCE NURSING PROGRAMS: UNDERGRADUATE • RN to BSN (Online) GRADUATE • RN to BSN/MSN (Online) • MSN-Clinical Nurse Leader (Online) • MSN-Leadership Case Management (Online) • MSN/MA in Management Dual Enrollment Program (Online) • DNP-Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) • MSN/EdD for Nurse Educators (Online & Weekend) • EdD for Nurse Educators (Online & Weekend)

distance nUrsing Programs: UndergradUate

INQUIRE TODAY! • RN to BSN

BamaByDistance.ua.edu/nurseAL2 1-800-467-0227 gradUate

RN of Becky Williams, nominated Muscle Shoals al Home for the Nation e Nurse Care & Hospic of the Year!

Becky was named Alabama’s Hospice Nurse of the Year by Caring Magazine and now needs your vote to win the honor of becoming the National Home Care and Hospice Nurse of the Year.

Visit WWW.NAHC.ORG to vote!

Bonnie Grant and her mother, Mrs. Emma Grant with her Alacare Hospice Nurse, Becky Williams, RN.

Alacare Home Health & Hospice voted one of the

Best Companies to work for in Alabama.

1-888-alacare (1-888-252-2273) or visit www.alacare.com Some services may be limited in certain areas. Š Alacare Home Health & Hospice 2012