Nurse Blake Magazine, Issue One 2023

f e a t u r i n g o r i g i n a l p r o g r a m m i n g d e s i g n e d t o b r i n g n u r s e s t o g e t h e r

a p r i l 2 0 2 4

cnes!

w e h a v e

t h e w h o l e s h i p !

"Unforgettable experience to learn and grow in such a fostering environment. Being amongst a ship full of your peers is something I'll never forget! Looking forward to 2024 already!"

- Nurse Renae, 2023 NurseCon at Sea

ISSUE ONE

The Team

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Blake Lynch, RN nurseblake.com

LEAD EDITOR

Maggie Aime, RN thewritern.com

MANAGING EDITOR

April Rowe, RN rntopen.com

BRAND COORDINATOR

Mariana Garces nurseconatsea.com

MAGAZINE DESIGN

Andrea Exter monarchmediainc.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Chellie Thompson monarchmediainc.com

COPYRIGHT ©2023 NURSE BLAKE

Nurse Blake Magazine is a quarterly publication on a mission to create awareness, inspiration, and humor for the global nursing community. Each issue features articles from the Nurse Blake brand and stories from influential nurses in the field. The magazine also includes Q&As, nursing conference highlights and CNE opportunities, news from the profession, plus lighthearted sections such as nurse fashion and trends, life outside of work, and much more.

Copyright ©2023 Nurse Blake. All rights reserved. Republication of Nurse Blake Magazine content, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written permission of Nurse Blake. Contact Editor-in-Chief, Blake Lynch, regarding republication permission at nbmagazine@nurseblake.com

Views expressed in Nurse Blake Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Nurse Blake and its representatives. Publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of any product or service. Nurse Blake, its editors, and the publisher reserve the right to edit all materials and assume no responsibility for accuracy, errors, or omissions. Nurse Blake and the publisher do not knowingly accept false or misleading editorials or advertisements and do not assume any responsibility should such editorials or advertising appear.

CONTRIBUTIONS

Contributions to Nurse Blake Magazine are welcome. Nurse Blake reserves the right to select materials to be published. Please send all correspondence and address changes to nbmagazine@nurseblake.com . If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, please email us at nbmagazine@ nurseblake.com or go to nurseblake.com/pages/magazine and complete the unsubscribe form. Digital archives are available at nurseblake.com/pages/magazine

ADVERTISING

For information on advertising in Nurse Blake Magazine, contact Chellie Thompson, Monarch Media & Consulting, Inc.: 512.293.9277, chellie@monarchmediainc.com

COVER IMAGES BY Alen Lin

PUBLISHED BY Monarch Media & Consulting, Inc.

ISSUE CREDITS Flaticon.com, iStock.com

Contributors

Stephanee Beggs is a registered nurse, social media influencer, and CEO of RNExplained. She works in the Emergency Department in Los Angeles, California.

STEPHANEE BEGGS, RN

Maggie Aime is a freelance health and medical personal finance writer. She’s the owner of TheWriteRN.com. When she’s not writing, she can be found relishing a breathtaking sunrise, making memories with her children, or rekindling her love of the piano.

MAGGIE AIME, RN

April Rowe is a registered nurse, freelance writer, and owner of RNtoPen. She lives with her husband and children in South Carolina and works in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

APRIL ROWE, RN

TIKTOK @nurseblake FACEBOOK nurseblake INSTAGRAM nurse.blake YOUTUBE nurseblake

TOGETHER WE ARE ONE

THE RELATABLE (AND OFTEN HUMOROUS) NURSING EXPERIENCES THAT CONNECT AND INSPIRE US

I REMEMBER THE DAY I uploaded the first video of myself in the scrub romper — scromper — on Facebook. It was a way for me to destress after a long shift in the ICU. Little did I know that it would go viral and connect nurses and nursing students from around the globe. I quickly realized that no matter where you live or work, as nurses, we all go through the same things. I decided to share more and more of my nursing experiences online, and also through a comedy show that fills theaters with thousands of nurses. Let me tell you, nothing bonds a group of nurses like a shared love of weird nursing stories! And we’ve all got a shit ton of those.

It turns out humor and relatable experiences do more than just make us laugh. They also inspire us as we navigate our own nursing journey.

No matter how different our roads may be or how far apart we are in location or experience, at the heart of it, we’re all connected by our passion for helping others and making this world better — one Flexiseal at a time.

And as much as I love comedy and laughing my ass off, I love to advocate for things that impact our profession.

And now, I’m taking it one step further. With the launch of Nurse Blake Magazine, I’m thrilled to bring that same sense of community and humor to your doorstep (or your waiting room, or your break room… you get the idea). Nurse Blake Magazine is a fun, lighthearted magazine for everyone.

My team and I are proud to call this our first issue, and it kicks off with a fitting theme: We Are One! A reminder that no matter how different our roads may be or how far apart we are in location or experience, at the heart of it, we’re all connected by our passion for helping others and making this world better — one Flexiseal at a time.

In this issue, we’ve got the inside scoop on NurseCon at Sea's Dominican Republic sailing. Let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good excuse to ditch their scrubs for a swimsuit and enjoy the open sea with a bunch of awesome nurses? And if you missed out on NurseCon at Sea, we’ve got all the juicy details to make you feel like you were there.

We also cover some scandalous news about phony nursing diplomas. It’s like the plot of a bad movie, except it’s real life!

One of my favorite sections in this magazine is Ask Nurse Blake, where my virtual door is open, and I’m ready to answer all your burning questions. Whether you need career advice or want to get up close and personal, ask away!

And, of course, Nurse Becky spills the tea on her favorite things, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it.

This is just the beginning! We have big plans for future issues, including exclusive interviews with inspiring nurses, and plenty of surprises we can’t even hint at yet.

In honor of this community, whether you’re a seasoned nurse, a newbie, or still studying, grab your drink (coffee, tea, or even a glass of wine — no judgment here), kick back, and let’s celebrate nursing — our incredible profession that touches so many lives in countless ways. Stay inspired, stay connected, and always remember: WE ARE ONE. With love and laughter,

PHOTO BY MACBETH STUDIO

Nurse Blake

A STRONG VOICE

You are such a strong voice for safety, advocacy, working conditions, and more things the nursing profession needs. What would you say are your driving principles when considering what issues to address and which to sidestep?

– Mary N.

This is a great question, Mary N. As much as I love making funny videos and performing on my comedy tour, it’s advocating for important issues that really drives me. I think it's crucial for my platform to balance both comedy and advocacy. Through my comedy, I'm able to build a wide audience. And when it makes sense for me to jump into my advocacy role, I do. That way, I can have a much wider reach to a broader base of followers. As you know, safety has been a hot topic. It’s about the safety of our patients and the safety of nurses. That’s why for the past few years, my top advocacy priority has been safe staffing. It’s not just an issue that impacts patients, but it also affects nurses in this country and around the world. So whenever I can bring light onto that issue, I will. A big thank you to all of my followers who have supported my advocacy efforts and consistently helped to spread the message. Your investment in making a positive change in the world of nursing means so much.

NIGHT SHIFT POTLUCKS?

What is the history behind night shift potlucks, and why do they matter? – Lola

R.

Lola R., such an interesting question. I don't know the history. I started out working on the night shift, and while it can be tough, there’s one thing that always brightens it up for me: a great potluck. Since I’m not a good cook, I'm always the one who brings the red Solo cups or donates cash. LOL! I may not have a hand in cooking, but I'm definitely a participant when it comes to eating and enjoying the food. And I just feel like night shift has the best potlucks ever.

PHOTO BY MACBETH STUDIO

Night shift beats day shift when it comes to the best food. You know, maybe there needs to be a history lesson in nursing school about night shift potlucks!

BRINGING THE HUMOR

Humor is such a great tool for coping and breaking the ice. Have you ever tried to joke with a patient, and it flopped or backfired? How did you handle that? – Theresa K.

Love this question, Theresa K. Luckily, I've never had a patient or family member ever be offended by any of my jokes. I definitely like to tread lightly and build up my jokes and humor with a patient. I never want to come in too hot because maybe they don't want to laugh that day. So I start small and then work my way up. As long as you're being honest and true to yourself, that's what's going to make the patient the most comfortable, and I think that's what's really important. But I try to bring humor into my nursing practice. It’s really a great way for me to connect with my patients. When it comes to my comedy, I’m always careful not to offend anyone. Whether I’m sharing jokes online or performing at a show, I make sure that my humor is based on one thing and one thing only: love—love for patients and love for nursing.

NURSING MISCONCEPTIONS

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about nursing that you have encountered, and how do you work to address these misconceptions through your work and advocacy efforts?

The biggest misconception is that we just follow orders or do what the doctors say. The public may know us and trust us, but they don’t exactly know what nurses do. When we advocate for issues like safe staffing, we’re not doing it for our benefit; we’re doing it for the benefit of our patients and the public. We want everyone to understand the importance of our role as nurses and the significance of having an acceptable nurse-to-patient ratio, and how being understaffed contrib -

utes to nurse burnout. And I think through advocacy, I try to educate others that nurses do more than they think. We spend more time with our patients than any other healthcare provider out there. That’s why these issues are crucial, and it’s equally important for the public to understand our role as nurses.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR NURSE BLAKE?

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TIPS for New Nurses From an Experienced

RN

BY STEPHANEE BEGGS, RN

Get to know your team members. Not just your nursing colleagues but the many integral parts of the interdisciplinary team — physicians, respiratory therapists, unit secretary, environmental services, whomever they may be. They all matter.

I began my career as a new graduate nurse in the emergency department; yes, you CAN start your career in your dream unit! Working as an emergency nurse has challenged me mentally, physically, and emotionally in the best way possible. I understand what it feels like to navigate the new graduate nurse role, and I am here to share some tips from one nurse to another.

1. SEEK THE ANSWERS

The scariest nurses are the ones who don’t ask questions; don’t be one of them! It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the new role. When

STEPHANEE AND HER ER TEAM

From left to right: Amanda S., Whitney H., Kelsey C., Stephanee B., Amanda P., Brittney F., and Myles M.

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT MOUNT SAINT MARY'S UNIVERSITY Stephanee is now a professor at the nursing school where she once studied.

OPPOSITE PAGE, RIGHT THE NURSING SCHOOL COMPREHENSIVE BUNDLE Available for purchase on Etsy.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STEPHANEE BEGGS

you come across situations that spark questions, seek the answers. I know this may seem redundant and straightforward, but often, new graduates are afraid to “look stupid” or “be annoying.”

You may find yourself asking questions such as:

• I haven’t administered this medication before. What do we typically use it for? What should I look out for when giving this medication?

• I haven’t performed this skill before. Can you come with me and walk me through it?

• I don’t know how to handle this situation. How would you approach it?

• Do you mind checking my charting to make sure I’m not missing anything?

2. GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY

Do as much as possible! Although you’ve graduated from nursing school, the learning has just begun. And it will continue for the rest of your career. The most significant new graduate hack is to expose yourself to all situations, even if it doesn’t involve your patient. Hands-on experience is the best way to prepare for similar situations when you are the primary nurse!

3. GET TO KNOW YOUR TEAM MEMBERS

Not just your nursing colleagues but the many integral parts of the interdisciplinary team—physicians, respiratory therapists, unit secretary, environmental services, whomever they may be. They all matter. They will all help you in some way at some point. Value their expertise. Appreciate their time in helping you do your job better.

4. LISTEN TO YOUR PATIENTS

Patients know their bodies more than you do. Parents know their children more than you do. Listen to their complaints and consider them when doing your assessment. You will be surprised to hear some atypical symptoms that may point towards a critical diagnosis for a patient.

5. DEBRIEF

Just like in nursing school, debriefing the shift to process what you have seen is imperative. After a 12-hour shift, I journal about patient scenarios, anything I learned or struggled with, and any thoughts that stuck with me on the drive home. I also keep a list of the patients (being HIPAA friendly, of course) who have passed away while on my shift. It sounds morbid, but I feel comforted reflecting on everything I learned in my short time with this patient. Whatever you like to do to debrief, do it.

STEPHANEE BEGGS is a registered nurse in Los Angeles, California, who unintentionally became viral on social media for her quick, concise educational tools that led to the creation of RNExplained, Inc. In addition, she teaches pharmacology in the classroom and medical concepts on various social media platforms to educate millions of nurses and nursing students around the globe.

How Can Nurses Come Together to Truly Connect?

WHEN I WAS IN NURSING SCHOOL from 2012 to 2014, I was President of the Florida Nursing Student Association (FNSA), and I attended a lot of nursing conferences around the country. I noticed they were boring and not at all engaging or fun. I knew then that I wanted to shake up the nursing conference space someday! Nurses deserve the most exciting and fun conferences.

I wondered how nurses could come together in one place to truly connect on a level that we usually can’t. Well, what better venue than to do it on a cruise ship?!? So I called up Royal Caribbean. They were totally on board with the idea and led me through the steps of starting NurseCon at Sea.

It wasn’t easy to get it up and running, but with a lot of hard work and collaboration, NurseCon at Sea is now pretty much smooth sailing. We now have 10 full-time employees and about 80 contractors — nursing educators, dancers, drag queens, etc. NurseCon at Sea is truly a team effort, and I’m so grateful to work with such a wonderful group of people.

The true purpose behind NurseCon at Sea isn’t just the awesome accredited continuing nursing education (CNE) courses; it’s the incredible community built around it. I could plan the most epic conference ever, but if no one attends, it would be for nothing. That’s why I’m so thankful for everyone who comes and makes it an unforgettable experience. We get to connect with each other on a deeper level in a safe space where nurses can be themselves and learn from one another. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind event!

The first cruise launched in 2022 and went from Miami to the Bahamas. It sold out really fast, so we decided to do two this year! We had one cruise in February that went to the Dominican Republic and one in April to the Bahamas.

After each cruise, we always want to hear feedback from the guests, so we survey them on what they liked most, what we can do better, and any suggestions they have. After all, NurseCon at Sea is for all of you! You are the ones who make the cruise amazing!

Each cruise is unique with the CNEs offered and the different activities onboard. Theme nights are the best, and I like to go all out! We had a Masquerade Night, a Boots & Bling party, and an 80s Night on the Dominican Republic cruise. Everyone got dressed up, and we partied all night. It’s so fun to see everyone in their costumes.

The drag queens really upped the vibe, and Nurse Feud was EPIC! It felt like a real TV game show. Between the night shift vs. day shift team and the crowd going crazy — it was incredible! The energy was amazing! We laughed our asses off!

It’s a lot of work being on the cruise, but when I get some downtime, you will definitely find me having fun with all the guests at the parties, watching the shows, or hanging out by the pool. I love meeting guests and truly connecting with them.

If you’re worried about going on a cruise alone, let me tell you, you’ll have the opportunity to meet tons of new friends! The Nurse Meet-Ups are especially fantastic for mingling with other nurses in your field, and you’ll be surprised at how many connections you can make. I’ve even heard stories of people who became friends on the first cruise and reunited on the next one.

Our CNE educators are seriously the best! They put in so much effort to create top-notch content for the courses. They’re not just experts in their fields; they’re constantly learning and staying up to date too. At NurseCon at Sea, we believe every nurse has something valuable to share and learn from one another, no matter what your experience or background is. It’s not about your credentials or how long you’ve been a nurse; it’s about being a lifelong learner and growing together.

My tip for future cruisers is to have fun — go to as many activities as possible. Or if you just want to relax and chill, do it! Create your own experience. Whether you want all the CNEs or just want to vacation, tailor your trip to you and your journey. Just make sure you try my favorite drink, the Miami Vice! It is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! It’s a strawberry daiquiri mixed with a piña colada. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!

Big shoutout to all of you who have been a part of NurseCon at Sea, from the team to the participants, because you all contribute to making it what it is — The Ultimate Nursing Conference that’s both a fun and safe place to learn. We are grateful to have such an awesome community and appreciate you!

Hope to see all of you at the next one! Love,

“CHARGE ON!”

IN YOUR NURSING CAREER

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

03

01 PARADISE BOUND

The Norwegian Pearl embarks on a voyage to the stunning beaches in the Dominican Republic.

02 READY TO LET LOOSE!

With the ocean breeze in your hair and friends at your side, you're ready for an adventure.

03 NURSECON AT SEA 2023

There’s no better way to kick off The Ultimate Nursing Conference than with an opening ceremony and group picture. Over 2,000 guests set sail with Nurse Blake for a five-day cruise to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.

THE ULTIMATE NURSING CONFERENCE

IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES when you take interactive continuing nursing education (CNE) courses, throw them on a premium cruise ship with thousands of nurses, and set sail to exotic locations like the Caribbean! Thanks to the ingenious idea from Nurse Blake, NurseCon at Sea is available to those seeking a unique and engaging nursing conference experience.

NurseCon at Sea offers nurses an unforgettable way to combine professional development with relaxation and fun. With various daily activities and parties, guests can enjoy themselves both on and off the ship. The pool deck is the perfect place to grab a drink, party with friends, and unwind in the hot tub or pool. Off-shore

excursions are a thrilling way to explore new places and create lasting memories.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE NURSING CONFERENCE

NurseCon at Sea Communications Coordinator Mariana Garces said, “NurseCon at Sea is a new take on a nursing conference. Not only do nurses get accredited CNEs, they also get to interact with other nurses, do fun activities, let loose at the parties and theme nights, and best of all, travel.”

Mariana added, “Blake genuinely cares about his audience and wants to create a safe space for them to interact. He wants to build

THE NORWEGIAN PEARL

a community for them and help nurses love their jobs and decompress.” Guests will find Blake mingling amongst them, snapping selfies, and getting to know his fellow nurses and fans.

THE PERFECT DESTINATION

2023 kicked off with an amazing cruise from Miami to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Over 2,000 guests, including Nurse Blake, took to the sea to fulfill their continuing education requirements while getting in some much-needed fun and relaxation.

Sara Staton, an ICU/IMC/PCU travel nurse from Virginia, was one of the fabulous guests aboard the Dominican Republic cruise. She recalled, “The most memorable moment for me was our excursion to the Zip and Dip in the Dominican Republic. We went hiking, zip lining, and swimming in the waterfalls. The hike was challenging but worth it!”

Off-shore excursions provide the perfect opportunity for guests to explore new cultures, try different cuisines, and make lasting memories. Whether exploring port cities, snorkeling in the ocean, or lounging on the beach, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Sara’s favorite aspects onboard the ship were “all of the music and dancing, and the food and drinks were awesome! I think a lot of people took advantage of the all-inclusive drink package!” With ample restaurants and bars to choose from, guests stay well-fed and fully satisfied.

Attending NurseCon at Sea is not just an excellent way for nurses to further their education and professional development, but they can also connect with other like-minded nurses, create new friendships, and have a truly unforgettable experience. Sara added, “I made new friends and some new networking contacts as well.”

05 PUERTO PLATA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic: Traditional dancers and musicians made their way through Taino Bay. Guests who chose this excursion could relax by the pool, browse the shops, grab a cocktail, and discover typical Dominican cuisine.

04 YOGA BY THE POOL

Guests enjoying some deep breathing and relaxation.

“Nurse Blake is so nice and personable. Any time you see him on board, he’ll stop and chat about absolutely anything! This is one of the main reasons I keep going back!”

11 HOBNOBBING WITH NURSE BLAKE

Laura V., Mandi N., and Sara Staton with Nurse Blake

IT’S NOT JUST A ONE-AND-DONE CRUISE: NURSES KEEP COMING BACK FOR MORE

Repeat cruiser Patrycja Chmielewska, a NICU nurse from Washington, DC, said, “My first cruise was the 2022 sailing to the Bahamas. I had such a blast that I didn’t even hesitate to pre-book on the ship for 2023!” She is already planning to attend the 2024 NurseCon at Sea cruise to Mexico.

Patrycja’s favorite moments from the cruise were “when we went to Nurse Blake Live and were greeted by Nurse Becky instead! The show was absolutely hilarious. Nurse Blake is so nice and personable. Any time you see him on board, he’ll stop and chat about absolutely anything! This is one of the main reasons I keep going back!”

ENGAGING CNE AND EPIC ACTIVITIES

The onboard activities and entertainment will leave you in awe. Transform yourself into a game show participant or applaud from the crowd at Nurse Feud. Dance your heart out at Silent Disco. Show off your nursing skills at the Ultimate Skills

Check-off. And don’t forget about the theme nights that bring out your inner diva or divo!

On top of all the endless fun activities available, there are numerous CNE courses to choose from. Each sailing offers over 20 CNE hours. “I one-hundred percent recommend the cruise to others. It’s an amazing way to meet so many wonderful people and get CNEs, all while on vacation. Plus, Nurse Blake knows how to throw a party,” said Patrycja.

Why choose an old-fashioned, boring nursing conference when you can party with Nurse Blake on a cruise ship and thousands of other incredible nurses? Even if you are a solo traveler, you will meet and connect with other nurses who share similar interests and professional goals. So come cruise with us at NurseCon at Sea. You won’t regret it!

APRIL ROWE is a registered nurse, freelance writer, and owner of RNtoPen. She lives with her husband and children in South Carolina and works in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

12 UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES

Whoever said selfies should just be a solo pic?!? Thousands of nurses and guests joined Nurse Blake to capture the moment.

13 FITNESS FOR ALL

aboard the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship: Basketball, pickleball, tennis, rock climbing, and more.

14 BOOTS & BLING PARTY!

Dancing under the stars in cowboy hats and rhinestone chaps at the Boots & Bling Party!

By April Rowe, RN

Social Media Influencer and Millionaire Entrepreneur

AS IF BECOMING A REGISTERED NURSE isn’t impressive enough!

28-year-old Stephanee Beggs, from California, became an unintentional social media influencer with almost 700,000 followers on TikTok and a multimillionaire entrepreneur. Her hard work landed her a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Education List for 2023.

HOW ONE TIKTOK VIDEO CHANGED IT ALL

It all started in 2020 when Stephanee was studying for her National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) exam. Her preferred learning method is teaching herself the material, so she created a video explaining the differences between the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) and diabetes insipidus (DI) by reading the information aloud. She thought her video could be helpful to other nurses who were also in the depths of studying. So, she decided to share her videos on the popular social media platform TikTok. The videos quickly went viral!

FROM SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER TO CEO

As her audience grew, nurses, nursing students, and other healthcare professionals messaged Stephanee asking if they could buy her notes. This planted the seed for her path to entrepreneurship. What began as a side gig turned into a lucrative business—RNExplained—that has generated almost 2.5 million dollars. She sells study materials for over 300 medical conditions and nursing merchandise on Etsy.

HARD WORK PAYS OFF

A nurse to the core, Stephanee continues to work as an emergency department nurse in Los Angeles. But her passion doesn’t end there. Apart from her nursing job, she actively manages RNExplained with her aunt Lisa.

Beggs, RN

Stephanee also dedicates hours every week to creating and editing her social media content, all while engaging with followers. “Being an influencer, it never stops. You always have to engage. The content that I write for my videos, it never ends. The emails, replying to direct messages, it’s truly 24/7,” said Stephanee.

Her passion for educating others in the field knows no bounds! Not only does she run a thriving business and work as a nurse, but you will also find her on the Mount Saint Mary’s University campus, where she continues to share her expertise as a nursing pharmacology professor.

A PASSION FOR NURSING, HEALTH, AND SCIENCE

Initially, she obtained a degree in business marketing, but Stephanee explained, “I always wanted to do something in science. I love learning, and I love health and science. It piqued my interest and led me into nursing.”

But Stephanee’s journey to becoming a nurse was marked by a poignant moment when her mother, Becki Beggs, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Witnessing her mother’s fight and eventual passing in 2019 left a lasting impact on Stephanee and helped to mold her into the compassionate and empathetic nurse she is today. “When you lose one of your family members, you see things a little differently. You treat people differently, and you have a lot more empathy for others,” added Stephanee.

Her favorite aspect about being a nurse is “the satisfaction of literally saving a patient’s life. That’s what I love the most: Interacting and critically thinking to save lives.” From her business side of nursing, what inspires Stephanee is the “feedback I get from students, or new grads, saying that I have helped them pass their board or get through nursing school. That feedback is so rewarding for me.”

Stephanee knows all too well how emotionally taxing nursing can be. She admits it can be difficult to leave the trauma and stress at work and not bring it home. To help her cope, she works out with a trainer four to five times a week, which she considers to be her “saving grace.”

HELPING TO CREATE A POSITIVE NURSING CULTURE

A firm believer in creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere, Stephanee takes pride in being approachable to anyone with questions. Her dedication to promoting a nurturing environment for new grad nurses is evident in her unwavering advocacy against workplace bullying and mistreatment. She stressed, “Nurses should not be eating their young. We have to collaborate together in order to do anything, to communicate within the hospital, or literally to save a person’s life. So why are we knocking each other down?”

Like many new grad nurses, Stephanee struggled with workplace bullying. She recalled, “It took me a while as a new grad to find my voice. You have to not take things personally, but you can also stick up for yourself.” She continues to emulate positivity in the workplace and helps spread the word on social media to prevent nurse-on-nurse bullying.

She’s a powerhouse, a go-getter, a role model, and a kind and caring educator. She has defied the limits, taken one small unsuspecting idea, and turned it into a business worth millions. Stephanee’s proving that the sky's the limit for nurses with big dreams.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STEPHANEE BEGGS

When you lose one of your family members, you see things a little differently. You treat people differently, and you have a lot more empathy for others.

NURSE BECKY'S

Favorite Things

By Maggie Aime, RN

LOCK YOUR EYES on the latest trends in the nursing world—Nurse Becky edition! We all love Nurse Becky for her unpredictable quirkiness that not only makes us laugh but also reflects the daily struggles we face as nurses. She’s that hot mess co-worker who’s always late, clumsy, forgetful, and obsessed with coffee and gossip. But that doesn’t stop her from bringing energy to the floor and being a fashion icon!

LEMAY

PHOTOS BY DELILAH

01 SCRUBS

Made from recycled PET bottles and secondhand clothing, these Dickies Riveting scrubs are not only eco-friendly but also strong enough to survive Nurse Becky’s chaos of the day. The contrast stitching and decorative rivets add a touch of style to the two-pocket V-neck top, featuring a four-way stretch spandex for all your nursing tasks—you know, the ones that require ninja-like reflexes. And let’s not forget the oh-sostylish details that make these scrubs pop: side slits for added airflow and back princess seams to show off those curves (or lack thereof). At 5’8” and 165 lbs, Nurse Becky is rocking a size medium in the Heather Coral Vibes color like it’s nobody’s business! Top $31.99, Jogger $34.99 Scrubsandbeyond.com

02 SHOES

Nurse Becky is strutting her stuff in the hottest shoes ever: the brand-spanking-new Nurse Blake shoes by Gales in the mintiest of mints with pink soles—and she’s lookin’ pretty fine! These babies are not only stylish but also practical. With longterm cushioning, arch support, and custom, machine-washable insoles, Nurse Becky will be running to codes all day without tripping over her own feet—unless she gets stuck in the supply room again. They’re slip-resistant, lightweight, and eco-friendly, making them perfect for the eco-conscious nurse. Plus, when Nurse Becky gets blood, urine, or ‘NOT chocolate’ on them (because, let’s be real, it’s going to happen), they wipe clean in seconds thanks to their antimicrobial feature. And who has time to tie shoelaces? These bad boys are laceless and a real game-chang-

MEET NURSE BECKY

She's a riot and a fan favorite in the nursing community. We just can’t get enough of Nurse Becky, and you won't want to miss out on the chance to see her live at NurseCon at Sea!

with

NURSE BECKY

Q. I have a product I just know you will love! How do I let you know?

A. Submit inquiries to nbmagazine@nurseblake.com Include a quick description and photo.

er, guys! Use code NURSEBLAKE for 10% off plus FREE shipping while limited inventory is available. $119.95 weargales.com

03 STETHOSCOPE

Ah, Nurse Becky’s looking chic and professional with her Littmann Lightweight II SE stethoscope in the sweet Pearl Pink Tube color! Who knew a simple teardrop shape could make such a huge difference when it comes to getting that chestpiece under those pesky blood pressure cuffs? With its tunable diaphragm, Nurse Becky can hear high and low-frequency sounds even over her patient’s loud-ass TV. But let’s be honest, we all know she chose it because it matches her scrubs. $65.99 Scrubsandbeyond.com

04

COFFEE

When Nurse Becky needs a pick-me-up, Starbucks Iced Honey Almondmilk Flat White comes to her rescue! Made with almond milk, Starbucks Blonde® Espresso Roast, and a splash of honey over ice, this drink is the sweet, creamy caffeine buzz she desperately needs to survive her shift. And at just 100 calories, Nurse Becky can indulge in her caffeine fix and sip away guilt-free—even if her bank account is silently weeping at the price tag. Oh hey, Joint Commission, that coffee’s going straight to the nursing station! $6.45 starbucks.com

MAGGIE AIME , RN, is a freelance health and medical personal finance writer. She’s the owner of TheWriteRN.com. When she’s not writing, she can be found relishing a breathtaking sunrise, making memories with her children, or rekindling her love of the piano.

Q. What happens if my product is selected?

A. We will ask you to send a sample of your product for further review and possible mention in the Nurse Becky column.

Q. What if my product isn’t selected?

A. We will keep it on file for future consideration. We also invite you to advertise your product to our incredible readership of more than 15,000 nurses.

OFF THE CLOCK: NURSE ERIKA

By April Rowe, RN

Nurses play a crucial role in healthcare systems, and their dedication to helping others doesn't end when they clock out.

Volunteering their time outside of work is a great way to give back to the community. By helping out at a local food bank or providing medical care to underserved populations, volunteering can be an enriching way for nurses to spend their free time.

PHOTO BY AYUMI YAMASHITA i STOCK

The streets of San Marcos de Caiquín, Honduras.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIKA BREITWIESER

PROGRAMS THAT MATTER

Nurses Beyond Borders and One World Surgery are just a couple of the many notable companies that provide volunteer opportunities for nurses to travel abroad and make a difference in the lives of people in need.

These programs allow nurses to step out of their comfort zone, explore new cultures and languages, learn new skills, and make a global impact. They also provide a chance for nurses to apply their expertise in diverse contexts and gain invaluable experiences.

VOLUNTEERING AS A NURSE ABROAD

A registered nurse from Reno, Nevada, Erika Breitwieser, shared she “became a nurse to try and make a difference for those in need. What better way to do that than to go serve communities that desperately need assistance.”

Erika has worked on the medical nephrology/medical surgical floor for the past seven years and also works as a travel nurse in Nevada and California. She took her traveling nursing skills to the next level by going abroad on a seven-day medical mission to Honduras in 2018.

Through MEDICO, a non-profit humanitarian organization that serves communities in Central America, Erika left the U.S. and went to Honduras. “Not only was it my first time volunteering abroad, it was my first time ever traveling abroad,” noted Erika.

Despite the fact that Honduras had been experiencing a lot of civil unrest and was not the safest location for travelers, Erika selflessly stepped out of her comfort zone to volunteer her time to provide much-needed medical care to a community in need.

“The people we cared for were so impoverished that they were grateful for a Tylenol or a vitamin. They came by horse, on foot (some without shoes), packed tightly in the back of old pick-up trucks, and in vans that had been set up ahead of time. They stood in line for hours and were still grateful for even the smallest amount of care. The most rewarding thing for me was seeing the amount of gratitude for the simplest of things,” she recalled.

MEDICO provides education, medical, dental, and vision services to the communities they serve. Erika’s volunteer role was to triage the patients by gathering intake information, obtaining vital signs, and performing a baseline assessment. Some patients required intravenous (IV) therapy or the administration of emergency medications.

Patients of all ages showed up for medical care, ranging from newborn babies to older adults. Erika expressed her love for the patients, saying, “They were friendly and patient and just as curious about us as we were about them. They understood my very limited Spanish, and we found a way to lead each other through our interactions.”

Erika shared, “My experience was very positive. The other volunteers were amazing, the patients we cared for were humble and kind, and the country was beautiful. What a terrific opportunity this was for me to grow. It was an eye-opening, life-changing experience, and I will absolutely be going back.”

Erika Breitwieser, RN, from Reno, Nevada.

The most rewarding thing for me was seeing the amount of gratitude for the simplest of things.

Dental care preparation at the clinic.

Volunteers organizing the clinic’s supply room.

LEARN MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ABROAD WITH MEDICO BY VISITING THEIR WEBSITE AT MEDICO.ORG.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIKA BREITWIESER

Fake It Till You Make It?

The Crazy

(and

Sad)

Nursing Scam You Won’t Believe

By Nurse Blake

NURSING NEWS BLAKE'S TAKE

WAIT! YOU HAVEN’T HEARD ABOUT THE FLORIDA FAKE NURSING DIPLOMA SCANDAL? GRAB A DRINK!

SO, SOME SCHOOLS IN FLORIDA (shocker!) were handing out fake nursing diplomas like they were cooter canoes in the ICU.

The news broke in January 2023. According to federal authorities and court documents, not one, not two, but THREE schools in Florida advertised a shortcut to becoming a nurse, where “students” could just bypass nursing school. Who needs classroom education, clinical hours, and actual skills when you can just pay for a piece of paper and call yourself a nurse?

Ok, there’s no debating that the nurse staffing shortage and nurse burnouts are ongoing and serious issues, but handing out fake diplomas ain’t the solution.

Not only is it illegal and downright dangerous, but there’s no way in hell anyone who calls themselves a nurse gets to skip the meltdowns, shitty lifestyle, and select-all-that-apply questions in nursing school!

OPERATION NIGHTINGALE: NOT THE LEGACY FLORENCE HAD IN MIND!

So, the feds called it Operation Nightingale, named after Florence Nightingale, aka the Lady with the Lamp, founder of modern nursing. Twenty-five people in total — school administrators, directors, and employees of the schools and nursing test prep acad-

emies — were the masterminds behind this scheme. They were raking in serious cash in exchange for more than 7,600 bogus nursing diplomas and transcripts.

Cheating your way to a nursing degree goes against everything nursing stands for.

Get this! For five years straight, between 2016 and 2021, they were charging $10,000 to $15,000 for a worthless degree. The alleged scammers made a total of $114 million in the process.

Pick one off the menu, folks!

LPN license? Sure, that’ll be $10,000.

Oh, you want a 4.0 GPA and a BSN degree? No sweat. $15,000, please. Add ons? We got you! That’ll be extra, though.

Paper or plastic?

Cash or card?

It’s disturbing to think people were willing to pay that much to deceive others and themselves!

PASSING THE NCLEX WITHOUT A NURSING EDUCATION: YES, THEY DID!

Hold on. It gets even crazier! Out of the more than 7,600 people who bought these phony nursing degrees, about 2,800 of them actually passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and were able to snag a nursing license. Like, WHAT!?

They said many "graduates" applied to take the NCLEX in New York where they can take the exam as many times as they want. Basically, they could apply for a license in another state but take the test in New York endlessly!

It turns out that many of these individuals were already working as certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and were hoping to just slide into becoming an RN or LPN.

Guys! The scariest part is that a “significant number” of the people who bought these phony nursing credentials actually landed jobs in hospitals and other healthcare settings. They didn't say how many in total, but in February 2023, the state of Georgia asked 22 people to turn over their licenses.

FBI Miami’s Special Agent in Charge, Chad Yarbrough, said, “What is disturbing about the scheme is the possibility of harm coming to patients under the dubious care of one of these allegedly fraudulent nurses.” You think!

According to the FBI, the people who did manage to pass the exam may lose their certification, but they probably won’t face criminal charges.

THE SCANDAL THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

It’s been over four months since the Department of Justice (DoJ) made the announcement. But, the investigation is far from over.

As of April 3, 2023, the Delaware State Board of Nursing canceled the licenses of about 30 nurses who allegedly obtained fake degrees. Meanwhile, in Washington State, the Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC) is investigating 150 nursing license applications and continues to identify and deny applicants who used credentials from this scam. On April 11, 2023, it was announced that two of the school administrators pleaded guilty and could be spending the next 20 years behind bars.

Even the American Nurses Association (ANA)’s president chimed in, “Nursing is without a doubt a highly specialized and ethical profession requiring rigorous and life-long education and training to acquire unmatched clinical expertise. You don’t achieve this overnight. There are no shortcuts in nursing – our patients and clients depend on us. It is both a demanding and rewarding profession that requires individuals to be adaptive to the evolving and complex healthcare landscape to ensure the delivery of safe and quality patient care.” OMG! No shit!

Cheating your way to a nursing degree goes against everything nursing stands for. Not to mention, it totally bashes the reputation of all of us, hardworking nurses, who busted our butts to be

QUICK FACTS

> Three schools in Florida advertised shortcuts to becoming a nurse by bypassing nursing school.

> Operation Nightingale was named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and 25 individuals were involved in the scheme.

> These schools were charging $10,000 to $15,000 for a degree that was not worth the paper it was printed on, making a total of $114 million in the process.

> More than 7,600 bogus nursing diplomas and transcripts were given out, and around 2,800 “graduates” passed the NCLEX and were able to obtain a nursing license.

> The investigation is ongoing, and licenses of fake degree holders are being canceled across the U.S.

> The American Nurses Association's president said nursing is a specialized and ethical profession that requires rigorous and life-long education and training.

where we are rightfully. After all, nurses are the most trusted and ethical professionals!

WILL THE REAL NURSES PLEASE STAND UP?

Could other nursing schools be running their own little fake diploma mills? Probably!

Did the diploma buyers really think they were getting a legitimate education? Ah! They must have known what they were doing.

In all seriousness, becoming a nurse is neither fun nor a joke. It takes years of hard work, dedication, and education to earn our degree and earn the trust of our patients and the healthcare industry.

Sure, buying a fake diploma might seem like a quick and easy way to get ahead, but it’s not worth the risk. Choose the right way, put in the effort, and you’ll be rewarded with a fulfilling and respected career. You’ll get a sense of pride and accomplishment that no fake diploma could ever match. Your future patients will thank you for it.

SOURCES

American Nurses Association. 2023. American Nurses Association statement on fraudulent nursing diploma scheme

American Nurses Association. 2023. Most honest and ethical professionals Associated Press. 2023. 25 people in Florida are charged with a scheme to get fake nursing diplomas. Npr.org.

Delaware Board of Nursing. 2023. Operation Nightingale

Levenson, M. 2023. 7,600 fake nursing diplomas were sold in scheme, U.S. says The New York Times Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. 2023. News release: NCQAC rescinds licenses and applications related to Florida-based schools’ federal investigation

Pezenik, S. 2023. Feds announce massive takedown of fraudulent nursing diploma scheme ABC News

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. 2023. 2023 Operation Nightingale enforcement action

United States Attorney’s Office Southern District of Florida. 2023. Fraudulent nursing diploma scheme leads to federal charges against 25 defendants Whitford, E., et al. 2023. How thousands of nurses got licensed with fake degrees Forbes