Nurse Blake Magazine, Issue One 2024

ISSUE ONE | 2024

COPYRIGHT ©2024 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 ©2024 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

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Nurse Blake by Mariana Garces. Sapphire Falls Resort TM & ©2023 UCF Hotel Venture III. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & ©2023 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

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Monarch Media & Consulting, Inc.

ISSUE CREDITS

Flaticon.com, iStock.com

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

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Chellie Thompson monarchmediainc.com

TIKTOK @nurseblake

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The Team Contributors

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

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.

April Rowe is a registered nurse in the NICU, a freelance writer, and owner of RNtoPen. She loves spending time with her family, is an avid traveler, and is passionate about learning Italian.

Joleen Sams, MSN, APRN, FNP-C is a family nurse practitioner in the Kansas City metro area. She’s a primary care provider working with underserved populations. Her side gig is writing healthcare articles.

STEPHANEE BEGGS, RN

MAGGIE AIME, RN

APRIL ROWE, RN

JOLEEN SAMS, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

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WHAT'S YOUR PASSION?

PASSION IS A DRIVING FORCE that ignites our minds and souls and makes life worth living. It’s the fire within us that propels us forward, fills our hearts with joy, and gives us a sense of purpose. I’m not just talking about the passion you feel when you get an IV on the first try or when you go a whole shift without your patient yanking out their rectal tube! I mean the passion we feel for helping others or finding the things in life that spark our interests and give us purpose.

So, what is your true passion in life? What makes you wake up every morning, roll out of bed, and drives you to succeed? When we discover our passions, we unlock a world of endless possibilities. We become driven by an inner motivation that fuels our actions, pushes us beyond our limits, and gives us a sense of fulfillment.

One of my greatest passions and accomplishments is this magazine. I love that it’s loaded with stories of inspiring nurses and healthcare professionals who make a true difference every day in the lives of others. From the frontlines to behind-the-scenes, the Nurse Blake Magazine showcases why nursing is so amazing!

In this issue, our Unique Nursing Roles highlights a nurse who found her passion in Forensic Nursing. Wait ‘til you read about this compelling role where nurses provide compassionate, detailed care to patients during their darkest moments. It’s not like any other type of nursing role!

NurseCon (the free nursing app) and NurseCon at Sea were born out of MY passion. I wanted to create a safe nursing community where we can all come together and share our stories and love for nursing. A place where we can learn in a fun and welcoming environment. We asked NurseCon at Sea attendees what they are most excited about for the upcoming cruise to Mexico in April. I know I can’t wait!

ER vs. ICU Nursing, which team do you root for? I’ve worked in both, so I’m neutral, and I know they’re both

PHOTO BY ROWAN DALY

EMBRACE YOUR PASSIONS WHOLEHEARTEDLY AND MAKE A LASTING IMPACT

crazy, fun, and challenging in their own unique ways. We reached out to an ER and an ICU nurse to see if those typical stereotypes hold true. I mean, we know one of you keeps stealing the damn bladder scanner!

Nurses are awesome, we all know this — but our Nurse of the Quarter is the ultimate life-saving badass! She selflessly donated part of her liver to save the life of a little boy. When we discover our passions, we unlock a world of endless possibilities. We become driven by an inner motivation that fuels our actions, pushes us beyond our limits, and gives us a sense of fulfillment.

Speaking of Orlando, did you hear the news? NurseCon is taking over Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando from September 22nd to the 26th. Hey, not everyone likes cruises, so why not experience the Ultimate Nursing Conference on dry land? Find out more details in this issue.

Nurses are awesome, we all know this — but our Nurse of the Quarter is the ultimate life-saving badass! She selflessly donated part of her liver to save the life of a little boy. She took time off of work, went under the knife, and gave up her gallbladder in the process so she could give a boy a chance at life! Don’t miss this phenomenal story!

Ok nurse managers, you know I love y’all, right? I may poke fun, but I know there are kickass managers out there. We talked to one nurse manager who shed some light on what it’s truly like in a management position. Maybe they really are always in meetings all day!

Ask Nurse Blake is your chance to ask me ANYTHING! I love getting your questions and giving my honest and genuine responses. It’s a great way to get conversations rolling. Ask, and I’ll tell.

Have you heard the nursing news?!?! A former NICU nurse was awarded over $41 MILLION in a wrongful termination suit! This is yet another reminder for us to stand tall and speak up!

Who loves Universal Orlando? Nurse Becky does, and she dishes out all her Orlando faves! There are plenty of pics to entice you to head down to my neck of the woods and experience Universal Orlando for yourself!

Never give up on discovering what your passions are. Take the time to explore different nursing roles and find fun and exciting activities on your days off. Try new things, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace new experiences. You never know what might spark that fire within you. And remember, being a nurse is not just a job but a lifelong pursuit of doing what you love.

With love and laughter,

BLAKE LYNCH EDITOR + FOUNDER

vs.

A Timeless, (Mostly) Friendly Rivalry

Nurses

By Joleen Sams, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

HUMANS LOVE TO CATEGORIZE

, and nurses are no exception. We stereotype the heck out of each other based on specialty and length of time you’ve been a nurse. Memes and TikTok videos are all over the place, poking good fun at these differences. ER vs. ICU nurse personalities provide endless opportunities for comparison, but what is it really like to work in these departments?

You can find all sorts of dry information about education, salary, and work environment, but none of that really captures the essence of what it’s like to be a nurse in one of these departments. So, we turned to social media to get the real deal: Ashley Garner is an ER nurse from Pennsylvania, and Laramie Werner is an ICU nurse in Nebraska. They were eager to tell us what they love about their departments and the nursing profession.

ER AND ICU: HIGH STRESS, HIGH REWARD NURSING SPECIALTIES

Both ER and ICU nurses care for patients with critical illnesses. These specialties require strong assessment and critical thinking skills. They work with high-risk medications, and patient conditions can change minute by minute. Both require excellent communication skills and the ability to work well with interdisciplinary teams. It really comes down to whether you thrive in absolute or controlled chaotic environments.

Both require excellent communication skills and the ability to work well with interdisciplinary teams. It really comes down to whether you thrive in absolute or controlled chaotic environments.

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

ER nursing requires a love for the unknown — you never know who will walk in the door. ER Nurses thrive in this chaos. Ashley said, “I was personally drawn to the ER for the excitement of seeing something new every day; you could have two STEMIs [ST elevation myocardial infarction], one GI bleed, one psychiatric patient who’s combative, and another with shortness of breath. I enjoy getting to use different skills.”

ER nursing requires a love for the unknown — you never know who will walk in the door.

The focus is triage and stabilization of patients who present with a wide array of injuries and medical conditions. They send labs, administer medications, put in IVs, and get patients to CT or x-ray safely and efficiently. Then, they coordinate discharge or transfer to the inpatient units.

BELOW Always enthusiastic, Ashley Garner, RN, in front of her ER entrance, all PPE’d and ready to roll in the ER.

ABOVE Laramie Werner, RN is all smiles as she heads to work and masks up for her day in the ICU.

To all the ICU nurses detangling masses of tele cords and IV lines while listening to an incessant stream of beeps and alarms all day/night long. Y’all are all amazing, fast-thinking, calm in the “OS” moments, bada** nurses who I’m proud of every single day. Thankful for all you do!!

LARAMIE WERNER

CRITICAL CARE UNITS

ICU nurses care for the hospital’s most critically ill and injured patients and are usually only assigned 1-2 patients at a time. Laramie said, “ICU is a very organized dance of knowing what needs to be done, what has to be charted, and who to call. I have the opportunity to use critical thinking and make fast decisions on how to best care for my patients.”

ICU is a very organized dance of knowing what needs to be done, what has to be charted, and who to call.

ICU nurses meticulously monitor vital signs, titrate and manage multiple high-risk medications and respiratory ventilation, and assist with procedures. Patients may require ICU-level care for weeks, so ICU nurses develop therapeutic relationships with patients and their families in a way that ER nurses don’t.

Both nurses speak to the teamwork required to thrive in highstress, complicated situations. Ashley summed it up nicely: “For the most part, I think ER and ICU work well together. We (ER) may not label our lines, but we do know it’s running somewhere.” At the end of the day, it’s all about patient care. You can’t do it alone, so everyone might as well work together.

SHOUT OUTS!

To my ER nurses serving up turkey sandwiches and ginger ales. You are all very wellrounded nurses who deal with a lot of shit. Thanks for throwing the IV in the AC and continuing to do your best.

ASHLEY GARNER

JOLEEN SAMS is a family nurse practitioner in the Kansas City metro area. She spent the first 10 years of her career in the NICU and inpatient pediatric world before graduating in 2019 with an MSN-FNP from Maryville University. Now, she’s a primary care provider working with underserved populations but often misses neatly labeling and titrating IV lines. Her side gig is writing healthcare articles; you can connect on IG @joleensamsNP or her website ad-astra-services.com

TOP ICU nurse Laramie Werner gettin’ her glow on onboard the NurseCon at Sea cruise.

BOTTOM ER Nurse Ashley Garner sporting her “jingle bells” alarm shirt a work.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASHLEY GARNER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LARAMIE WERNER

Nurse Blake

FAVORITE NURSING PROFESSORS

Hi Nurse Blake - first off, big fan! Love your shows and the magazine. The cruise is totally on my bucket list! I’m a nurse educator in the world of academia. What was your favorite course and/or professor? Did any of them inspire you to pursue comedy by sharing their fun patient stories? — Connie P.

Hey Connie! Big thanks for being a fan. I totally appreciate you! Can’t wait to see you on the cruise.

Hats off to you for being a nurse educator! OMG, the work you do is so incredibly important. You get to nurture the next generation of nurses and influence their journey. This is huge! Kudos to you, and thanks!

But to answer your question, I’ve had my share of both amazing and not-so-great professors in nursing school. The ones who stood out the most were Professor Ritten and Professor Littlejohn.

Professor Ritten would walk into class each day, flash her warm smile, and enthusiastically greet us with, “Hello, Future Nurses!” I just adored her positive, uplifting energy. I loved that she saw each of us not just as students but as the skilled nurses we were working hard to become. Her Health Assessment course was definitely one of my faves. Professor Littlejohn also

These two professors definitely had a profound impact on me. They created an empowering space, allowed me to be true to myself, and helped each one of us find our passions, one of mine being comedy.

treated us like fellow professionals, not just students. These two professors definitely had a profound impact on me. They created an empowering space, allowed me to be true to myself, and helped each one of us find our passions, one of mine being comedy.

FACING NURSING CONFLICTS

Have you ever dealt with a nurse bully or a nurse you just didn’t “vibe” with? How did you deal with it/figure it out? — Erin D.

Hey Erin! This is such a good question. I’ve seen that unfortunate “nurses eating their young” behavior, and it’s definitely real. My hope is that the next generation of nurses will end that cycle.

PHOTO BY CHERNETSKAYA, DREAMSTIME

PHOTO BY COURTNEY K., ISTOCK

When I first started in the ICU, I had a bit of a rocky beginning with one of my preceptors. They were way less than nice (if you get what I mean!). They weren’t a “bully,” but they definitely didn’t have a warm or welcoming attitude conducive to learning.

My advice is to speak up and address things as they happen. Don’t wait until another incident happens. Same when you see bullying or lateral violence towards another nurse. Speak up and remind others that it’s inappropriate and nurses should support one another.

So, I bluntly asked her if anything was wrong and that I would appreciate it if she treated me with a little more respect. She quickly apologized, and we hit it off from there. She ended up being an incredible preceptor. This goes to show the power of facing conflict tactfully.

My advice is to speak up and address things as they happen. Don’t wait until another incident happens. Same when you see bullying or lateral violence towards another nurse. Speak up and remind others that it’s inappropriate and nurses should support one another.

One more thing: loop your manager in via email so there is a record of what occurred. And always remember,

“Nurses Support Their Young!” If we lead with that mindset, we can improve the nursing culture.

TO STAY OR NOT TO STAY

Hey Blake, I’ve recently hit one year of being a nurse (yayyy)! I love the hospital and department I work in. However, lately, I’ve been wondering: Is it worth it for nurses to stay at a place for more than two years? I feel like the pay is not what it should be when you hit that point and that the benefits of staying in one place longterm start to dwindle. What are your thoughts on this?

— Hannah

A.

Yay, Hannah! Congrats on hitting the one-year nursing milestone! That first year is so critical, and you should feel proud.

Listen, you do NOT need to stay at a job for any certain length of time. You don’t owe any employer a set tenure before moving on (unless you signed one of those contracts). Anyway, if a new adventure calls to you, and you feel like making a jump, DO IT!

It’s unfortunate the hospitals won’t appropriately pay nurses until they get up and leave. Then, the hospitals need them back.

If a new adventure calls to you, and you feel like making a jump, DO IT!

Here’s the thing, though: if pay is your main concern, talk to your nurse manager or HR about getting a raise. And don’t be afraid to tell them you will go elsewhere if they don’t match your ask. Leaders need to know these things. Besides, hospitals need nurses so badly right now that you have the chance to be PICKY! The decision is yours.

Good luck on your journey, and again, welcome to nursing! You got this.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR NURSE BLAKE?

We want to hear from you for our next issue.

Ask me! nurseblake.com/pages/magazine

FORENSIC NURSING UNVEILING

FORENSIC NURSING is a unique and often overlooked role that plays a crucial part in the healthcare system. Many people, including nurses, may not be familiar with this specialty. Forensics is an incredibly important nursing role that deserves recognition. A forensic nurse is the ultimate patient advocate,

making a profound impact on the lives of children and adults who are in their darkest hour.

Forensic nurses are specially trained professionals who possess exceptional assessment skills and have at least two years of nursing experience. They

Investigating The Diverse Role of Forensic Nursing

By April Rowe, RN

work closely with victims of violence and assault, providing them with compassionate care and support during a very traumatic time. These nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills to collect crucial evidence, document injuries, and provide expert testimony if needed in legal proceedings.

A forensic nurse is the ultimate patient advocate, making a profound impact on the lives of children and adults who are in their darkest hour.

WHAT DO FORENSIC NURSES ACTUALLY DO?

The role of a forensic nurse extends beyond traditional healthcare settings. They may work in hospitals, clinics, law enforcement agencies, psychiatric or correctional facilities, coroner’s offices, or within community outreach programs. Their expertise is invaluable in cases involving sexual assault, domestic violence, death investigations, child abuse, elder abuse, and other forms of interpersonal violence.

Mary Salmond, MSN, RN, CA-CP SANE, from Texas, is an experienced nurse

Forensic nurse Mary Salmond, MSN, RN, CA-CP SANE

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNABELLE ARNOLD

“I get to be that compassionate, caring person, on the worst day of someone’s life.”

of over 14 years, nine of which she has worked in forensics. She has performed over 400 forensic examinations. As an expert in her field, she unveiled the role of forensic nurses and what it’s truly like to work in this distinctive role.

“There are several different options as a forensic nurse. You can become certified as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) for adults and adolescents or pediatrics, or work in intimate partner violence or child physical abuse,” explained Mary. These nurses provide direct patient care by assessing victims, gathering evidence, and completing thorough documentation, all while building the trust of the victims and creating a rapport with them.

“Our nurses are the first ones to touch base with the patient, and we use the medical forensic exam that we’re trained to do as a sexual assault nurse examiner. We identify a normal skin variant and an injury, and we apply that to any patient who’s experienced violence. We see child physical abuse cases, sexual assaults, strangulation cases, and intimate partner violence,” added Mary.

She discussed the usual encounter with victims of violence. “I start the assessment with the patient’s subjective complaint and get a [full] history from the patient. Then, my physical assessment will hone in and look for injuries where I know there was penetration, and that’s where I swab for potential DNA evidence. I’m also going to test for infections, like chlamydia.”

During this very personal and vulnerable exam, the nurse must remain professional but also convey a genuinely caring and empathetic demeanor. “I get to be that compassionate, caring person on the worst day of someone’s life. I provide that safe space for them that they may not have otherwise, and I provide trauma-informed care,” said Mary.

FORENSIC NURSES HAVE THEIR DAY IN COURT

When nurses hear the word court, they may immediately think of being summoned to give a deposition every nurse’s worst nightmare! But for forensic nurses, a day in court is their chance to advocate for their patients. “When going into court, you’re not defending your documentation; you are educating the jury about what you do as a forensic nurse, and you explain the forensic medical exam,” Mary noted.

Forensic Nursing and Sexual Assault Nurse

CA: Certified Adult/Adolescent

CP: Certified Pediatric

Not all forensic nurses go to court regularly. Of the 400-plus exams that Mary has performed, she has only been to court 13 times. Thankfully, her employer compensates her time for court proceedings, which is not always the case.

EMBRACING THE REWARDS AND CHALLENGES

Working with victims of violence is not for everyone. It’s difficult and emotional

to assess and document the abuse and sexual assault of children and adults, but it is also rewarding to be able to help someone in such a traumatic situation. Mary stated that a negative aspect of this career is “vicarious trauma.” She added, “One of the hardest parts is the child physical abuse deaths. Those are the ones that really stick with you.” All nurses must try to compartmentalize the stresses and traumas we experience on the job, and forensic nurses are certainly in this category. Practicing self-care and

Mary, with her former teammate, Jyllian Najar, standing outside the courthouse after testifying for their cases.

Forensic nurses document and assess victims of violence with compassion and care.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JYLLIAN NAJAR

confronting difficult emotions are important in preventing nursing burnout.

HOW TO BECOME A FORENSIC NURSE

Nurses interested in forensics should have at least two years of experience and must be highly skilled at conducting comprehensive assessments. Every state has different regulations for forensic nursing, so search your local requirements and seek out certification as a SANE. There is a master’s degree program available in forensic nursing, but it is not a requirement to practice as one.

“Starting forensic nursing is like being a [new grad] nurse again. You have to give yourself grace. It’s going to take about a year until you start to gain confidence.”

You should expect to have extensive training as a new hire forensic nurse. It is not like any other typical nursing role. “Starting forensic nursing is like being a [new grad] nurse again. You have to give yourself grace. It’s going to take about a year until you start to gain confidence,” Mary stated.

EDUCATING THE COMMUNITY

In addition to clinical duties, forensic nurses also play a vital role in educating communities about violence prevention and promoting awareness about the importance of forensic evidence collection. They work collaboratively with law enforcement personnel, social workers, counselors, and legal professionals to ensure that victims receive comprehensive care while also contributing to the pursuit of justice.

Education is an essential aspect of forensic nursing. Not only do these nurses educate patients, but they also focus on educating other nurses and healthcare professionals. “I educate others on how to care for these patients, so I’m able to make an impact through-

out the whole community,” she added. Mary will also be presenting the following courses at the NurseCon at Sea 2024 cruise to Mexico: Forensic Nursing and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE): Providing Compassionate Care and Legal Expertise; Navigating Intimate Partner Violence and Non-Fatal Strangulation; Comprehensive Pediatric Care in Cases of Abuse and Exploitation: Recognizing Red Flags and Ensuring Safety.

Forensic nursing would be a perfect fit for nurses who have a passion for helping vulnerable populations and seeking justice for those who have experienced trauma. It is a challenging but very fulfilling nursing role that combines medical expertise with legal advocacy. Join us on the 2024 NurseCon at Sea cruise to Mexico and learn from Mary first-hand about the unique nursing role of forensics.

APRIL ROWE is a registered nurse in the NICU, a freelance writer, and owner of RNtoPen. She loves spending time with her family, is an avid traveler, and is passionate about learning Italian.

2024 Presenter, Nursecon at sea to mexico

Mary Salmond, MSN, RN, CA-CP SANE

TOPICS

Forensic Nursing and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE): Providing Compassionate Care and Legal Expertise

Navigating Intimate Partner Violence and Non-Fatal Strangulation

Comprehensive Pediatric Care in Cases of Abuse and Exploitation: Recognizing Red Flags and Ensuring Safety

Mary has been a forensic nurse for over nine years and is passionate about her role in helping victims of violence.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNABELLE ARNOLD

UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL

UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL

Become a Knight nurse, like Nurse Blake, Class of 2014.

Become a Knight nurse, like Nurse Blake, Class of 2014.

Earn your degree, either online or in-person, from one of the ‘nation’s best’ nursing programs to advance your career and unleash your potential in nursing.

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THE ULTIMATE NURSING CONFERENCE IS TAKING OVER ORLANDO!

For years, NurseCon at Sea has taken place on a cruise ship, allowing nurses from around the world to unite through comedy, education, and fun. Many of you asked for a land version of our amazing nursing conference — and I’m making your wish come true! I’m bringing NurseCon to solid ground for the first time ever. We’re taking over Orlando September 22-26, 2024!

ORLANDO: THE CHOSEN ONE!

While NurseCon at Sea will always be our annual anchor event, not everyone likes cruises, and not everyone can take off when the sailing happens. NurseCon Orlando will give YOU another opportunity to hang out with me and earn continuing education outside of the cruise.

Between the continuing education sessions, parties, bonding with new friends, and Orlando’s magic — you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.

You might wonder what made me choose Orlando for our inaugural NurseCon on land. Well, we’ve surveyed thousands of nurses, and Orlando was a top pick! Let’s face it: It’s a beautiful city and the most magical place on earth! Accessibility is also very important when it comes to selecting where NurseCon events take place, and Orlando International Airport provides numerous affordable flight options. Plus, we’ll be at the amazing Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando!

GET THE FULL EXPERIENCE ON LAND

What can you expect at NurseCon Orlando? The works! Get ready for over 50 courses taught by expert nurse educators, and we’ll offer over 80 CNEs. That’s right — some of you can earn your entire 2-year CNE requirement at NurseCon Orlando 2024! And these are not your boring, stale courses. We’re talking tailor-made classes designed to be educational, enjoyable, and engaging! My team works hard to create nursing courses that are interesting, interactive, and provide information you’ll actually use in your practice.

NurseCon Orlando will be an immersive, nonstop good time! Your registration covers way more than workshops and lectures. We’re bringing you an entire weekend of conference events, over-the-top themed parties, bonding activities with fellow nurses, and so much more. Think Nurse Blake Live, Nurses Got Talent, game shows, Drag Bingo, etc. We’re planning some exciting surprises and special guests, too! And you know I can’t give those away just yet.

Get ready for over 50 courses taught by expert nurse educators, and we’ll be offering over 80 CNEs. That’s right — some of you can earn your entire 2-year CNE requirement at NurseCon Orlando 2024!

NURSECON ORLANDO vs. NURSECON AT SEA: SAME VIBES, DIFFERENT THRILLS

Curious about the magic NurseCon Orlando brings compared to the cruise vibes of NurseCon at Sea? NurseCon Orlando and NurseCon at Sea are definitely unique on their own, but they will both have the same NurseCon energy and vibe that make them the Ultimate Nursing Conference. Cruises are amazing, but

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando is a paradise in the heart of the tropics.

truth be told, they don’t have theme parks with roller coasters. This is one of the reasons why we decided to bring NurseCon to Universal.

And get ready for NurseCon Universal Day on September 24th! Between the continuing education sessions, parties, bonding with new friends, and Orlando’s thrills - you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME

Nurses ask me for recommendations for Orlando. I say come early or stay late to explore my hometown to the fullest! No, really! Come down a day or two early or stay a day or two late. There are so many things to do, which means the more time you’re there, the more you’ll be able to do. Take in Disney, SeaWorld, or other world-famous attractions that make Orlando such a fun destination. And you know the drill: Pack sunblock! This IS Florida.

We always say this is your adventure. Design NurseCon to be

original programming designed to bring nurses together

NURSE BLAKE LIVE!

NURSES GOT TALENT CAMPFIRE

GAME SHOWS

EPICS PARTIES

ENGAGING CNE COURSES

DRAG SHOWS

THEME NIGHTS

NURSE TRIVIA

NURSE BLAKE BOOK

SIGNING

GROUP PHOTO

FUN AND GAMES

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort lobby welcomes you with vibrant flair.

Sapphire Falls Resort TM & © 2023 UCF Hotel Venture III. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2023 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

PHOTO BY MARIANA GARCES

NurseCon Orlando will give YOU another opportunity to hang out with me and earn continuing education outside of the cruise.

your own getaway. Join as many or as few NurseCon activities as you would like. We always offer a robust schedule with multiple things happening at once, but you can come and go as you wish. And between all there is to see and who you’ll meet...I have a feeling you’ll want to be part of it all!

NurseCon Orlando is only the beginning, y’all! I plan to host a NurseCon on land every year in a new city. We’ll announce our 2025 land-based conference during NurseCon Orlando.

LAND ADVENTURES EVERY YEAR!

And NurseCon Orlando is only the beginning, y’all! I plan to host a NurseCon on land every year in a new city going forward. NurseCon at Sea isn’t going anywhere, either. You’ll just have two chances a year now to experience the Ultimate Nursing Conference! We’re already looking for another incredible location to hold NurseCon on land in 2025. We’ll announce our 2025 land-based conference during NurseCon Orlando. Those attending will be the first to know and have priority to book their spot with us. See ya there!

Love,

BY MAGGIE AIME, RN

The Not-So-Heartless Truth About

Nurse Managers

A NURSE MANAGER GETS REAL ABOUT THE JOB BEHIND THE SPOOFS

Alright! It’s no secret nurse managers get a bad rap! Seriously, do they live for meetings and cackle as they deny nurses’ PTO? What’s the real deal? We sat down with real-life nurse manager Marcia to find out whether there was any truth to these rumors.

Marcia starts by debunking the myth of a “typical day.”

“I don’t think any nurse, whether you are an LPN, RN, NP, CRNA, or Nurse Manager, has a typical day,” she laughed. In nursing, you have to stay flexible to handle whatever the day brings, she added.

Her main responsibilities revolve around ensuring the safety and well-being of both her staff and patients. “I do my best to manage or assist in managing any issues or opportunities that may arise,” she explained. While budget and operations are on her radar, her focus remains on staff satisfaction and providing high-quality patient care.

WHAT ABOUT THE WHOLE ‘POOF, THEY’VE GONE TO A MEETING’ THING?

Look, Marcia admits some days contain their fair share of meetings. But she’s also adamant they aren’t just for show. “We must be able to collaborate with other departments to understand their workflow and challenges and how that impacts the system as a whole,” she explained.

Everyone must row in the same direction for the boat to move.

And Marcia’s take on teamwork? “Everyone must row in the same direction for the boat to move,” she said. Wait! What? Is that synchronized rowing? A floating hospital? Just kidding! Now, are some meetings totally useless? Marcia swore even the budget and quality metrics meetings have value.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARCIA BRENNAN

But for the most part, they keep them short and meaningful, she promised. According to her, nurse manager calendars have a no-meeting zone — a sacred chunk of time where meetings are not scheduled. When asked why, she said it gives nurse managers an opportunity to make rounds with patients and staff.

THE MOMENT OF TRUTH: LET’S TALK PTO DENIALS!

When asked about the infamous PTO denials, Marcia talked about balancing staff coverage and nurses’ right to downtime. She said, “My whole leadership team and I work hard to balance and grant everyone their requested time off because we need work-life balance!” Hmmm…

But Marcia admits she can’t approve everyone’s PTO requests. Hmph!

She said that while she tries to approve as much PTO as possible, patient safety means the entire staff can’t go on vacation at the same time.

When asked about the weirdest PTO request, Marcia said employees don’t require a reason for PTO requests. Time off is personal. Your PTO, your business!

NURSE BLAKE’S SPOOFS? THE NURSE MANAGER WEIGHS IN

So, what does Marcia think of Nurse Blake's spoofs about nurse managers? Well, she’s actually a huge fan! Marcia gushed, “I love Nurse Blake and just saw his hilarious show live!”

And while Nurse Blake pokes fun at nurse managers for laughs, Marcia admitted some spoofs hit close to home. “Some days, I’m the hot mess manager, the helper, or even the micromanager,” she confessed.

Her staff teases her for putting everything on her calendar. “They tell me I need to make sure I put ‘don’t forget to go to the bathroom’ on my calendar too,” Marcia laughed, “but there are so many things to keep track of or monitor.”

While Nurse Blake highlights the chaos of management, Marcia praises how he also uplifts the nursing profession. She appreciates how Nurse Blake keeps it real but entertaining about all nursing roles across the board.

GETTING REAL ABOUT THE SERIOUS STUFF

Of course, we wanted to know about some serious stuff, too!

Although she’s been with her current team for a short time, Marcia said, “Call me cheesy, but I’m a people person who leads from the heart.” She prioritizes relationship-building.

Some days, I’m the hot mess manager, the helper, or even the micromanager.

She said she gets in the trenches with her team! “If we have a rescue or code, I’m in there with them. If a patient needs to use the restroom, I’m taking the patient, and they see it. When there are opportunities or challenges on the unit, I need their input and ideas from their view. They are the ones with boots on the ground. I must support them, whether it’s professional or personal,” she said. This hands-on support, she added, helps prevent burnout.

But she also gave props to her organization for promoting nurse satisfaction through adequate nurse-to-patient staffing ratios and open communication.

THINKING OF BECOMING A NURSE MANAGER?

“Don’t do it,” Marcia first joked. But in truth, she said to carefully think about your motivations before pursuing leadership. “Make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons,” she advised, because leadership can be challenging and draining yet incredibly fulfilling.

She recently reconnected with her previous team and felt deeply rewarded. Seeing their professional growth from novice nurses to experts, which she contributed to, filled her cup.

So, are nurse managers heartless PTO hoarders? Probably not. Are they always trapped in meetings? No doubt. But Marcia makes a strong case that, at their core, nurse managers are still nurses looking out for their staff and patients.

OPPOSITE Nurse manager Marcia sets the record straight on rumors about her role.

MakenzieBeach

By April Rowe, RN

NURSE

DONATES

PART OF HER LIVER TO SAVE A BOY’S LIFE

JUST WHEN LOGAN SALVA’S MOTHER started to lose hope that her baby boy would find a donor to save his life, an unknown guardian angel swept in to change their world forever! In a remarkable act of bravery and selflessness, a nurse became a hero by saving a young boy’s life through a living donor transplant. This is an incredible story of love, resilience, and remarkable bravery and selflessness that embodies the power of human compassion and the profound impact it can have on someone’s life.

“It’s the most incredible gift that you can give. Whether we realize it or not, we all have the power to literally save a person’s life.”

- RASIKA SALVA

Logan Salva, from Ocala, Florida, was born with Alagille syndrome, a rare genetic multisystem disorder that often affects the bile ducts and liver. A person with Alagille syndrome may be born with too few or malfunctioning bile ducts that cause a backup of bile in the liver, leading to liver damage. The heart, kidneys, brain, eyes, and skeletal system can also be affected. The classic sign of this syndrome is jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes.

SUDDENLY, THE SALVAS’ LIVES CHANGED

At the tender age of two months, Logan’s mother, Rasika, noticed that he was becoming markedly jaundiced. At his pediatrician’s visit, Logan was immediately sent to the hospital for testing. After his lab work was completed, it was clear there was a serious problem. Rasika remembered the call she received from the doctor, “She said, ‘I called the hospital in Orlando; they’re getting a bed ready for him, so you need to head down there right now!’”

Rasika and Skyler Salva with their children Logan and Alexcia Rayne and Makenzie Beach after their appearance on the Sherri Show.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TALK WW PRODUCTION, INC.

Scared out of her mind, Rasika quickly packed up some things and made the hour-and-a-half drive to Orlando, Florida, where they spent over two weeks getting every test imaginable done to determine what was causing his jaundice. Genetic testing confirmed that he had Alagille syndrome and was going into liver failure.

“The pruritus [itchy skin common in liver disease] got so bad that he would wake up in the middle of the night screaming because he would make himself bleed from itching. He also had liver pain. He would suddenly scream out like he was in pain. He was on a bunch of medications. We couldn’t take him anywhere because his immune system was compromised. He didn’t get to have a normal life,” recalled Rasika.

DESPERATELY SEEKING A DONOR

Logan’s only hope was to get on the list for a liver transplant. Being just a small baby, it was even more difficult to find a deceased liver donor whose organ could fit in his tiny body. Finding the right match could take months to years, and Logan was running out of time.

“I had my phone on day and night, ready to jump out of bed and take him to the hospital for a liver transplant, but nothing happened. After six months [of hoping for a deceased donor], I got tired of waiting. I was done watching him get worse and worse,” said Rasika. But she would never give up trying to save her baby.

Luckily, there was another, less-known option available. He was able to get on the list for a living donor liver transplant, where a healthy living person could donate a portion of their liver to Logan. Both the donor and the recipient’s liver regenerate to form a full-size functioning organ. They just needed to find the perfect match.

A SELFLESS NURSE SAVES A LIFE

Makenzie Beach, a cardiovascular registered nurse from Eerie, Pennsylvania, had initially put herself on the list to be a living donor for one of the physicians she worked with who desperately needed it. The physician ended up getting a deceased donor liver transplant, but instead of removing herself from the list, Makenzie decided to stay on it in case she was a match for someone else.

Rasika recalled the moment she learned Logan had a donor. “I remember when we got the call, and they said we have a match. It was such a relief and a huge weight that came off my shoulders. It was actually good news for once, and we were so excited. We didn’t know who the donor was. All I knew was that my baby was going to get a second chance at life.”

Nurse of the Quarter: Makenzie Beach, RN

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAKENZIE BEACH

ABOVE This photo demonstrates the jaundice color of Logan’s skin prior to his life-saving surgery.

BELOW Logan Salva, intubated in the PICU following the liver donor transplant surgery.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RASIKA SALVA

“I feel like I was part of a real miracle. I had this direct impact on one individual’s life. And he can now proceed with hopefully a normal life.”

- MAKENZIE BEACH

Just before the surgery was to take place, Logan became sick, and the surgery had to be delayed for a month.

The Salvas were terrified they would lose the donor, but Makenzie adjusted her schedule for the delayed surgery. Finally, at 20 months old, Logan had a chance at life.

Makenzie recalled, “When I was recovering in the ICU, I received the [photo book] that Logan’s family made for me, and that’s when I learned who my recipient was. When I found out it was for an 18-month-old, I just lost it. I was sobbing.”

“This experience helped me grow as a nurse, and it helped me see things from the patient’s side. I learned what so many of my patients go through. It was open abdominal surgery that took six hours. I spent one night in the ICU. The surgery was on Thursday, and I was discharged on Monday,” said Makenzie.

After a week, Makenzie was starting to feel back to normal. They also had to remove the gallbladder for this type of transplant, so Makenzie needed to make some dietary ad-

justments following the surgery. She was surprised at how easy her recovery was.

“[This experience] has made me a much better nurse, and I have a whole different level of empathy for my patients now. I’m so proud of myself for doing this. My life hasn’t always worked out the way I wanted it to. [For example], we weren’t able to have children, but all those things that panned out that way made me end up doing this. I don’t think I would’ve been so willing to do this if I had my own dependents. Everything worked out for a reason and put me in a position to go through with the surgery,” Makenzie said.

SPREADING AWARENESS OF LIVING DONOR TRANSPLANTS

Living donor transplants play a vital role in saving lives, yet many people are unaware that this type of organ donation exists. The most common types of living donor transplants are donating an entire kidney or a portion of the liver. There are over 100,000 people on the national transplant list, and 17 people die every day waiting for a donor. Spreading awareness about living donor transplants is crucial to address this issue and provide hope for those in need.

Rasika and her family now understand the importance of living donor transplants and spread the word about it whenever they can. “You can take a chance to do something incredible for a perfect stranger or family member or somebody in your community who desperately needs this help. It’s the most incredible gift that you can give. Whether we realize it or not, we all have the power to literally save a person’s life, so it’s good to spread awareness,” said Rasika.

Makenzie remarked, “I feel like I was part of a real miracle. I had this direct impact on one individual’s life, and he can now proceed with hopefully a normal life. I wanted to give back, and it was a way for me to show gratitude for what I have and what I’ve been blessed with. It’s probably one of the most amazing things I will ever do in my life.”

Being a donor is an incredibly fulfilling act of selflessness that brings hope and life to someone in desperate need. Makenzie gave Logan the ultimate gift of life and the chance to be a healthy, happy, thriving little boy, and for this, she is our amazing Nurse of the Quarter!

REFERENCES: liverfoundation.org organdonor.gov

Living Donor Transplants

For more information about living donor transplants, check out the United Network For Sharing Organs.

Unos.org

Logan is finally able to enjoy his life and his health thanks to Makenzie’s donation!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RASIKA SALVA

WHO’S EXCITED FOR 2024?!

By April Rowe, RN

Cruise attendees Share what they are looking forward to in Mexico

We reached out on social media to attendees of the NurseCon at Sea cruise, sailing April 9-14, 2024 , and their excitement is contagious! If you’ve ever been on a NurseCon at Sea cruise, you know what makes it stand out from the rest. It is truly so much better than your average cruise vacation. Nurses and healthcare professionals have a unique camaraderie, and imagine being on a ship FULL of them! It’s an energy and experience that you can’t find anywhere else.

HERE’S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

IRISHIA FINISTER, BSN, RN

This is the second NurseCon at Sea cruise for Irishia Finister, BSN, RN from Shreveport, Louisiana. After her first nursing conference cruise experience to The Bahamas last year, Irishia knew she had to go back. “I had so much fun that I was eager to sign up for the next [cruise] during that one,” she said.

Irishia appreciated all the little nursing-related details, like the drinks, portraits of Nurse Becky, and the cooter canoe elevator art! “I loved that the cocktails were related to nursing. I danced away at the sail away party with the Code Blue cocktail in my hand. I have been on cruises before, but NurseCon [at Sea] had the best sail away party. Thank you, NurseCon [at Sea], for giving me something to look forward to. I left feeling proud to be a nurse. Nurse Blake has done a wonderful job at creating a fun yet therapeutic environment,” added Irishia.

JACQUELINE LEDBETTER, MSN, BSN, RN

Jacqueline Ledbetter, MSN, BSN, RN (a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit/baby nurse for 25 years) from Cypress, Texas, said, “The most exciting aspect of the upcoming cruise to Mexico is the camaraderie among like-minded professionals in the nursing field, the chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful destination, and the opportunity to explore Mexican

“I am excited to be around nurses and professionals who understand what my everyday life is. There is a camaraderie among nurses; we all put our hearts and souls into our careers and our patients, and it will be great to let loose around a ship full of new friends! And to also earn CEUs, what could be better!” – ALLI WOLFE, RN

culture, cuisine, and scenic attractions with a group of friends and colleagues.”

Jacqueline went on her first NurseCon at Sea cruise solo and couldn’t be happier with that experience. “Nobody would go with me, so I went solo, and I felt like everyone on the cruise were friends for life! What an awesome experience to bond with so many in the medical field,” she said.

WHY REPEAT CRUISERS KEEP COMING BACK

KRISTINA BOUYER, RN, CPN NurseCon at Sea seasoned cruiser Kristina Bouyer, RN, CPN from Davis, California, and her husband, Shawn, will be sailing for the third time in April. “What I love most about going on a NurseCon at Sea cruise is that I can earn CEUs, meet amazing nurses from around the country where we can talk about nursing issues, and then attend fun nurse-themed activities or workshops,” she said.

Kristina also commented, “I am most excited about seeing friends I have

met on the previous NurseCon [at Sea] cruises I have attended. I also look forward to the CEU classes, the theme parties, relaxing by the pool, and visiting new places.” The upcoming cruise will offer over 85 continuing nursing education (CNE) credits and has numerous port excursions in Cozumel, Mexico, and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Travel, adventure, and learning all in one cruising experience!

SARAH N. GRAVES, RN-BSN, EMT, Sarah N. Graves, RN-BSN, EMT from Dallas, Texas, has been on all of the cruises. She said, "I am mostexcited about going to Mexico during this NurseCon at Sea [cruise] because I have never been to Mexico before. I also love going because I enjoy the classes so much. They hold such an informational value, and I love learning something new.

Plus, there are a few instructors that are coming back that I adore!”

TRAVEL, RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE, PLUS LEARNING

The CNE instructors are experts in their fields and bring so much knowledge and experience to NurseCon at Sea. Hearing their stories and getting to know them is one of the aspects that brings attendees back.

“My favorite thing about the NurseCon [at Sea] cruises is the camaraderie. We all share the same situations and issues about nursing, but we also have our own stories to tell. It is a feeling of being together and understanding what others have gone through that makes it unique,” Sarah noted.

BERLINDA E. BOWDWIN, MBA, MSN, RN

Berlinda E. Bowdwin, MBA, MSN, RN from Portsmouth, Virginia is a native New Yorker who was raised in The Bronx. Berlinda attended the NurseCon at Sea cruise in 2023. “[It] was my first cruise with Nurse Blake - and I went solo! The cruise was fabulous, and I met so many fellow nurses and healthcare

“I attended last year’s cruise to the Dominican Republic. My friend and I loved the cruise so much - we booked on the ship for Mexico! I love that I can blend a vacation with education! I would absolutely recommend this cruise to others.” -

STEPHANIE RUNNER , RN

CRUISER PHOTOS COURTESY OF INDIVIDUALS PICTURED

April 9 – 14, 2024

90% Sold Out! Secure your stateroom before it's gone!

“Mexico will be my 4th NurseCon at Sea cruise. I love how it brings nurses from all walks of life together to celebrate being nurses. It is rare to find such a large gathering and safe space for people who just understand you and your job. The bonds you create with fellow NurseCon [at Sea] attendees are bonds that can last a lifetime!” - AUDRA C.

workers! I felt like there was one big family on the ship. I made many friends from waiting to embark through the final day at sea,” she said.

“NurseCon at Sea is the ultimate nursing conference! You can have tons of fun, network, and learn — all on the sea! There were so many exciting activities: meetups, game shows, campfire talks, Drag Bingo, Nurses Got Talent, educational opportunities, theme nights, and more! I have gone on many cruises, but I felt right at home with my comrades — nurses from everywhere,” Belinda added.

REGISTER BEFORE IT’S ALL SOLD OUT

So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Mexico with NurseCon at

Sea. The Norwegian Breakaway features gorgeous staterooms, plus epic bars and restaurants. Did we mention the ship has its own Ice Bar!? Inspired by the original ice hotels in Scandinavia, the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar is a unique arctic-like frozen chamber where the bar, seating, and glasses are made entirely from ice. The cruise is an unforgettable experience that combines fun, relaxation, education, beaches, and partying with Nurse Blake — everything you could ever wish for in one amazing learning vacation! Head over to nurseconatsea.com to register for the cruise and see for yourself what all the excitement is about!

POTLUCKS AND HOSPITAL FOOD

Everybody loves a fun potluck, and we don’t even need a good reason to have one. Potlucks are not just about sharing food, they're about bonding with your work besties and finding solace in a sea of scrubs. Some people go all out, while others just swing by a 7-11 for a couple of bags of chips. Oh, and you gotta love those coworkers who ‘forgot’ there was a potluck, yet they keep sneaking into the breakroom to partake!

CELEBRATE

There’s some fancy food

I

would need a nap after this!

HALLOWEEN POTLUCKS

Mmm,

nothing

PHOTO COURTESY OF DANICA GETTER

These nurses went all out! Someone even brought in a whole ham.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAGGIE POWERS Gray, chewy roast beef, anyone?

PHOTO COURTESY OF KAYLA EYRE

What does this hospital-cafeteria chicken tender remind you of? Shall we call it a phallus finger?! PHOTO COURTESY OF JULIE SPINNER

Management knows how to entice us!

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIKA ROSO

Oh, there’s nothing worse than split wieners.

CATEGORY IS

4 TIPS for the Aspiring Emergency Nurse

The bulk of the skills and knowledge essential for your role will be acquired through hands-on experience.

BY STEPHANEE BEGGS, RN

1. LEVEL UP YOUR ER APPLICATION

THE TRICK TO STANDING OUT is to cater your application and your resume to critical care situations that you’ve experienced. Utilize critical terminology and consider these changes:

• Previous job history: Cater your previous job “descriptions” to things commonly seen in ER. That way, they know you have some exposure to future ER situations!

• Certifications: Every new graduate nurse has the same qualifications post-nursing school. Consider getting your NIHSS, ACLS/PALS, and Management of Assaultive Behavior (MAB) to add to your resume.

• Experience:

> CNA/EMT/Phlebotomy/Medical Scribe experience/COVID testing

> Volunteer experience and/or school externships

The trick to standing out is to cater your application and your resume to critical care situations that you’ve experienced.

• Leader of any organization (shows you took initiative)

• ANY experience with pediatrics, elderly, L&D, outpatient/inpatient, fire, law enforcement, etc.

2. PREPARE FOR ER-SPECIFIC INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

• Why are you interested in the Emergency Department specifically? Have you had any prior experience or exposure to critical care? (Yes, your clinical experience IS prior experience!)

• Describe an experience when you were involved in an emergency situation. How did you help, and what did you learn?

RIGHT

Stephanee is a registered nurse, successful entrepreneur, and nursing instructor. Find her study materials at RNExplained on Etsy.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHANEE BEGGS

• Describe a time when a patient declined and how you handled it. (This can be a clinical experience of yours!)

• Prioritization questions + case scenarios! The interviewer will state a handful of patients with different complaints. Prioritize your care for X, Y, and Z, and explain your thought process.

• Can you describe a time when you had to adapt quickly to change in order to benefit patients in your care?

3. WHAT SHOULD I REVIEW AS AN ER NEW GRAD?

The bulk of the skills and knowledge essential for your role will be acquired through hands-on experience. However, it’s beneficial to revisit some key topics:

• ACLS + Drugs

• EKG lead placement

• Critical care red flags!!

• Focused assessments (NIHSS, Cardiac, Respiratory, PQRST)

• What these meds do: Diltiazem, Propofol, Nifedipine, Levophed, Amiodarone, Atropine, etc.

• Electrolytes - Their ranges and purpose within the body

• Common diagnoses – Stroke, myocardial infarction, overdose/seizure (both pediatric and adult), diabetic ketoacidosis (both pediatric and adult), hyper/hypokalemia, atrial fibrillation/SVT

4. IS THE ER RIGHT FOR ME?

Don’t worry, I have listed out a handful of pros and cons that helped me choose this specialty!

PROS:

• Versatility in both acuity, diagnosis, and age!! It never gets boring, there’s always an adrenaline rush!

• Being the first person a patient goes to for help when they are most vulnerable, you are their crutch

• Such a mix of specialties you work with — physicians, RTs, phlebotomists, child life specialists, EMTs, firefighters, law enforcement

• A wide variety of skills are used so you don’t get rusty!

• A HUGE team environment…you become extremely close to your coworkers

• SO much learning!

ACRONYM QUICK REFERENCE

NIHSS: National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale

ACLS: Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support

PALS: Pediatric Advanced Life Support

CNA: Certified Nursing Assistant

EMT: Emergency Medical Technician

L&D: Labor and Delivery

SVT: Supraventricular tachycardia

Consider getting your NIHSS, ACLS/ PALS, and Management of Assaultive Behavior (MAB) to add to your resume.

CONS:

• High-stress environment

• Emotionally taxing; you see the worst in people, which can make you jaded

• Higher acuity patients mean much room for error, which means more stress

• You rarely get to see your patients recover; they are stabilized and then transferred upstairs

• BIG learning curve from a normal floor (can make you feel lost sometimes)

• Few breaks and long hours

NURSE BECKY

AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

By Maggie Aime, RN

GUT-DROPPING HIGHS, DEATH-DEFYING LOWS, alarms blaring, adrenaline pumping, mystical creatures! — No, it’s not the Med Surg floor this time! Though it easily could have been.

The entertainment capital of Orlando met its match when Nurse Becky showed up in town, bringing her signature sass to some of Universal's most epic attractions. Word is, her PTO was denied, but she called out sick anyway!!

Never one to shy away from a bit of adventure (or a lot!), Nurse Becky put her hands in the air (like she just didn’t care) and let loose. But, some rides had her grabbing the safety bar for dear life.

Express pass? Yes, she did! Bad ride photo? We got that too!

And you know Nurse Becky’s not afraid to give her uncensored opinions. So, hold on tight!

Jurassic World VelociCoaster

First of all, who came up with that tongue-twister of a name?! This Universal Islands of Adventure’s super high-speed coaster had Nurse Becky scrambling to get to the Express Pass line. Not Nurse Becky pushing kids and older people out of her way!

Anyway, VelociCoaster promised pulse-pounding launches, inverted stunts over water, loop after loop, and close dinosaur encounters...and it delivered. Nurse Becky was grinning from ear to ear before the coaster train even launched. That first stomach-churning drop was one she’ll never forget! Think coming on day shift to morning labs with a critical potassium of 1.7. Damn!

And just when she thought her stomach settled, this wicked coaster pulled out even more insane corkscrews and camelbacks for round two!

“It’s super fast,” she said, “smooth, best ride ever!” And she insists both day riding AND night riding are an absolute must: There must be something about the way the glowing Velociraptor eyes and their enormous teeth seem to lunge at you in the dark!

Did she feel the “Rush of the Hunt”? Totally! But even with all that excitement, it seems the VelociCoaster just couldn't outrank Nurse Becky's OG favorite. So the epic VelociCoaster

will just have to settle for second place in Nurse Becky's books. It’s a solid 10/10 for VelociCoaster (extra points if you can say that name!)

The Incredible Hulk

Nurse Becky was beyond ready to get radioactivated at Universal Islands of Adventure's iconic Incredible Hulk coaster. And even though she didn't quite transform into a green raging monster, this ride definitely brought out her wild side! (Nothing new here).

Things got crazy fast! That beast of a ride waited for no one, launching from 0 to 67 mph in just a few seconds! What followed was inversion after inversion after inversion — seven of them! — twists, two underground trenches, more twists and turns, and definitely lots of angry Hulk roars from Nurse Becky. Talk about anger management!

Oh, and can we talk about all those rippling green muscles and that tattered shirt just barely holding things in? Nurse Becky screamed her way through the ride, but she yelled loudest for the Hulk himself. “He’s so hot!” she gushed. Rawr!

Tip from Becky: All that wind blowing in your face will ruin your hair, so tie those buns down tight.

All in all, the Incredible Hulk was like… You know that split second when a code is called, you grab that crash cart and make a mad dash only to get yanked back mid-sprint because that sucker is still plugged into the outlet? Yea...

Nurse Becky gives the Incredible Hulk a score of 7/10. (Too bumpy).

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

Looks like your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man snagged Nurse Becky’s heart along with saving the Statue of Liberty! Turns out Spidey gives the Hulk a good run for his money in Nurse Becky’s superhero stud rankings. “He’s almost hotter than Hulk,” she said. In that skin-tight suit hitting all the right places and spectacular skills, who can resist?

Anywho! Nurse Becky hopped aboard the Spider-Man’s ride, excited to soar high above NYC with Spidey himself. And OMG! Those 3D glasses were super cute!

Of course, she had a front-row seat and found herself smack dab in the middle of Spidey’s battle with Hydro-Man, Scream, Dr. Octopus, and so many other characters.

Hey, Spidey dear, is an upside-down victory kiss too much to ask for on the next ride?

Though the 400-foot simulated plunge had Becky clutching her raincoat at times, she happily rated The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man an 8.5/10!

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Calling all Potter fans! (You, too, nurse managers!) Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure isn't just a ride; it's a full-on adventure. “It was amazing, truly incredible,” Nurse Becky said. And get this — it’s Florida’s longest rollercoaster, nearly a mile long.

Bike or sidecar? Like you had to ask! Nurse Becky wasted no time straddling that bike on the first go. And as if once wasn't enough, she went for the sidecar on the second round. Now, that's how you double up on wizarding fun!

Ok, so the ride wasn’t super fast, and while not exactly Hulkspeed level, it definitely packed a punch at 50 mph. Nurse Becky admitted the gravity-defying drops — a whopping seven launches — and close-call magical creature encounters left her feeling breathless by the end!

Suffice it to say, Nurse Becky left Hagrid's with jelly legs and a beyond-perfect 12/10 rating! She refused to spill any ride spoilers, saying, “There’s a big surprise in the ride I won’t tell you about!” But she swears you MUST experience the enchantment of the Motorbike Adventure for the full sorcery (and surprise, of course!). Just be sure to ride shotgun in Hagrid's sidecar the second go — trust her when she says it's a thrill from either seat!

The 12/10 rating? That's Nurse Becky’s way of declaring Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure the ultimate rollercoaster champion!

Suffice it to say, Nurse Becky left Hagrid's with jelly legs and a perfect 12/10 rating!

Skull Island: Reign of Kong

Good luck beating Nurse Becky to the Express Pass line for this ride! She caught wind of the colossal Kong, prehistoric raptors, and ancient ruins — and she just HAD to hop on.

Turns out Skull Island: Reign of Kong wasn’t all that… Ok, so one minute you’re finally going on break. The next minute, 4B’s colostomy bag exploded! Total crime scene, except everything’s brown.

While Nurse Becky gives the overall treacherous trek experience a rather meh honorable mention, something tells us she enjoyed bonding with the jungle king one-on-one! Wink!

PHOTOS BY MARIANA GARCES

OFF THE CLOCK : NURSE HELENA

OH, COOKING? YES, THAT NURSE CAN!

BRIDGING CULTURES

Food is universal, and it’s a powerful tool for bringing people together across cultures.

By Maggie Aime, RN

WHO’S HUNGRY? Grab your forks because Helena Faustin — better known as ‘that nurse can cook’ — is spicing things up!

With reggae tunes in the air and pots bubbling on the stove, this talented cardiac NICU nurse knows just how to whip up classic Jamaican and Caribbean flavors. And she’s about to give our tastebuds an appetizing tour. The best part? No passport needed for this island getaway! Get ready for a little food and soul healing.

FINDING FLAVORFUL INSPIRATION

It’s clear Helena’s passion for cooking runs deep. She said she’s always loved being in the kitchen, even from a young age, cooking up family recipes. But the spark for seriously pursuing Caribbean cuisine came later in life. As she shared recipes with her closest friends, one friend encouraged her to start a separate social media page just for her recipes. She thought, “You know what, that’s not such a bad idea.” And what began mostly as a casual hobby, something to do on the side, grew into a full-fledged passion as Helena built an audience of over 600,000 followers on Instagram @thatnursecancook!

She found she had a real talent for blending the herbs and spices from her Caribbean background into delicious recipes.

Helena during a break in a busy day at work!

HELENA'S JERK CHICKEN EGG ROLLS

Courtesy of thatnursecancook

PREP TIME 30 min

COOKING TIME 1 hr

SERVINGS 5-7

INGREDIENTS

3 large Chicken Breasts

3 tbsp green seasoning

1 ½ tsp all-purpose seasoning

1 tsp dry jerk seasoning

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

3 tbsp wet jerk seasoning (spicy or mild)

3 cups of finely shredded cabbage & carrots

5 egg roll wrappers

5 cups of Vegetable Oil

1 beaten egg or a small bowl of water

To put Jamaican cuisine on such a huge worldwide platform was truly an honor.

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER THROUGH FOOD

Helena’s eyes lit up, discussing the deeper meaning behind her blog’s tagline: “Healing souls one meal at a time.” She believes cuisine builds bridges.

“Food is universal, and it’s a powerful tool for bringing people together across cultures,” she said. As Helena developed and shared recipes on her social media page, the comments from her international audience showed her we often have more common ground than we realize.

She said, “If I post a recipe, someone from Colombia might say, ‘Hey, we do the same thing, just with a twist,’ and someone else from Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic might add, ‘We have our version too, just with a different name.’” It’s a worldwide kitchen conversation, and suddenly, you realize we’re more alike than we think, she added.

Suggested sauce for dipping: Pickapeppa Gingery

Mango sauce or Sweet Chili sauce

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat chicken breasts dry, add green seasoning, all-purpose, dry jerk, onion & garlic powder, wet jerk seasoning, and massage into the chicken. Place chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes. While the chicken is in the oven, grab a medium-sized sauté pan and place it on low/ medium heat. Add shredded cabbage and carrots and sauté for 5 min. It may be desired to add 2-3 tbsp of water. Cover and steam for another 10 min.

Remove the chicken from the oven and, using 2 forks, shred the chicken. Place your egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, spoon approximately 4-5 tablespoons of shredded chicken and shredded cabbage & carrots into the center, and fold according to package directions, using the beaten egg to seal the edges of the wrappers as you go.

Pour 5 cups of vegetable oil into a large pot and heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry 3-4 egg rolls at a time, turning occasionally until brown on all sides, which should take roughly 3-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve with the sauce of your choice.

Tender jerk chicken meets crunchy egg roll wrapper in this crowd-pleasing appetizer

PHOTO COURTESY OF HELENA FAUSTIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF HELENA FAUSTIN

TAKING OVER TIMES SQUARE

When asked about her recent partnership to be showcased in Times Square, Helena struggled to contain her grin, “I’m still pinching myself!” She never dreamed her passion project would reach this scale, she admitted.

She was approached by tech giant, Samsung, to collaborate as a creator, highlighting their state-of-the-art smart kitchen appliances. And a crowning achievement happened when her picture lit up the towering screens of Times Square in the heart of New York City for all to see. “To put Jamaican cuisine on such a huge worldwide platform was truly an honor,” Helena said. One that she’s immensely thankful for.

WHAT’S COOKING NEXT?

Looking ahead, Helena has some exciting plans in store — a cookbook! But she explained this will be far from your standard collection of recipes. Instead, Helena plans to infuse the pages with intimate stories from her childhood that shaped her love and passion for cooking.

Fans can expect to find Helena’s long-awaited cookbook featured front and center on her website in the coming months. The book will additionally be available for purchase online at shopthatnursecancook.com.

JUGGLING MULTIPLE PASSIONS: LESSONS LEARNED

As far as balancing her career as a cardiac NICU nurse, popular food blog, and caring for her family, Helena was candid. “What I’m about to say might be controversial, but I think true balance is a myth,” she admitted. “It’s impossible to wear multiple hats and show up 100% in every role.”

Know when to turn things on and when to turn things off.

For nurses eyeing a passion project in addition to family duties and career, Helena boiled advice down to two words: Set boundaries. She also added, “Know when to turn things on and when to turn things off.” Define when you give your attention and effort to different roles. Surround yourself with a circle of supporters who truly understand what life is like for you and can meet you at your best, she said.

Helena recalled early days coming home drained from long hospital shifts, yet still trying to also give 100% energy towards her blog. “I ended up burnt out from

FOLLOW HELENA

WEBSITE thatnursecooks.com

@thatnursecancook

SHOP

shopthatnursecancook.com

ThatNurse CanCook

both. So I learned to schedule rest days, take breaks to protect my mental health, and check in with friends and family.”

Learning to say no and not spreading herself too thin has also been key. “Maintaining well-being may mean rejecting things that don’t align with your priorities,” Helena explained.

For now, Helena is cherishing maternity leave. And when the time is right, she plans to return to nursing. “I don’t ever see myself leaving the profession,” she said.

Helena has shown that the journey may not always be balanced, but it’s undeniably flavorful. So, fellow nurses, savor this beautiful meal called life — sometimes meticulously planned out, sometimes a bit messy or burnt around the edges — but always cooked with heart and passion.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HELENA FAUSTIN

NEWS

BLAKE'S TAKE

Nurse Gets $41 Million Award

Will This Major Healthcare Organization Get the Memo?

By Nurse Blake

THIS NURSE SPOTTED SOME SERIOUS PROBLEMS and was fired — She said pay up!

Heard about the nurse who sued a large hospital system and cashed out with over $41 Million?

If you thought nurses going on strike were ballsy, just wait until you hear about this brave nurse who put that hospital system on blast!

This sends a huge message that nurses with integrity and grit can’t just be trampled over!

According to MyNewsLA , Maria Gatchalian, a nurse who worked at a large healthcare system, brought up concerns on several occasions to leadership about the quality of care and patient safety. Her worries were mostly alleged inadequate staffing levels, based on MyNewsLA . In the end, she was fired. So, she sued that facility’s ass and scored a whopping $41 MILLION in the process! Damn, girl!

PROFITS BEFORE SAFETY, YOU SAY?

Maria wasn’t new to nursing. It turns out she had worked at that facility since 1989, a whole 30 years before she got fired in 2019! She started working there as a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse. By the time she was fired, she was a charge nurse

in the NICU. So she knew damn well what an unsafe patient assignment looked like.

So, according to The Sacramento Bee, Maria said there was an incident where a patient’s father brought a knife whenever he came to the NICU. Maria notified the NICU director and hospital union president about her concerns. And get this! The com plaint says her supervisor started to “routinely harass, mi cro-manage, retaliate, and intimidate” her, per Bee

The Sacramento Bee harassment from her supervisor, Maria was worried about in adequate staffing levels in the NICU.

Now Maria, being the badass nurse she is, didn’t just sit back. Per quality of care, especially relating to low staffing. And manage ment at the major healthcare system discouraged Maria from making official complaints, according to me, but did they legit tell Maria NOT to report safety issues? Maria kept advocating for change. Love, love your persistence, girl!

THE BAREFOOT DEBACLE

Just when you think things couldn’t get worse, they straight up FIRED Maria in 2019! Was it a legit termination or were they looking for excuses?

Apparently, there was an incident where Maria admitted, “She took off her shoes and socks and placed her bare feet on an isolette, a medical device that holds sick or premature newborn babies,” according to Maria for this incident.

They said that she was a charge nurse and should have been a leader and should have known better! I smell a big fat BS! Sacramento Bee that incident was literally her only work violation ever during her 30 years at that hospital system!

Based on jumped on the isolette incident.

“However, Gatchalian maintains her termination was for differ ent reasons, including for ‘retaliatory purposes,’ according to the complaint.”

$41M MESSAGE: HEY, IT’S ACTUALLY SAFETY BEFORE PROFITS!

By then, Maria was fed up. She went ahead and slapped the hospital system with a fat lawsuit in 2021.

According to

The jury sided with Maria and socked the hospital system with an epic $41 MILLION in damages!

the trial to testify that the facility was understaffed. Love that united front!

And you’ve probably already guessed what happened next… The jury sided with Maria and socked the hospital system with an epic $41 MILLION in damages!

Don’t quit, know your rights, and always stand for justice!