Nurse Blake Magazine, Issue Three 2023

ISSUE THREE 2023

ONE BIG LOVING FAMILY

NICU NURSE ADOPTED A TEEN MOM WITH TRIPLETS

Soar to New Heights :

FLIGHT NURSING

Meet the Educators of

FELINO TARUC, BSN, RN, CCRN, CFRN

Nurse Becky's Books

RAISE YOUR GLASS 14TH HOUR WINE BY NURSE BLAKE

NURSING NEWS

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE IS NOT PART OF THE JOB!

2024

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LORE T P X

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COUR E H

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I NCTOHNI TSEINSTSSU E

In This Issue

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E D I TO R ' S N O T E

Elevate!

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ASK NURSE BL AKE

DEF YING THE ODDS

a nursing student's inspiring story

Answers to Readers' Questions 18

N U R S EC O N AT S E A

Meet the Educators of NurseCon at Sea 2024 24

A C H E E R F U L C O L L A B O R AT I O N

14th Hour Wine by Nurse Blake 28

NUR SING ADVICE

5 Study Tips for Nursing School Pharmacology 30

SP OT L I G H T O N CN A S

Celebrating the Vital Role of CNAs in Healthcare 32

14 UNIQUE NURSING ROLES

Flight Nursing

NUR SE O F T HE QUA RT ER

NICU Nurse Who Adopted Teen Mom and Triplets 38

OFF THE CLOCK

Nurse Transforms Vial Caps Into Wearable Art

34 40

NURSING NEWS

Blake's Take: Nurses Under Attack!

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C AT EG O R Y I S

NUR SE BECK Y

my favorite books

Breakrooms

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ISSUE THR EE EDITOR IN CHIEF

The Team

Blake Lynch, RN nurseblake.com LE A D EDITOR

Maggie Aime, RN thewritern.com MA NAGING EDITOR

April Rowe, RN rntopen.com B R A N D C O O R D I N ATO R

Mariana Garces nurseconatsea.com MAGA ZINE DESIGN

Andrea Exter monarchmediainc.com ADVERTISING SALES

Chellie Thompson monarchmediainc.com C O P Y R I G H T ©2 02 3 N U R S E B L A K E 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.

T I K T O K @nurseblake

I N S TA G R A M nurse.blake

FA C E B O O K nurseblake

YO U T U B E nurseblake

Contributors

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.

STEPHANEE BEGGS, RN

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.

MAGGIE AIME, RN

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.

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

APRIL ROWE, RN

COVER IMAGE Photo by Herman Bennaly

Payton Babb Sy is a registered nurse and the owner of PaytonRNwriter.com. Of the nursing specialties, family medicine is her favorite. If she’s not writing, she’s planning her next trip to a national park or relaxing poolside with her family in Phoenix.

PUBLISHED BY Monarch Media & Consulting, Inc.

ISSUE CREDITS Flaticon.com, iStock.com PAY TO N B A B B S Y, R N

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PREVENT

LEG PROBLEMS Do you suffer with problems like: Leg Pain, Edema, Plantar Fasciitis, Varicose Veins, And More...

Well you’re not alone, most nurses suffer with these problems because...

YOU STAND FOR HOURS EVERY DAY!

10 SOLID COLORS TO CHOOSE FROM 15+ FUN PATTERNS TO MATCH YOUR MOOD SIZES XS-5XL FOR A PERFECT FIT

WWW.NURSEYARD.COM/NURSEBLAKE USE COUPON CODE NURSEBLAKE AT CHECKOUT FOR AN EXCLUSIVE OFFER @NURSEYARD SUPPORT@NURSEYARD.COM

Blood fights gravity to reach the heart, but as time passes, it loses the battle and begins flowing backwards, pooling in your legs and turning stagnant - causing problems!

So here’s the No.1 tip to preventing it...

SIMPLY WEAR NURSE YARD COMPRESSION SOCKS! The advanced compression formula applies pressure in an upward spiral motion, helping boost blood up towards the heart where it can be oxygenated and recycled throughout!

These socks help maintain a healthy flow of blood throughout your lower limbs, which stops blood pooling and most importantly... Prevents leg problems!

And unlike most compression socks, these help prevent leg problems WITHOUT causing further discomfort like being too tight or causing irritation!

So far, Nurse Yard Compression Socks have picked up...Over 6,000 5 Star Reviews! And it’s something every nurse should try if they want to be free from leg problems!

ELEVATE! IT’S ABOUT SETTING GOALS, GROWING, AND IMPROVING HATS OFF TO ALL OF US for making it through another year of caring, advocacy, achievements, AMA forms, cooter canoes, and bullshit Nurses’ Week!

As we enter 2024, think ELEVATE! Let it remind us to continue to keep our heads high, strengthen our skills, and improve our profession.

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PHOTO BY BR ADAN TOIGO

When we’re out there having each other’s backs and giving a voice to those who need it, it’s not just another day in scrubs. We’re changing lives in amazing ways.

And that goes for you, too, ED nurses! Even when you’re on a never-ending hold waiting to give report to ICU.

Think about how every action you take version of yourself. And when shit hits the fan, make it a DSP (day shift problem)!

EDITOR' S NOTE

shows your commitment to being the best Speaking of adventures, hear from NurseCon at Sea educators. Find out what they have to say about the Ultimate Nursing Conference that takes place every year. It’s an amazing journey of learning, networking, and, of course, lots of fun! BTW, start planning for the next epic cruise to Mexico in April 2024.

And for all the curious minds, Ask Nurse Blake is back, serving up wisdom, laughter, and everything in between.

You’ll also get the inside scoop on how my 14th Hour Wine came to be, with a tale of passion and nurse-powered inspiration. Cheers to that!

On a serious note, we talk about the other elephant in the room.

Nurse abuse and assaults are issues we can’t ignore. Read about the challenges nurses face, the support we need, and how we can collectively work towards a safer work environment.

In this issue, give it up for our incredible CNAs and patient care techs — aka healthcare rockstars. They’re the backbone of patient care, and it’s time we recognize and celebrate the awesome contributions of these unsung heroes.

Ever thought about being a nurse in the clouds? Our Unique Nursing Roles section joins a flight nurse for an adrenaline-filled look at keeping patients safe in the skies.

Get ready to meet our Nurse of the Quarter — a NICU nurse with a huge heart. When a teen mom with triplets needed support, she opened her home and heart without hesitation. Her selfless love is a testament to the lengths nurses go to for their patients.

Can we agree that pharmacology is a f*cking beast? Nursing students, this one’s for you! Get tips and tricks (and two super cool visual aids) to help you ace pharmacology. Ok, maybe not ace, but you’ll definitely “C” your way through.

You better believe Nurse Becky cleared her schedule for this one. And this time, she’s not gossiping — she’s flipping pages! Get the scoop on her fave books and the ones that got the side eye.

Set goals, grow, and improve! As you read this issue, think about how every action you take shows your commitment to being the best version of yourself. And when shit hits the fan, make it a DSP (day shift problem)!

With love and laughter,

B L A K E LY N C H EDITOR + FOUNDER

In our Off the Clock escape, meet a nurse with a creative side hustle. By day, she’s saving lives; by night, she’s crafting the cutest badge holders using medication vial caps.

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DEFYING THE ODDS

A NURSING STUDENT’S INSPIRING STORY

By Maggie Aime, RN

TALES OF TRIUMPH often arise from adversity, and Jasmine Schultz’ story is a shining example. She’s a remarkable person whose life is a testament to courage, perseverance, and an unyielding passion for nursing.

Despite a genetic mutation leading to chronic conditions, such as gastroparesis and heart failure, Jasmine not only navigated the challenges of nursing school but also worked part-time as an ER tech. Her dream?

Becoming a bedside ICU nurse.

A FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL But Jasmine’s health took a dramatic turn. In May 2023, she was rushed to the hospital with sepsis. Jasmine’s organs began failing, requiring ECMO and dialysis. She coded multiple times. Her prognosis was grim, and doctors encouraged her family to say their goodbyes.

Not one to give up, Jasmine defied the odds and began responding to treatment. Still, the battle was far from over. Weeks of surgeries followed, resulting in the amputation of her lower legs, her hands, and part of her arms due to extensive necrosis. This left her as a quadruple amputee.

In the subsequent months, Jasmine faced even more challenges with urosepsis and meningitis. Despite it all, her strong spirit persisted.

FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND FURRY COMPANION Throughout this challenging time, Jasmine found strength from various sources. Beyond an exceptional medical team treating her as their own, Jasmine’s family,

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“Even though you’re different, it doesn’t mean that you can’t achieve your goals.

Even in a wheelchair, I could get my doctorate. Being sick, being different, makes things harder, but it doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your goals and be whatever you want to be.”

— JASMINE

friends, and Duchess — her loyal Chihuahua — played crucial roles.

Jasmine spoke of her grandmother, whose daily hourlong drives to the hospital to sit at her bedside provided comfort amidst the storm. The hospital bent the rules to allow Duchess to visit. “For hours, she would just come lay with me because she’s quiet and she just likes to snuggle,” Jasmine recalled.

UNIQUE INSIGHTS FROM HER JOURNEY Jasmine — on the verge of completing nursing school — reflected on how her journey influenced her perspective on nursing. She said, “As a patient, it’s very different. It’s not fun to be on the other side.” She described feeling excluded at times from conversations between healthcare professionals.

An intubated Jasmine in the ICU fights for her life.

MEDICAL TERMS EXPLAINED GASTROPARESIS: A delay in the stomach’s emptying process, causing digestive issues.

SEPSIS: A life-threatening medical emergency caused by the body’s response to infection.

NECROSIS: Tissue death, often due to lack of blood supply.

UROSEPSIS: A severe infection resulting from the spread of a urinary tract infection to the bloodstream.

PHOT0S BY RITA SCHULTZ

ECMO (EXTRACORPOREAL MEMBRANE OXYGENATION): An advanced form of life support.

MENINGITIS: Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by infection.

CODED: A slang term for cardiopulmonary arrest requiring urgent life-saving measures.

PTSD (POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER): A mental health condition triggered by a traumatic event.

OPPOSITE: Jasmine enjoys the independence of her new power chair after a lengthy hospitalization. ABOVE: Stepping into a new chapter with her new prosthetic legs.

Highlighting the contrast between the roles of a healthcare provider and a patient, Jasmine emphasized the challenges patients face — the needle pokes, tests, and the constant disruptions to their sleep.

setback was incredibly discouraging for Jasmine who had dreamed of becoming a nurse since childhood. “It felt like they just took away my career that I had wanted since I was eight years old,” she shared.

Addressing the hidden psychological toll of hospitalization, Jasmine openly shared, “Being on the ventilator for weeks at a time comes with a lot of trauma, a lot of PTSD, and memories.”

However, Jasmine is determined to finish what she started. She plans to resume classes online soon. Once she is more independent, Jasmine hopes to return to in-person nursing school, where she knows accommodations will need to be made.

She underlined the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional impact of these experiences, adding, “In my case, I was barely sedated, awake a lot, and it touches on the fact that with all that medical care, there’s a significant amount of medical PTSD — a very real thing.”

PERSEVERING DESPITE MAJOR SETBACKS Before her hospitalization, she was just one year shy of completing her bachelor’s degree in nursing. She was excelling in the program, earning straight As. This major

“It’s hard to be the one left out, but I’m determined to go back to school and finish,” stated Jasmine, recalling a challenging moment in her freshman year when she was told she couldn’t succeed in the program. She’s eager to prove her doubters wrong and show she can obtain her degree despite health challenges.

The unconditional support of friends was a lifeline for Jasmine in school. She recalled their assistance in small but meaningful ways — offering to hold doors or carry

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PHOT0 BY RITA SCHULTZ

Pre-clinical selfie: Jasmine snaps a quick selfie between classes shortly before her life changed.

her bag. “They included me in everything [and] they treated me the same,” she said, highlighting how inclusion and support can empower people.

Jasmine hopes to graduate with her BSN in 2025 and eventually pursue a master’s degree. As for her nursing career, she’s considering options like telehealth or triage. Wherever she lands, Jasmine will surely bring invaluable perspective shaped by her experiences as a patient.

FOCUS ON POSSIBILITIES, NOT LIMITATIONS “Even though you’re different, it doesn’t mean that you can’t achieve your goals. Even in a wheelchair, I could get my doctorate. Being sick, being different, makes things harder, but it doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your goals and be whatever you want to be,” Jasmine stressed, urging us to stay focused on what we can accomplish rather than being limited by our circumstances. She continued, “I’m just grateful that I’m alive.

I defied all odds.”

At the same time, Jasmine was candid about the daily frustrations of losing her independence and having to rely completely on others. “I get upset that I don’t have hands, so I can’t do much without hands. And I get upset because I can’t do anything. Losing your independence is by far one of the hardest things in the world,” she admitted.

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Jasmine appreciates the simple joy of being outdoors after recovering from a life-threatening infection.

FOLLOW JASMINE’S JOURNEY Tik Tok: @hakulai

Yet she’s working diligently to regain autonomy through rehab. She’s prepared to relearn how to walk using prosthetics, and she approaches the tough road ahead with grace.

Jasmine’s advice to nurses? Be attuned to possible signs of pain or distress in patients, even when they’re sedated. She advocates for increased psychosocial support and trauma-informed care, especially for patients navigating frightening experiences after life-threatening conditions.

Through her trial, Jasmine gained hard-won wisdom and empathy that will surely make her an exceptional nurse. Her encouraging words and determined spirit inspire hope and resilience.

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.

UNLEASH YOUR

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

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

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nursing.ucf.edu nursing.ucf.edu

Nurse Blake Clara Barton

D R E A M D IN N ER G U E S T S

Mary Eliza Mahoney

First of all, I love you. You make this 1987 RN grad chuckle every time. Also, digging the magazine. Now, my question.

There are some renowned professional nursing leaders. I am in critical care, so for CC, we think of Suzi Burns, Tom Ahrens, Ruth Kleinpell. Then there is Bonny Castillo from National Nurses United or Lauren Underwood, Congress person from Illinois. Have any of the nurse leaders reached out? If so, can you share their feedback? What would Clara Barton and Florence Nightingale say about your work? If you could have dinner with five other nurses, dead or alive, who would that be and why? See you in Chicago, NB! — Jacquie S. Hey Jacquie! First off, big love right back at you, and thanks for digging the magazine. It means the world to me. And OMG! You papercharted!

Now, to answer your questions. Nope, no nurse leaders have reached out to me. That’s ok though. I’m not surprised since our profession isn’t so great at uplifting our own leaders. I started this magazine to change that by telling stories of amazing nurses (from past and present). We need those role models to inspire others!

Harriet Tubman

If I could have dinner with five nurses, dead or alive, it would be a party! I’d invite them all to NurseCon at Sea. LOL! Florence Nightingale

PHOTOS: LIBR ARY OF CONGRESS: BARTON 93513623, MAHONE Y SCHOMBURG CENTER FOR RESE ARCH IN BL ACK CULTURE, TUBMAN 2018645050, NIGHTINGALE

Mary Seacole

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2004672058, ILLUSTR ATION: SE ACOLE SHUT TERSTOCK

First up, Harriet Tubman: She wasn’t just a trailblazer of the Underground Railroad; she was also a nurse. Did you know that? She saved lives in more ways than one.

Next is Mary Seacole: This dynamo lived and nursed alongside Florence but doesn’t get the credit she deserves. Oh, and she’s been coined the first nurse practitioner!

Obviously, we’d have to have Flo herself at the table

(Florence Nightingale, that is!) — the OG of nursing. I’d ask her thoughts on modern nursing.

And last but not least, Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross.

I’d ask these brilliant nurses for their advice to improve healthcare and uplift the next generation. That dinner would be epic!

B R ID G IN G G EN ER AT I O N S Hello, I was wondering if you have any suggestions or recommendations on how a seasoned nurse can relate to a new nurse during orientation. The best way to be a preceptor to a new nurse who was educated during the pandemic and whose generation has grown up with instant information and resources via the internet. How can I be the best preceptor to a new generation of nurses?

— Melanie W. Love this question, Melanie! New grads come into nursing from all different ages and generations, but connecting with the new generation of nurses is so key.

Every preceptee is different, so take time to get to know them. Ask how they like to learn best. Some people need to see it, others “just tell me and I got it!” Find out their learning style.

And here’s my fave tip — come up with a secret code word together that the new grad can use if they need backup with a skill. Maybe “banana” or “purewick” — something discreet. That way, if they’re in a room and need assistance, they can say the codeword, and you can jump in to lend a hand without embarrassing anyone.

Also, remember you’re both still learners! Don’t stress about being “perfect.” The new nurse might teach you a thing or two. I’ve learned so much from young nurses who are savvy with new tech and equipment. We all have wisdom to share.

I get distracted easily, so here’s what works for me: I use block scheduling. Break your study time into chunks with plenty of breaks to rest your brain. Also, nursing school should be a priority in your life but not THE priority. Keep yourself, family, and friends #1. Everything else will work out if you take care of YOU first!

Oh! Don’t just cram to pass exams. Study for when you have to use that information to save a life one day. Visualize success! And no matter how tough it gets, DON’T QUIT! You got this, future nurse.

R E S PEC T IN G R RT S I am an RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) currently enrolled in RN school. I know your father is an RRT. I am curious to know your thoughts towards RRTs. My hospital is notorious for RNs disrespecting, being inconsiderate, and acting as if we are beneath them.

— Stacy G. Stacy, I have mad respect for respiratory therapists!

Y’all are integral to the care team. Patients need your specialized knowledge. And we need you to help manage all the ventilator alarms!

No matter your role or title at a hospital, we’re all there for the same purpose — to help people heal. I don’t care if you’re transport, dietary, RT, CNA, nurse, or doc.

We’re one team.

I get it; some departments can be busier than others at times, but that’s when we should rally even more.

At the end of the day, there’s no room for egos when lives are on the line. So, congrats on pursuing RN school while still valuing your RT skillset. Let’s keep that unity strong and keep being awesome!

N U R S IN G S CH O O L S T RU G G L E S Hello Nurse Blake, One, you are the absolute funniest and best part of my day. Two, how did you survive nursing school without crying and wanting to quit all the time? I feel stressed and overwhelmed. How did you find the time to study and do homework and live? Thank you, Stressed out nursing school student. — Destanee A. Destanee, big hugs to you! Brightening nurses’ days is what I live for.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR NURSE BLAKE? We want to hear from you for our next issue.

Ask me!

nurseblake.com/pages/magazine

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ASK NURSE BL AKE

I’d also invite Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African-American licensed nurse. I’d pick her brain about what sparked her nursing journey and how she thinks we can make the nursing profession more diverse to represent our awesome communities.

Now listen, wanting to cry and bail on nursing school is TOTALLY normal, trust me! Honestly, it’s almost a nursing school rite of passage. My secret? Just keep the full-on meltdowns to 5-10 minutes max, then splash some cold water on your face and get back to the books. Cry if you must, but keep pushing through.

The Unsung Heroes of the Sky

PHOTO BY HERMAN BENNALY

Felino Taruc, BSN, RN, CCRN, CFRN 14

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ADVENTURES IN FLIGHT NURSING

By April Rowe, RN

THE ROLE OF A FLIGHT NURSE goes well beyond traditional nursing skills. They are specially trained registered nurses who care for patients while being transported in planes or helicopters. They must adapt quickly to challenging environments and provide critical care for patients with life-threatening injuries or illnesses in a compact space. Flight nursing requires advanced clinical skills, extensive knowledge of emergency medicine, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Felino Taruc, BSN, RN, CCRN, CFRN, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, shared what it’s actually like to experience nursing on a whole different level and literally off the ground! For the last three and half years, Felino has been working as a flight nurse and couldn’t be happier with his career transition.

TURNING HIS DREAMS INTO REALITY Felino had always dreamed of becoming a flight nurse, so his hard work in school and the nursing experience he obtained once he graduated naturally led him down this career path. “Flight nursing is surprisingly not a very popular or well-known specialty in nursing. I always wanted to be a flight nurse because of the specialty and high standard they are held at. I wanted to be the best, and flight nursing is definitely one of them,” Felino explained.

To ensure he had the critical care experience required to become a flight nurse, Felino immediately started working as a new grad in the intensive care unit (ICU). He worked there for three years and then became an ICU travel nurse to gain even more high-acuity nursing experience in preparation for applying to flight nursing jobs.

THE UNIQUE ROLE OF A FLIGHT NURSE Becoming a flight nurse isn’t easy. Once you have three to five years of critical care or high-acuity emergency nursing experience, you can begin the application process. Flight nurses are the best of the best, so you can certainly expect a grueling in-

PHOTO BY HERMAN BENNALY

Imagine providing critical care to patients in the back of a helicopter or plane in remote locations or during extreme weather.

How about placing an IV while experiencing major turbulence?

To say that flight nurses are the most skilled and exceptional group in our field would be an understatement.

Felino always dreamed of becoming a flight nurse.

“I always wanted to be a flight nurse because of the specialty and high standard they are held at. I wanted to be the best, and flight nursing is definitely one of them.”

terview process. Many companies require applicants to pass an exam before being considered for an interview.

If you are lucky to be hired, you will then begin an extensive training program. New hires will spend weeks on the ground in training before they get to board a flight. They will continue training and only do ‘fly-alongs’ for the first months before they are allowed to practice on their own. Flight nurses also perform advanced skills like intubation, chest tube placement, and cricothyrotomies.

Felino pointed out, “Flight nursing is unique because you aren’t in the hospital setting; you’re working in an ICU in the back of a helicopter or plane. You’re not just a nurse but also a first reNUR SEBL A K E.C OM ISSUE T HR EE 202 3 15

sponder, a transporter, a pharmacy tech, and a crew member who must be somewhat knowledgeable in aviation. It’s also just you, your teammate, and the pilot. It’s a very autonomous job, and you don’t have extra help up there like you do in the hospital.”

THE PROS AND CONS OF FLIGHT NURSING No job is perfect, and flight nursing has its upsides and downsides. Felino explained the best aspects of being a flight nurse: “What I like most about my job is the difference between the hospital setting and flight nursing. I love high acuity ICUs, but you can get really burned out with patient ratios. With flight nursing, you have one patient at a time. Practicing at that higher level and having to stay sharp throughout my career is really inspiring to me, and there’s no room for complacency.”

Many flight nurse companies truly value their teams and implement a culture focused on safety and mental health. “Our company has therapists available 24/7 for both the crew on the ground and in the air. If we’re not able to give 100% at work, like when we are sick or really distracted, the company allows us to take time off when we need it. Flight nurses really do feel appreciated,” said Felino.

The schedule of a flight nurse can either be considered a pro or a con. Felino works 24 hours a day for five days in a row, followed by ten days off. He sleeps at the hangar, which has rooms similar to those in hotels and a kitchen.

The team doesn’t have to work for 24 hours straight, and Felino’s company has a time-out policy to ensure the team gets plenty of rest. After about 14 to 16 hours of patient care and flying, the team is required to rest or sleep for 10 hours before they can go out on another call.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD FLIGHT NURSE Not everyone is cut out for flight nursing. Fight nurses must have an adventurous side to them and can’t have a fear of heights or small spaces. They must be able to work well under pressure and actually enjoy those moments when adrenaline is at its peak. “The best flight nurses are those who want to practice at a higher level and always want to learn. They can’t ever be complacent and always want to push their own limits. They must be very present and motivated but are also humble and flexible in their practice,” mentioned Felino.

“It’s never too late to be a flight nurse. You have to be somewhat healthy to do this job, but there’s no age limit as long as you

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Flight nurses face serious challenges. Because they practice nursing in a moving helicopter or plane, safety is a major concern for this type of role. “Many people are reluctant to try flight nursing because of the risk of crashing. Crashes do happen, and it’s a very sad reality, but most companies have a really good safety culture, and they do a lot to mitigate risk,” added Felino.

Not all heroes wear capes, but some of them do fly!

Certification requirements for most flight nurses Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN)

Follow Felino’s Adventures!

TikTok: FlightNurseFelino Instagram: FelinoLino YouTube: Felino Taruc

can meet the physical requirements. There are weight limits to consider, and it’s usually around 225 pounds with all of your equipment on,” added Felino.

While being a flight nurse can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging at times, it is also an incredibly rewarding and exciting career path. You get to practice skills far beyond those performed by nurses in the hospital setting. For adrenaline-junky nurses who find excitement in flying and caring for critically ill patients of all ages, flight nursing might just be the perfect career for you.

PHOTO BY DAVE VANN

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OF NURSECON AT SEA 2024 SAILING TO MEXICO THE

Ultimate NURSING CONFERENCE VACATION

By April Rowe, RN NURSECON AT SEA is not your typical nursing conference. It’s a unique educational experience that combines the ultimate vacation with the opportunity to obtain over 85 continuing nursing education (CNE) credits. The 5-night sailing from Miami on April 9-14, 2024, will venture to the stunning ports of Cozumel, Mexico, and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.

“Nurse Blake and his staff have crafted something truly special, and the ultimate goal is to deliver a memorable experience to nurses, with a hyper-focus on inclusivity, authenticity, and building connections.

This is a conference you will never forget.”

The cruise offers a ton of fun activities and plenty of opportunities to simply relax and party with like-minded colleagues. Guests can enjoy the gorgeous ocean views, unforgettable excursions, the hot tubs and pool deck, and all the amazing food and drinks.

speaking at the Campfire, where Nurse Blake and other presenters have an intimate discussion about the realities and experiences of nursing.

- ANNA QUON

“The courses are really fun, and we have a ton of different topics for the next cruise. They range from one to two-hour credits. All of the educators work really hard all year to prepare their presentations,” Elizabeth noted.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE NURSING CONFERENCE! NurseCon at Sea strives to offer a wide variety of exceptional courses that nurses can choose from based on their own interests and professional goals.

You can choose as many courses as you’d like. Some nurses prefer to skip the courses and just enjoy the cruise.

That’s the beauty of NurseCon at Sea; you can create your own educational vacation experience!

All of the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)-accredited CNE courses will be held during the days at sea and focus on the categories of practice, innovation, leadership, culture, pharmacology, and workshops. The educators come from various nursing, educational, and leadership backgrounds and are experts in their field. Each customized

Elizabeth Pavlesich, DNP, RN, PMH-BC, and Vice President of Education at NurseCon

course offers an engaging and interactive experience.

MEET THE VICE PRESIDENT OF EDUCATION AT NURSECON AT SEA Elizabeth Pavlesich, DNP, RN, PMH-BC, and Vice President of Education at NurseCon, was a speaker on the first cruise and is now a full-time employee with NurseCon. Her extensive nursing experience includes mental health and substance abuse, education, safety, and quality. Cruise attendees will see her

The topics that NurseCon at Sea offers are based on the feedback from the surveys sent to cruise attendees. Elizabeth works year-round to find presenters to align with the topics requested.

“We have a lot of people who reach out to us and say they want to be a part of NurseCon at Sea. We also use referrals or LinkedIn to find people to present. Every educator and presenter goes through an interview process and background check. It’s really fun to be a presenter, but it’s also a lot of work and preparation,” added Elizabeth.

MEET THE NURSECON AT SEA EDUCATORS You’ll find different courses and educators every year, but some have been NUR SEBL A K E.C OM ISSUE T HR EE 202 3 19

N U R S EC O N AT S E A E D U C AT O R S

MEET THE EDUCATORS

Erin Raiolo, M.Ed., BSN, RN, CNEcl, CEN, TCRN

Anna Quon, MBA HM, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, NEA-BC

Matthew Viera-Briggs, MSN, APRN-C, AGNP-C, CCRN-K

presenting at NurseCon at Sea since the first cruise. These core educators are hard-working nurses who are also dedicated to taking the time to prepare their yearly cruise presentations. They come from different nursing backgrounds and offer varying insightful courses.

Sea educator. “The people that come to the classes are very dedicated and really want to be there. They are invested in and excited about the topic you’re teaching and are really engaged in the material. It makes the interactions in the class a lot more authentic. And working with Blake is great. He’s very down to earth and takes the time to get to know everybody,” Erin added.

Your Nursing Career: Strategies for Lifelong Success — the panel Anna will be presenting — is an empowering session that encourages healthcare providers to build fulfilling and successful careers. She said, “By sharing what I’ve learned from navigating multiple career pathways and by bringing together a panel of people who have carved out unique nursing roles, I’ll provide practical tips to help nurses have a more satisfying career.”

ERIN RAIOLO, M.ED., BSN, RN, CNECL, CEN, TCRN Erin will run the popular Sepsis Escape Room and the exciting and interactive Murder Mystery that will challenge attendees’ critical thinking skills and medical knowledge. Her experience includes being an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)/Paramedic and working as a nurse in gastroenterology and the emergency room (ER).

Erin currently works in the ER as a charge nurse and educator and teaches nursing at her local community college. She also has her own business, Educated Nurse, providing study guides and templates for nurses and first responders.

“The best part about presenting on the cruise is meeting all the different people.

The educator group is like a second little family. I love sharing my knowledge with others, but I also like to attend some of the other classes because I love to learn,” mentioned Erin.

Erin truly enjoys being a NurseCon at

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Educated RN can be found on Instagram at @Educatednurse_

ANNA QUON, MBA HM, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, NEA-BC For 17 years, Anna worked in various nursing roles and settings, including ER, trauma, case management, telehealth, ambulatory clinics, system leadership, and most recently, nursing research. Currently, she is in a Nursing Ph.D. program focusing on reducing health disparities for people with autism and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For the upcoming 2024 cruise, Anna will be hosting a panel on career development for nurses and will co-facilitate a workshop on caring for obstetric patients with mental health concerns. “You’ll also find me at Campfire with Nurse Blake, where we put our guard down and have frank conversations about things affecting nurses today,” said Anna.

Anna added, “Nurse Blake and his staff have crafted something truly special, and the ultimate goal is to deliver a memorable experience to nurses, with a hyper-focus on inclusivity, authenticity, and building connections. This is a conference you will never forget.”

MATTHEW VIERA-BRIGGS, MSN, APRN-C, AGNP-C, CCRN-K Matt is a nurse practitioner with a background in ICU and hospital management and has a master’s degree in adult-gerontology nursing, specializing in the LGBTQIA patient population. Matt started his own non-profit clinics across Florida.

“Blake and I went to nursing school together, and he asked me to help with the first NurseCon at Sea cruise. It was great, and I loved it, so I keep going each

N U R S EC O N AT S E A E D U C AT O R S

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EDUC ATORS

Michelle Hamland, DNP, RN, RN-BC

Yovaletta Scruggs, MBA, MSN, BSN, NEA-BC

“I really enjoy being a part of NurseCon at Sea. It’s a super cool community that has so much comradery. Everyone is just so nice, and we all get along and can relate to each other. It’s a unique conference because nurses can come together and just be themselves.”

- RUDOLPH PAVLESICH year. The educational staff is excellent, and I love meeting nurses from all over the world. It’s really interesting to see how much it’s grown in the last couple of years,” said Matt.

Matt will be teaching the course Nursing Advocacy: Influencing Change and Safeguarding Practice, which focuses on the importance of nurses advocating for themselves and their practice.

“This course will teach nurses how to be catalysts for change. Talking to congressmen, state representatives, and legislators isn’t something we learn about in school. Our nurse practice acts are determined by our local state representatives, so they affect how we practice nursing.

Many of them don’t know anything about nursing, so they want to hear from us, and this course will empower nurses to

speak up,” Matt explained.

MICHELLE HAMLAND, DNP, RN, RN-BC Unleashing the Power of Generative AI in Nursing Practice is the course that Michelle will present in 2024. It delves into the convergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and nursing practice.

Michelle’s nursing experience includes the medical-surgical unit and the emergency department. “I’ve always had an affinity for technology and respect how it has helped with advancements in healthcare. I felt it was important for nurses to be involved in the design and development of the AI tools that would be integrated into our workflow, so I got my master’s degree in informatics and got a job in that area,” said Michelle.

Rudolph Pavlesich, DNP, CRNA, FNP-BC, APRN

By sharing her extensive knowledge of informatics and nursing technology integration, nurses can better understand how to leverage upcoming technology like AI. Michelle explained, “I went on to get my DNP (doctor of nursing practice) in healthcare leadership to be at the forefront of innovating changes. I want to see nurses and nursing leaders be more innovative and take on new technologies in their nursing practice.”

YOVALETTA SCRUGGS, MBA, MSN, BSN, NEA-BC The 2024 cruise to Mexico will be Yovaletta’s third sailing with NurseCon at Sea, and she’s excited to co-lead the Exploring Implicit Bias Workshop and present the course Navigating Leadership: From Aspirations to Impact. With over 17 years of nursing experience, primarily in women’s services, and a decade of nurse leadership experience, she’s certainly an expert in her field.

Yovaletta has worked in hospital and clinic obstetric settings as a bedside nurse and for the last 10 years as a nursing leader. “I most recently started a new endeavor in nurse entrepreneurship by opening a wellness practice. I’m also a clinical instructor for maternal newborn nursing students,” she said.

“Being a NurseCon educator has been

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PHOT0 BY DAVE VANN

A cozy conversation at the Campfire onboard NurseCon at Sea

very rewarding. It is such a great opportunity to connect with so many nurses on various subjects, and I’ve gained so much knowledge from the other educators. As an educator, I love that the NurseCon leaders trust my experience and value my creativity on how to deliver the content. As a learner, I appreciate that NurseCon seeks to provide education based on what matters to me as a nurse, and there’s content that speaks to my specialty,” Yovaletta added.

The educators also take advantage of all the learning opportunities and the ability to connect with nursing colleagues from all over the world. Being on a cruise conference with thousands of other nurses and healthcare providers creates such an intimate setting, far beyond your typical nursing conference. “The environment unifies us as nurses. It’s the best balance of education and relaxation,” remarked Yovaletta.

RUDOLPH PAVLESICH, DNP, CRNA, FNP-BC, APRN Following his Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program in college, Rudolph started his nursing career in the Army, working in Iraq and

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military hospitals. He specialized in multiple areas of intensive care nursing, like medical ICU, trauma, and burn units.

He also worked in a military medical facility in Germany before going back to school for a master’s degree in nurse anesthesia in Florida.

For the upcoming cruise, Rudolph will be presenting Ultrasound-Guided IV Insertion: Principles and Practice and will explain how nurses can take advantage of ultrasound technology to aid in their IV skills. “I want nurses who are in a situation where they’ve stuck a patient multiple times for an IV to feel comfortable using an ultrasound machine to assist with the process. It will help nurses so much in their practice,” said Rudolph.

“I really enjoy being a part of NurseCon at Sea. It’s a super cool community that has so much comradery. Everyone is just so nice, and we all get along and can relate to each other. It’s a unique conference because nurses can come together and just be themselves. All of the education offered is so impressive, and the nurses are very eager and passionate to learn,” remarked Rudolph.

Don’t miss your chance to experience The Ultimate Nursing Conference cruise in 2024. The nurses who’ve been on the prior cruises know how epic the experience is, and they keep coming back, year after year! So join Nurse Blake, the incredible educators, and thousands of nurses from all over the world, and set sail with us to Mexico and the Bahamas. Registration is now open at www.nurseconatsea. com. We hope to see you next April!

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.

We help nurses around the US: . Be an independent/travel assignment contractor close to home . Have more flexible scheduling that you control . Enjoy your career on your terms and earn more money . Work as a staff nurse or become a Caring Nurses Manager in your state!

WE PUT NURSES FIRST! 603-305-0841 • caringnursessa@gmail.com @caringnurses www.CaringNursesSA.com Karen O’Donnell RN, BSN, CEN, TCRN created Caring Nurses Staffing Agency, in 2012 in New Boston, NH. Karen is the owner and operator of the agency and continues her 30 year career as an Emergency Nurse!

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A TOAST TO HARD-WORKING NURSES 14th HOUR WINE BY NURSE BL AKE

Nurse Blake’s 14th Hour wine comes from the Walla Walla Valley in Washington, voted the #1 Best Wine Region.

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14TH HOUR WINE IS MY NEW PROJECT that was born out of a simple yet brilliant idea. My grandma, or as we call her, Nan, is quite the wine enthusiast. One night, I was hanging out at her house, enjoying some wine with her, and she mentioned how great it would be to have wine meant for nurses. I loved the idea so much that I hit the ground running to search for the perfect company to partner with.

I came across Nocking Point Wines from Walla Walla, Washington, and contacted them about my idea. They believed in it so much that we started working together right away. We put together different combinations and started sampling them to create the perfect blends.

“My goal for 14th Hour Wine is for nurses to be able to enjoy a glass of wine with themselves or friends to celebrate the hard work they do.”

The name of the wine is one of those things that came to me in the shower. That’s where most of my creative work happens. It must be the hot water that pumps all my blood in the right direction to get me thinking! I decided to call it 14th Hour Wine because many nurses work 12 hours, and when they finally get home and settled, it’s the 14th hour. This is when nurses get to relax and reflect on their day.

I want nurses to have something to sip on and enjoy while they can finally put their feet up.

Wine tasting on the NurseCon at Sea 2023 Bahamas cruise

PHOT0 BY DAVE VANN

PHOT0 BY SYDNEE MOREHOUSE/NOCKING POINT

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PHOT0 BY DAVE VANN

PHOT0 COURTESY OF NURSE BL AKE

Nurse Blake toasting with a glass of rosé.

The Rosé by 14th Hour Wine.

The Walla Walla Valley has been named the #1 wine-making region by USA Today for three years in a row. The soil, climate, and elevation make the area ideal for producing the perfect wine. Once you taste the smoothness of 14th Hour Wine, you’ll understand why Walla Walla has been ranked #1.

Collaborating with Nocking Point Wines has been a wonderful experience. They produce, bottle, and sell the pinot grigio and rosé that 14th Hour Wine offers. The wine can only be purchased within the U.S. for now.

The 100% pinot grigio blend is light and refreshing with notes of pear, white peach, and guava. The rosé is a blend of 2020 Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre with delicate floral aromas and a touch of fruity, strawberry notes. The wines are smooth, light, and refreshing, with a perfect balance of flavors.

I want the 14th Hour to be YOUR hour!

I introduced 14th Hour to the guests on the 2023 NurseCon at Sea cruise to the Bahamas during a special wine-tasting event. It was a hit! Hundreds of guests showed up to sample the products and snap a pic with me. It was so much fun.

My goal for 14th Hour Wine is for nurses to be able to enjoy a glass of wine with themselves or friends to celebrate the hard work they do. I want the 14th Hour to be YOUR hour! It’s your time to sit back, relax, and reflect on your day. Nurses spend so much of their time and energy caring for others that sometimes we forget to take care of ourselves. So please, grab a glass of wine and enjoy!

Love,

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ORDER A BOTTLE Purchase 14th Hour Wine at www.nurseblake.com. $22

Orlando!

WE’RE TAKING OVER September 22 - 26, 2024

Join us at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando, where adventure meets relaxation!

Orlando, Florida, surrounded by award-winning theme parks, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. There’s never a dull moment!

Imagine a conference where learning merges seamlessly with exciting theme park adventures, top-tier entertainment, and immersive experiences.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort transports guests to a paradise in the heart of the tropics. Ease into island time and let go.

Reserve your spot today!

For more information, visit www.nursecon.com

$729 CONFERENCE FEE

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

STUDY

TIPS

for Nursing School Pharmacology

Trying to memorize every single drug is not a realistic way to study pharmacology. Instead, try these simple but effective learning techniques to master medications.

YOU ARE JUST ABOUT TO LAUNCH into a new semester of nursing school, so let’s set you up for success! These tips will help you with time management, effective studying, and selfcare so that you can make the most of your nursing experience.

1. STUDY THE CLASS, NOT THE DRUG

2. ACTIVE LEARNING I swear by this type of learning style and information retention!

Engage in active learning techniques, like summarizing information in your own words, teaching the material to a friend or family member, or participating in group discussions or study groups. Studies show that you are more likely to remember material if you repetitively say the material out loud. So, use these methods to reinforce your understanding of pharmacological concepts!

PHOT0 AND STUDY SHEETS COURTESY OF STEPHANEE BEGGS

Let’s be realistic; we are expected to be familiar with thousands of drugs. Learning by individual drugs will drive you out of nursing school. Instead, study by medication class. Learn how to recognize a drug by prefix or suffix to identify the medication class it belongs to. If you understand that class, you will know everything about every drug that falls within it.

BY STEPHANEE BEGGS, RN

3. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE The best way to become confident in your knowledge is to practice NCLEX-style questions centered on pharmacology.

Use context clues within the question to guide you on what drug is presented. Consider what you know about the drug

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ABOVE MULTI-TALENTED RN

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

NUR SING ADVICE

“Pharmacology can be overwhelming, but it's essential to stay on top of it consistently. To avoid procrastination, break your study tasks into smaller, manageable chunks.”

BELOW MEDICATION LE ARNING MADE E A SY!

Samples of Stephanee’s pharmacology flashcards.

class and apply that to your answer options. But the real golden rule?? Study your rationale. Review the rationales both for content and clarification regarding why the answer you chose is correct or incorrect.

4. BREAK DOWN STUDYING INTO MANAGEABLE CHUNKS Pharmacology can be overwhelming, but it's essential to stay on top of it consistently. To avoid procrastination, break your study tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. At the start of each semester, I created a study plan outlining each class's pharmacology topics. I aimed to study 2-3 medication classes every day. The key was daily revision; I reviewed the topics I'd covered in the previous days along with the new material. This consistent cycle of repetition and memory recall helped me grasp pharmacology effectively.

5. UTILIZE OUTSIDE SOURCES What helped me most was using external learning sources like YouTube and pre-made nursing study materials. Pharmacology often involves complex mechanisms and structures. Utilize visual aids like flashcards to help you understand drug classifications, mechanisms of action, and side effects.

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.

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Celebrating

THE VITAL ROLE OF CNAS IN HEALTHCARE

By Payton Babb Sy, RN

HOW ONE CNA FINDS BALANCE AMONGST CHAOS

PHOTO BY FABIO DELGADO

Sipping an espresso inside a colossal stovetop espresso maker in the Dominican Republic.

PHOTO BY JAYDEE PENA

PHOTO BY MARÍA PAUL A

Anthony, on a Colombian adventure.

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Anthony Cordova, CNA from Winston Salem, North Carolina

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANTHONY CORDOVA

On a trip to Miami, Anthony paused to appreciate travel as a way to find balance.

ALRIGHT, NURSES, how about we give a shoutout to our certified nursing assistants (CNAs)? There are about 1.4 million CNAs employed in the United States, which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, equates to about one CNA for every three employed registered nurses. But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the impact each CNA makes in the healthcare world.

In whatever way CNAs have touched you and your nursing practice, here’s the story of how one CNA, Anthony Cordova, sees his part in the greater healthcare system and what keeps him going.

Anthony has been a CNA for five years, initially starting in a pulmonary unit in 2018. Later, he transitioned to the professional nursing resource team, working as a float CNA across various specialties, including behavioral health, orthopedics, neurology, gastrointestinal oncology, critical care, intermediate care, and cardiac telemetry.

BEHIND THE SCENES Think back to the last time a CNA really saved you. Was it when they noticed a patient seemed off? What about when they did all your morning vitals for you?

Or maybe they’ve just been a comrade to the chaos, giving you a supportive nod when you’re at your wit’s end.

We often forget that in most states, CNAs can receive specialized training to perform additional tasks to help nurses, including checking blood glucose levels,

“I am very fortunate to work with many nurses who make me feel seen and appreciated. They recognize the important role that I play in patient care and are always willing to lend a helping hand and or provide support when I need it.”

administering IV fluids, providing basic wound care and catheter care, phlebotomy, and telemetry monitoring.

Anthony works as a float in many units in his hospital system and has advanced his CNA training to do some of these tasks. “That allowed me to do IV dressing changes [and] IV therapy,” he explained.

CNAs have a unique role of not only anticipating a patient’s needs but also the needs of the nurses they work with — and that skill cannot be overstated.

TRAVEL, RECHARGE, REPEAT Despite juggling his responsibilities and floating to various units, Anthony has a few strategies in place to stay grounded.

Anthony said, “I love to travel. Love, love, love to travel. I’m usually planning a trip every other month, if not every month, like a little weekend getaway somewhere. This year, I’ve been to [the] Dominican Republic, New York, Nashville…”

Anthony prioritizes the need to take breaks. “I’m a firm believer that people need to recharge,” he explained.

By taking advantage of his company’s self-scheduling, he is able to choose his days off to create long weekends. He also floats to different units, using the float differential to save up for trips.

He’s in nursing school now, but he’s consistently surprised at the career opportunities that have been available to him as a CNA. His greatest advice to other CNAs looking to expand their careers?

Follow the golden rule. “I think that being nice to people really goes a long way.”

THE HEART OF HEALTHCARE

CNA Vital Statistics 1.4 million nursing assistants were employed in 2022.

33% of CNAs work in skilled nursing facilities.

The median pay for a CNA in the U.S. is $17.18 per hour.

While the DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Foundation created an award given to outstanding nurses, there is currently no national organization for CNA awards. Some hospitals have created their own, such as the Sunshine, Bee, or Petal award.

To show a CNA that you appreciate them, write them a thank you note.

Support them in their careers and professional endeavors and never talk down or bully them, especially in front of patients. It’s important to involve CNAs in planning the day and explain clinical decisions when you have time, always making them a part of the team. If your hospital doesn’t have a way to formally award or recognize CNAs, advocate to create a system to do so.

Working in healthcare, it’s vital that all team members feel appreciated and have the opportunity to recharge. Anthony added, “[The nurses] also take the time to listen to my concerns and ideas, which makes me feel valued and makes me feel needed. Overall, I think that the key is feeling appreciated as the nursing assistant and that there is an open communication and a spirit of collaboration between the nurses and the CNAs.”

Many key patient interactions happen with CNAs. Being such an integral part of the team, CNAs deserve recognition and appreciation.

SOURCES U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Nursing Assistants.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Registered Nurses.

Anthony said, “I am very fortunate to work with many nurses who make me feel seen and appreciated. They recognize the important role that I play in patient care and are always willing to lend a helping hand or provide support when I need it.”

PAYTON BABB SY is a registered nurse and the owner of PaytonRNwriter. com. Of the nursing specialties, family medicine is her favorite. If she’s not writing, she’s planning her next trip to a national park or relaxing poolside with her family in Phoenix.

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Katrina Mullen NICU NURSE WHO ADOPTED TEEN MOM AND TRIPLETS

By April Rowe, RN PHOTOS COURTESY OF K ATRINA MULLEN

IN A HEARTWARMING STORY, a Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) nurse went above and beyond after she stepped in to adopt a teen mother and her premature triplets who were at risk of being separated by Child Protective Services (CPS). The nurse formed a special bond with the young mother, never realizing that she would soon make a life-changing decision.

Katrina Mullen, BSN, RN, from Indianapolis, Indiana, has been a NICU nurse for over 24 years. Having been a teen mom herself, Katrina understood the challenges and difficulties the young mother, Shariya Small, was facing. Shariya was only 14 when her triplets were born at 26 weeks gestation. Not only was she dealing with typical teen parenting issues, but her babies were born extremely premature, and were hospitalized for over four months.

Katrina Mullen and Shariya Small

Having been a teen mom herself, Katrina understood the challenges and difficulties the young mother, Shariya Small, was facing.

GOING BEYOND NICU BEDSIDE NURSING “When I first met Shariya, she was very quiet and timid. She didn’t really speak to anyone and just sat at the babies’ bedsides for hours. It was a lot for her to handle, like it is for any NICU mom, but she had three of them, which made it that much harder,” said Katrina, who was one of the nurses caring for the triplets.

Katrina noticed that Shariya had a lack of support and spent her days in the NICU alone, oftentimes wearing the same clothing for days in a row. Katrina was able to connect with her by discussing her own teen pregnancy and adoption story. Shariya slowly started opening up more to her, and Katrina soon became not just another one of the NICU nurses but her only support.

The triplets, two girls and a boy, Serenitee, Sarayah, and Samari, had a long and stressful NICU journey. After months of hospitalization, the girls — Serenitee and Sarayah — were discharged home, and their brother, Samari, got a gastric tube (G-tube) and was discharged as well.

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“On the day the babies went home, I left Shariya a note with my phone number and said if she needed anything, she could call me.

We then started texting and calling each other back and forth.

Sometimes, she would call me sobbing and was completely overwhelmed. We would FaceTime too, and she would show me the babies and ask me a lot of questions,” Katrina explained.

KATRINA’S WORLD WAS ABOUT TO CHANGE One day, during their usual FaceTiming sessions, Katrina noticed that one of the babies appeared much thinner than before. Concerned, Katrina went to visit Shariya and the babies. There, she noticed that the mom and babies were living in a different home and appeared to all be sleeping in the living room. She had a gut feeling that something was not right.

Katrina advised Shariya to take her son to the hospital due to his weight loss and frail appearance. He was admitted for failure to

“One day, I got a call from the hospital social worker who needed to make a visit to my home since the girls were currently in my care. They came to my house and told me that they were removing the babies from their home, and Shariya hoped she could come live with me. My jaw hit the floor! I knew that if they went into foster care, they wouldn’t be able to stay together. I couldn’t let them get separated, and I just thought, we can make this work,” said Katrina.

Even though this was a huge endeavor and life-changing decision, Katrina knew in her heart it was the right thing to do.

“Shariya was such a fierce young woman and mom, and I did not want her children to be taken away from her because of her living situation. She just needed support,” added Katrina.

“I have seven kids in my house, and it’s crazy and exhausting, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY Shariya and her babies moved in with Katrina, a single mother of five boys, three of whom still live at home. Life got even more chaotic when another teen and three babies moved in, but they were like one big family. “It was important for me to give Shariya a place to put down roots, and it has been awesome,” said Katrina.

Katrina changed her schedule to work night shift on the weekends so she could be there during the week to care for the triplets and take them to their numerous doctor appointments and multiple therapy sessions. Shariya attended an alternative high school that allowed her to bring the girls to the school’s daycare. Her son required specialized care, so he stayed home.

Katrina was their foster mom for almost two years, but on February 6, 2023, she became Shariya’s official adopted mother and the grandmother of Serenitee, Sarayah, and Samari. “I have seven kids in my house, and it’s crazy and exhausting, but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” said Katrina.

TOP: Triple boss babies. MIDDLE: Adoption day! One big happy family.

BOTTOM: The triplets enjoy a snack at the park.

Shariya, now 17, graduated from high school a year early and started college this year. She plans to become a licensed social worker and help teen moms like herself. Katrina continues to work weekends as a NICU nurse and spends all of her free time being a mom to Shariya and the triplets and her five boys, SeVonte (24), Shai (23), Quay (16), Kovon (15), and JJ (8). “We are like one big family, and I would absolutely do it all over again,” said Katrina.

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NUR SE OF THE QUARTER

thrive, and Shariya had no childcare for her other two babies while she was at the hospital. Katrina agreed to take the girls home with her and care for them in the meantime.

NURSE BECKY'S FAVORITE BOOKS

By Maggie Aime, RN

PHOTO BY MANDI NAPOLITAN

YEP, YOU READ THAT RIGHT! Nurse Becky is… reading.

Like, actual books! Turns out, under these coffee-stained scrubs and hot mess, she’s a total bookworm. Does that explain all those “bathroom breaks”? We’ll never know. But for now, she’s about to give her hot takes on the page-turners — or not — she’s been nosediving into lately. Fair warning, she always keeps it real — as real as the ICU being so freaking cold! Guess Nurse Becky’s gotta feed the mind, too.

Fourth Wing was thicker than Brunner & Suddarth’s med surg book (okay, not really). But if you’re up for an adventure as unpredictable as working the night shift on a full moon on Friday the 13th, grab Fourth Wing.

Her Every Fear

BY PETER SWANSON OMG! Her Every Fear had Nurse Becky sleeping with one eye open! This thriller had more twists than tangled IV lines.

At first, Nurse Becky was convinced that the main character, Kate, was just being paranoid about her cousin Corbin being a killer. But then clues kept piling up.

Between worrying if her handsome neighbor, Alan, was a savage murderer or really telling the truth and Kate finding creepy objects stashed around the apartment, Nurse Becky just couldn’t put the book down — even when a code blue was called!

Don’t even get her started on when Kate thought she heard footsteps behind her. The ending completely shocked Nurse Becky. Ever had poop-finger patients try to touch you? Yea, let’s just say Corbin was even more disturbing than that.

Her Every Fear gets a 4.5/5. Just don’t read it alone at night.

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Verity

BY COLLEEN HOOVER

Anyway, grieving Jeremy hires writer Lowen to finish the book series of his injured wife, Verity. But then Lowen stumbles upon Verity’s hidden autobiography that revealed shocking secrets — like the real story of their daughter’s death.

Cue bone-chilling confessions and a whole lot of drama.

Then things got wild, and Nurse Becky’s stress level hit the charts. Think, new grad nurse looking for the wink!

This suspense kept her guessing (and on her Danskos) the whole time, and you won’t be able to escape its grip either!

Nurse Becky gives Verity a solid 4/5 for keeping her anxiously turning pages through every crazy shift.

If He Had Been With Me

BY LAURA NOWLIN In this book, Autumn and Finn’s complicated on-again, off-again romance was a mess. “TBH, I don’t really remember this one,” Nurse Becky admitted. She might have been distracted by the drama of her own love life, adding, “The title reminds me of Josh, the respiratory therapist who was dating me and then left me for a new grad…” Oh, you didn’t hear?

If He Had Been With Me has that teenage angst thing going on. Nurse Becky even cursed Finn’s name for breaking Autumn’s heart. But life was about to throw some curveballs.

Nurse Becky might not remember all the book details, but the emotional rollercoaster? Yep, she felt it. Speaking of Josh, Nurse Becky said, “If he had been with me, he could’ve had ALL THIS!” Your loss, Josh.

If He Had Been With Me snags a cool 4/5 in Nurse Becky’s book.

Red, White, and Royal Blue

BY CASEY MCQUISTON Nurse Becky was so draped in rainbows after devouring this adorable gay romance. And that’s saying something because her usual wardrobe is 50 shades of pink scrubs!

Red, White & Royal Blue gave her ALL the feels.

From the start, she was glued to the juicy feud between dreamy Alex, the President’s son, and Prince Henry of Wales. But when forced friendship turned into a secret relationship, Nurse Becky just couldn’t keep it together!

She had to stifle happy sobs and ugly cries into her pillow to avoid waking her roommate.

It’s a perfect 5/5 (and a standing ovation) for Red, White & Royal Blue!

Fourth Wing

BY REBECCA YARROS Four words: Insane wild dragon ride! Nurse Becky went through all the stages of emotions with this read. She loved it, hated it, and then loved it again.

She felt bad for Violet being forced into deadly dragon rider training by her tough mom. And when cruel Xaden threatened Vi (Yep, Nurse Becky and Violet are BFFs now!), Nurse Becky was ready to straddle a dragon, too.

A whole lot of drama: The failing magical wards, the rising death tolls, and leadership’s shady secrets. Hold on! It’s not just hospital leadership who’s shady?!?

Fourth Wing was thicker than Brunner & Suddarth’s med surg book (okay, not really). But if you’re up for an adventure as unpredictable as working the night shift on a full moon on Friday the 13th, grab Fourth Wing.

Even with the love-hate relationship, Nurse Becky gives Fourth Wing a 4.5/5!

The In-Between beautifully shows how end-of-life care doesn’t just comfort the dying — it teaches us how to truly live.

The In-Between

BY HADLEY VLAHOS, RN Who knew a book about death and dying could be so darn captivating? Nurse Becky went all in on The In-Between.

This memoir by nurse Hadley Vlahos spins tales from the hospice floor that make you rethink life and death in the same breath.

It beautifully shows how end-of-life care doesn’t just comfort the dying — it teaches us how to truly live. Nurse Becky was so moved that she recommended it to all her nurse besties (Wait! Nurse Becky has nurse besties?).

In Nurse Becky’s mouth-full-of-snacks words, “An amazing book that all nurses and all people should read!”

Consider it required reading if you want to get in touch with life’s messy middle and have a good therapeutic sob!

Pick up The In-Between. You won’t regret it. An allaround 5/5!

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N U R S E B EC K Y

So, Nurse Becky is deep into the drama of Verity, chips in hand, Danskos on, and her patient decides to sit on the darn call bell. Classic nurse life, right?

Grey’s Anatomy romance? Nah, this was waaay better!

Nurse Becky absolutely loved escaping into Alex and Henry’s flirty love story.

N U R S E B EC K Y PHOTO BY MANDI NAPOLITAN

The Silent Patient

Archer’s Voice

BY ALEX MICHAELIDES

BY MIA SHERIDAN

Alright, Nurse Becky had a go at The Silent Patient. It was supposed to be this mind-bending psychological thriller, but it didn’t quite hit the sweet spot for her. The whole deal with Alicia shooting her husband and then going silent sounded intriguing, but it left Nurse Becky feeling a bit “Meh.”

Spoiler alert: Not one, not two, but three full boxes of tissues were involved with this one.

What she expected to be a gripping drama turned out to be more of a subtle hum. It did have its moments, but at times, Nurse Becky wanted to yell, “Get on with it already!”

The Silent Patient didn’t quite snatch her nurse’s heart as she thought it would, earning a 3.5/5.

Every juicy twist of Archer's Voice — chilling violence, betrayals, buried secrets, had Nurse Becky gasping and bawling.

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Okay, so Nurse Becky was immediately hooked on the chemistry between Bree, who’s searching for peace, and the silent, all-to-himself Archer. Every juicy twist — chilling violence, betrayals, buried secrets, had Nurse Becky gasping and bawling.

Don’t tell anyone, but Archer’s Voice was so good that Nurse Becky almost got written up for being 45 minutes late returning from lunch. Who was watching her patients?

The ending hit hard; it was a total tear-jerker. Ya know, that feeling when you get a wreck of an admission 30 minutes before shift change. But, hey, Nurse Becky’s still gushing about her new book boyfriend, Archer!

Archer’s Voice is nothing short of a 5/5.

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OFF THE CLOCK: NURSE JULISSA NURSE TRANSFORMS VIAL CAPS INTO WEARABLE ART

By Maggie Aime, RN EVER WONDERED what happens to those colorful little medicine vial caps once you pop them off?

Meet a nurse with a knack for seeing potential where others see waste. She skillfully repurposes those caps into something extraordinary: Custom-made badge holders!

This nurse — Julissa Arauz — finds inspiration in the most unexpected places and gives the term “nurse entrepreneur” a fun, creative, and colorful meaning.

A PEEK INTO JULISSA’S CREATIVE SPACE Step into Julissa’s creative haven, and you’ll likely catch her meticulously assembling her one-of-a-

kind badge holders. Her creative journey begins with her fascinating imagination. “I think it’s how my brain works,” she shared with a spark in her eyes. “It’s easy for me to find inspiration in anything — it’s my creative mind at play. I see colors and shapes of different elements, and it’s always been a part of me to activate that creativity, to design or create something from anything.”

Her canvas of choice? The often-overlooked medicine vial flip-off caps. “They come in different sizes and so many different colors,” she noted. “To me, it’s satisfying to combine them, put a little embellishment, and see what comes up. Each one is unique in my brain.”

THINKING OUTSIDE THE VIALS

V I A L C A P S FIND NE W LIFE

Her creative process is one of spontaneity. Julissa explained, “I never have anything in mind when I create except the center — the little embellishment that’s going to bring the flower together.”

"I started making them for people who work with powerful magnetic technology, so they need to be metal-free."

This usually includes stumbling upon a charming find at a store — a Disney character or a seasonal decoration. With that starting point, Julissa intuitively combines colors and caps, seeing what flows well together.

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PHOTOS BY JULISSA AR AUZ

In her creative haven, Julissa showcases one of her masterpieces.

NO CHALLENGES, ONLY FUN! Juggling two nursing jobs and a thriving side gig might seem like a lot, but Julissa’s secret lies in planning. With the luxury of knowing her schedule in advance, she strategically allocates time to work on her creations.

Julissa Arauz, RN IDStitch Etsy shop THE ART OF LAYERING Julissa began stashing away these caps about five years ago. As word spread about her crafty badge holders, nurse friends happily collected and passed along caps during their shifts, increasing her stockpile.

Once Julissa gathers a bunch of those caps, the crafting adventure begins. With tools laid out and supplies in place, the construction itself is a layering process she describes as a puzzle or playing Tetris.

She starts by gluing caps upside down into a flower shape. Once assembled, she flips them over and begins layering the flower petals on top of each other. She moves them around, deciding which colors go where, adding a design here or a sparkling embellishment there.

Crafting these clips is more of a passion project than a job. She views the entire process as an enjoyable learning experience. For her, there’s no challenge, just pure fun.

MINDFULLY MADE Julissa’s attention to detail extends beyond the cuteness of her creations. She considers the practical needs of certain healthcare specialties. She mentioned, “I started making them for people who work with powerful magnetic technology, so they need to be metal-free.”

In specialty fields like radiology, metal parts could be dangerous. So Julissa painstakingly removes any metal ring from the back of the caps and uses a non-metallic lanyard instead of traditional retractable reels.

She also meticulously selects embellishments free of metal components. It’s a thoughtful touch that allows healthcare professionals with unique work constraints to still flaunt their custom-made badge holders.

GO FOR IT!

BUILD YOUR OWN? YES, YOU CAN!

For those contemplating diving into the world of creative pursuits or exploring a side gig, Julissa had a straightforward mantra: “Go for it!”

Julissa often gets special requests when nurses see her sporting her colorful hand-crafted badge. “When somebody sees the one I’m wearing, they compliment it,” she shared. “Then I tell them it’s made from medicine vial caps, and they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, I see!’”

She continued, “You won’t know if you don’t do it, and nobody can take that experience from you.” Whether the project takes off or not, you will grow from putting yourself out there. “Do it because you enjoy doing it.

That will be rewarding in itself,” she added.

And here’s where it gets interesting. The inevitable question follows: “Do you sell them?” And Julissa, being the creative entrepreneur she is, nods and shares her Etsy shop information.

Julissa’s innovation proves vial caps deserve a second life. It’s also an invitation to pursue your dreams with an open mind and let the creative process be its own reward.

Julissa intuitively combines colors and caps, seeing what flows well together.

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O FSFEC TH TE I OCNL O T ICTKL E

Sometimes, she’ll take requests for personalized designs, like including a nurse’s initials or their favorite colors. Other times, they simply pick out a readymade badge that catches their eye. Either way, nurses are delighted to wear little pieces of art that not only showcase Julissa’s innovation but also a part of caring for patients.

NURSING NEWS BLAKE'S TAKE

By Nurse Blake

Nurses Under Attack!

Caregiving Comes With a Dose of Assault PUNCHED, STABBED, SHOT — WAIT! IS THIS NURSING OR A COMBAT ZONE? THIS IS SERIOUS SHIT — our safety on the job. It’s not enough that we’re dealing with nursing shortage, staffing ratios, and PT not putting patients back in bed.

We’re also dealing with assaults on the frontlines!

Over the past years, nurses have been victims of horrific violence while on the job. They’ve been shot, stabbed, strangled, and worse. The stories keep pouring in from everywhere, and they’re heartbreaking.

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In September 2023, a psychiatric nurse was in critical condition after being brutally attacked by a patient. Tragedy struck Dallas Methodist Medical Center in October 2022 when a gunman killed a nurse and a social worker. These are just recent incidents, and they’re not isolated. And for each assault reported, many more cases of violence and intimidation go unmentioned.

What the hell is going on? How did we get here? And, more importantly, how

do we stop this from happening over and over? We’re nurses, damn it, not targets!

And, once again, it’s up to us to take a stand — for ourselves and our patients.

STATS THAT MAKE YOU GO ‘WTF?!’

The statistics are crazy! Check this out: Nurses and other healthcare professionals are WAY more likely to be injured from violence at work than other professions. I’m talking 5 times more likely,

according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics! A 2019 American Nurses Association (ANA) survey found that 1 out of every 4 nurses was physically attacked.

Get this: A whopping 3 out of 4 reported workplace attacks happened in healthcare settings. Even crazier — more than 2 nursing personnel experience workplace violence every hour! Punches, verbal assaults, kicks, stabs, gunshots, and things thrown at us all while doing our job. That’s nearly 60 attacks on nurses every single day!

Psych units, ED, and, guess what, even pediatric units (yep, pediatric burn, rehab, and surgery) take the cake for the highest number of healthcare assaults.

Who’d have thought, right? And you know it’s not just patients throwing

punches. Family members, co-workers, visitors, and even random intruders join the violence club.

BRUISED, BEATEN, AND BURNT OUT Of course, this nurse abuse madness affects us physically and mentally. The consequences are no joke! How are we supposed to provide patient care when we’re abused, burnt out, and looking over our shoulders for the next attack?

It’s not just me saying it; studies confirm that workplace violence affects quality of care, job satisfaction, and leads to psychological issues. You think?

And that leads me to my next point: Workplace violence drives nurses to leave the bedside! So all these assaults aren’t just hurting us individually —

QUICK FACTS > Nurses and healthcare professionals are 5 times more likely to be injured from violence at work. > 1 out of every 4 nurses was physically attacked, according to a 2019 ANA survey. > 3 out of 4 reported workplace assaults happen in healthcare settings. > The real numbers on hospital violence are likely even higher due to underreporting. > Workplace violence affects quality of care, job satisfaction, and leads to psychological issues. > The House has passed the Workplace Violence Prevention Act twice, but the Senate is stalling. > The SAVE Act proposes treating violence against healthcare workers as a federal crime.

they’re screwing over the whole healthcare system! Short staffing is already a huge problem without nurses quitting from physical trauma.

And believe it or not, the actual numbers on hospital violence are likely even higher than reported. So many incidents go unreported because it’s become normalized. “Oh, that patient threw a cup of urine at me, no big deal.” No! We must report EVERY incident so hospital leaders can wake up and address this crisis!

HEY CONGRESS! WHAT’S THE HOLDUP? So — not once, but twice now — the House has passed a law to crack down on violence against nurses. It’s called the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act, and it would force hospitals to get their acts together to protect us. They’d be required to create prevention plans and investigate all violent incidents (no more sweeping under the rug!).

The ANA is giving this bill a thumbs-up.

They know it will create accountability for unsafe hospitals that stick their heads in the sand. Dr. Grant, President of the ANA, said, “ANA applauds the members of Congress who remain committed to keeping this issue at the forefront and working toward a solution for the well-being of our nation’s nurses.”

This law would be a huge step for healthcare safety. But, the American Hospital Association is throwing shade. So, for now, the Senate is stalling. I think it’s because they get to keep taking money from hospital lobbyists. I mean, nurses’ lives are at stake, but why would they care, right?

There’s another bill — Safety From Violence for Healthcare Employees (SAVE) Act — on the table proposing to treat violence against healthcare workers as a federal crime. Fingers crossed, it gets the green light!

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B L A K E ' S TA K E

“The statistics are crazy! Nurses are five times more likely to be injured from violence at work. That’s nearly 60 attacks on nurses every single day!”

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH: OUR SAFETY IS NOT NEGOTIABLE

NO, WORKPLACE VIOLENCE IS NOT PART OF THE JOB!

First things first: We need better safety at hospitals, period! I mean metal detectors, more security guards, panic buttons, the works! It’s not right that we face more dangers than nightclub bouncers. It’s time for hospitals to put their money where their mouths are on nurse safety.

Violence creates an unsafe environment where nobody wins. Nurses are physically and emotionally affected. Patients suffer from disruption in their care due to understaffing. So when your nurse manager says, “It’s just part of the job, tough it out,” it’s bullshit! You don’t have to! We didn’t sign up to be punching bags, and we sure as hell shouldn’t settle for that.

Next: All nurses need de-escalation and self-defense training, free of charge.

I know we didn’t sign up for this shit, but here we are. We should know how to verbally diffuse tense situations and physically protect ourselves. And I’m not talking about just an online module (side eye). Hospitals need to step up their game, give us in-person courses and everything else needed to keep us safe.

We also HAVE to call for zero-tolerance policies on violence. If patients or visitors get abusive, they need to get kicked out on the spot and a police report should be filed. No more excuses or slaps on the wrist!

If things are getting wild, don’t brave it alone. Call Security, leave the area, and figure out where the quick exits are.

Follow your organization’s procedure — if they have one and it makes sense.

YOUR safety comes first, nurses!

If the worst happens and you’re attacked, report it immediately! Don’t downplay it. File detailed reports, take pictures of injuries, and demand workplace safety improvements. Make sure everything is in writing. You might save the next nurse’s life.

And don’t forget to take care of yourself after an incident, okay? Talk to a counselor, take a leave of absence, and join a support group. Whatever it takes to process that trauma, do it. YOU matter — don’t just shove it down and carry on.

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No nurse should clock in wondering if they’ll be assaulted today or, worse, if they’ll return home safely to their family.

We deserve a workplace free of that kind of stress.

So, here’s what you can do: Call, email, and let your senators know we need those bills passed ASAP! Waiting for basic safety protections? Not on our shifts!!

Let’s break the cycle of silence, support each other, and demand REAL change — our lives depend on it!

SOURCES American Hospital Association. 2021. AHA Expresses Concern with the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act (H.R. 1195).

American Nurses Association. ANA Supports HR 1195/S 4182 to Protect Nurses from Violence in Their Workplace.

American Nurses Association. Workplace Violence in Nursing: Dangerous & Underreported.

Business Wire. 2022. On Average, Two Nurses Are Assaulted Every Hour, New Press Ganey Analysis Finds.

Congress.gov. H.R.1195 - Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act. Congress.gov. H.R.7961 - SAVE Act. Joint Commission. 2018. Sentinel Event Alert. Physical and verbal violence against health care workers.

The Dallas Morning News. 2022. Terror, chaos erupt inside Dallas Methodist hospital during police standoff, footage shows.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 2020. Workplace Violence in Healthcare, 2018.

WPRI 12 News. 2023. Police: RI Hospital nurse ‘violently assaulted’ by patient.

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CATEGORY IS : BR E A K RO OMS

Check the schedule please. From 7 - 9 a.m, it’s for breaks. From 9 - 11 a.m, it’s for laparoscopic procedures!

Ah, hospital breakrooms. The place where nurses and healthcare providers hope to find solace during their quick 30-minute lunches (if they even get a lunch!). But let’s face it, these breakrooms can sometimes be more like a scene from a horror movie than a cozy haven.

So here’s to hoping that hospital breakrooms will one day be transformed into relaxing sanctuaries where healthcare heroes can enjoy their elusive lunches in peace. No more cold pizza on tiny rusty metal tables with only enough chairs for two people. No more bags, purses, and shoes thrown anywhere there’s an open space. And please, give us a separate bathroom (far away!) for our number twos!

When you like your space but don’t want to be alone.

Code cart room/breakroom.

PHOTOS SUBMIT TED BY NURSE BL AKE FOLLOWERS FOR C ATEGORY IS

One person at a time! It’s like being in time-out or solitary confinement.

Wait, are those shoes? Is this also a Foot Locker?

It’s like the breakroom is in the bathroom or the bathroom is in the breakroom.

Gotta love those dingy ol’ basement ‘breakrooms!’

Ok. This is nice!! This MUST be a doctor’s lounge?!

NUR SEBL A K E.C OM ISSUE T HR EE 202 3 43

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