Nursing july 2013

Excellence in Nursing

2013

They have been called miracle workers, friendly faces, and lifelines in times of crisis. They are nurses who make a difference in the lives of those they meet. We recognize their hard work, dedication, compassion and leadership. Nominated by their supervisors at hospitals, schools of nursing, and health care facilities, the Award Winners profiled here will be recognized at an award reception in August. We hope you enjoy reading their inspirational stories.

In partnership with: Alacare Home Health & Hospice Brookwood Medical Center Children's of Alabama Princeton Baptist Medical Center St. Vincent's Health System The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing UAB Medicine UAB School of Nursing B-Metro's Excellence in Nursing Awards Reception will take place on Thursday, August 22 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Auditorium at 5:30pm.

b-metro.com

95

We thought a personal story of a medical journey would be the perfect way to introduce our 2013 Excellence in Nursing section, a salute to the power of great nurses.

Our Journey of Caring Chris and Kimberly Snuggs have come to understand the true meaning of caring in their relationships with the nurses and doctors who have helped their daughter, Avery.

Our daughter, Avery, was 4-years-old when she was diagnosed with T-Cell ALL, a form of childhood leukemia. When we were told that our daughter had cancer we were devastated, we felt like our lives were flipped upside down.

Through our faith, church family, family and friends and the amazing team of doctors and nurses at Children’s of Alabama, we were able to see how God can use a little 4 year old girl to change lives. While we certainly believe God has His hand on Avery and over our entire situation, He blessed us with two wonderful doctors and amazing nurses who have always cared for Avery as if she were their own.

Every time we visit Clinic 8 at Children’s there is a nurse someone in Clinic that has either one of Avery’s T-shirts or another strong kid who has battled or currently battling cancer. Avery is 5 years old now and is doing great, she is in remission and has one year left of treatment.

We enjoy our time living our “new normal” life today but certainly want to thank our doctor, Michael Gleason, Matthew Kutny, and all of our caring nurses who have taken care of Avery over the past year and a half.

Chris Snuggs is owner of Reliable Ad Group; his wife Kimberly is a nurse.

Photos from top left: Avery and one of her nurse practitioners, Rhonda Smith. A26 is Avery on the floor at the old hospital with one of her favorite nurses, Nadder.

A beautiful shot of Avery with beads. The family together for a night out. Avery with Dr Michael Gleason at our Light The Night Walk at The Summit for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

96

b-metro.com

TheNursingDifference.com

R E CO G N I Z E D N AT I O N A L LY UAB Nursing will be the national leader in the practice of professional nursing: relentless in our pursuit to deliver the highest quality care for every patient, every family, every time.

- UAB congratulates all of this year’s Excellence in Nursing Award winners. -

Ann Agnew

Cheri Brooker

Richard Brown

Scott Busby

Michelle H. Cheshire

Amber Christie

Sister Priscilla Cohen

Sue Cohen

Keith Collins

2013 Excellence in Nursing Recipients Nominee’s Name: Ann Agnew Education: MSN Current Nursing Position: Continuing Care Nursery Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital.

Why this person deserves to be recognized: Ann has consistently proven herself as a clinical leader for the Continuing Care Nursery. She is an active participant in several hospital and unit-based committees. Her projects include coordinator of the CCN parent orientation video, chair of the RNICU/CCN feeding committee, and the CCN blood champion/representative. Ann has provided valuable support to a countless number of babies and families at UAB as well as to her co-workers. She truly is a dedicated team player who is committed to providing the highest quality of care.

Nominee’s Name: Melanie Anderson Education: Associates Degree in Nursing, 1999 Current Nursing Position: RN, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Princeton BMC. Why this person deserves to be recognized: Melanie enjoys her work with neonates and spends tremendous time with their families, educating them, calming their fears and offering hope and encouragement. She maintains a calm demeanor during even the most difficult crises. Melanie is a strong patient advocate who is committed to quality patient care.

Nominee’s Name: Cheri Brooker Education: Nursing Current Nursing Position: RN, Birth Suites, St. Vincent’s Hospital.

Why this person deserves to be recognized: Cheri consistently receives positive comments from new families about her gentle and caring manner. Families often request Cheri to be their nurse when they return to St Vincent’s for their second and third babies because her warmth and loving care make them feel as if she is a part of their family. Cheri’s caring nature extends outside the boundaries of the United States, as she is an active international missionary who brings health education and nursing care to underserved people in several countries. Patients recognize Cheri by her expertise and positive attitude, making her patients feel comfortable and well taken care of.

Current Nursing Position: House Supervisor, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Scott received his bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Alabama in 2000. He started in Princeton’s Cardiac Intensive Care Unit and moved to working as a charge nurse before becoming a house supervisor. Scott always dedicates himself to his patients first, and he also takes care of his patient’s families and the hospital staff. He exemplifies the integrity of a dedicated nurse and a true leader.

Nominee’s Name: Michelle H. Cheshire Education: Nurse Educator Program, The University of Alabama (Currently in dissertation phase); MSN, UAB, BSN, Auburn University Current Nursing Position: RN, Mobility Coordinator, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Why this person deserves to be recognized: As a doctoral student, Michelle goes above and beyond to learn as much as she can in every course.

As an educator, Michelle is a dynamic, personable individual who is valued by students for her strong clinical expertise and ability to effectively teach community health principles and techniques.

Michelle is viewed by the UA faculty as a contributing member vested in innovative teaching and learning strategies who embraces nursing education and the nursing faculty role.

Nominee’s Name: Richard Brown Education: MSN, UAB, JD, B'ham School of Law Current Nursing Position: Bone Marrow Transplant Coordinator, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Richard has expert knowledge of bone marrow transplant and hematology/oncology populations.

As a CRNP and coordinator, he ensures team cohesiveness and coordination of care for this patient population.

Nominee’s Name: Amber Christie Education: ADN, Southern Union Current Nursing Position: RN, Oncology Women’s Care Unit, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Cancer changes everything. And for Amber Christie, one of Brookwood Medical Center’s nurses in the Oncology Women’s Care Unit, her own diagnosis and treatment changed the way she took care of her patients. She listens and truly understands the pain, worries and fears for themselves and their families. At age 32, Amber was diagnosed with the same form of colon cancer that her mom had passed away from ten years earlier. Even then, the world didn’t stop. As a nurse, Amber showed quality, integrity, service, innovation and transparency as she battled cancer while simultaneously helping other women who were going through the exact same thing.

Even with treatment and two babies at home, Amber never called in sick and never missed a day of work because serving her patients was so important to her. While her patients, fellow nurses and supervisors never had any idea due to her positive attitude and cheerful demeanor, it was hard for Amber to come to work on many days. Now, Amber has a story to share with her patients of being cancer-free since September of 2012.

Nominee’s Name: Scott Busby Education: BSN, University of Alabama

Nominee’s Name: Sister Priscilla Cohen Education: Nursing

98

b-metro.com

Current Nursing Position: RN, Surgical, 4 West, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sister Priscilla demonstrates personal leadership and influence through example. In a major way, she leads through the written word via articles written for Vital Connections, the St. Vincent’s Birmingham nursing newsletter. In her piece, “Leave No One Behind,” Sr. Priscilla writes, “I imagine all of us have had a similar experience in which we just automatically stepped into our 24/7 nurse mode… When the need arises, we step into action.

Our mission is to provide health care wherever the patient is---on the side of the road, in patient care facilities, in clinics, in shelters, in disaster relief, and in the home. We continue care wherever they are and we promise not to leave them behind.”

Nominee’s Name: Sue Cohen Education: BSN, College of New Rochelle NYU Graduate School Current Nursing Position: RN, Case Manager, Alacare Home Health & Hospice Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sue joined Alacare in early 2009 with over 20 years of nursing experience; she has spent the last ten of those in home health care. After she relocated from South Florida, this New York native brought her confidence and experience to her job at Alacare.

Sue is an independent nurse who strives to educate her patients while nurturing and caring for them within the very personal industry of home health care. She exhibits a passion for her patients and their care. One of Sue’s favorite patients dotingly talked about her “drill sergeant” approach of advocating for him and ensuring his needs were met.

Sue has many patients and caregivers who request her personally when they return to Alacare for their home health care needs.

Nominee’s Name: Keith Collins Education: RN degree, Jefferson State; BS in economics, Auburn University Current Nursing Position: RN, Case Manager, Alacare Managed Care Why this person deserves to be recognized: Keith cares for Alacare Home Health patients who are homebound in order to recover from an illness or surgery. Keith builds trust with his patients, working tirelessly to provide them with the best care possible. For example, Keith assessed that one of his patients would benefit more from an Alacare Hospice service; not only did Keith take an active role in transitioning this patient to the new service, but he made joint visits with the Alacare Hospice nurse until the patient became comfortable with a new nurse.

Nominee’s Name: Crystal Creel Education: BSN, Auburn University Current Nursing Position: Special Care Unit, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized:

Crystal Creel

St. Vincent’s Health System proudly salutes our 2013 recipients of B-Metro’s Excellence in Nursing Awards.

Thank you for the compassionate, quality care you provide to our patients each day!

St. Vincent’s Birmingham Cheri Brooker Sr. Priscilla Cohen Cortney Marks Donna Peck Sakina Pinkney Barbara Sanders

St. Vincent’s East Julie Haynes Emily Lanham Jamie Lowe Megan Vann Cynthia Wesley

Thank you to all St. Vincent’s nurses for your tireless dedication to our patients. Your expertise and willingness to serve is inspiring!

St. Vincent’s Home Health Nisa Drennen-Jones

CAPSTONE COLLEGE OF NURS You can count on a nurse …

To meet your needs during a hospital stay.

To help your elderly parent receive care at home.

To make a child smile while visiting a clinic.

To help save a life in an emergency room or on the battlefield.

Nurses are society’s caregivers … the backbone of medical care in hospitals, schools, nursing homes and military facilities. We applaud the dedication and hard work put forth by the Excellence in Nursing Award nominees. These individuals exemplify the type of student and nurse you will find connected with The University of Alabama.

SING Congratulations to The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Excellence in Nursing Award Nominees Michelle H. Cheshire, MSN, RN Kathy Crowe, MSN, RN Richard Gibbs, MSN, RN Rhonda Gonzalez, MSN, RN Jada Whitaker Jones, RN Moniaree Parker Jones, EdD, COHN-S, CCM Kennon H. McCollum, FNP-C Joanne Senn, RN Mary Atkinson Smith, DNP Tina Sudduth, RN Johnny Robert Tice, RN

We salute all Excellence in Nursing Award nominees!

BamaByDistance.ua.edu

Kathy Crowe

Sheri Crump

Marcia Davis

Nisa Drennen-Jones

Crystal received the first DAISY Award, which recognizes excellence in nursing, at Children’s Hospital. She was nominated by a family that a one-week-old patient, the father of which wrote, “My wife and I spent a little over a week here at Children’s with our one-week-old who had just undergone emergency surgery, and we had Crystal as our nurse. She was personable, patient, honest, loving, selfless, and every other good attribute you can put in here. Years from now, the major memory that will stand out is her.” The mother added, “She was very gentle with our baby. She let us hold him for the first time and bathe him. She offered to take the extra time to clothe him in his own clothing… we could never thank her enough for making us comfortable.”

Nominee’s Name: Kathy Crowe Education: Associate Degree, DeKalb College, 1982, BSN, University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing; Masters of Nursing with Case Management concentration, University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Current Nursing Position: Case Manager at DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa Why this person deserves to be recognized: Kathy had a lifelong dream to obtain her BSN degree; she aspired to further her nursing career and be an example of the importance of lifelong learning to her daughter, who was receiving a traditional BSN degree at the same time. Kathy has a history of working to create policies and organize units to provide the most cost effective, patient-centered health care. She currently works with the VAMC in Tuscaloosa as a liaison to help overcome obstacles facing veteran patients after discharge from Druid City Regional Medical Center. Immediately after her graduation from the UA Capstone College of Nursing, Kathy started giving back to the college by serving as a preceptor for RN to BSN/MSN students seeking to fulfill their own dreams by receiving their degrees.

Nominee’s Name: Sheri Crump Education: Associates Degree, Central Alabama Community College Current Nursing Position: RN, Visiting Nurse Weekend Flexi, Alacare Home Health & Hospice, Pell City branch Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sheri is dedicated to her patients, her co-workers and to Alacare. She goes out of her way to ensure that her patients are taken care of physically, emotionally, and spiritually. She also ensures that the family members and caregivers of her patients are informed, educated, and prepared to care for the needs of a terminally-ill loved one. Sheri often offers to make additional visits to patients on her off-days if she feels a family member might need some extra support or education. Alacare often receives cards, letters, and phone calls from family members thanking Sheri for the great care she provided to their loved ones.

Nominee’s Name: Marcia Davis 102

b-metro.com

Sharon Dubin

David Etheredge

Gwen Gardner

Education: Nursing Degree, Samford University Current Nursing Position: Prenatal Educator, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Marcia wears many hats in the women and infant’s department at Princeton. She is the prenatal educator, lactation consultant and bereavement nurse.

Marcia’s co-workers admire the passion that she has for all three roles as well as her tireless effort to help mothers-to-be, new mothers and parents who have experienced a peri-natal loss. Marcia approaches each role with compassion and expertise, and no one can doubt her love and care for patients and their families.

Nominee’s Name: Nisa Drennen-Jones Education: UAB Current Nursing Position: RN, Case Manager, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Nisa comes from a diverse nursing background and is recognized as a professional and knowledgeable nurse at St. Vincent’s. When faced with a difficult situation, Nisa is able to make independent medical judgments; she also exhibits strong character and work ethic. Nisa’s personable nature is valued by both patients and co-workers, providing great bedside manners to patients and serving as a mentor for new nurses.

Nominee’s Name: Sharon Dubin Education: AD Current Nursing Position: Neurology Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sharon Dubin has worked on M8 for the past twentythree years. During that time, she has been a stellar employee, and her work has been recognized by many departments. Sharon always seems to have a kind word or gesture for those around her; she is a team player who understands that collaboration improves outcomes for patients and staff alike.

Sharon has developed a passion for research of Myasthenia Gravis, an autoimmune neuromuscular disease, and has planned, arranged, and hosted an annual Myasthenia Gravis workshop designed for patients, staff, and families.

Nominee’s Name: David Etheredge Education: ADN, Wallace State Current Nursing Position: Burn Center, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: David has been with Children’s Hospital in the burn center for 21 years, serving as a charge nurse for the majority of that time. David is not only a skills lab instructor, but he also helps with orienting new staff in the burn center. David took an active role in the hospital’s first-ever “Burn Education Day,” presenting a talk he authored entitled, “The Pediatric Burn Patient: Wounds, Dressings & Rehabilitation.” Colleagues of David’s admire the work he has contributed to his unit over the years.

Nominee’s Name: Gwen Gardner Education: BSN, UAB

Rachel Garrett

Richard Gibbs

Rhonda Gonzalez

Current Nursing Position: Transplant Administrator, Solid Organ Transplant, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Gwen is recognized by her co-workers for her work in achieving CMS approval for COA to provide whole organ transplants at Children’s Hospital.

Nominee’s Name: Rachel Garrett Education: Nursing degree, Bevill State University Current Nursing Position: Baylor House Supervisor, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Rachel exhibits outstanding service, clinical skills and leadership abilities. Her co-workers feel that she is always willing to jump in and help where needed. Rachel is very organized and is excellent at ensuring patients get the care they need. When Rachel is in charge, her supervisor is consistently impressed by her strong documentation skills and patient care. Rachel’s nursing capability is simply described as “awesome” by her nurse manager.

Nominee’s Name: Richard Gibbs Education: ADN, BSN, University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing; MSN, Nurse Practitioner Current Nursing Position: CRNP, Southside Pain Specialists Why this person deserves to be recognized: One of Richard’s instructors describes him as one of the most humble students ever educated at the UA Capstone College of Nursing. He continually gives to his fellow students, co-workers and family in a way that demonstrates the high level of compassion and loyalty that all nurses should possess. Richard is actively involved in professional and community nursing organizations, and he just recently passed his board exam to achieve the coveted CRNP title.

Nominee’s Name: Rhonda Gonzalez Education: ADN, The University of West Alabama BSN, The University of Alabama; MSN, The University of Alabama Current Nursing Position: CHS Academic Coordinator & Adjunct Clinical Instructor, The University of West Alabama Tombigbee Healthcare Authority; Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital, RN, Medical Intensive Care Unit Why this person deserves to be recognized: Rhonda serves in a job where she is responsible for the promotion and recruitment of eligible students for the UWA nursing program and Community Health Systems healthcare agencies in West Alabama. Rhonda began working clinically as a nurse in 2007, when she quickly realized she had a desire to continue her education in the profession that she loves. Rhonda earned her BSN/MSN degree, and, realizing her calling within the profession, she returned to UWA to work with nursing students, whom she helps achieve their goals in nursing.

Angela Graham

Julie Haynes

Sonya Hicks

Carol Hinkle

Nominee’s Name: Angela Graham Education: RN, Berea College CWOCN certification, Emory University Current Nursing Position: Manager of Education Support Services, Alacare Why this person deserves to be recognized: Angela excels as a nurse due to her vast knowledge of clinical wound assessment and ostomy treatment, which she utilizes as a nurse educator throughout Alacare Home Health & Hospice. She teaches Alacare’s clinical staff and educates patients and their families on wound care and ostomy. Angela’s knowledge and caring attitude make difficult situations easier for both staff nurses and the patients of Alacare.

Nominee’s Name: Julie Haynes Education: Associates Degree in Nursing Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, LDRP/ Birth Suites, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Julie is an exemplary nurse and role model, always serving with a positive attitude that is recognized by patients, physicians, co-workers and administration. She takes on challenges and offers solutions on how to achieve and maintain success. For example, on St. Vincent’s journey to becoming a Highly Reliable Organization (HRO), Julie has assisted in developing strategies to streamline care and implement best practice. She is a patient advocate and often goes the extra mile to ensure her patients’ needs are met. Julie is not only a successful nurse, but an active and well-rounded member of the St. Vincent community.

Nominee’s Name: Sonya Hicks Education: ADN, Wallace State; BSN, Jacksonville State University (expected completion Dec. 2013) Current Nursing Position: RN, Clinical Mentor, Alacare Home Health & Hospice, Oneonta branch Why this person deserves to be recognized: What stands out most about Sonya is the passion she has for her patients and staff. Sonya helps other branches mentor their new employees, assists at Alacare’s corporate office with CPR training, and participates in committees that aim to improve employee training, retention and satisfaction.

Along with providing excellent patient care, Sonya has been instrumental in developing and participating in pilot projects for the Oneonta branch and agency. She has additionally worked with the nursing staff in her branch to improve documentation for more accurate patient assessment.

Nominee’s Name: Carol Hinkle Education: MSN, UAB Current Nursing Position: RN, Educator, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Though a registered nurse, Carol’s real passion is in critical care education. Carol has spent the majority of her 17 years in practice as an education consultant and speaker for both national and local seminars. As the designated educator for the implementation of electronic medical records at Brookwood, one of Carol’s main duties has been 104

b-metro.com

Ann Johnson

Jada Whitaker Jones

Moniaree Parker Jones

the organization of all training classes. Carol’s coworkers say they are proud and fortunate to have her as a member of Brookwood Medical Center.

Nominee’s Name: Ann Johnson Education: ADN, Mesa Community College Current Nursing Position: RN, Clinical Coordinator, Orthopedics, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Ann exemplifies true leadership, a skill that was honed during her four years of service in the United States Air Force. She leads by example and is an excellent support to both physicians and patients.

Ann goes above and beyond expectation, not only through the example she sets for others, but in the goals she sets for herself—including achieving certification in Medical Surgical Nursing. Ann successfully takes on numerous roles beyond her own title without hesitation. She is a cooperative, calm and critical thinker, and she is considered one of the best clinical coordinators at Brookwood. Ann is a transformational leader and a true asset to the hospital.

Nominee’s Name: Jada Whitaker Jones Education: ADN, Calhoun Community College; BSN, The University of Alabama Current Nursing Position: Birth Suites, St. Vincent’s Hospital; Clinical Instructor, Calhoun Community College Why this person deserves to be recognized: Jada is one of those students and nurses who has an infectiously positive personality. She truly loves following her calling in the career of nursing. Jada’s educators, co-workers and patients would agree that she is a nurse who gives her all, whether it is taking vital signs or delivering babies. Jada is involved with “Nurses with a Mission,” a Birmingham-based ministry organization that gives nurses opportunities to serve people locally and internationally. Jada’s involvement with this organization helped to encourage faculty and administration at the UA Capstone College of Nursing to begin annually sending students and faculty members abroad to teach community health and take part in medical clinics.

Nominee’s Name: Moniaree Parker Jones Education: Ed.D. Nurse Educator Program, The University of Alabama; Master of Science, Case Management, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Current Nursing Position: Assistant Professor, Auburn University Montgomery Why this person deserves to be recognized: Moniaree Jones is a nurse whose dedication and drive are evident in every course she takes. As an Ed.D. for nurse educator students, Moniaree demonstrates strong writing skills and a thirst for learning. She values the importance of using evidencebased teaching and learning strategies to promote positive student learning outcomes.

Nominee’s Name: Terrence Jones Education: Patient Care Assistant Current Nursing Position: Patient Care Assistant, Princeton BMC

Terrence Jones

Marie Kilpatrick

Why this person deserves to be recognized: Terrence is a psychiatric tech in the Behavioral Health Unit at Princeton. The medical director of the unit describes Terrence as a true example of the love, compassion and caring that comes only from a deeply-held faith in God. Terrence exhibits all of the necessary skills within his field, and he makes patients feel at ease, exhibiting a calm, considerate and soothing demeanor at all times.

Nominee’s Name: Marie Kilpatrick Education: ADN, Jefferson State; BS, Samford University Current Nursing Position: RN, Float Pool at Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Marie is extremely engaged in nursing processes and is an intricate part of shared governance at Brookwood. She constantly demonstrates a desire to be involved through council and committee work and is currently the chair of the Evidence-Based Practice Council. Marie is an active participant in community programs that recognize and promote Brookwood, and she exhibits her aspiration to advance professionally, not only through her achievement of certification in Medical Surgical Nursing, but by also participating in Brookwood’s Achieving Clinical Excellence program. Marie recently received the designation of “2013 Clinical Nurse of the Year” during Brookwood’s Nurses’ Week celebration.

Nominee’s Name: Debbie Laney Education: CRNP, St. Vincent School of Nursing; BSN, UAB; MSN, Maternal-Infant, Neonatal Nurses Practitioner, UAB Current Nursing Position: ECMO Coordinator and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for the Pediatric Surgery Service, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Debbie has coordinated the ECMO program since its beginning. Under her coordination, the program has grown from NICU to PICU, and it has now extended into the cardiovascular unit.

Nominee’s Name: Emily Lanham Education: BSN, UAB Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, Oncology, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Emily has been a registered nurse for two years and has excelled within the staff nurse position.

Emily is an excellent advocate for the patients on her unit, as noted by the numerous compliments she has received by patients and family members.

She works to use every means available to ensure quality care for all patients on her unit. Emily is fluent in Spanish, which is an asset to both her patients and the unit. Emily demonstrates consideration and compassion towards her co-workers, frequently asking everyone if there is anything she can do to help. Emily can handle multiple patients receiving complex care while easily accepting new patients at the same time. Emily also has very good sense of humor, which helps to bring sparkle to busy shifts.

Debbie Laney

Emily Lanham

Toni LaRiviere

Kayla Lollar

Bendy Love

Nominee’s Name: Toni LaRiviere Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Neonatal ICU Staff Nurse, UAB Why this person deserves to be recognized: For the past 25 years, Toni has worked at UAB while caring for Alabama’s tiniest and sickest patients in the Neonatal ICU. Toni is a compassionate and gifted nurse with excellent clinical skills. She serves as a mentor, preceptor and strong patient advocate. Toni doesn’t just come to work—she strives to make a difference in the lives of her patients, families and co-workers each day. Toni is a great example of what being a nurse is all about, and she has always felt it was her calling to care for others with compassion and kindness.

Nominee’s Name: Kayla Lollar Education: ADN, Wallace State College Current Nursing Position: RN, Visiting Nurse, Alacare Home Health & Hospice, Jasper branch Why this person deserves to be recognized: Kayla has been caring for Alacare patients in the Jasper area for over three years. Her past experience as a pediatric nurse has given her a kind, compassionate and fun bedside manner that both her patients and their families appreciate. In addition to her friendly disposition, Kayla has extensive post-surgical experience that provides her with the knowledge of properly caring for patients who are home-bound following a surgical procedure. She possesses both the expertise and the temperament to serve as a skillful visiting nurse.

Nominee’s Name: Bendy Love Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Medical Emergency Team Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Bendy is an intelligent and motivated individual, professionally performing in all her efforts to make the UAB Hospital the place for top quality care. Her confidence and skillset put families at ease during the many critical situations she faces.

Bendy is an excellent teacher and nurse, as well as a compassionate patient and family advocate.

Described as the epitome of UAB’s core values, Bendy always comes to work with a smile on her face and a commitment to a body of work that she really believes in—and that is making a difference.

Nominee’s Name: Jamie Lowe Education: BSN, Jacksonvillle State University Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, Cardiac Observation Unit, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Jamie is an extraordinary person and clinician who characterizes nursing at its best. She is highly skilled, compassionate, a sound critical thinker, a collaborator, and a consistent display of the highest ethical standards. Jamie serves as the ultimate patient advocate, routinely going above and beyond the expectations of staff and charge nurses.

She has been recognized numerous times by family members and patients for her excellent and 106

b-metro.com

Jamie Lowe

Brenda Mabson

Cortney Marks

compassionate care. A role model to novice and seasoned nurses, Jamie serves as a living example of dedication and commitment to true patient advocacy, she consistently delivers personalized care to all patients and in all circumstances. Jamie serves as an important reminder that patient care is about the person’s whole being, and she successfully upholds a focus on patient-centered care in her work.

Nominee’s Name: Brenda Mabson Education: BSN, Tuskegee University Current Nursing Position: Lead Staff Nurse III on 10H, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Brenda is described by a colleague as “one of the most caring, compassionate, and effective nurses.”

Brenda’s calm and easily approachable demeanor increases her ability to provide direction and quality education to new nurses on her unit. Her ability to lead by example has made a difference in the professional experience of many staff nurses throughout the years. Brenda’s leadership is best expressed by a fellow nurse: “She impacts the organization by providing consistent, patient and quality leadership to her peers, students, patients and families. She has impacted my nursing career forever and I will never forget the countless value she has added to [it].”

Nominee’s Name: Cortney Marks Education: Nursing Current Nursing Position: RN, Medical Nursing 3W, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Cortney is a great representation of the mission, vision, and values of St. Vincent’s. She joined the hospital as a brand-new graduate and has since blossomed into an exceptional nurse. Since day one, she has been dedicated to her profession, her co-workers and her patients. Cortney’s compassion and knowledge do not go unnoticed by the people for which she cares. One of Cortney’s patients says, “Cortney has only been an RN for a short period of time, but if she is this excellent of a nurse now, [I can] only imagine her potential for the future. She is what nursing should be all about.”

Nominee’s Name: Victoria Martin Education: AD Current Nursing Position: Assistant Nurse Manager, Center for Psychiatric Medicine, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Victoria (“Vicky”) exemplifies nursing excellence as evidenced by her leadership skills, innovation, and compassion. She maintains high clinical standards and sets limits when necessary, all while ensuring that she and her staff are pleasant, professional, and compassionate toward the patients, families, and visitors. Vicky’s strength as a nurse includes her focused journey from serving as a staff nurse, to achieving Level III in the Professional Nursing Development Program, to now serving as an Assistant Nurse Manager.

Victoria Martin

Jacquelyn Martinek Kennon H. McCollum

Nominee’s Name: Jacquelyn Martinek Education: BSN, UAB: M.S., Health Services Administration, University of St. Francis Current Nursing Position: Chief Nursing Officer, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: For the past 34 years, Jacquelyn (“Jackie”) has devoted herself to serving Brookwood and the surrounding community as a nursing patient advocate. As the chief nursing officer at Brookwood, Jackie continues to pursue her passion for nursing with a core focus on patient care, whether that is within a clinical or administrative setting. Jackie’s focus on patient advocacy is a constant reminder to the hospital’s leadership team and medical staff that the patient is the reason to remain devoted to health care. As a devoted patient advocate, Jackie constantly focuses on providing the most up-todate, quality patient care in the most affordable manner possible. She is a past president of the Birmingham Regional Organization of Nurse Leaders and is a member of the Nurse Executive Committee for Tenet Healthcare.

Nominee’s Name: Kennon H. McCollum Education: DNP, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing (expected completion August 2013); M.S., Family Nurse Practitioner, Georgia State University; B.S., Nurse Generalist Focus, Georgia State University; B.S., Biology and Microbiology, University of Georgia; Associate of Science, Chemistry, Young Harris Jr. College Current Nursing Position: Nurse Practitioner, Georgia Cancer Specialists Why this person deserves to be recognized: Kennon pursued his passion for cancer survivorship programs by focusing his scholarly project on the evaluation of quality of life for those who had been medically deemed survivors of breast or colon cancer. He worked to synthesize the scientific evidence and tailor interventions based on quality of life needs for this diverse population.

Kennon has set a standard of excellence throughout his program of study, receiving the Marietta Stanton Outstanding DNP Student Award. While enrolled in a writing course, Kennon developed a manuscript entitled “Identifying Barriers to Cancer Survivorship Programs,” which was published in Oncology Nurse Advisor.

Nominee’s Name: Katherine McKibbin Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Assistant Nurse Manager, Hematology-Oncology, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Katherine is the assistant nurse manager on 9 North at UAB and has worked in the oncology unit for nearly five years. She has been an invaluable team member and an integral part of the quality care provided to cancer patients at the hospital. Katherine sees every patient as someone with value, and she treats each one as if he or she is her own family member. Patients enjoy being cared for by Katherine, for she develops a rapport quick-

Congratulations To PRINCEToN E x C E l l E N C E in N u R s I N g awa R d w I N N E R s Lisa Smith, RN 2 0 1 3 I d a V. M o f f E T T R E C I P I E N T

Melanie Anderson, RN

Laura Melton, PCA

Scott Busby, RN

Kriss Phares, RN

Marcia Davis, RN

Peggy Rivers, PCS

Rachael Garrett, RN

Rodney Willis, RN

Terrence Jones, PCA

Victoria Willis, PCS

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

bhsala.com

excellence in Nursing award Winner.

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

Katherine McKibbin

Sarah McMinn

Laura Melton

Paula Midyette

ly and easily, creates a relationship of trust and allows patients to feel safe while under her care.

Nominee’s Name: Sarah McMinn Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Cardiac Care Unit Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sarah provides specialized care for critical adult cardiology patients in the cardiac care unit. With her experience in CCU and the knowledge she gained through critical care RN certification, Sarah is proud to have the opportunity to share her nursing knowledge with other nurses on the unit. Sarah has a positive attitude and is a great team player.

Her caring personality creates a positive environment for her patients and their families.

Nominee’s Name: Laura Melton Education: PCA Current Nursing Position: Patient Care Assistant, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Laura works as a patient care assistant in the women and infant’s unit. She always puts the patient first and is willing to help others no matter how busy she is. Laura demonstrates the Princeton Baptist mission through her caring attitude towards patients, their families and her co-workers.

Nominee’s Name: Paula Midyette Education: MSN; UAB Current Nursing Position: Nurse educator on the CVICU and CV Step-down units, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Paula excels in teaching nurses who care for adults and children with cardiovascular disorders. She was intricately involved in the extensive project of moving the pediatric Cardiovascular Medical and Surgical Program from UAB Hospital to Children’s of Alabama, coordinating the transfer and training of nurses for the two new critical care units. Paula has co-authored many articles for professional journals and is frequently called upon to speak on topics related to congenital heart defects and various cardiovascular-related topics.

Nominee’s Name: Ozong I Mofor-Tita Education: BSN, A&M University in Houston Texas Current Nursing Position: RN Case Manager, Alacare Home Health, Hoover branch Why this person deserves to be recognized: Originally from Cameroon in West Africa, Ozong moved to the U.S. when she was 18 years old to go to college. After graduating, Ozong worked briefly in the hospital setting, but decided that home health care was her calling. Ozong has a true love of working with patients in the best setting possible: their own homes. Ozong’s patients love to hear about Africa, and they know that when Ozong comes to their home, she will not leave until all their needs are met. These patients look forward to Ozong arriving at their homes because they know they will receive great care—and even some time 108

b-metro.com

Ozong I Mofor-Tita

Tammy Moore

Jill Moyer

to talk and reminisce about past experiences.

Nominee’s Name: Tammy Moore Education: Wallace State BSN, University of North Alabama Current Nursing Position: RN, Case Manager, Alacare Home Health & Hospice, Oneonta branch Why this person deserves to be recognized: Tammy represents the Alacare nurses well through her work ethic, assessment skills, and communication with team members, physicians, patients and families. Tammy improved Alacare’s relationship with a local doctor by communicating with his staff and developing a relationship with them, thus showing her commitment to following regulations that govern the medical industry. Tammy is always willing to work extra for her branch; she regularly goes to other locations in the area during nursing shortages. Patients request her to be their nurse because of their trust in her and her strong skillset. Besides garnering the trust of her patients, Tammy also has the trust of her co-workers and supervisors.

Nominee’s Name: Jill Moyer Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Surgical ICU Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Jill is an exceptional nurse, teacher, quality innovator and leader. She cares for patients and their family members with respect and dignity—she is a great asset to the UAB hospital and the local community. Jill has a passion for nursing and health care overall; she serves on the SICU Quality Council, which works to address the educational needs and issues for quality improvement on the unit.

Nominee’s Name: Christy Nation Education: BSN, Samford University Current Nursing Position: Director, Women’s Care Unit & High Risk Obstetrics, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Christy is considered to be a standout amongst her peers at Brookwood. During her tenure at the hospital, Christy has displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility and ambition. She also maintains a focus on patient care advocacy and exemplary leadership. Christy is a role model to her fellow nurses by consistently maintaining fivestar patient satisfactions and continually having excellent quality outcomes. As a result of her excellence in nursing practice and patient care delivery, Christy was recently asked to assume the chair position of Brookwood’s Nurse Quality Council.

During Nurses’ Week 2013, Christy’s peers selected her as the “Nurse Leader of the Year.”

Nominee’s Name: William Ndegwa Education: ADN, Lawson State Current Nursing Position: RN, Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: For the past four years, William has cared for mentally-ill patients in the psychiatry and behavioral

Christy Nation

William Ndegwa

health department at Brookwood. William works the night shift which, for Psychiatry, can be both physically and emotionally demanding. He is often required to provide direct physical care while maintaining a calm clinical presence for patients in crisis. This includes acting in the capacity of a clinical therapist, providing supportive direction for an anxious patient, and serving as a social worker for a patient who is in need of an effective discharge plan. William’s self-discipline, calming presence, caring attitude and supportive team spirit designate him as a recognized leader within his division.

Nominee’s Name: Thelma Paige Education: ADN Current Nursing Position: Pre-Operative Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Thelma began her nursing career 28 years ago as an LPN, and her passion to help others led her to move to Birmingham and become a registered nurse. During her time at UAB, Thelma has worked in the kidney transplant and urology divisions, and she is now a member of the perioperative division. Thelma is the nurse that all of her peers looks to for guidance and clinical proficiency. She works with new employees as a mentor and spreads her vast clinical knowledge without hesitation.

Nominee’s Name: Meredith Palmer Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Trauma/Burn ICU Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Meredith is an advocate for nurses and patients alike; the goal of excellence in health care and the provision of superior nursing care stand at the forefront of everything she does. Meredith is highly regarded by her peers and physicians as a valued resource and for her depth of knowledge.

She has also been an active member of the Alabama Air National Guard since 1997 and has held educational and administrative responsibilities within this organization.

Nominee’s Name: Donna Peck Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Rapid Response Team Nurse, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Donna exemplifies the ideal qualities of a nurse and caregiver in a facility that needs superior performance from its staff. She cares about her patients and the moral duty to care, she has the desire to excel, and she takes steps to facilitate learning while encouraging the same in others. Donna harbors an emotional, spiritual and clinical preparedness that results in a mental and practical ready state for all types of emergencies. A co-worker of Donna’s affirms that she takes extra time to ensure patients receive complete, accurate and thorough care. In several recent emergencies, Donna was able to assess a patient’s condition, recognize problems, initiate appropriate interventions, or-

Thelma Paige

Addicted to Pain Pills?

Suboxone® is the answer.

Flexx MD is here to help.

We offer private and confidential treatment with Respect.

Over 2 million people in the United States are struggling with opioid dependence.

You are not alone.

Call now to get your life, your family and your career back.

24 Hour Assistance

(205) 624-3330 www.flexxmd.com • 2969 Pelham Parkway (Alpine Square) • Pelham, AL 35124

Meredith Palmer

Donna Peck

Kriss Phares

Peggy Rivers

ganize ongoing care and expertly document the process.

Nominee’s Name: Kriss Phares Education: BSN, UAB Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, Women’s and Infant’s Unit, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Kriss is currently a charge nurse on the Women and Infant’s Unit at Princeton. She was nominated by her co-workers for her long-term dedicated service and for going above and beyond in everything that she does. Kriss will come in to work any time—day or night—to cover, and she is an excellent resource for helping new staff. Kriss is furthermore a compassionate nurse who puts patients first.

Nominee’s Name: Sakina Pinkney Education: Nursing Current Nursing Position: RN, Express Admission and Clinical Decision Unit, St. Vincent’s East Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sakina always places her patient’s needs before her. She is willing to come in early and stay late, and many of her peers have a hard time believing she is a new nurse. One colleague writes of Sakina, “She is not afraid to lend a helping hand even if she is drowning. I’m reminded of the scripture that if I had ten thousand tongues I could not thank her enough.” Sakina always goes into her patients’ rooms with a smile and a positive attitude, and many patients remark how she treats their family members like her own. Says the family of one patient, “Sakina worked with great compassion and diligence. She treated our mom as if she was her own.” Sakina recently received the DAISY award, which recognizes excellence in nursing.

Nominee’s Name: Peggy Rivers Education: PCS Current Nursing Position: Patient Care Secretary, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Peggy works in the Princeton Emergency Department as the medical records coordinator. She has worn many hats, and no matter what she is asked to do, she does it with a positive attitude. Even though she is a clerical, not clinical, staff member, she has consoled an elderly man who lost his wife and comforted the parents of an injured child.

Peggy will do whatever is needed; she is an asset to the ER staff and enjoys her role in serving patients, families and co-workers.

Nominee’s Name: Sue Rowe Education: BSN, Southeastern University at Massachusetts Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse in the Burn Center, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Sue has been an outstanding employee of Children’s of Alabama for over ten years, but she has truly blossomed in the last two years as she has assumed the role of the day shift charge nurse in the burn center. After taking on the challenging responsi110

b-metro.com

Sue Rowe

Barbara Sanders

Jamie Salter

bilities of her new position, some unknown and untapped talents of Sue’s were discovered. Says a co-worker, “Increased responsibility and autonomy becomes her.” Some of Sue’s leadership skills include building morale through the improvement of team work and communication and serving as a role model for others.

Nominee’s Name: Jamie Salter Education: ADN, Jefferson State Current Nursing Position: RN, Clinical Coordinator of Orthopedics, Brookwood Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Jamie is motivated from within to give 100% of her efforts to ensure patient safety, service and quality.

She is forever running around on the unit working as a high-spirited team member and assisting in whatever function is needed—whether that is secretarial, patient care assistance or working as a charge nurse. Jamie is motivated to deliver quality care to her patients because she enjoys the core values of nursing: healing the sick, comforting the ill and uplifting the spirits of those who are unable to help themselves. Jamie is self-aware and knows what is expected of her as a staff nurse and relief charge nurse, and she carries out these responsibilities through teamwork, camaraderie and motivation. Jamie is a 2012 recipient of Brookwood’s “Clinical Nurse of the Year” and has achieved her certification in Medical Surgical Nursing.

Nominee’s Name: Barbara Sanders Education: Nursing Current Nursing Position: RN Oncology, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Barbara Sanders is affectionately described by a colleague as an “old nurse” at heart, meaning she comes from the time when nurses were called to a certain specialty in which to work their whole career. It takes a very compassionate nurse to work in the oncology area, for this area is emotionally draining for the staff. However, Barbara is always there for her team, and also the kind of nurse that makes sure her patients’ families are taken care of with kind words, hugs and prayers. Patients and families that return know if Barbara is their nurse, they will be lovingly cared for. Writes one patient of Barbara, “She has exhibited superior skills, knowledge and abilities of the nursing profession and was considered my top nurse during my hospital stay. She will remain in my memory forever.”

Nominee’s Name: Joanne Senn Education: MSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, The University of Alabama (expected completion August 2013) BSN, University of Notre Dame of Maryland ADN, Baltimore Community College Current Nursing Position: Emergency Nurse, Ralph Johnson Medical Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Joanne Senn is a motivated student who developed the manuscript “Peplau’s theory of interpersonal relations: Application in emergency and rural nursing” that was published earlier this year.

Joanne is committed to developing the role of the

Joanne Senn

Angela Tribble Shaw

Wally Shaw

clinical nurse leader in her facility and is striving to improve quality outcomes for her patients.

Joanne is the only UA student who attended the national CNL Summit in January to develop her knowledge base. Joanne is currently working to complete her clinical immersion project in the critical care environment, where she is working to decrease the incidence of delirium as a result of sleep deprivation in this fragile population.

Nominee’s Name: Angela Tribble Shaw Education: BSN, Jacksonville State Current Nursing Position: Staff Nurse 8QB, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Angela is passionate about nursing. She provides exceptional patient care and is a strong team leader, great patient advocate, and selfless volunteer.

Angela is always looking for ways to improve the patient experience through everything that she does. Whether it is working at the bedside of a patient with pediatric cancer or a blood disorder, working with a team to look for ways that the unit can function more effectively, or volunteering at Camp Smile-a-Mile, Angela does it all with a smile and caring manner. If anything is happening on the unit, she is always the first to jump in and assist. If a teammate’s patient is in distress, Angela will be at the bedside helping out as long as she is needed—simply put, Angela is what her co-workers call a “super nurse!”

Nominee’s Name: Wally Shaw Education: Masters of Nursing Health Systems Administration, UAB School of Nursing Current Nursing Position: Department Director, CVICU, CCU Why this person deserves to be recognized: Walter “Wally” Shaw is the nurse director for Cardiovascular Services at Children’s with a track record of successful leadership. Prior to his current position, Wally was the nurse director of the special care unit. When a plan was developed to transition pediatric cardiovascular services from UAB to Children’s, Wally was recognized by nursing and physician leaders as the leading support of program planning and implementation. Within his position, Wally has hired, coached and mentored over 150 new staff members during the past year.

In addition, Wally worked as a member of the transition team to design and implement workflow and procedures to maximize patient safety and quality care delivery. The results of Wally’s efforts were apparent through the successful relocation of patients and equipment.

Nominee’s Name: Geni Smith Education: ADN, Jefferson State Current Nursing Position: Trauma Coordinator, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: Geni has coordinated the trauma program since its beginning. This past year, she led the team to a positive outcome for the site review and approval as a Level I Trauma Program.

Geni Smith

Lisa Smith

Mary Atkinson Smith

Stacey Stutts

Nominee’s Name: Lisa Smith Education: RN, Bevill State Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, Women and Infants Unit, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Lisa has been with Princeton for 23 years and is acknowledged by her co-workers for her excellent patient care. Lisa always puts in a full day—and then some—to makes her patients feel like they are the most important people in the hospital. She is always eager to offer her assistance to co-workers when needed. Lisa was chosen as the 2013 Ida V. Moffett Excellence in Nursing award winner due to her dedicated service to the hospital.

Nominee’s Name: Mary Atkinson Smith Education: DNP, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing MSN, University of Mississippi School of Nursing; BSN, Mississippi University for Women Current Nursing Position: Director of Health Care Services, Golden Triangle Planning and Development District; Assistant Professor, Mississippi University for Women; Adjunct Faculty Member, the University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Why this person deserves to be recognized: Mary embodies the excellence that the college of nursing cherishes in graduate students, and she also demonstrates quality in her written work. She is tenacious, dedicated and passionate about nursing. Throughout her program of study, Mary has displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility and character. She is an intelligent and capable individual with excellent scholarship abilities.

Nominee’s Name: Stacey Stutts Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Mother/Baby Unit Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Stacey Stutts joined UAB hospital five years ago after completing her bachelor’s degree in nursing. It has always been her dream to care for babies, so she has been perfect for the mother and baby unit. Stacey is very active on unit-based and hospital-wide committees. She is currently the magnet chair for UAB Hospital, and she attended the national meeting in 2012. Stacey exemplifies UAB’s nursing core values of ownership, integrity, caring, collaboration and innovation.

Nominee’s Name: Tina Sudduth Education: MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner, UAB BSN, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Associate of Science in Nursing; College Licensed Practical Nurse, Shelton State Community College Current Nursing Position: Registered Nurse, DCH Regional Medical Center Cancer Treatment Center Why this person deserves to be recognized: Tina has had a 36-year career in professional nursing. A large part her enjoyment and success as a nurse is due to the variety of experiences, types of

Tina Sudduth

Johnny Robert Tice

Erin L. Townsend

patients and patient care and environments of care to which she has been exposed. Tina is a staunch patient advocate, taking each patient, and their oftentimes complicated illnesses and social situations, very seriously in order to provide the best of care possible. Tina has a strong work ethic and is very dedicated to caring for all patients. Tina is currently fulfilling a lifelong goal to become a Nurse Practitioner, and as soon as she completes the UAB School of Nursing master’s program, she will seek a position as a Family Nurse Practitioner in a rural, low-resource area, allowing her to utilize her education, leadership and communication skills. Additionally, Tina is active in numerous professional organizations, including the Oncology Nursing Society and the American Red Cross.

Nominee’s Name: Johnny Robert Tice Education: MSN, Nurse Practitioner concentration, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing (expected completion August 2014) MA, Health Education/Health Promotion, The University of Alabama; BSN, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Current Nursing Position: Registered Nurse/ Staff Nurse, Cardiac/Telemetry/Med-Surgery, Princeton BMC; Registered Nurse/Staff Nurse, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Northport Medical Center Clinical Faculty, Adult Health/Internship, The University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing Why this person deserves to be recognized: Johnny has worked as a registered nurse at Princeton and has completed an MA in Health Studies from the University of Alabama. He has also worked as a part-time clinical instructor at the College of Nursing. Johnny is presently enrolled in the nurse practitioner concentration at the UA Capstone College of Nursing. Johnny’s educators believe he will succeed in his studies and use this educational opportunity to excel as an advanced practice nurse with a dual certification in psychiatric mental health and family health.

Nominee’s Name: Erin L. Townsend Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Trauma/Burn ICU Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Erin is committed to innovation, continuous quality and performance improvement. She demonstrates these admirable qualities through effective decision-making and exceptional clinical skills.

Erin has a strong sense of personal accountability, and she exemplifies initiative, critical thinking and flexibility in the role of a professional nurse. Erin is a passionate educator and patient advocate who upholds a positive and solution-oriented mindset when seeking ways to improve the care provided on her unit.

Nominee’s Name: Megan Vann Education: ADN, Wallace State Community College Current Nursing Position: RN, Orthopedics, St. Vincent’s Hospital

Megan Vann

Penni Watts

Why this person deserves to be recognized: While Megan has only been a registered nurse for the past two years, she has earned the respect and admiration of patients, families and colleagues.

She is truly dedicated to helping patients get better, and she shows this by pouring her heart and soul into her work each day. Megan always provides the highest quality of care to her patients— always adhering to the approved standards of care and advocating for her patients—and makes it a point to involve their family members in order to help achieve maximum effectiveness in the care that is being provided. Megan has a wonderful personality, and she greets everyone with a smile and a kind word no matter how busy her day might be. Megan is often recognized for being attentive to the needs of her patients and routinely receives compliments from them for the awesome care that she provides. She has been referred to on several occasions as an “outstanding nurse” and even the “best nurse I have ever had.”

Nominee’s Name: Penni Watts Education: BSN, Auburn University School of Nursing; MSN, Troy State University Current Nursing Position: Director of Clinical Simulation and Training for the Learning Resources Center, UAB School of Nursing Why this person deserves to be recognized: In her role, Penni leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of high-quality, interdisciplinary experiential learning opportunities for students and faculty in the schools of nursing and health profession. Last year, Penni led more than 370 clinical simulations and was one of the first healthcare professionals to successfully pass the Healthcare Simulation Educator certification exam. Penni teaches students to pay close attention to subtle physical changes in their simulated patients and to communicate effectively with patients and family members. Students consistently evaluate these experiences very highly and credit Penni with helping to prepare them to think critically and work as a member of the heath care team.

Penni is currently collaborating with physicians from Children’s of Alabama to study the impact of teaching nursing and medical students together using clinical simulation. As part of the school of nursing’s global outreach, Penni has coordinated intensive simulation learning programs for faculty from Brazil, Zambia and Malawi.

Nominee’s Name: Cynthia Wesley Education: ADN, Jefferson State Community College Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, Cardiovascular ICU, St. Vincent’s Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Cynthia has been a registered nurse for 32 years and has been with St. Vincent’s since 1994. She currently works as the charge nurse in the cardiovascular ICU. Cynthia is a shining example of what a nurse should be, always going out of her way to help her co-workers. She has a wealth of knowledge and if she doesn’t know the answer herself, she will always find the answer. Cynthia b-metro.com

111

Cynthia Wesley

BAm BAm B’hAm JAm for boys and girls ages 10-12 will honor the memory of seth fingerman (aka bam bam)

Rodney Willis

Victoria Willis

Elizabeth Wilson

Valorie Wilson

works circles around everyone on the unit and is always willing to work additional hours to ensure that patient care needs are met. She is a patient advocate and is proactive in providing care to avoid potential adverse outcomes. Cynthia has many responsibilities outside her professional career, but she always presents a willing and helpful attitude at her job.

Nominee’s Name: Rodney Willis Education: Nursing degree, Lawson State Current Nursing Position: Charge Nurse, 6 West Surgical, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Rodney is recognized for leading by example. He is always helpful to staff, patients and visitors. Rodney maintains a positive attitude and encourages and motivates his staff to be positive as well. One co-worker explains that Rodney lives by the Golden Rule of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

July 12 from 10:30-11:30

featuring performing artist, Christopher eisenberg, singer and songwriter as seen on ameriCa’s got talent

A.G. GAston Boys And Girls CluB, south pArk 2900 south park drive, sw • birmingham, al 35211 Sponsored by Bud’s Best Cookies, Jim ‘N Nick’s, 95.7 JAMZ, LIP (Life is Precious) The A.G. Gaston Boys and Girls Clubs- Inspiring and enabling young people of the Birmingham metro area, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring adults.

For more info or to volunteer, sponsor or donate: aggbgc.org or call (205) 923-3377.

Raemi SpenceR h a i r s t y l i s t • m a k e u p a rt i s t • f r e e s p i r i t 205.977.9306

•

raemispencer@gmail.com

Nominee’s Name: Victoria Willis Education: PCS Current Nursing Position: Patient Care Secretary, Princeton BMC Why this person deserves to be recognized: Victoria is a patient care secretary on Princeton’s cardiology floor. She is cross-trained as a patient care assistant and is therefore invaluable to her clinical co-workers and the unit. Victoria has a happy attitude and makes patients and families feel welcome and reassured. She works hard and truly exemplifies the Baptist Mission.

Nominee’s Name: Elizabeth Wilson Education: BSN Current Nursing Position: Bone Marrow Transplant Unit Staff Nurse, UAB Hospital Why this person deserves to be recognized: Elizabeth not only pursues her own professional growth and development, but she also takes an active interest in helping her peers with their development. As a senior staff member of the BMT nursing team, Elizabeth portrays a sense of confidence as she strives to deliver the highest quality of care to her patients. She willingly shares her skills with her colleagues through mentorship and leadership. She takes pride in the program and her colleagues have a vast respect for her deep knowledge.

Nominee’s Name: Valorie Wilson Education: ADN, Bevill State Community College Current Nursing Position: RN, Visiting Nurse, Alacare Home Health & Hospice, Jasper branch Why this person deserves to be recognized: What make Valorie stand out as a nurse are her strong clinical skills and her exceptional observation and assessment skills. Alacare nurses serve as the “eyes and ears” for patients’ physicians, and Valorie’s ability to listen and observe has made a great impact on the care that has been provided from the organization. Valorie has often been able to avoid serious situations by employing a pre-emptive plan of care.

Nominee’s Name: Lynn Zinkan Education: BSN, Pacific Lutheran University Current Nursing Position: Educator in the Simulation Center, Children’s Hospital of AL Why this person deserves to be recognized: As a testimony of her dedication to the education of the hospital through her work in the simulation center, Lynn continually seeks and develops new ways to make its participants better problem-solvers and communicators. She has been instrumental in the development of a simulation curriculum that reviews the early stages of shock, and she has personally developed a standardized mock code post-case review sheet that has proved incredibly helpful. Lynn has also has been influential in the code team’s reorganization, allowing nurses to find needed equipment efficiently and accurately, ultimately resulting in better care for patients. Lynn also serves as the coordinator for the simulation portion of the trauma prevention program, which helps teach high school students who have misdemeanor traffic violations the dangers of speeding, texting while driving, and other driving dangers.

112

b-metro.com

Lynn Zinkan