2024 Nurses Week

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“Nurses Make the Difference”

This week—and every week—we celebrate and honor the incredible contributions of nurses like you. And as Nurses Week unfolds, we have a simple message: Mahalo You are the heart and soul of healthcare, the compassionate caregivers who touch lives and make a difference every single day.

At Chaminade University, this annual event serves as an opportunity to recognize the dedication, empathy and expertise of nurses, who play a crucial role in providing high-quality care to patients across various healthcare settings. It ’s a time to shine the spotlight on their invaluable contributions. It ’s also an opportunity for nurses to come together, support one another, and take pride in the meaningful work they do each day.

Putting the needs of others above their own, nurses provide safe, competent and considerate care, even in challenging circumstances. Whether it’s amid a global pandemic, working long hours without a break or missing important family gatherings, nurses consistently prioritize the well-being of their patients.

While it’s important to acknowledge the challenges and areas for improvement within the healthcare system, Nurses Week presents an opportunity to highlight the good that nurses do and to celebrate their accomplishments.

Nursing is a noble profession, requiring dedication of mind, body and heart. Nurses make a difference every day, touching lives and changing outcomes for the better. Mahalo for your kindness, your expertise and your unyielding commitment to healing and comforting those in need. Your compassion and strength inspire us all, and we are immensely grateful for the invaluable contributions you make to our community.

This Nurses Week, remember to take care of yourself as well. Participate in activities that bring you joy, spend time with loved ones, and prioritize your own well-being. A healthier you means better care for others.

We speak for the entire Chaminade ‘ohana when we extend our gratitude to you. Your dedication, compassion and tireless efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are truly thankful for all that you do. To every nurse reading this—we hear you, we see you, and we stand with you.

With sincere appreciation,

Lynn Babington, PhD, RN President Lorin Ramocki, DNP, RN Associate Dean

Pamela Smith, EdD, APRN-Rx, FNP-BC Associate Dean

Triennial Airport Disaster Exercise

Nursing Pinning Ceremony, May 2023

DNP Immersion 2024

Happy Nurses Week to our health care HEROES.

Our nurses are valued team members dedicated to helping patients and families live their healthiest lives. Their compassion and commitment to our community remind us that, by working together, we can create a healthier Hawai‘i.

DENNIS FRANCIS President and publisher, Oahu Publications Inc.

Aloha friends,

Nurses are essential to our well-being, so much so that they are often the ones who we reach out to if the doctor is not available.

They are often by our sides when there is no one else — they give hugs and share kind words, all to reassure us that things will get better. Nurses are our unsung heroes in times of sickness and sadness.

These extraordinary people with their learned skills can provide a quick diagnosis in times of need. They try to give us our shots without pain, take our temperature and check our blood pressure, making our visit to the doctor or to the hospital easier and less painful.

As we celebrate Nurses Week, we should appreciate them beyond a week. We should never forget their tireless efforts to ensure the health and well-being of our community throughout the pandemic, as we know their dedication will remain for many years to come.

To all the nurses in Hawaii, we say “mahalo” for treating us as members of your own family, and we deeply appreciate the aloha you give to us, always.

Mahalo nui loa,

Governor, state of Hawaii

Nurses are the bedrock of patient care, and I am honored to acknowledge their indispensable contributions to our communities. Last year, amid various challenges, including the Lahaina fires, nurses played a crucial role in caring for our people.

In Hawaii, we are fortunate to have more than 1,600 licensed practical nurses, 16,000 registered nurses and 1,200 advanced practice registered nurses. These dedicated professionals operate across various health care settings, providing primary, specialty and emergency care to our residents. Beyond their clinical duties, nurses lead initiatives to address social determinants of health, enhance health care accessibility, and promote safety and wellness for all. They offer quality and empathetic care to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those facing homelessness, disabilities, or addiction.

The demand for nurses continues to rise due to various factors, including population aging, advancements in medical technologies and the preference for homebased care. Despite these challenges, nurses remain beacons of compassion, offering hope, understanding, and healing to their patients and families.

As we reflect on the invaluable contributions of nurses, I urge all residents of Hawaii to join me in honoring their dedication, professionalism and resilience. Let us express our gratitude for their tireless efforts in meeting the medical and emotional needs of our keiki, kupuna, ohana and communities. Together, let’s celebrate and support our nurses as they continue to make a difference in the lives of those they serve.

DR. JOSH GREEN

What is Nurses Week?

FBY KYLE GALDERIA

lorence Nightingale is known as the founder of professional nursing and became an industry pioneer after her work during the Crimean War from 1853 to 1856. Nightingale’s habit of making rounds at night led to her being known as “The Lady with the Lamp,” and, appropriately, National Nurses Week shines a light on the current crop of dedicated nurses.

National Nurses Week is May 6-12 each year — May 6 being Nightingale’s birthday. The nursing profession has been supported and promoted by American Nurses Association since 1896. Each of ANA’s state and territorial nurses’ associations promotes the nursing profession at the state and regional levels, and conducts celebrations to recognize the con-

tributions that nurses make to the community.

“As the largest group of health care professionals in the U.S. and the most trusted profession, nurses are with patients 24/7 and from the beginning of life to the end. Nurses practice in all health care settings and are filling new roles to meet the ever-growing demand for health and health care services,” states former ANA president Ernest Grant, Ph.D., RN, FAAN. “Despite the major role nurses play in health care delivery and community outreach, there are opportunities to increase understanding of the value of nursing in order to expand investment in education, practice and research, as well as increase the number of nurses who serve in leadership positions.”

We celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our nurses and healthcare professionals who make a difference in the lives of others every day. We honor their commitment to providing exceptional care to our community.

Happy Nurses Week and Healthcare Week from all of us at Adventist Health Castle!

OFFERING QUALITY CARE TO PATIENTS, THEIR FAMILIES

National Nurses Week (May 6-12) provides us with an opportunity to recognize the important role our nurses play in the delivery of high-quality, compassionate care to our patients. At The Queen’s Health System, our mission is to provide quality health care to Native Hawaiians and all the people of Hawaii.

BY LINDA PUU, MSN

The Queen’s Health System senior vice president, chief nursing executive, quality and patient safety

Whether this involves comforting someone who may be lonely and afraid, or teaching family members how to care for a chronically ill member of their ohana, our team is committed to providing the highest quality of care to every patient who travels through our doors.

We at Queen’s are proud of our nurses and support their desire to learn and serve our patients with care, aloha, respect and excellence.

I am truly honored to work alongside our exceptional team of nurses, as well as partner with world-class physicians and support staff.

Our strong local and national standing includes being the first and only Hawaii hospital to achieve Magnet® recognition, the highest honor for quality and nursing excellence in the United States.

This honor is due in large measure to our phenomenal group of talented and dedicated nurses who bring an uncompromising focus on the ad-

vancement and delivery of quality care to the patients and families they serve.

I want to thank each and every one of our nurses for their tireless work. Let us celebrate together as we continue to uphold the standards that define us as professionals, for persevering when times are tough, and for exhibiting excellence in caring for the benefit of every patient and family we serve.

To our nurses, your strength and perseverance are humbling and inspiring.

The Queen’s Health System is the preeminent health care system in Hawaii with four hospitals, more than 70 community health care centers, and home care and labs throughout Hawaii and the Pacific.

Extra shifts. Longer hours. It’s time for the state to offer competitive wages and benefits. Then they can hire more nurses while keeping the ones they have. Hawaii works best when we do.

VALLI PALMER, BSN, RN

The Queen’s Medical Center-Punchbowl Nurse for 20 years

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

My favorite thing about being a nurse is building relationships with my patients and their ‘ohana. Patients are at a vulnerable point in their lives while in the hospital. It’s important to me that they feel comfortable, that they can put their trust in me to care of them, and I can help alleviate stressors so they can heal not just their body, but mind and spirit as well.

Mahalo Nurses!

Over 20,000 RNs, LPNs, & nurses’ aides live, work and care for us in Hawai‘i. Thank a nurse in your community today.

JADE DELA CRUZ, BSN, RN

Molokai General Hospital Nurse for three years

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

The best part about being a nurse at Molokai General Hospital’s outpatient clinic is being able to assist in providing the medical care and needs of our community. Being a nurse can be challenging, but knowing you’ve made a positive impact on someone’s health and well-being is invaluable.

LIEZL TADIARCA, BSN, RN

The Queen’s Medical Center-West Oahu Nurse for 30 years

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

Being an operating room nurse is an incredibly rewarding experience. Because of my profession, I get to live, work and travel to different countries in Europe. I feel so blessed and thankful for all the opportunities and the friendships I have made with all the people I’ve met.

Here are two nurses living and working in Hawai‘i.

Denise Cohen, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC

Currently Denise is working as the Individual Disaster Service (IDC) Chief for the American Red Cross Disaster Recovery Operation (DRO) on Mau‘i, caring for the thousands of families who are still displaced from their homes due to the Mau‘i wildfires in August 2023. IDC Chief oversees Red Cross health services, mental health services, spiritual care and in some cases Integrated Care and Condolence Teams. As with many people in Hawaii Denise signed up with Red Cross the day after the fires and started as an event-based volunteer. When they started hiring temporary disaster employees, Denise signed up not realizing she would be a chief within weeks. Normally it takes being on 20-30 DROs and hours of training to be considered a manager or chief. Denise reports she is humbled at the people she works with, the clients who are in Red Cross shelters: “As with many people I had no idea that 90% of the Red Cross workforce are volunteers. Some of the people I have been privileged to meet and work with have been away from their homes since August 2023.”

Haley

DeForest, BSN, RN

Born and raised on Maui, Haley DeForest pursued her nursing education at University of Hawai’i and has worked as an acute care nurse at Maui Memorial Medical Center for the past six years. “Working as an RN at our local hospital, I appreciate the specific needs of our outer island nursing community.” This professional exposure has been further enhanced through her hands-on experience during the Lahaina wildfire disaster, where Haley provided professional health care as part of the Maui Health Community Response Team. “The ongoing disaster response has provided insight into the intimate needs of our community notwithstanding the ongoing physical, emotional, and mental health support required for our nursing colleagues.” Haley’s continually advocates for our nursing community’s needs and well-being, while addressing the inadequacies revealed by this disaster to critically strengthen our healthcare and emergency responses.

SERVING HAWAII’S PEOPLE LIKE FAMILY

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, Kaiser Permanente acknowledges the extraordinary efforts of our nurses who have dedicated their lives to caring for our members. One nurse leading the charge at Kaiser Permanente’s Moanalua Medical Center’s cardiac cath lab and bronchoscopy suite is Shane Valdez, BSN RN. His journey to nursing was inspired by the critical role nurses played during his sister’s severe accident and his grandmother’s battle with heart disease.

The cardiac program holds special meaning to Valdez: “I’m really proud of our program and the latest advancements in care that are not only saving lives, but adding years to our patients’ lives, allowing them to enjoy more precious time with loved ones.”

Moanalua Medical Center also opened a bronchoscopy suite, offering streamlined care and significantly reduced wait times for pulmonology patients needing critical procedures.

“Kaiser Permanente ensures that every nurse operates at the peak of their capability, which directly translates to superior patient care,” says Valdez. “Our shared commitment to innovation, education and compassionate care continues to set new standards in health care and inspires future generations of nurses.”

Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center

How long have you been a nurse?

Seven years at Kaiser Permanente; 23 years total

What do you love most about your job?

I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to assist patients and collaborate with the esteemed Kaiser staff. Contributing to the enhancement of their professional endeavors brings me great satisfaction. Additionally, I find immense fulfillment in sharing the wealth of knowledge acquired throughout my 23-year career.

ANNA MARIE BONILLA

Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center

How long have you been a nurse?

26 years at Kaiser Permanente; 13 years total

What do you love most about your job?

My favorite thing about nursing is helping people! There are many different nursing roles available. As a Quality RN I have the privilege of improving care for patients, as well as my fellow nurses and physicians. I love that our work can support patients and our caregivers.

AMANDA “MANDY” SOSA

Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center

How long have you been a nurse?

15 years at Kaiser Permanente; 12 years total

What do you love most about your job?

My favorite thing about my profession is our sameday services team and camaraderie. We have a close-knit team, and all strive to give our members the best care experience during their stay with us. We consistently treat our members and communities we serve like family.

ALIKA LOVELL

Kaiser Permanente West Oahu Medical Office at Kapolei

How long have you been a nurse? 20 years at Kaiser Permanente; 11 years total

What do you love most about your job?

My favorite thing about my profession is caring for my patients. Connecting with my community is very rewarding for me. If I can make my patients laugh or smile during an appointment, it shows that they feel how much I genuinely care personally about each and every one of them.

ANN MARIE HOLMAN

Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center

How long have you been a nurse? 10 years at Kaiser Permanente; 15 years total

What do you love most about your job?

The opportunity to make a positive difference in patients’ lives every day.

PHILIP HIGGINS WEIMER

THE MANY WAYS NURSES CARE FOR COMMUNITY

Nursing has changed. The classic understanding of the role of nurses — caring for patients at the bedside — is now one of several paths nurses can take over the course of their careers.

Today’s nurses may be highly specialized caregivers, such as nurse anesthetists or neonatal intensive care nurses. Some are engaged in public health efforts, while others are primary care providers, educators, case managers or executives. Of course, the quintessential image of nurses — providing comfort and care to patients — remains an indispensable and critically important role.

In Kauai’s tight-knit community, Kaiser Permanente nurses care for our members like family.

“Our nurses are highly trained professionals who embrace their many roles with skill, compassion and dedication,” says Cynthia “Cindy” Labrador, RN, clinical assistant manager at Kaiser Permanente Lihue Clinic. “We are so very grateful for everything they do to care for our members. At the same time, they are teaching, mentoring and supporting that the next generation of nurses to welcome them into our health care community.”

In honor of National Nurses Week, Kaiser Permanente encourages everyone to thank a hardworking nurse and let them know their commitment and dedication is greatly appreciated.

How long have you been a nurse?

Three years at Kaiser; 10 years total

What do you love most about being a nurse? It allows me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s rewarding to be an advocate for patients and to witness the positive difference I can make in someone’s life, whether it’s through administering care, providing education or simply lending a listening ear. The sense of fulfillment I experience from knowing I’ve contributed to improving someone’s health and well-being makes every effort worthwhile.

BREE ESTES

Kaiser Permanente Lihue Clinic

Special recognition to the nurses of Regency at Puakea:

CARING FOR OUR ISLAND COMMUNITY

Founded in 1938, Wilcox Medical Center is a not-forprofit organization offering state-of-the-art facilities for families across the island. Today, Wilcox Health comprises Wilcox Medical Center and Kauai Medical Clinic, but the focus remains the same as it was more than 85 years ago — to provide quality care for its community.

Wilcox is the largest medical center on Kauai, offering more than 30 specialties and programs. Its 18-bed emergency department serves as the island’s primary stroke center. Wilcox is the only Level III Trauma Center on Kauai and the first neighbor island medical center to earn that designation.

Kauai Medical Clinic is the island’s largest multispecialty medical group, offering primary and specialty care at clinics in

Extra shifts. Longer hours. It’s time for the state to offer competitive wages and benefits. Then they can hire more nurses while keeping the ones they have. Hawaii works best when we do.

L-R Glorian Cacal RN, Chelsea Bisarra RN, Jen Agno RN, Cieralyne Okamoto RN

Eleele, Kapaa, Koloa and Lihue, and an urgent care clinic in Lihue.

At every location, patients receive excellent health care with a personal touch through its caring staff.

“Wilcox Health has such an incredible team of nurses and I am so blessed to work alongside them,” says Darla Sabry, vice president of patient services and chief nurse executive for Wilcox. Sabry began her career as a nurse in intensive care units and knows the challenges

and joys that come with the job.

“Kauai is a close-knit community where everyone treats and cares for each other like family, and we take this same approach to patient care,” Sabry adds. “Our nurses at Wilcox Medical Center and Kauai Medical Clinic represent our island. They are dedicated, innovative, compassionate and resilient in finding ways to provide exceptional care every day for patients and for each other.”

That passion for people can be felt throughout the system from those working in the medical center, the clinics in the community and Kauai Urgent Care.

“Our nurses get to know everything about their patients,” Sabry continues. “They hold their hands, act as sounding boards through difficult times, teach patients and their families how to care for themselves when they return home, and encourage and cheer them throughout their health care journey. They are partners in creating a healthier Hawaii.”

MARY TAIARIOL, RN

Intensive Care Unit

How long have you been a nurse?

15 years. I was born and raised on Kauai, earned my nursing degree in Oregon, then worked as a nurse in Oregon and California before returning home.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

Being able to provide a sense of comfort and peace for patients in situations that can be uncertain and challenging. It has been so gratifying to utilize my education and experience to care for the community that cared for me growing up.

In honor of Nursing Week, Kokua Healthcare, the largest home care provider on Kaua‘i, extends heartfelt appreciation to its caregivers who exemplify compassion and dedication in serving the community’s elderly population.

Kokua Healthcare stands as a beacon of compassionate care, providing essential services to clients through partnerships with the VA Pacific Island Health System, the Office of Elderly Affairs, long-term care insurances, and private pay arrangements. This Nursing Week, the organization shines a spotlight on its exceptional caregivers, who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of their clients.

In a heartwarming snapshot captured during their daily duties, Kokua Healthcare showcases three of its remarkable caregivers: Mary Rose, Karla, and Mimie. These dedicated individuals exemplify the spirit of caregiving, embodying a profound commitment to the well-being and comfort of their clients. With genuine warmth and empathy, they provide not just medical

Kokua Healthcare Celebrates Nursing Week: Honoring Kaua‘i’s Compassionate Caregivers

assistance but also companionship and emotional support, enriching the lives of those they serve.

grateful for their tireless efforts and the positive impact they make in our community.”

Beyond Kokua Healthcare’s dedicated team, the organization extends its gratitude to all caregivers and nurses across the Kaua’i community. Their selfless dedication to caring for the elderly and vulnerable individuals who cannot care for themselves is invaluable, embodying the true essence of Nursing Week’s spirit.

As Nursing Week unfolds, Kokua Healthcare encourages everyone to join in expressing gratitude and appreciation for the caregivers and nurses who tirelessly devote themselves to the well-being of others. Their kindness, empathy, and dedication make our communities stronger and more compassionate places to live.

edicated t ll i d a on its except differ

“Our caregivers, like Mary Rose, Karla, and Mimie, are the heart and soul of Kokua Healthcare,” expresses Jacob Mauer, CEO of Kokua Healthcare. “Their unwavering dedication and compassion make a tangible difference in the lives of our clients and their families. We are immensely

For those interested in learning more about Kokua Healthcare’s services or joining its team of compassionate caregivers, visit www.kokuahealthcare.com or contact info@kokuahealthcare.com.

“Our caregivers, like Mary Rose, Karla, and Mimie, are the heart and soul of Kokua Healthcare,” expresses Jacob Mauer, CEO of Kokua Healthcare.

CARING AND GUIDING PATIENTS OF ALL AGES

Queen Kapiolani established the Kapiolani Maternity Home in 1890 to ensure the women and children of Hawaii had access to quality health care. More than 130 years later, her vision continues to inspire the nurses today at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children.

“We are all so proud of our nurses here at Kapiolani,” says Joan Kanemori, vice president of patient services and chief nurse executive. “More than 75% of our nurses have been with Kapiolani for more than five years. Their specialized training and commitment to Hawaii’s women and children brings life-changing care to families.”

Kapiolani is more than 2,500 miles from the next children’s hospital. As the state’s only maternity, newborn and pediatric specialty hospital, families depend on and trust Kapiolani for the world-class and heartfelt care it provides 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This includes the emergency department, which is the only specialized pediatric ED in Hawaii and the Pacific. Kapiolani’s experienced emergency medicine physicians and teams were involved in nearly 50,000 emergency visits in 2023. Kapiolani’s ED sees everything from bumps, bruises and broken bones to acute respiratory, trauma and critical care needs.

In a state separated by water, Kapiolani’s Neonatal Pediatric Critical Care Transport Team is ready to bring keiki who need help from every

island to Kapiolani, or take them to and from the mainland when necessary. Traveling can be very stressful for medically fragile kids. The specially trained nurses and respiratory therapists ensure lifesaving care continues while on the road or in the air for about 450 children and babies every year.

Kapiolani is also continuously working to bring in the latest technology and treatments so patients can receive it in Hawaii. The recent Mitsui Family Heart Center includes Hawaii’s first pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory that allows Kapiolani’s medical teams to perform critical heart procedures for children who are born with congenital heart defects.

“Our community has entrusted us with their care. Our nurses are dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives,” Kanemori says.

Everyone from nurses to physicians, psychologists to child life specialists and dietitians share the same focus that drove Queen Kapiolani more than a century ago — to provide the best care for Hawaii’s women and kids.

TERESA BRINK-WONG, RN

A Sweeter Choice program, which works with high-risk pregnant women to help reduce gestational and pre-gestational diabetes

How long have you been a nurse?

For 45 years. I have worked in many Kapiolani units, including the nursery, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), pediatric ICU, pediatric ambulatory care uinit and more before joining A Sweeter Choice.

What do you love most about being a nurse?

Both my granddads were doctors, my mom is a retired nurse and my daughter, who was born at Kapiolani, is now also a nurse. My favorite part of being a nurse are the friendships I have developed over the years. Several nurses are like family, the physicians and staff in the Fetal Diagnostic Center are great, and I have learned so much from the patients I have met and worked with during their time at A Sweeter Choice.

THANKFUL FOR NURSES, COMMUNITY PARTNERS WHO SUPPORT STUDENTS

Now more than ever, health care providers are recognizing the need to prioritize mental health, well-being and resiliency. Mental health is foundational to our well-being, and conditions like trauma, anxiety, depression, relational problems, and loneliness affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The COVID-19 pandemic and Maui fires have strained the emotional well-being of individuals and families, while simultaneously taxing the health care system beyond its capacity.

As it stands, Hawaii currently does not have the infrastructure to meet the health care needs of our community, and there is a shortage of nurses and nursing teachers.

In response to the state’s nursing workforce demands, the University of Hawaii at Manoa Nancy Atmospera-Walch School of Nursing will launch the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialty for the Doctor of Nursing Practice program in August. The program will train registered nurses to provide evidence-based, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate mental health care to individuals and families.

According to National Alliance of Mental Illness 2021 data, in Hawaii, more than half the individu-

als struggling with a mental health condition did not receive care, and nearly 70% of adolescents with depression received no care at all.

Last August, the school launched the Nursing Education & Leadership specialty for the Master’s of Science program. As the only MS in Nursing Education & Leadership program of its kind in the state, the school will provide graduate student nurses with the foundational knowledge and skills to teach students in both academic and health care settings. This will increase the number of nurse educators in the state.

The school is proud and grateful to work collaboratively with our community partners and clinical preceptors who provide training opportunities for our nursing students. Without the support of all Hawaii nurses, allied health care providers and our clinical partners, the school could not provide the required hands-on training for our students. The school recognizes that the solution for the state’s nursing workforce shortage is a collaborative effort, and we thank everyone for their support.

This 2024 Nurses Week, the school thanks every nurse who has contributed to the education of our nursing students. From our undergraduate student nurses to the experienced nurses who returned to academics to advance the profession. Together, we will educate and graduate skilled nurses who are capable and ready to serve the complex needs of Hawaii communities, while respecting the unique cultural diversity, heritage, and needs of individuals and families.

How long have you been a nurse?

14 years

Why do you love being a nurse? The privilege of experiencing the happiness and joy that is felt by individuals and families when they are able to heal and recover from illness and disease and continue their life journeys with a sense of peace and well-being.

How long have you been a nurse?

45 years

Why do you love being a nurse? Being able to make a difference.

COURTNEE NUNOKAWA

MERLE KATAOKA-YAHIRO

A CENTURY OF COMPASSIONATE CARE

Straub Benioff Medical Center has been setting the standard for medical care in Hawaii since 1921. That is when renowned physician Dr. George F. Straub opened “The Clinic” with a vision to provide top-quality, convenient, patient-centered and specialized care for the whole family under one roof.

Today, that patient-centered care means primary care physicians, specialists, clinic and hospital nurses, clinicians and staff work together to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time, in the right place.

From the beginning, nurses have been a key part of upholding Straub Benioff’s legacy of outstanding patient care and

serving the community.

“Straub Benioff nurses embody a unique blend of expertise and compassion that sets them apart,” says Andrew Moats, Straub Benioff vice president of patient services and chief nurse executive. “They continuously engage in innovative practices and utilize cutting-edge technology. This ensures that they are equipped with the latest tools and techniques so they can provide top-tier care.”

Their commitment is reflected in Straub Benioff’s recent national awards. Healthgrades has recognized Straub Benioff with the Outstanding Patient Experience Award for 14 years. In 2022, the medical center was named one of Amer-

ica’s 250 Best Hospitals, placing it in the top 5% of nearly 4,500 hospitals assessed by Healthgrades. It was the third year in a row that Straub Benioff was the only medical center in Hawai‘i to earn this distinction.

“Our nurses are dedicated to giving each patient top-quality care. From offering emotional support during challenging times to customizing treatment plans, Straub Benioff nurses ensure that every interaction is characterized by compassion, understanding and respect,” Moats says. “Their dedication to providing personalized care not only enhances patient outcomes but also fosters lasting connections built on trust and mutual respect.”

What do you love most about your job?

I find great joy in sharing knowledge and experiences with others and helping them grow in their careers. Additionally, being able to provide patients and their families with a better experience during difficult times is incredibly fulfilling. Being able to offer support, comfort, and guidance brings a sense of purpose and satisfaction to my role as a nurse.

Thank you, nurses!

This 2024 Nurses Week, the school thanks every nurse who has contributed to the education of our nursing students. From our undergraduate student nurses to the experienced nurses who returned to academics to advance the profession. Together, we will educate and graduate skilled nurses who are capable and ready to serve the complex needs of Hawaii communities, while respecting the unique cultural diversity, heritage, and needs of individuals and families.

TARA VAUGHN, RN Nurse educator at Straub Benioff Medical Center Nurse for 15 years

TAKING CARE OF YOU LIKE FAMILY

When families in Central and West Oahu need medical care, Pali Momi Medical Center is there for them.

The medical center’s legacy of care began when young physician Dr. Joseph “Joe” Nishimoto opened his practice in Pearl City in 1957. He envisioned a state-of-the-art hospital where people could seek the care they needed close to home. Since Pali Momi opened its doors in 1989, nurses have been an integral part of the patient experience.

“Nurses make up the foundation of our team at Pali Momi Medical Center. Their dedication, compassion and care for our patients and community continues to inspire and humble me,” says Robyn Kalahiki, Pali Momi’s vice president of patient services and chief nurse executive. “Even during the most challenging times, our nurses provide high-quality care while working closely together to ensure the well-being of patients. They are steadfast and selfless in their mission to promote health, provide emotional support and alleviate suffering.”

Almost 40% of the registered nurses at Pali Momi have been working directly with patients and their families for 10 years or more. That level of commitment to their community is reflected in the many accolades given to Pali Momi. It received Healthgrades’ Outstanding Patient Experience award for six years in a row. This places Pali Momi among the top 15% of hospitals nationwide for patient experience, which is a testament to the team’s amazing nursing care and customer service.

“Our nursing staff continues to provide award-winning, patient-centered care at every touch point, sincerely treating each patient like a member of their family,” Kalahiki says.

Nurses efficiently and empathetically assist patients through their

medical journey, which can involve services and programs that can only be found in Central and West Oahu at Pali Momi. This includes the region’s only Interventional Cardiac Catheterization Unit as well as comprehensive cancer care and women’s centers.

“We are so proud to honor our nurses for all that they do,” Kalahiki says. “Nursing is not for the faint of heart. It requires a special someone to answer the calling. At Pali Momi, we are proud to say that our nurses are the best and we are so grateful for all they do every day!”

CHRISTOPHER WATKINS, RN

Pali Momi Medical Center Resource Team Nurse for 27 years

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

As a nurse, I’m in the ultimate position to pay it forward. I deeply value the idea of karma. I always want to do the right thing for my community. When I put my scrubs on, slip my stethoscope around my neck and join forces with my fabulous team of co-workers, I feel like a superhero who is ready to assist people through what is sometimes the most difficult time of their lives.

PEDIATRIC NURSES ADDRESS NEEDS OF KEIKI

At Shriners Children’s Hawaii, nurses become part of the lives of families facing the most challenging moments imaginable. Between comforting a frightened child and worried parents and providing education, pediatric nurses balance clinical proficiency and emotional support. Shriners Children’s Hawaii provides specialty orthopedic care to keiki not only from Hawaii, but also from territories across the Pacific Basin. Beyond technical skills, pediatric nurses possess an abundance of empathy and compassion. One of the most remarkable aspects of pediatric nursing is its capacity to create moments of joy and healing amidst the most challenging of circumstances.

NORGEN DALIT, RN Nurse for 35-plus years

What do you love most about your job?

Witnessing my patients’ recovery and managing challenging cases. In the post-anesthesia care unit, I use my critical thinking quickly and efficiently and I can create a trusting bond with patients and their parents during difficult times.

ISABEL ROMERO-AGSALDA, RN Nurse for 9 years

What do you love most about your job?

Connecting with patients and families by creating meaningful and lasting relationships. I love creating a fun and positive hospital experience for our patients and families during such a vulnerable time in their lives.

ROBYN MURATA, APRN Nurse for 23 years

What do you love most about your job?

It is rewarding being able to follow our patients from diagnosis through to their full recovery. I am honored to be part of the Shriners team because every single person here is committed to making a difference in our children’s lives.

CHRISSY LEE, RN Nurse for 13 years

What do you love most about your job?

Working with children brings me deep satisfaction and joy. I love being able to provide a supportive environment and promote a positive hospital experience through a potentially difficult time in their life.

NURSES CARRY ON A LEGACY OF CARING

In the 1800s, Hansen’s disease, then known as leprosy, was ravaging the islands. Native Hawaiians did not have the immunity to fight against the disease and their population was plummeting. Many suffered from disfigurement and were exiled to Kalaupapa, Molokai, to die. In Hawaiian, the disease was called mai hookaawale or “the separating sickness.” The emotional pain of being torn from their ohana and never seeing them again was even more difficult to bear than the physical effects of the disease.

Following the Sisters

The Sisters of St. Francis who boldly ventured to Kalaupapa to care for those who had been ostracized to a remote, inaccessible part of Molokai continue to serve as models for St. Francis Healthcare System today.

When someone is a diagnosed with a serious

IAN TAYLOR

St. Francis Hospice

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been an APRN/nurse practitioner since 2012.

What do you love most about being a nurse?

Being able to make a difference for individuals at their most vulnerable stage of life. It’s a stage we all will go through at some point, and my goal is always to provide a foundation of support through interdisciplinary care.

illness, it can feel like you have been abandoned, and the question, “Why me?” replays over and over in your mind. Nurses and other professionals of St. Francis Healthcare System, including social workers, spiritual care counselors and health aides, surround patients and their families with compassion and care.

Walking alongside patients

Like the kokua, healthy family members who willingly chose to remain at the side of their loved ones sent to Kalaupapa, the St. Francis care team walks with patients and their families on their challenging journey. Being diagnosed with a serious illness can be bewildering. You may have multiple specialists, but your care may not be well-coordinated among them. Knowing what is covered and not covered by your health insurance and waiting to know what your doctor is autho-

RYANNE NAKAMOTO

St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaii

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been an APRN/family nurse practitioner since 2002.

What do you love most about being a nurse?

Upon first coming on board as a hospice provider, I knew I would gain a sense of fulfillment as I cared for patients and their families during a time of great need, but what I didn’t know is how much joy I would receive. Although my time with patients and their families may be brief, the stories shared with me, and the tears shed together, both in joy and sadness, leaves an imprint on my heart that will last a lifetime.

rized to do for you can also be puzzling. Mounting medical bills can create added stress to your already fragile immune system.

Rewarding moments

A day in the life of a nurse and others on a care team help patients and their family navigate the challenges inherent in the health care system. Each day is never the same but is always filled with rewarding moments. The St. Francis team brings comfort in pain and peace to those whose lives have been upended. St. Francis team members lift each other up and help patients and their families enjoy the remaining time they have with each other to make up for some of their lost time.

The community welcomes the support of St. Francis Healthcare System’s care team, and the Sisters of St. Francis are proud to see their legacy of caring continue today.

REID WATANABE

St. Francis Hospice

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been a BSN for 15 years.

What do you love most about being a nurse?

Nursing has given me many career opportunities from bedside nursing to management. Each path taken has provided me with very unique perspectives on patient care. My goal has always been to provide the same quality of care for my patients as if they were my own family receiving that care.

HELPING PATIENTS WRITE A BEAUTIFUL LAST CHAPTER

Receiving a difficult diagnosis and navigating endof-life care can be overwhelming, and hospice nurses offer more than medical assistance. Since 2008, Islands Hospice has helped patients from Oahu and Maui write the closing chapter of their lives with dignity, in peace and in the comfort of their own homes. A common misconception is that working in hospice is sad or depressing, but Islands Hospice nurses say their careers are fulfilling and uplifting.

Every person’s end-of-life journey is unique, shaped by circumstances, experiences, relationships and preferences, and Islands Hospice nurses are privileged to be part of extraordinary moments. From helping a patient watch a movie in a theater one last time, to assisting with quality time at the beach with family, no two days are alike, and few things can compare to the feeling of making an impact during one of the most sacred times in someone’s life.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

In this profession, you not only advance professionally but are also challenged to grow as a person. Most of all, I can serve those who are in need — not just patients but also their families — during difficult times in their lives.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

I love the flexibility that a nursing degree offers, allowing us to work in a variety of settings. I also can’t imagine not working alongside people who truly inspire me every day.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

My

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“I graduate in Spring 2026, and plan to continue working in Hawai‘i either in the Emergency Room or in the Operating Room.”

Young Guzman, Hawaii Central Nursing Scholarship recipient at Chaminade University of Honolulu.

favorite part about my profession is connecting with and helping people.

MARISSA ESPORAS, RN, BSN Nurse for 28 years

ALEXIS FODRAN, RN Nurse for 10 years

ROVENA JUAN, RN Nurse for 12 years

REHABILITATING PATIENTS WITH CARE, COMPASSION AND KINDNESS

For more than 70 years, REHAB Hospital of the Pacific (REHAB) has been dedicated to rebuilding lives and empowering patients to achieve their optimum health and independence. REHAB’s nursing team plays an integral part in making our mission a reality for Hawaii’s community. From a stroke survivor relearning how to talk to an individual with a spinal cord injury walking again for the first time, REHAB’s nursing team is there every step of the way. Our nurses provide exceptional care and support that allows our patients to focus on their rehabilitation therapies and get back to living their lives to the fullest.

How long have you been a nurse?

Going on six years now. I graduated from Hawaii Pacific University in 2016.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

My favorite thing about being a nurse is helping the patients. I love seeing their improvement and being a part of their comeback stories after suffering a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Making a tangible difference in peoples’ lives is incredibly rewarding.

How long have you been a nurse?

For 24 years. I became a nurse in 1999 and started at REHAB in 2000.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

I enjoy working with people and helping those in need. It is rewarding when they come back and visit and we can see how they have progressed. When patients visit us and they are 100% better, walking and living their lives to the fullest — it feels amazing to know I was a part of making that happen. We have difficult days and we have busy days, but when I see the difference we make, I am reminded that this is why we do what we do!

The nursing team’s commitment to excellence and heart for the patients that REHAB serves has a lasting impact far beyond the walls of the hospital — it can be seen in the way our families, friends, neighbors, and communities live and thrive.

The work we do at REHAB is incredibly important, and we couldn’t do it without the dedication of our nurses.

In honor of National Nurses Week, we would like to recognize and celebrate our hard working nurses at REHAB and beyond. From all of us here at REHAB, a heartfelt thank you for all that you do!

How long have you been a nurse?

I became a nurse in 1997 and have been at REHAB since 2000.

What is your favorite thing about being a nurse?

Nursing is built into my system. I just love helping people and making a difference in their lives. At REHAB, we work with patients on an acute level but we also get to work with their families — educating them and getting to know them. It makes getting people home that much sweeter, knowing who they are going home to.

MARISA GARNET

KATHLEEN TORRES TRICIA ABAD

ADDRESSING HAWAII’S NURSING SHORTAGE

DBY HILTON RAETHEL President and CEO

uring this special week honoring the work of nurses, we would like to share tangible, collaborative efforts to address the growing need for this critical sector of the state’s health care workforce. Our state needs more health care workers, and nurses are a critical part of that workforce. Our most recent HAH health care workforce report shows that there are 999 openings for registered nurses (RNs) across the state, 211 for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and 744 for certified nurse aides (CNAs) and nursing assistants.

We as a community are seeing successes in building our workforce by educating more nurses locally, and by making it easier for out of state nurses to practice here when needed. We are working on retaining the nurses we have, an effort that requires multipronged solutions.

Partners from the K-12 public and private schools, the colleges and universities, health care employers (including the members of HAH), and all levels of government are collaborating on these initiatives.

One recent example is the CNA to LPN Bridge Program. This innovative new program allows students to continue working while they study to grow their careers. Earlier this year, 30 graduates became new LPNs, and the second full class of students is underway.

Matching supply with demand for the state’s health care workforce is neither quick nor easy. We have collaborations in progress between the public and private sectors, and between individuals and organizations, that are opening opportunities for more to enter the health care workforce, including the highly valued profession of nursing.

JULIE KATHMAN, DNP, APRN, CNS-BC, CPN, C-ONQS, FCNS

How long have you been a nurse?

Registered nurse for 35 years; advanced practice registered nurse for 17 years

What do you love most about your job?

My favorite thing about being a clinical nurse specialist is that I have the privilege of impacting direct patient care, nursing practices, and organizational systems through identification and implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP). The goal of EBP is to incorporate the best available research, clinical guidelines, and a patient’s individual needs so health care teams can provide safe, high-quality care. My new role as the perinatal quality collaborative program manager at HAH allows me to support the hospitals of Hawaii with improving health outcomes and advocating for birthing people and their families. I also serve on national nursing boards and was recently selected as a Fellow of the Clinical Nurse Specialist Institute. Nursing allows me to use my love of science, people and teamwork daily.

Making a difference tomorrow, starts today.

For more than a decade, Chaminade University has been preparing today’s nursing students to become tomorrow’s nurse leaders—equipped to provide patients with quality compassionate care.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

As a leader in Hawai'i, our BSN program focuses on hands-on learning and offers an innovative curriculum with a strong support network, preparing students for an ever-evolving healthcare sector.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Our online DNP program prepares RNs and APRNs for the highest level of nursing practice and leadership. We have four tracks:

•BSN-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

•BSN-DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

•BSN-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

•Post-Master’s Executive Leader (EL)

•Post-Graduate APRN Certificates: FNP, PNP, PMHNP

UNITED IN GRATITUDE FOR OUR NURSES

Mahalo nui loa to our extraordinary nursing professionals, whose dedication to providing the highest level of care serves critically to our mission of improving the well-being of Native Hawaiians and all the people of Hawai‘i