october, november, december 2012 vermont nurse connection ... · • 750 words for a press release...

October, November, December 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection •

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Princeton, MN55371

Volume 15 • Number 4 October, November, December 2012Vermont State Nurses’ Association Official Publication

Convention 2012

Page 7

House of Delegates

Page 10

Inside...

IndexPersonal & Financial Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Continuing Education Opportunities . . . . . . . . . 4

Student News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

State Looks to Nurses for Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Membership Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

VSNA New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Legislative Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Membership and Publicity Committee . . . . . . . 10

Specialty Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Vermont Nurse Connection

Quarterly Circulation 16,500 to all Registered Nurses, LPNs, LNAs, and Student Nurses in Vermont

Ruth Elsa Baldwin RN, VSNA President

We would like to welcome you all to the RACE TO SHAPE NURSES FUTURE as our upcoming annual convention topic! As professional nurses we will continue to evolve our skill sets and anticipate the future of nursing to best prepare ourselves for a limitless future and advances within our industry. This event will take place in Fairlee, VT the evening of October 16th followed by a full day session on October 17th. This is our opportunity to share our experiences, strengthen our bonds and lay a foundation for the future. Forward thinking and thoughtful leadership will increase our momentum and propel us to the next level of nursing, as we shape our own destiny and continue to evolve within our industry, not only for ourselves but also for aspiring nurses, caregivers and our communities as a whole.

Ruth Elsa Baldwin

President’s Letter

Save the DatesVSNA Convention 2012

October 16-17, 2012The Lake Morey Resort

Fairlee, VT

Vermont Ethics Network MeetingSeptember 19, 2012

Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee, VT

“When Less is Better: Ethical Issues in theUse of Health Care Resources”

Visit www.vtethicsnetwork.org

• Vermont Nurse Connection October, November, December 2012

Published by:Arthur L . Davis

Publishing Agency, Inc .

www .vsna-inc .org

Voices of Vermont Nurses

premiered at VSNA Convention 2000 and is available from the VSNA Office at:Vermont State Nurses’ Association

100 Dorset Street, #13 South Burlington, Vermont 05403

Price: $20 each book (plus $3.95 for postage and handling)

Make check or money order payable to:VERMONT STATE NURSES FOUNDATION

Name: _________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________

City: ___________________________________________

State: __________________ Zip: ___________________

Deadlines for the Vermont Nurse Connection

Are you interested in contributing an article to an upcoming issue of the Vermont Nurse Connection? If so, here is a list of submission deadlines for the next 2 issues:

Vol . 16 #1—October 22, 2012Vol . 16 #3—January 14, 2013

Articles may be sent to the editors of the Vermont Nurse Connection at:

Vermont State Nurses’ AssociationAttention: VNC100 Dorset Street, Suite 13South Burlington, VT 05403-6241

Articles may also be submitted electronically to [email protected].

The VSNA wants you to take advantage of some of the networking and informational resources available on the Internet.

Current information about activities of the VSNA can be found by visiting the VSNA Website at: http://my.memberclicks.com/vsna or http://www.vsna-inc.org

Requests for additions or changes to the VSNA website should be communicated before the 1st of each month to the site’s webmaster at [email protected].

Also, as a VSNA member you are welcome to join the VSNA listserv . To become a listserv participant, send an e-mail message to the VSNA office at [email protected]. In your message, please indicate that you wish to be part of the listserv and include your name, e-mail address, and your VSNA member number.

Hope to see you on the web!

If you wish to submit a “Letter to the Editor,” please address it to:

Vermont State Nurses’ AssociationAttn: Vermont Nurse Connection100 Dorset Street, #13South Burlington, VT 05403

Please remember to include contact information, as letter authors may need to be contacted by the editors of the VNC for clarification. NOTE: Letters to the Editor reflect the opinions of the letter authors and should not be assumed to reflect the opinions of the Vermont State Nurses’ Association.

Jean Graham, Editor

Vermont Nurse ConnectionOfficial publication of the Vermont State Nurses’ Association,

a constituent member of the American Nurses Association. Published quarterly every January, April, July and October. Library subscription price is $20 per year. ISSN# 1529-4609.

Editorial OfficesVermont State Nurses’ Association, 100 Dorset Street, #13,

South Burlington, VT 05403, PH: (802) 651-8886, E-mail: [email protected]

Editor: Jean E. Graham

AdvertisingFor advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur L.

Davis Publishing Agency, Inc., 517 Washington Street, PO Box 216, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613, (800) 626-4081, [email protected]. VSNA and the Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. reserve the right to reject any advertisement. Responsibility for errors in advertising is limited to corrections in the next issue or refund of price of advertisement.

Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement or approval by the Vermont State Nurses’ Association of products advertised, the advertisers, or the claims made. Rejection of an advertisement does not imply a product offered for advertising is without merit, or that the manufacturer lacks integrity, or that this association disapproves of the product or its use. VSNA and the Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. shall not be held liable for any consequences resulting from purchase or use of an advertiser’s product. Articles appearing in this publication express the opinions of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect views of the staff, board, or membership of VSNA or those of the national or local associations.

ContentVermont State Nurses’ Association welcomes unsolicited

manuscripts and suggestions for articles. Manuscripts can be up to: •750wordsforapressrelease

•1500wordsforafeaturearticleManuscripts should be typed double-spaced and spell-checked

with only one space after a period and can be submitted:1) As paper hard copy

2) As a Word Perfect or MS Word document file saved to a 3 1/2” disk or to CD-Rom or zip disk

3) Or e-mailed as a Word Perfect or MS Word document file to [email protected].

No faxes will be accepted. Authors’ names should be placed after title with credentials and affiliation. Please send a photograph of yourself if you are submitting a feature article.

All articles submitted to and/or published in Vermont Nurse Connection become the sole property of VSNA and may not be reprinted without permission.

All accepted manuscripts may undergo editorial revision to conform to the standards of the newsletter or to improve clarity.

The Vermont Nurse Connection is not a peer review publication. Articles appearing in this publication express the opinions of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect views of the staff, board, or membership of VSNA or those of the national or local association.

Copyright Policy Criteria for ArticlesThe policy of the VSNA Editorial Board is to retain copyright

privileges and control of articles published in the Vermont Nurse Connection unless the articles have been previously published or the author retains copyright.

VSNA Officers and Board of DirectorsPresident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Elsa BaldwinPresident-elect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol HodgesVice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Monica BenjaminSecretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Anne DouglasTreasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jennifer Botelho District 1 Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Irene BoninDistrict 2 Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mollie ChamberlainDistrict 3 Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VacantVSN Foundation President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julie Jones

District PresidentsDistrict 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sarah AbramsDistrict 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catherine GuyDistrict 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant

StaffExecutive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lynne DapiceLobbyist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christine RyanBookkeeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Martha Stewart

Committee ChairpersonsBylaws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VacantConvention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lynne DapiceEducation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deborah Hayward-SanguinettiGovernment Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christine RyanMembership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ann LarameeNominating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vacantNursing Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vacantProgram Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vacantPsychiatric Special Interest Group . . . . . . . . . . . Maurice McGuireCongressional Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christine RyanSenate Coordinator for Saunders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christine RyanSenate Coordinator for Leahy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christine RyanANA House of Delegates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Elsa Baldwin, Carol Hodges, Judy Cohen, Monica Benjamin

As of HOD 2012 House of Delegates DissolvedAlternate Delegates . . Christine Ryan, June Benoit, Lynne Dapice

VNC EditorialJean Graham

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Personal & Financial Health

Priscilla Smith-Trudeau

Lessons Learned From Men In NursingAt a time when women are flocking to once male-dominated fields like law and medicine, men are slowly discovering the female-dominated field of nursing, with its relatively high pay, job flexibility, and manifold opportunities for advancement. ~David McKay Wilson, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing 1

Thinking is not driven by answers but by questions. Have you ever wondered what the nursing profession would have been like if it had not been a female gender-based culture? The answer to this question has intrigued me for many years, so much so that it got me to thinking about the many lessons I have learned from men in nursing.

Males are actually ideally suited to both the pressures and excitement of nursing. I’ve always liked comparing the nursing approach to that of the U .S. Marines: They adapt, improvise and overcome. Working just one nursing shift will prove that point! Men also have a very different perspective than women on a lot of things, and it’s a good thing having them in the profession. ~ Jim DeMaria RN, BSN, is Vice President of Renal Care Registered Nursing Services, Nanuet, N.Y. 2

Lesson #1 – Daring to be a NurseAbout twelve years ago, I had the opportunity to facilitate

an all-male focus group using the appreciative inquiry approach. A group of male nurses and nursing assistants were asked to gather to answer three questions. The audience was made up of female nurses who were only there to listen and learn. The three questions posed to the male participants were:

1. What made you choose nursing?2. What makes you successful?3. What would you suggest that the nursing profession

change in order to reduce the number of nurses leaving the profession?

The answers to the first two questions weren’t surprising and similar to that of female nurses. The choice to become a nurse came from having strong professional women as mothers and role models; wanting to help people; not being satisfied in other professions. What made them successful was realizing that health care is a business, staying relaxed and keeping their perspective; being creative and working hard. It was in the answer to the last question that I learned a lesson about how one male nursing assistant viewed a staffing conflict. He started out by saying that stress and burnout were two of the major reasons nurses were leaving the profession. He gave an example and a solution. He said that sometimes when he arrived at work and received the news that there were supposed to be five nurses on duty, but one of them called out sick, he observed the following: The four female nurses stood around the desk and tried to solve the problem by venting their emotions, sharing solutions, trying to re-arrange the assignment, contacting the staffing office which took approximately one hour. He offered to the focus group that if those four nurses had contacted a supervisor/manager/charge nurse to solve the problem and immediately gotten out to work on the floor that would have been the equivalent of four hours of work from the absent nurse. I sat back in my chair and thought that was logical, mathematical and I had never thought of it that way. If logic makes us think and emotion makes us act I seriously considered the idea of female nurses including myself changing our approach to solving problems by moving out of our comfort zone combining the two perspectives (male/female). Being in that room listening and learning from this group of male nurses was an eye and heart opening experience. Everyone in that group was building on the promise of diversity, making an attempt at closing the gender gap and moving to the next level in their workplace. For one hour there were many pearls of wisdom that the men shared from their professional perspective while enriching the lives of everyone in that room.

Lesson #2 – Advancing Men in NursingA number of years ago, I had the privilege of attending

the annual convention of the American Assembly of Men in Nursing. On the first day we gathered in an auditorium for a discussion on the current trends and issues facing men in nursing. I was quite surprised to hear their concerns were

very similar to that of female nurses. The lesson for me was in listening to the approach they took to arrive at solutions which was quite different from attending previous conventions where the majority of participants were female nurses. The men got straight to work conversing with one another as a means to exchange information and problem solve. They were direct and candid with one another. As I wandered through the convention workshops over the next several days, I could see that relationships were being established after the work was done. On average female nurses solve problems through nurturing, tactful and respectful communication by building rapport and making connections first. The experience at the American Assembly of Men in Nursing helped me discover that it was possible to move beyond gender roles and choose another approach depending on the situation enabling more effective communication. Grasping and appreciating the impact gender has on effective communication has the power to break down barriers and open up doors to understanding and being understood.

Lesson #3 – Moving ForwardIn these times of gender equality, you might think that a

profession as high profile and popular as nursing would have a reasonably balanced number of men and women. Currently men make up only 5.8% of the total nursing population.3 There is no doubt that more men are needed in the nursing profession to broaden perspectives, break down barriers, and effect positive change inside and outside the healthcare system. It is simply good business. When a male nurse is hired how many nurse leaders and team members spend time learning the language and culture of men? Clearly, making the effort to do that would be a win-win. The whole gender topic has been misframed and miscommunicated for so long that it’s almost impossible to dig oneself out of old ways of thinking. But dig we must to turn around men’s lagging representation in nursing for there is no shortage of solutions either. Focusing our attention on men’s visibility and leadership throughout the nursing profession requires an integrated, holistic approach to diversity that takes into account the myriad structural imbalances, complex attitudes and beliefs, policies and practices that manifest both subtle and overt forms of gender-bias.

The diversity of talent, expertise, and commitment available in nursing is extraordinary. The individual, who chooses nursing, a profession demanding physical stamina, intellectual prowess, and a compassionate nature, has the personal and professional resources to care for patients and enrich the profession. None of these talents should be lost or ignored. When nursing does not take advantage of the talents of all its members, the profession risks losing in important arenas. Anything other than full equality for men in nursing is nothing less than shameful (Sullivan, 2000). 4

Bringing a balance of perspective to any situation can be useful. Where there is an imbalance of gender, religion, sexual orientation, etc. there is something left out. Bringing more balance to a group can strengthen it by bringing in perspectives that were left out, and increasing the mix of skills in your team. ~ Robert Frazer RN 5

Have you ever imagined what the nursing profession would have been like if it had not been a female gender-based culture? Sure you have and the answer is simple. The nursing profession would have been more engaging of male nurses’ differences as resources for creating higher performance and greater success. It would have been more innovative seeking to collaborate with male nurses who had differing points of view, backgrounds, experiences, perspectives and ideas. It would have been more efficient, effective, and inclusive of others.

Diversity is the magic. It is the first manifestation, the first beginning of the differentiation of a thing and of simple identity. The greater the diversity, the greater the perfection. ~ Thomas Berry 6

Priscilla Smith-Trudeau MSM RN BSN CRRN CCM is a healthcare management consultant specializing in workforce development. She can be reached at priscilla [email protected] 1 Source: http://web.jhu.edu/jhnmagazine/summer2009/

features/men_in_nursing.html2 Source: www.scrubsmag.com3 Source: www.minoritynurse.com4 Sullivan, E .J. (Summer, 2000). Gender diversity: Essential

for nursing’s future. [Guest editorial] .Interaction, 18(2), 15 www.southuniversity.edu/nursing-careers-not-defined-by-

gender-a-look-at-the-male-nurse-52817.aspx6 Source: Heroes for a Better World, www.betterworld.net

SAVE the DATE!2013 New England

School Nurse Conference

May 3-5, 2013At the Hilton Hotel in Burlington, VT.

For more information, please visit our website at

vtschoolnurses.ning.com


by Evelyn A. Sikorski, CSW, CEAP Manager,Fletcher Allen Employee and Family Assistance Program

Our Wellbeing is more than simply being happy and it’s not limited to our physical health or wealth. Momentary experiences accumulate and shape our everyday lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes emotional wellbeing as an important psychosocial marker of health. Wellbeing also plays a pivotal role in “being present and engaged” both at work and in our personal lives. As many of us struggle day-to-day with life style challenges such as weight management, stress reduction, career satisfaction, meaningful relationships, smoking cessation or getting our chronic health conditions under better control, we recognize there are several areas of our life that will have to change in order for us to be successful at changing anything!

In the book, WellBeing-The Five Essential Elements, the elements of wellbeing are identified and discussed. These elements are the “currency of a life,” a universal compass that helps navigate our desire to boost our personal wellbeing. They represent five broad categories that are essential to most people. The research presented in the book discovered that these core dimensions are “universal and interconnected elements of wellbeing or how we think about and experience our lives. When these factors are fully realized, people thrive and so does whatever they engage in.

Personal & Financial HealthWhat Makes Us Thrive?

The 5 Essential Elements of Wellbeing:

Career Wellbeing how you occupy your time or simply liking what you do every day. Boost your career wellbeing by identifying and using your strengths every day and spend more time with someone who encourages your growth.

Social Wellbeing having strong relationships and love in your life. Boost your social wellbeing by strengthening your network of support and mix social time with physical activity.

Financial Wellbeing effectively managing your economic life and decisions. Boost your financial wellbeing by establishing default systems that lessen burden around payments and money.

Physical Wellbeing having good health and enough energy to get things done on a daily basis. To boost your physical wellbeing, try to get at least 20 minutes of physical activity each day, ideally in the morning, to boost your mood and establish healthy eating routines that support an active lifestyle.

Community Wellbeing the sense of engagement you have with the area where you live. To boost community wellbeing, opt in to community groups or events or tell others about your passions so they can connect you with relevant events or people with common interests.

According to the research presented in the book, 66% of people are doing well in at least one of these areas; just 7% are thriving in all five. If we’re struggling in any one of these domains, as most of us are, it damages our wellbeing and wears on our daily life. When we strengthen our wellbeing in any of these areas, we will have better days, months, and decades. Get the most out of everyday life by living effectively and boosting your strengths in all five areas.

Reference: Rath, T ., & Harter, J . (2010) . Wellbeing - The Five Essential Elements . New York, NY: Gallop Press .

Upcoming Educational Opportunities (Non-VSNA)

UVM College of MedicineThe following educational events are sponsored by the University of Vermont.For more information contact:

Continuing Medical Education128 Lakeside Avenue, Suite 100Burlington, VT 05401(802) 656-2292http://cme.uvm.edu

Breast Cancer ConferenceDate: 10/5/2012

Location: Sheraton Hotel & Conference CenterBurlington, VT

10th Annual Northern New England Critical CareDate: 10/17/2012 - 10/20/2012

Location: The EssexEssex, VT

Visit us onlineanytime . . .

www.vsna-inc.org

Continuing Education OpportunitiesAdvanced Dermatology for the Primary Care Provider

Date: 10/18/2012 - 10/21/2012Location: Sheraton Burlington

So. Burlington, VT

Neurology for the Non-Neurologist - 2012Date: 10/26/2012

Location: North Conway Grand HotelNorth Conway, NH

Bridging the Divide: A Conference FosteringCollaboration between Primary Care, Mental Health,

Substance Abuse, and Behavioral HealthDate: 11/07/2012

Location: DoubleTree HotelSouth Burlington, VT

24th Annual Eastern Winter Dermatology ConferenceDate: 01/18/2013 - 01/21/2013

Location: The Stoweflake Hotel & SpaStowe, VT

Emergency Medicine UpdateDate: 01/27/2013 - 01/30/2013

Location: Stowe Mountain LodgeStowe, VT

22nd Annual Current Concepts & Controversies in Surgery

Date: 01/28/2013 - 01/30/2013Location: Stowe Mountain Lodge

Stowe, VT

Hospital Medicine 2013 ConferenceDate: 02/07/2013 - 02/10/2013

Location: The Stoweflake Hotel & SpaStowe, VT

18th Annual Vermont Perspectives in AnesthesiaDate: 03/06/2013 - 03/10/2013

Location: Stowe Mountain LodgeStowe, VT

Greensboro Nursing Home

“A Living Center”

Nurses and LNAs. Looking for a change of pace?Then we are looking for you!

Please send resume to Karen Campos, RN, DON47 Maggie’s Pond Rd, Greensboro, VT 05841

[email protected], Fax: 802-533-7054

Great caregivers deserve a great place to work.

Come join our dedicated team of caring professionals!

Nurse - Full TimeRowan Court offers great benefits, rewarding work

environment, and up to $3,000 sign on bonus. For more info call Aleks, HR Manager at 802-476-4166 or email her at [email protected]

Revera Living and Rowan Court are EOE: M/F/D/V


Student NewsThe Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation

AnnouncesThe Arthur L . Davis Publishing Agency, Inc .

2013 ScholarshipApplications for the $1,000 scholarship are open to Vermont State Nurses’ Association members who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate nursing program and who are active in a professional nursing organization. Submit application by August 1, 2013. Please complete the application below and submit it to:

Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation, Inc.100 Dorset Street, Suite #13South Burlington, VT 05403

Name: _______________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________

City: __________________________ State _______ Zip ______________

Phone: ______________________ E-mail: __________________________

Nursing Program and Degree Currently Enrolled in:

____________________________________________________________

Briefly describe your activities in the Vermont State Nurses’ Association or other nursing organization within the past three years:

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation, Inc.

100 Dorset Street, Suite #13

S. Burlington, VT 05403

(802) 651-8886

Application for the2012 Pat and Frank Allen Scholarship

The Pat and Frank Allen Scholarship is a $1500.00 award given to a registered nurse who is a matriculated student in an accredited nursing program. Applications must be submitted by 9/28/2012.

Name: _____________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________

Phone: (day) __________________________ (evening) ____________________

Email: _____________________________________________________________

Vermont license number: ______________________________________________

Name and address of the program in which you are currently enrolled: __________

__________________________________________________________________

Degree that you are seeking: ___________________________

Credits completed: ___________________________________

Current Grade Point Average: __________________________

Please write a one page cover letter with application that describes your career goals and how this scholarship will help you realize your goals.

Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders

Marilyn Rinker Leadership Scholarshipfor Nurses in an Advanced Degree Program - $2000

Application Deadline: February 28, 2013

Name: ______________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________

Telephone #: ____________________ Email Address: ______________________

Vt RN Lic # _____________________ VONL member since _________________

School of Nursing: _____________________________________________________

Currently in which year? 1 2 3 4 year of graduation (if applicable) __________

Graduate school _______________________ 1st yr _________ 2nd year _________

expected date of graduation ______________

If employed in nursing, current employer ___________________________________

Currently receiving Financial Aid, Grants, Scholarships? Yes _______ No _______

If yes please list the sources ______________________________________________

Please attach to this form:1. Résumé2. Most recent transcript of grades demonstrating a cumulative average of 3.0 (B)3. A brief essay (500 words or less) describing nursing leadership experience and

aspirations, community service experience, commitment to serve in Vermont, and financial need

4. At least two (2) letters of recommendation (at least one academic and one work related)

5. Evidence of acceptance in an accredited program leading to an advanced degree in nursing if not yet matriculated.

I understand that if I receive an Advanced Degree Nurse Leaders Scholarship, I commit to practice nursing in Vermont for a minimum period of two years following graduation .

Student signature: ______________________________ Date: _________________

Return application (with attached materials) before February 28, 2013 to:

Martha Buck VAHHS/VONL 148 Main Street Montpelier, VT 05602 (802)223-3461/ext. 111 [email protected]

The Award will be announced in April 2013

Vermont Organization of Nurse LeadersMarilyn Rinker Leadership Scholarship for Nurses in an

Advanced Degree Program

ObjectiveTo promote graduate level nursing education in Vermont in support of nursing leadership talent to meet the health care needs of our state.

Purpose• Toprovide scholarship support forqualified individuals toparticipate in anapproved

course of study leading to an advanced degree.

Qualifications of applicants• PossessionofVermontRNlicenseingoodstanding• AmemberofVONL• Demonstrated commitment to nursing leadership (Vermont preferred) as evidencedby

participation in professional seminars, organizations, work accomplishments, project, recommendations of peers

• Currentlyenrolledoraccepted inanaccreditedprogramthatwill lead toanadvanceddegree in nursing

• Willingnesstocommittocompletingtheprogramasindicatedbyrealistictimeframe• IndividualsagreetopracticeinVermontforatleasttwo(2)years• GPAof3orB• Twosupportiveprofessionalrecommendations

Special Considerations• Individuals who have sought funding through employment or other resources, where

available• Individualswithdemonstratedfinancialneed• Individualscurrentlyworkinginthefieldofnursingeducation

Application Process1. Applicants must first be accepted into an accredited program that will lead to an

advanced degree in nursing2. Eligibility criteria include: proof of academic excellence/promise, pledge to

practice in Vermont following graduation, short essay, two (2) positive professional recommendations

3. Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders will select a candidate based on the following criteria, in order of importance: academic excellence; commitment to Vermont; leadership/community service; financial need

For more information or for an application form, contact: Martha Buck – VONL Advanced Degree Nurse Leadership Scholarship, (802)223-3461/ext. 111, [email protected]


Fraud, waste or abuse in healthcare reduces the state’s ability to serve Vermont individuals and families with healthcare needs. We are encouraging registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, licensed nursing assistants and others to report suspicions about financial irregularities with Medicaid programs.

Nurses and others in the healthcare industry should watch for indications of provider fraud, waste, or abuse, including:

Charging excessive amounts for services and supplies;

Billing for services that are not medically necessary;

Coding ineligible services with payable codes to “help the patient;”

Coding inaccurately to gain higher payments (“upcoding”);

Not crediting Medicaid for payments received from other insurance companies; or

Misrepresenting professional credentials or licensing status.

Most Vermont healthcare providers are hard-working and honest, but detecting financial irregularities early will stop small problems from becoming very expensive ones.

With healthcare funding as tight as it is, it’s in everyone’s interest to be sure that healthcare dollars are going to patient services, and not being drained away by a fraudulent enterprise.

A new form for reporting possible fraudulent activity by healthcare providers can be found at: www.dvha.vermont.gov—click on “Report Medicaid Fraud.”

Nurses and other healthcare providers and patients can call, fax or e-mail the Program Integrity Unit confidentially anytime about suspicious billing activity at:

Program Integrity Unit,Vermont Dept . of Health Access

312 Hurricane Lane, Suite 201, Williston, VT 05495Tel. 802-879-5900. Fax: 802-871-3090

E-mail: [email protected].

General News

Found on the WebHave you discovered an interesting/valuable resource

on the web? Consider sharing it with your nursing peers across the state via this new column in Vermont Nurse Connection (VNC). To suggest a resource for inclusion in this column, send an email with the website address information to [email protected] with the subject line “for VNC Found on the Web.”

Nursing News, References, Journal Access,Contact Hours

http://www.medscape.com/nursesMedscape offers health professionals robust and

integrated medical information and educational tools. After a simple, 1-time, free registration, Medscape automatically delivers to you a personalized specialty site that best fits your registration profile.

Some of the key features of Medscape are:• Original, professional medical content, including

review articles, journal commentary, expert columns, patient education articles, book reviews, and more;

• ConferenceCoverage• Morethan125medicaljournalsandtextbooks;• Business, financial, managed care, and medical

practice information;• Andmore…The result is a medical Web site rich in content, broad

in appeal, and high in quality.

Careplanshttp://www.careplans.com/Careplans.com is an online resource for nursing

assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation. This site includes tools, web applications, articles, links, and libraries to assist both caregivers and students in the care planning process.

Writing Resources for Nurse Authorshttp://nursing.ufl.edu/research/research_resources_

writers_students.shtmThis site from the University Of Florida College Of

Nursing provides access to a variety of resources for nurses seeking publication.

Research Round-UpThe VNC welcomes the submission of nursing

abstracts of publications, reports, theses or other scholarly work. The VNC is distributed to 25,000 readers, and it is a wonderful way to share your work and to keep us informed of the wealth of work that nurses are producing throughout Vermont.

The VNC Editorial Board encourages all nurses involved in practice, education, research, administration or other fields to submit their typed abstracts of 200-250 words with a cover letter with the following information:

• NameandCredentialsofAuthor:

• Telephone#:

• Emailaddress:

• PlaceofEmployment:

• Position:

• Educationalinstitution(ifstudent):*

• CurrentYearofStudy:

• Facultycontactperson:

Name:

Telephone #:

Email address:

• Date:

*StudentAbstractsmustbesubmittedbytheirschoolofnursing.

Abstracts may be e-mailed to [email protected], or a hardcopy can be sent to the VSNA, Inc, VNC Abstract, 100 Dorset Street, # 13, South Burlington, VT 05403.

State Looks to Nurses for Tips on Fraud, Waste or Abuse of Healthcare Dollars

by Ron Clark, Director, Program Integrity Unit, Dept. of Vermont Health Access

Every dollar counts—especially in healthcare. Vermont state government is starting to reach out to Vermont’s nurses for tips regarding possible financial fraud and improper billing practices that hurt the state’s ability to pay for needed medical services.

The Program Integrity Unit of the Department of Vermont Health Access has launched an initiative to let nurses know they can report suspicions of financial or provider fraud.

Nurses have a strong code of ethics supporting them as they advocate for patient safety and quality care. Because many nurses also know how healthcare facilities document, code and bill claims, they are in a good position to spot and report possible financial fraud, too, which helps preserve taxpayer dollars for Dr. Dynasaur, the Vermont Health Access Plan (V-HAP), and others.

The Program Integrity Unit is primarily responsible for detecting and investigating fraud, waste and abuse in Vermont Medicaid and other healthcare programs.

Fraud is an intentional, fraudulent act of some kind which violates a regulatory requirement for profit. It may involve the submission of a claim for services not provided, or knowingly submitting incorrect claim information with the goal of obtaining higher reimbursements.

Waste and abuse in healthcare arise from service and billing practices that are not consistent with those of prudent providers in the field.

Come Live the Alaskan Dream

Join us at the newest medical center, in Alaska’s fastest growing economy. We are highest ranked in patient satisfaction and core measure scores, in the most beautiful place on Earth!

• FTOperatingRoomRN’s• FTLaborandDeliveryRN• FTPhysicalTherapist• FTEDRN• FTICURN• FTSterileProcessingTech

Competitive wages with exceptional benefits package including Medical/Dental/Vision/Life,401kwithEmployermatch,PaidTimeOff,relocation and sign on bonus.

Apply online at www.matsuregional.com or email [email protected]

BECOME A NURSE AIDE EVALUATOR

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS!Positions are available in Barre,

Bennington & Springfield! You decide how far you travel.

Vermont Nurse Aide Evaluator Position For Registered Nurses

Administer the examination for nurse assistant certification. This is a part time independent contractor position. Various days of the week available. Competitive

reimbursement. Generous mileage reimbursement.

Minimum qualifications: current Vermont RN license in good standing with one (1) year of verifiable experience caring for the elderly or

chronically ill of any age.

To request further information, please email your resume to nacesrecruiter@

texasnurses.org or fax to (877) 696-2237.

•Autonomy

•$7,500

•Comprehensive •Work


General NewsVermont State Nurses’ Association, Inc. Presents

CONVENTION 2012Tuesday Evening October 16th

All Day Wednesday October 17th Lake Morey Resort, Fairlee, VT

We’re very excited to have two national speakers at our convention “Race to Shape Nurses’ Future” at the Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee, Vermont on October 16-17. We will explore the ‘race’ as it impacts nurses individually and professionally how the race impacts the health care system and the role of the nursing profession in that system. If you haven’t already registered, do so now so you don’t miss this exciting convention.

We will start off the day with an inspiring presentation by Aila Accad, RN, MSN: ‘Are YOU Ready for the Race? Help is Here!’ Ms. Accad was a featured speaker at ANA Healthy Nurse Conference in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the ANA House of Delegates in June 2012. A statement that she made that summarizes her presentations

is “Your mission, your passion is to care for others. My passion is to share the knowledge [gifts] gained from my decades of nursing & coaching nurses with as many nurses as possible. I love to teach nurses that they can be great caregivers without sacrificing personal health and well-being.

Aila Accad, RN, MSN, “Your Stress-Busters Expert” is an award-winning speaker, bestselling author and certified well-being coach with Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in nursing, who specializes in quick ways to release stress and reclaim that energy to live your fullest life and achieve your highest purpose.

After teaching stress-management for over 25 years, Aila had a stress crisis, which led to an instant breakthrough. She published her findings in the award-winning bestseller, “34 Instant Stress-Busters, Quick tips to de-stress fast with no extra time or money.”

As president & founder of LifeQuest International, LLC, she is an innovator in wellness training and coaching. Aila creates uniquely simple, down to earth experiences that help people get results quickly. Thousands of people have reclaimed healthy freedom in their lives through the application of her groundbreaking process, “Breaking the Perfection Myth.” As an innovator and futurist, she is a popular keynote speaker and radio and television guest.

Aila is a member of the National Speakers Association, Distinguished Toastmaster and recipient of Business Woman of the Year Award and West Virginia University School of Nursing Golden Graduate Award. Her biography appears in Who’s Who in American Nursing and Who’s Who of Women Executives. She received her bachelor’s degree from Villanova University and her Master’s from West Virginia University. Check her out at www.ailaspeaks.com

After the break Rose Gonzalez, PhD, MPS, RN, Director of Government Affairs at the American Nurses Association will give us an in-depth look at the ACA (Affordable Care Act): ‘ACA-Affordable Care Act. . .We Are In This Race To The Finish.’

Dr. Gonzalez has worked in the Government Affairs Department at ANA for more

than 17 years and currently serves as the Director of Government Affairs, a role she has served in for over 11 years. In this role she oversees the department which lobbies both the Executive Branch and Congress on issues important to nursing, including nursing workforce development programs, staff nurse issues and issues of concern to Advanced Practice Nurses. She coordinates the work of the ANA-PAC which provides funding for candidates running for political office on the federal level and N-STAT which is ANA’s grassroots program

as well as its State Government Affairs program which serves as a resource and provides strategy to ANA’s state nurse associations on state legislation. This allows for an integrated approach to Federal and State legislative activities.

Before coming to ANA she served as the Acting Executive Secretary of the New York State Boards for Optometry and Veterinary Medicine and prior to that worked with the NYS Board of Nursing. She has held various positions in nursing and worked in various health care settings. She has a BSN from Mount Saint Mary College and an MPS with a concentration in health care administration from the State University of NY in New Paltz. She completed her PhD in Nursing from George Mason University in the fall of 2011.

Program ScheduleTUESDAY, OCTOBER 16th:

6:30 pm: Registration7:00-8:00 pm: Christine Ryan, RN, MS, Moderator:

Hear the Candidates on issues related to Health Care.

8:00 -8:30 pm: Meet and greet the candidates and your professional colleagues .

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17th7:45 -8:15 am: Registration, Breakfast, Exhibits 8:15-8:30: Welcome, Announcements,

Introductions8:30-9:30: Aila Accad, RN, MSN: Are YOU

Ready for the Race? Help is Here!9:30 -10:00: Break, Exhibits, Posters10:00-10:30: Rose Gonzalez, PhD, MPS, RN: ACA-

Affordable Care Act. . .We Are In This Race To The Finish

11:00-11:45: Lynne Dapice, MSN: VSNA’ s Work to Make it to the Finish Line

11:45-1:30 pm: Lunch, VSNA Business Meeting, Awards, Exhibits, Posters

1:30-2:30: Pam Farnham, RN; Beth Hallock Steckel, RN, BSN, CCM: Journey to NCQA: Improving Healthcare for Your Patients

2:30-2:45 pm: Break, Exhibits, Posters2:45-3:45 pm: Break-out Sessions

B. Julie Jones, RN, MS: Social Media to Shape Nurses’ Future

C. Jane Kimberley RN, BC, MSN: Patients Benefit From The Race: Expert Wound Care

D. Panel: Annie Moore-Cox, PhD, RN; Ruby Souhan, APRN; Angela DeMasi, RN, CHPN: Do You Know Where the Competition Will Lead You?

3:45-4:00 pm: Conclusion/ Evaluations4:00-4:30 pm: Silent Auction

GoalThe purpose of the VSNA Convention is to increase

nurses’ knowledge of the forces that are shaping nurse’s role in the rapidly evolving health care system, implications for the profession and how to personally

prepare and thrive in this fast moving environment. Those who participate in the campaign forum will be able to explore the views of those who would serve us in government.

ObjectivesAt the conclusion of the educational sessions the

participants will be able to:• describe methods to overcome stresses related to

participating in this environment• identify the impact of theACA (Affordable Care

Act) on nursing practice.• discuss how the Medical Home fits into this

changing health care system.• discovernewopportunitiesfornursingpractice.• enumerate someof the changesof the association

in response to change.

Continuing EducationThe Vermont State Nurses Association is an approved

provider of continuing nursing education by the South Carolina Nurses Association an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Contact hours: 4.75 for 10/17 will be awarded with attendance at the sessions and completion of the evaluation form (s).

Name: ______________________________________

Credentials: __________________________________

Address: _____________________________________

City/State/Zip: ________________________________

________________________________ Home/Work?

Phone: ______________________________________

Email: ______________________________________

Employer: ___________________________________

Registration Fees:Tuesday evening only: $15.00 Tuesday and Wednesday: VSNA members until 9/7; registration is 2 for 1 (that means $98 .00 registration for two members) . After 9/7 and post marked by 9/30/11:

Sept-30-2012 After Sept-30-2012❑ VSNA Member $98 ❑ VSNA Member $118❑ Non Member $138 ❑ Non Member $ 158❑ Full-time Student $20 ❑ Full-time Student $45

Student nurses can attend the afternoon 10/17 only for free. Senior (over 62) 10 % discount. Indicate your selection of break out sessions:

10/16: A ❑ 10/17: B ❑ C ❑ D ❑

Register on-line at www.vsna-inc.org or mail your registration form and check to: VSNA, 100 Dorset Street, Suite 13, So. Burlington, VT 05403

Hotel Information:Lake Morey Resort, 1 Clubhouse Road, Fairlee, VT 05045. Phone#: 800-423-1211. Special Convention Rates: $95.00 single/double if reservations made by September 18th. Mention VSNA Convention when making reservations

As part of our convention this year we will have the opportunity for individuals or groups to do poster presentations. Although the posters need not be based on rigorous research, we will be limited as to how many posters we will be able to accept. For further information go to our web site: www.vsna-inc.org


General News

PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING

Ready for a positive change in your lifestyle? Become a Public Health Nurse! The Health Department has several positions available statewide for RN’s. Public Health Nurses are directly engaged in the core public health functions of assessment, assurance and policy development. Interventions focus on health promotion and disease prevention and are implemented on both the population and individual level. Monday through Friday, 7:45a.m. to 4:30p.m. work schedule and excellent benefits, including continuing education and tuition reimbursement. If you have questions regarding available positions please call Margaret Wilson, Chief of Public Health Nursing at (802) 951-0188. Interested candidates must apply online at: http://humanresources.vermont.gov/career_center.

The State of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Applications from women, individuals

with disabilities, veterans and people from diverse cultural backgrounds are encouraged.

The 4th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Symposium has moved up the street to the Doubletree Hotel Burlington.

Growing each year, the Symposium continues to provide a forum for Nurses, Students, Educators, Administrators, and Researchers—regardless of experience in conducting nursing

research—to learn more about the evolving realm of nursing knowledge.

Hosted by Fletcher Allen in a new setting, the Symposium will once again, showcase and highlight new and innovative initiatives with both oral and poster presentations.

• Nursing Research• Evidence-based Practice

• Quality ImprovementJoin us for an opportunity to engage in formal and informal dialogue

at the Doubletree this coming fall!

www.uvm.edu/~kappatauSponsors include:•FletcherAllenHealthCare

– Nursing Education & Research– James M. Jeffords Institute for Quality & Operational Effectiveness

•SigmaThetaTauInt’lNursingHonorSociety– Kappa Tau Chapter– Gamma Delta Chapter

•UniversityofVermontDepartmentofNursing•ChamplainValleyPhysiciansHospital•RutlandRegionalMedicalCenter•SouthwesternVermontMedicalCenter•SUNYPlattsburghDepartmentofNursing•VermontStateNurses’Foundation•VisitingNurseAssociationofChittendenandGrandIsleCounties

Find the perfect nursing job where you can work smarter, not harder on

nursingALD.comRegistration is free, fast, confidential and easy! You will receive an e-mail

when a new job posting matches your job search.


ANA/VSNA NewsIS YOUR NURSING

ORGANIZATION PLANNINGAN EDUCATION PROGRAM?

CONSIDER APPLYING FOR CONTACT HOUR APPROVAL

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL THE VSNA OFFICE @ (802)

651-8886

Vermont State Nurses’ Association, Inc. is accredited as an approver

of continuing education in nursing by the American Nurses’ Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

VSNA New Members:District 1

James BiernatElissa Close

Beata KikolskiVirginia Kittell

Diane LeachDawn LefevreCorey MallonJeff Marvin

Patricia McKittrickJason PelletierJulie Shasteen

Lynda SkowronskiDori Weigand

District 2 Canoee Drumm

Carol LisaiSheryl Washburn

Linda Wulff

District 3 Catherine Howland

Alice KempeRhonda RobertsSharon SniderTina Swasey

Looking for a job in home health anywhere in Vermont,

go to www.vnavt.com for a complete list.

… who must be the parent to his siblings.I am for the child who was taken away for her own protection.The child who is now in foster care.Who doesn’t know who these people are.Or how long she’ll be there.I am for the child who’s lived in five foster homes in a single year.Who’s attended six schools in four years.Who sits in back of yet another classroom, surrounded by strangers.

I am for the child who one day will turn 18–and will be surrendered to the world.I am for the child.


ANA/VSNA NewsLegislative Update

Submitted by Christine Ryan, RN, MS

The 2012 House of Delegates meeting took place June 15th and 16th in National Harbor, Maryland. The House of Delegates is historically a meeting of nurse representatives from each state and nurse leaders from the American Nurses Association. Delegates are elected largely from ANA’s constituent state nursing associations, ANA only member group and organizational affiliates. This year delegates were expected to vote for candidates to fill a range of ANA elected positions and to address bylaws changes and resolutions.

The House of Delegates discussed the following issues: nurse staffing, health and safety within the workplace, and healthy environmental energy. Of equal importance was the significant organizational changes proposed by the American Nurses Association. ANA’s goal is to strengthen and increase membership and create a structural model that is more simplified and efficient. According to Karen Daley, ANA President, “We believe that creating a more integrated association will allow ANA and state associations to have a greater impact on important issues.”

It was a very busy two days, full of hard work and difficult discussions. This was the last House of Delegates. In the future work will be done by a streamlined Member Division composed of two members from each state and related bodies. In June decisions were made by the delegates to respond to the changes that our professional

House of Delegates—June 2012

organizations are facing. The belief is that streamlined governance, a new technology platform, reinvestment in member services, integrated operations for state associations and the ANA, and relevant programs will increase membership and create a stronger and more influential American Nurse Association and state associations.

Now is the time to join our state association and participate in the nursing and health care discourse that is occurring in our communities and in our country.

“2012 Lobby Day: When Nurses Talk, Washington Listens”

Submitted by Christine Ryan, RN, MSVSNA Lobbyist

On June 13, 2012, nurses representing each state converged on Capitol Hill and met with elected officials and or their staff to discuss key nursing legislation. The American Nurses Association was responsible for organizing the event and provided nurses with all the necessary materials to support our efforts.

Vermont nurses met with staff from Representative Peter Welch’s and Senator Patrick Leahy’s office and had the good fortune of meeting with Senator Bernie Sanders personally. All of our Vermont representatives and their staff are well informed and truly engaged with the important and vital role of the nursing profession. It was an amazing opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise with others and truly experience the operations of Capital Hill.

During our conversations with our elected officials and or their staff the following three legislative issues were discussed;

1. APRN Ability to Certify Home Health Plans of Care

2. Safe RN Staffing3. Title V111-Nursing Workforce Development

Programs and Funding for Nursing EducationAs always, our elected officials want to know about

us individually and about our experiences as nurses in Vermont. It was an empowering experience to share that and connect it to our nation as a whole. It remains very evident that by lobbying Congress about legislation for patient advocacy and the nursing profession, nurses wield political power.

Membership and Publicity Committee

UpdateMembers we need your updated email addresses!!

Please send to Ann Laramee at: [email protected]

Being able to communicate with our membership will help us keep you informed of the VSNA and ANA restructuring. You will not be bombarded with emails. Even though you have shared your email with us, you can let us know if you are receiving more communications than you want; however, being able to contact people about upcoming events and legislative alerts would really be helpful. Being able to send you event brochures via email will save VSNA postage since we now have to have materials printed and then pay to mail the information to those without email.

Don’t Forget About the New Recruitment Incentive!!

Members will receive a $10 coupon towards VSNA products, programs or membership for each nurse recruited that joins ANA/VSNA. There is no limit on the number of coupons received.

Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity and grow help our professional organization.

Not a VSNA member? There is more than one membership option; some may better fit your pocket book. Here is how to join:

• Applicationinthisnewsletteronpage(9)OR• Visit our site at www.vsna-inc.org/index.htm to

download an application.The Membership Committee will continue to strive

to meet our goals of ensuring VSNA remains relevant to the needs of Vermont nurses, retaining current members, attracting new members and increasing visibility of nurses and the role we play in health care. We look forward to serving you.

Committee Members: Ruth Elsa Baldwin, Lynne Dapice, Theresa Haywood, Meredith Roberts, Isabelle Sargeant, Paulette Thabault, and Ann Laramee, Chair.

For more information visit the website www.vsna-inc.org/index.htm

Ideas or comments? Please direct them to Ann Laramee, chair of the committee at [email protected]

NursiNg CareersJoin our mission, be part of our culture! Come join our organization which has provided care to our Vermont community for over 100 years. We have full and part time benefited openings as well as Per Diem and Pay Per Visit opportunities for:

• Pediatric High Tech Nurses (RN or LPN)• Adult High Tech Nurses (RN)• Adult Home Care Professionals: • Intake Nurse (RN) • Registered Nurses • Licensed Practical Nurses • Licensed Nursing Assistants (Home Care and Hospice)

The VNA offers an outstanding benefits package for regular positions of at least 22.5 hours per week. We also offer life insurance coverage, tuition reimbursement, paid conference days, pension plan and matching 403(b) retirement plan. This, along with competitive differentials for evening, weekend, and overnight shifts, mileage reimbursement, and a great team environment make the VNA an enticing place to work.

Check out our job openings and apply online

www.vnacares.orgThe VNA is an Equal Opportunity Employer Visit www.cedarhillccc.com

SEEKINGRNs & LPNs

Call802-674-6609 or

send your resume toFax 802-674-5618

We are a continuing care community with a skilled nursing home, residential care and assisted living, as well as offering comprehensive rehabilitation services throughout our community.

49 Cedar Hill DriveWindsor, VT 05089

NursesPer Diem M-F day shifts

Per Diem all shiftsPart time to Full time evenings

Franklin County Rehab Center, LLC

110 Fairfax RoadSt. Albans, VT 05478Phone 802-752-1600

www.franklincountyrehab.com


Specialty OrganizationsPeer Support

GroupsNurses who are having difficulty with alcohol or

drug use, or who are in recovery, often find that joining a peer support group helps them cope with workplace issues and build healthier lifestyles and relationships. Group camaraderie and a professional facilitator support recovery, learning, sharing, and problem-solving with other nurses.

For more information, contact any of these qualified providers who have expressed interest in offering peer support groups for nurses and other healthcare professionals:

Michele Clark, LMHC, LADC25 Court St.Montpelier, VT 05602802-229-9608

Luanne Sberna, LCMHC, LADC, R-DMTOne Mill St., Suite 312Burlington, VT 05401802-863-9775, Ext. 2

Adam Stark, MA, LCMHC, LADC47 Williston St.Brattleboro, VT 05301802-254-9719

Terri Mayer Thomsen, MA, LADC27A Main StreetBristol, VT 05443802-349-7017

The Vermont Board of Nursing has a voluntary, non-public Alternative Program to monitor and support safe practice by recovering nurses and nursing assistants. For more information, contact Ellen Leff, RN, case manager at the Vermont Board of Nursing at 802-828-1635 or [email protected].

Nursing Practice Updates from the Vermont Board of

NursingThe Vermont Board of Nursing issues Position

Statements to provide guidance to nurses, employers, and the public regarding practice issues. The Board has recently approved the following new and revised position statements:

• FitnessforWork(new)

• TheRoleof theRN,LPN,andLNA in Initiatingand Withholding CPR (new)

• TheRoleof theRNandAPRNasFirstAssistant(revised)

• APRN Prohibition on Prescribing OralBuprenorphine (Suboxone or Subutex)

• The Role of the LPN in Intravenous InfusionTherapy (revised)

• LNAScopeofPractice(revised)

• Licensing Requirements for Nurses PerformingTelehealth Nursing to Vermonters from Outside Vermont (new).

These and several other Position Statements are available on the Board’s website at: http://vtprofessionals.org/opr1/nurses/.

Updates from the Vermont Board of NursingDuring the past several months there have been a

number of changes at the Board of Nursing. The Board is currently in the process of finding a new meeting site for the second Monday of each month so, for the foreseeable future, be sure to call the office (802-828-2396) or check the agenda on the website www.vtprofessionals/opr1/nurses/ for locations of upcoming meetings.

The Vermont Board of Nursing was expanded by statute in 2011 and now has 11 members: 4 Registered Nurses, 2 Licensed Practical Nurses, 2 Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, 2 Public Members, and 1 Licensed Nursing Assistant. The Board was increased by one to include an additional APRN. Terms are for 5 years unless an appointee is completing a term for a former Board member who left prior to finishing his or her full term.

Board members and staff are pleased to introduce the four newest members who were appointed by Governor Shumlin in December 2011 and January 2012:

Sheila S . Davis, LPN is the Quality Assurance and Assessment Coordinator at Mayo Healthcare in Northfield. A resident of South Royalton, she was educated at New Hampshire Technical College in Claremont. Her nursing career spans approximately 30 years during which time she worked at the Veterans’ Administration Hospital (White River Junction)

in long-term care, rehab, and med/surg units. At Mayo for many years, she has served in a variety of

capacities including as MDS Coordinator. She is interested in staff education and has presented multiple in-services on the survey process and infection control. She works with the statewide Multi-Drug Resistant Organisms (MDRO) Collaborative to reduce Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) and promote antibiotic stewardship.

Sheila’s term on the Board is through December 2015 and she looks forward to contributing to increased recognition of long-term care nurses as an integral part of the healthcare team.

Virginia “Ginny” M . Hudson, RN, BSN, CCRN earned her first nursing degree from Massachusetts Bay Community College. A life-long learner, she then obtained her BSN and BS in Healthcare Administration. Currently, she is working to complete her MSN through St. Joseph’s College of Maine. For more than a decade she has worked in

the ICU at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury. Certified in critical care, she likes working in a setting which embraces technology and values education and experience.

Ginny grew up in South Burlington and has resided in West Barnet for 25 years. She and her husband have 5 children and 15 grand- and great-grandchildren. In her “spare time,” she pursues many interests including gardening, kayaking, knitting, snowshoeing, and reading. Her Board appointment is for a term expiring at the end of December 2013.

Douglas E . Sutton, RN, MSN has been in practice since graduating from nursing school in 1985. He obtained his master’s degree from the State University of New York (SUNY). His primary areas of practice have been in critical care, the emergency department, PACU, and specialty procedural areas with the delivery of moderate

sedation. A resident of Vergennes, he currently practices in

Burlington at Fletcher Allen Health Care’s Radiology Department. Doug’s reasons for joining the Board include the desire to expand his professional scope of knowledge and to contribute to policy development at the Board level. His term on the Board will run through December 2014.

Ellen C . Watson FNP-BC, APRN is a family nurse practitioner (FNP) working at Winooski Family Health. A nurse for over 20 years, her first nursing degree was from North Country Community College in Saranac Lake. She continued her education at UVM in the RN-BSN-MSN track and completed her master’s degree as an FNP in

2005. Her appointment to the Board will expire at the end of December 2016.

She loves providing primary care as an APRN with nursing’s inherent focus on prevention and health promotion. She has considerable experience with health disparities collaborative work and the chronic care initiative. Ellen lives in Burlington with her family (three each of two- and four-legged). She enjoys cooking and spending time experiencing the outdoor wonders Vermont has to offer.

Opportunities in the New Opiate Treatment Center in Rutland Be on the ground floor of creating and developing a comprehen-sive Opiate Treatment Center for Rutland County. This is a first of its kind treatment program based on a hub and spoke model. RN Supervisor Full time Vermont licenseThis position will be responsible for dispensing Methadone and supervising all related medical personnel. RN will conduct history and physicals, coordinate medical needs with Primary Care and support-ing wellness. Five years plus experience, and previous supervisory experience preferred.Hours: 5:00a.m.-1:30p.m. Monday-Friday, some holidays and week-ends may be necessary as this site will be 365 days a year. LPNs/Case Manager Full time and Part time Vermont licenseDuties will include dosing of Methadone and case management and some group work. Two years s experience required. Hours: 6:00a.m.-2:30p.m., Weekends and holidays.

Contact Nancy Brower802-775-2381

Rutland Mental Health Services

Join our expert team of nurses, therapists, and home health aides who are committed to keeping people of all ages safe at home. BAYADA health care professionals enjoy:•Avarietyofschedulingoptions•Clinicalsupport24hours,7days•Meaningfulone-on-onecare•Trainingandcareerpathways

BAYADA Nurse Susie Ecker

With BAYADA Home Health Care…

BAYADAspecialtypracticesinclude

HomeHealthCare,Pediatrics,

Hospice, and Habilitation.

Compassion. Excellence. Reliability.

Call 800-446-8773 l www.bayada.com

“ It is my honor to walk this journey with these families.”

– Susie Ecker, RN

EOE


802-828-1635

You’re a nurse because you care. You want to make a difference. Malpractice claims could possibly ruin your career and your financial future. You always think of others. Now it’s time to think about yourself. Set up your own malpractice safety net.

• You need malpractice insurance because . . . - you have recently started, or may soon start a new job. - you are giving care outside of your primary work setting. - it provides access to attorney representation with your best interests in mind. - claims will not be settled without your permission. • ANA recommends personal malpractice coverage for every practicing nurse. • As an ANA member, you may qualify for one of four ways to save 10% on your premium. This is your calling. Every day you help others because you care. You’re making a difference. Personal malpractice insurance helps protect your financial future so you can go on making a difference.

800.503.9230 for more information • proliability.com

56741, 55858, 55861, 55870, 55887, 55890, 55896, 55908, 55914, 55926, 56714, 56740

(9/12) ©Seabury & Smith, Inc. 2012

Administered by Marsh U.S. Consumer, a service of Seabury & Smith, Inc. Underwritten by Liberty Insurance Underwriters, Inc., a member company of Liberty Mutual Group, 55 Water Street, New York, New York 10041 May not be available in all states. Pending underwriter approval.

CA Ins Lic # 0633005 • AR Ins Lic # 245544 d/b/a in CA Seabury & Smith Insurance Program Management

PATIENT CARE IS YOUR PRIORITY.PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE IS OURS.

Quality Care Close to Home

North Country Hospital is a 25 bed critical access private, nonprofit acute care community hospital with physician practices serving twenty communities in a two-county area in the rural Northeast Kingdom of Vermont.

Join our team!We are currently seeking

RNs & LPNs• Office Nurses • Intensive Care Unit

• Med/Surg • PACU

At North Country Hospital quality patient care is our greatest commitment, employees are our greatest asset, excellent patient experience is our greatest accomplishment, and the health of the community is our greatest responsibility.

For additional information contact: Tina Dupuis, Human Resources(802) 334-3210, ext. 407 E-Mail: [email protected]

www.northcountryhospital.org

North Country Hospital189 Prouty Drive, Newport, VT 05855

october, november, december 2012 vermont nurse connection ... · • 750 words for a press release...

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