February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 1
Vermont Nurse Connection Quarterly Circulation 25,000 to all Registered Nurses, LPNs, LNAs, and Student Nurses in Vermont
Volume 13• Number 1
Inside...
Vermont State Nurses’ Association Official Publication
President’s Letter June M. Benoit, MSN, FNP “Do your part—nurses, you guys have a lot of credibility; you touch a lot of people’s lives; people trust you—if you’re out there saying it’s time for us to act… America will finally join the ranks of every other advanced nation by providing quality, affordable health insurance to all of its citizens.”
Shedding Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder
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President Barack Obama September 10, 2009 addressing nurses at the White House
Right now some of you are reading this edition of the Vermont Nurse Connection (VNC) and still are not a member of the VSNA. You read the VNC and enjoy learning what is happening within the Vermont nursing community. You know the VSNA is working hard, in association with the ANA, to make sure nurses in Vermont have a voice. But for some reason, you still don’t join. I would like to know why. What would it take for you to join? How can the VSNA make you realize the value of your membership? Who do you want to represent nurses Nurses Day at the State House and nursing interests at tables where decisions are made that will affect you as a nurse? Who cares about your work environment? Who makes sure there is funding for nursing education in legislation? Who ensures standards of practice are based on current evidence and research? Who looks out for nurses when there are proposed changes in health care legislation? I have heard from many nurses who feel nurses should not be political and the VSNA is wrong to take stands on legislative issues. We should President’s Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 not offer our opinions. Those nurses believe we should VT Nurse Wins AANP Nurse Practitioner let “the experts” in health care make those decisions. If State Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 nurses aren’t experts in health care, who is? I want nurses speaking out for nursing issues and for health care issues! The Future of Nursing is Here Now! . . . . . . . . . . . 4 We know health care and health care issues. Would you Kappa Tau Chapter News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 let your dentist have the responsibility for fixing your car? Personal & Financial Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Of course you wouldn’t. But if we rely on others who are not nurses to speak for us, we might as well have no voice. Shedding Light on SAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Without nursing input legislation would not have been Student News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 passed that ensures you have a safer working environment Continuing Education Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . 8 with access to needleless systems, equipment is available to protect you from back injuries, many facilities have safe General News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 staffing protocols, etc. Elected officials don’t have that ANA/VSNA News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 first-hand knowledge. They rely on nurses to give them VSNA Annual Convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 11 accurate information. As your read the quote above, remember it is the Membership Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 President of the United States who is validating nurses’ District News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 role as a key player in health care reform! We are on the Specialty Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 forefront of every health care delivery setting. Consumers trust us. We must not sit idly by allowing others to make decisions that will seriously affect our profession, health care, our patients or our own economic Presort Standard stability. ANA has been a tireless advocate for US Postage meaningful health care reform which recognizes PAID the vital role of nurses, creates a system that is Permit #14 responsive to the needs of all consumers, and Princeton, MN 55371 current resident or provides equal access to safe, high-quality costeffective care for all. As our ANA President, Rebecca Patton stated in an email message imploring ANA members to become involved, “Whether you are a Democrat, Republican, or an Independent, there is one thing that we all can agree on; as nurses, we only want the very best for our profession and for the patients that we serve. The VSNA and the American Nurses
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Index
February, March, April 2010
Association (ANA) applaud House lawmakers for passing H.R. 3962—the Affordable Health Care for America Act.” The VSNA had published a letter to the editor in many Vermont newspapers supporting the public option in any health care legislation. We were pleased the legislation, closely approved by a vote of 220-215 in the House of Representatives in early November, did include such an option. We are looking forward to our Government Affairs Committee helping our Association actively participate in discussions. To learn more about ANA’s health care advocacy work, please visit http://www. rnaction.org/healthcare. It is a great website with all sorts of information and tools to help you become involved. Each individual nurse should take responsibility to become involved. Learn how to speak YOUR mind, whether or not you agree with the VSNA /ANA, please become involved in these discussions. I begin my final year as your VSNA President. In the first edition of the VNC last year I announced our financial difficulties but also our determination to weather that storm and prosper. For this year’s first VNC edition I want to highlight the successes we have experienced over this past year and discuss our ongoing challenges. We really have had a great year! Over the past few months the VSNA has seen small steady increases in membership and all three of our state Districts have elected boards with regular meetings. Active districts are essential to the viability of the VSNA; they help ensure we remain the true voice of Vermont nurses and increase our visibility. Their representation on the VSNA Executive Board gives each district a voice as well as providing new thoughts and ideas. We have increased from two committees last year to five committees this year! Expanding from just the COE and the Convention Committee, the other committees are the Program Planning Committee, Committee on Legislation (newly renamed the Government Affairs Committee), and Membership and Publicity Committee. I want to thank the members who have stepped up and taken on these responsibilities. We hope to add an additional committee, the Committee on Nursing Practice and Workplace Advocacy. Please let us know if you have an interest in serving on these committees. This past year the VSNA Board looked hard at our financial situation. We recognize we need to develop nondues revenue streams. Our largest income sources continue to be membership dues, income from our contact hour program and provider-ships, convention registration, sponsorships, and exhibitors. Smaller income sources are income from VSNA educational seminars, lobbying donations, royalties, career center income, and contributions. Increasing non-dues revenue sources continue to be an issue for the VSNA and the other state associations. We signed on with Affiniscape to create a Career Center on our VSNA Website for another income source. This fall we also signed a contract with Memberclicks, a company specializing in support and development of Association websites to help us upgrade our site and make it more user-friendly. Please check our site often as we roll out these new improvements. As President, I have participated in many ANA/ED/President level conference calls focusing on ways to strengthen each Association. Our operating risks are similar to ones we have faced before. These include competition for our member’s dollars with a shrinking economy, competing with membership in other specialty nursing organizations, union dues for those nurses working in hospitals with collective bargaining, institution cut-backs, and decreased vendor support. We President’s Letter continued on page 3
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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. 13 #2—February 22, 2010 Vol. 13 #3—May 24, 2010 Articles may be sent to the editors of the Vermont Nurse Connection at: Vermont State Nurses’ Association Attention: VNC 100 Dorset Street, Suite 13 South Burlington, VT 05403-6241 Articles may also be submitted electronically to
[email protected] .
If you wish to submit a “Letter to the Editor,” please address it to: Vermont State Nurses’ Association Attn: Vermont Nurse Connection 100 Dorset Street, #13 South 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
February, March, April 2010 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: 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!
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: ____________________
Vermont Nurse Connection Official publication of the Vermont State Nurses’ Association. Published quarterly. Library subscription price is $18 per year. ISSN# 1529-4609. Editorial Offices Vermont State Nurses’ Association, 100 Dorset Street, #13, South Burlington, VT 05403, PH: (802) 651-8886, FAX (802) 6518998, E-mail:
[email protected] Editors: Jean E. Graham and Eileen Girling Advertising For 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. Content Vermont State Nurses’ Association welcomes unsolicited manuscripts and suggestions for articles. Manuscripts can be up to: • 750 words for a press release • 1500 words for a feature article Manuscripts 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 Articles The 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 Directors President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June Benoit Past President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Katherine M. Williams Vice President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol Hodges Secretary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vacant Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jen Botelho District 1 Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcia Bosek District 2 Director . . . . . . . . Mollie Chamberlain & Katie Clark District 3 Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Virginia Umland VSN Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lorraine Welch District Presidents District 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hollie Shaner-McRae District 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catherine Ann Guy Staff Bookkeeper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Martha Stewart Lobbyist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Margaret Luce Committee Chairpersons Bylaws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eileen Murphy Convention. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vacant Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deborah Hayward-Sanguinetti Governmental Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Margaret Luce Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . .8” . . .Ads . . . . . . . . . Katherine Williams Nominating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lauren Bailey OPEN Nursing Practice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vacant Program Planning . . . . . . . . . . Pat Donehower & Angel Collins Psychiatric Special Interest Group. . . . . . . . . Maureen McGuire Congressional Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Margaret Luce Senate Coordinator for Leahy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Margaret Luce Senate Coordinator for Jeffords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Margaret Luce ANA House of Delegates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June Benoit, Carol Hodges, Margaret Sharpe, Katherine Williams Alternate Delegates . . . . . Hollie Shaner-McRae, Richard Frank Anna Gerac, Marilyn Rinker VNC Editorial • Jean Graham and Eileen Girling
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 3
Vermont Nurse Practitioner to be Honored During National AANP Conference Nurse practitioners and nurse practitioner advocates, recipients of the prestigious American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) State Awards for Excellence, will be honored in June 2010 at an awards ceremony and reception held during the AANP 25th Annual National Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The State Award for Nurse June Benoit Practitioner Excellence, founded in 1991, recognizes a nurse practitioner (NP) in a state who demonstrates excellence in practice, research, nurse practitioner
education, or community affairs. The VSNA is very proud to announce that our President, June Benoit, has received this prestigious honor. June was nominated for this award by the VT Nurse Practitioners Association (VNPA). For more information about the VNPA, visit www.vtnpa.org. AANP formed in 1985 to provide NPs with a unified way to network and advocate for NP issues and was the first national organization created for nurse practitioners of all specialties. As the largest and only full-service national professional membership organization for NPs of all specialties, AANP represents the interests of the more than 125,000 NPs currently practicing in the U. S. and continually advocates at local, state, and federal levels for the recognition of NPs as providers of high-quality, cost-effective, and personalized healthcare. For more information about AANP, visit www.aanp.org. CONGRATULATIONS JUNE BENOIT!!!
President’s Letter continued from page 1 chose to purchase new computer equipment, rather than continuing to rent. With the exception of our bookkeeper and our lobbyist, we continue to run with volunteer support. In closing, I want to thank the many members who continue to support our association. Without you, the Executive Board, each district board, and members of each standing committee, the VSNA would not be in existence. I am forever in your debt. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining us. If you are a member but haven’t been very active, we have many opportunities for you! Please contact the VSNA office with any questions or concerns. Please consider joining. Be assured your state nursing association holds your best interests close to heart and will speak for you. Thank you.
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February, March, April 2010
The Future of Nursing is Here Now! Five Tips Guaranteed to Cultivate Teamwork What a man really wants is creative challenge with sufficient skills to bring him within the reach of success so that he may have the expanding joy of achievement. ~ Fay B. Nash The pressure on nurse leaders and teams to change will only increase over the next decade. Most of us expect the highest levels of performance and integrity from each other and ourselves. We all need to develop a strategy to embrace the future from a place of strength and a mindset of challenging our assumptions and cultivating teamwork. An effective team culture Priscilla Smithis an inclusive environment Trudeau that gives members insight into who people are, a sense of belonging, a sense of behavior and understanding of what they should be doing. Like a large umbrella; it covers everyone, and no one is left out in the rain. That kind of atmosphere is created when nurses accept and value each other, no matter how different they are. Creating this tone is the responsibility of the whole team, not just that of the nurse manager. However, managers have an opportunity to encourage this development. The following five tips may help managers and teams in the process. 1. Structure opportunities for sharing. Relationships that bind a staff into a cohesive group and that tie each individual to the whole are built when people have shared vulnerabilities and have been accepted by one another. Because of the demands and hectic pace of most healthcare organizations, sharing and confiding does not necessarily happen naturally. Nurses need both a chunk of time carved out for that purpose and processes that stimulate self-disclosure. Set aside time at meetings for relationship-building activities or engage in a staff retreat where staff can spend time getting to know each other. While paying attention to interpersonal dynamics is often considered “soft stuff” and often receives a much lower priority than doing the job, meeting deadlines and being held accountable, the investment in relationship-building pays big dividends. Often, groups are reluctant to invest time in relationship-
building, wanting to just get on with the job. However, the trust, cohesion and affiliation built by those experiences pays off when tough issues emerge down the road. What often gets people through the conflict and difficult times is their early investment in relationship-building. 2. Increase awareness and understanding of differences. Nurses often have much in common, from shared goals, tasks, and team experiences to the basic needs and life problems that all human beings encounter. Misunderstood differences can be a source of conflict and interpersonal bitterness that can erode team harmony. On the other hand, when cultural differences are understood, there is less chance for behavior to be misinterpreted. For example there are differences in cultural programming between nurses with regards to education, years of experience, the ways in which nurses find meaning in their work, differing life stories and the influence of these events and understandings all effect team functioning. These differences form “the filter” through which each individual team member sees and interacts with the group. Managers and the teams they lead need to understand the elements of diversity that make up each person’s filter, as well as how to keep their own filters clear and clean. These differences make for rich variety, but it is for each team to work with those differences to form the most effective, productive combination of elements. 3. Explain the unwritten rules. Although few staff members ever read the organization’s rules and policies, they quickly learn the ropes by observing behaviors. Breaking these unwritten rules is what gets people into trouble. Not adhering to the norms or “how it’s done around here” can be the quickest way to be shut out of the team. One way to avoid confusion and embarrassment when someone unwittingly breaks a rule is to make the rules public. In one organization, the manager made it a standard practice to have the seasoned nurses brief the new hires on the informal rules. She’d get them together for a staff meeting and have the experienced nurses tell the newcomer about “what’s not in the employee handbook,” focusing on such topics as: • Greetings • Dress and appearance • Breaks, mealtimes, food • Timeliness, time needs
• Relationships with coworkers in and out of the work environment • Celebrations This session helped them understand and adapt to the culture of their new team. It also minimized the discomfort of being the new kid on the block. 4. Demonstrate that you value differences. When someone suggests a radical point of view, do eyes roll? When the group is coming to closure on an issue but someone blocks consensus, do people get irritated? When disagreement exists, is there frustration? These are the times when valuing differences is tested. For example, on one team that had worked for months to solve a particularly difficult organizational problem, the valuing of differences was put to the test. Just as the group was ready to finalize its solutions, one of the nurses expressed his reservations about supporting and committing to one of the plans. The team’s response was anger: “How could you pull the rug out now?” “Why didn’t you speak up before?” “Your lack of support will sabotage the plan!” Once over their frustration, they listened to his objections, saw merit in them and ultimately scrapped this part of the plan. Had they tried to press the issue further, he may have conformed, and they might have silenced an important piece of information and ignored a glitch in their plan, since he had given voice to a position that undoubtedly existed elsewhere among the nurses. The good news was that he felt enough trust to share his view. Had there been a greater level of trust, however, he could have helped the team more by sharing his reservation earlier. 5. Work toward mutually satisfying resolutions to conflict. When conflict arises, the response usually is to ignore it and hope it will go away, or to meet it head-on with an ultimatum. Neither of these approaches results in successful long-term outcomes. A third approach is needed. When differences cause conflict, they need to be acknowledged and addressed. They also need to be resolved in a way that works for both parties, or they will continue to erupt in new forms. If a team has succeeded in building mutual trust it will serve as a strong foundation that will free the team to respond together to the unexpected, which is essential for mutual creativity in conflict resolution. Nursing is too complex to expect ready agreement on all issues, trust, thus, does not imply easy harmony. However, in trusting relationships conflicts motivate people to probe for deeper understanding and search for constructive solutions. Trust creates good will, which sustains the relationship when one team member does something the other dislikes. The positive side of conflict is that it can bring opportunity, development and growth to individuals and teams, increased cohesion, and can lead to more effective personal and organizational performance. Cultivating teamwork is not a quick-fix solution to people problems and definitely not for an organization that wants teamwork and they want it now! As a natural process, teamwork must be cultivated and grown in an organized fashion beginning at the root level. Quick-fix solutions without a genuine commitment will only sacrifice management’s credibility and quite possibly make matters worse. Cultivating teamwork through the application of these five strategies gives individuals a sense of belonging and the gradual development of a mind-set of valuing diversity. When a team values diversity, the group will mesh all of its members’ experiences and values shaping its culture collectively, setting the stage for developing mutual trust and trustworthiness. Over time their greater diversity of perspectives will offer a range of views and knowledge, which will in turn produce better decision making, more innovation, and higher levels of effectiveness. But such harmony will be achieved only with a high level of effort and commitment to ensure its success and sustainability. Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now. ~ Goethe Priscilla Smith-Trudeau RN MSM BSN CRRN CCM is a healthcare management consultant specializing in workforce development. She is the President of Wealth in Diversity Consulting and author of Peaceful Warrior Nurse. The web is www.wealthindiversity.com.
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 5
Kappa Tau Chapter News
Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing Mari Cordes Sigma Theta Tau honored Kappa Tau with the International Chapter Communication Award at the biennial convention this October in Indianapolis. Almost 2,000 nurse leaders gathered for a week of networking and learning, and to celebrate accomplishments. Julie Jones, President, and Ann Laramee, President-Elect, accepted the award. Mari Cordes and Chris Kasprisin were present. This is the second recent award for Kappa Tau—the first being the Regional Excellence Award—and only one of four chapter awards given at the biennial. Kappa Tau also demonstrated excellence in leadership by presenting two sessions, “Staying Connected Through Social Media,” Special Session (by invitation), Julie Jones with Michelle Lily, and “Learning from Within to Insure a Successful Implementation of an Electronic Health Record,” Abstract presentation by Ann Laramee and Chris Kasprisin.
Indianapolis State House
Ann and Julie receiving Chapter Communication Award.
Upcoming events: Heart Of Leadership Dinner Sponsored By Kappa Tau Wednesday February 10, 2010 5:30-7:30pm Windjammer Restaurant 1076 Williston Rd, South BURLINGTON
Come for an informal evening of conversation with nursing colleagues. Everyone is welcome! Dinner Menu: Caesar salad Baked Potato or Rice Pilaf Seasonal Vegetable Choice of: Prime Rib, Broiled Salmon, Boston Scrod, Chicken Teriyaki, Vegetarian Option, or Chicken and Shrimp Combo. Cheesecake with Strawberries Coffee or Tea Cash bar Please RSVP by sending a check for $35 payable to Kappa Tau to JeanBeatson 477RE4 UHC 1 S.Prospect St. Burlington VT 05401 by February 1, 2010 Call Jean at 802-656-4291 for more information
Save The Date!
Kappa Tau Annual Meeting
Wednesday, May 12, 2010 Doubletree Hotel 1117 Williston Rd Burlington, VT 05403 Carol Huston, MSN, MPA, DPA, FAAN Past President, Sigma Theta Tau International 5:00: A social hour for visiting with colleagues and checking out the fabulous Silent Auction! 6:00: Keynote Speaker, Carol Huston 7:00: A scrumptious dinner buffet 8:00: Kappa Tau Annual Meeting
Registration Information will be announced soon! Check out our websites for updates: http://www.uvm.edu/~kappatau/ Questions: Contact Kappa Tau President at 802-847-7790 or
[email protected] 1.0 CEUs have been applied for this event Co-Sponsored with FAHC
Global Leadership Night April 13, 2010 at 6pm University of Vermont, Rowell Bldg 107 Sponsored by: Kappa Tau and FAHC Back by Popular demand! Rycki Maltby and several students will present their recent experience of traveling to Bangladesh and working with a College of Nursing there. She will discuss how we can support the Vision of 2020 of Sigma Theta Tau International by reaching out to support communities internationally. 1.0 CEUs have been applied for this event Fletcher Allen Health Care is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the Vermont State Nurses’ Association, Inc., an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
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February, March, April 2010
Medication errors: reduce Your risk Experts estimate that nearly 98,000 people die in any given year from medical errors. A significant number of those deaths are due to medication errors.1 The National Coordinating Council for Medication Error and Prevention defines a medication error as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the health care professional, patient, or consumer.” Mistakes can happen As a nurse, you dispense medication to your patients on a regular basis. Consequently, you’re charged with knowing the “five rights” in administering medication— right patient, right drug, right dose, right time, and right route. And while you take every precaution to avoid making errors that may put your patients at risk, mistakes can happen. Common reasons for mistakes include distractions and interruptions during medication administration, inadequate staffing, illegible medication orders, and sound-alike drug names and packaging. Reduce your risk To reduce your risk of liability, take the time to read
medication labels—especially those that you’re not familiar with. It is also your responsibility to know the drug’s dosage range, possible adverse effects, toxicity levels, indications and contraindications. Understand the medications you administer and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Consult your nurse drug guide, the physician, a pharmacist or your supervisor if you have any questions. Further protect yourself and your career with an individual liability coverage policy. Professional Liability Insurance protects you against real or alleged malpractice claims you may encounter from your professional duties as a nurse. Even if you have Professional Liability coverage through your current employer, it may not be enough. That coverage may have some serious gaps, including: • Policy limits may not be high enough to protect you and all of your co-workers • You may not be provided with coverage for approved lost wage reimbursement, licensing board hearing reimbursement defense reimbursement. • You may not be covered outside of the workplace, such as when you engage in volunteer or part-time work • You may not be covered for suits filed after you have terminated your employment
In the event of a lawsuit, your own Professional Liability Insurance policy would: • Provide you with your own attorney • Pay all approved and reasonable costs incurred in the defense or investigation of a covered claim • Pay for approved lost wages up to the limits of the policy • Provide reimbursement of defense costs if licensing board investigations are involved • Pay approved court costs and settlements in addition to the limits of liability, in accordance with the policy. Arm yourself with the protection you need so you can focus on providing excellent patient care and reduce your exposure to liability. For more information about Professional Liability Insurance, visit www.proliability.com. This article contains a summary of the insurance certificate provisions. In the instance of conflict between this article and the actual certificate, the insurance certificate language will prevail and control. The Professional Liability Insurance Plan is underwritten by Chicago Insurance Company, a member company of the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Companies. www.nccmerp.or
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Personal & Financial Health Taking Back The Playground: Coming To Terms With The Bully in You Alright, here’s what nobody wants to admit— there’s a little bully in all of us. And while you might not be called Darth Vader behind your back (yet), we all, to some degree, whether we realize it or not, have participated in bully-esque behaviors. Being able to recognize these behaviors at an early stage can help you fortify all of your relationships and, as an added bonus, it may keep you employed. To help identify the bully in you, here is a list of common bullying behaviors. We invite you to take an honest look at yourself. If you find that you have any of these red-flag behaviors, realize that these behaviors will never earn you the “Ms/ Mr. Congeniality” sash.
Susanne Gaddis
to your face. Instead, they do things behind your back that let you know you’re not okay. They say one thing and do another, producing a chaotic environment. They don’t hold themselves to the same set of standards they require of you. Passive-Aggressive behavior can range from always being late to meetings, making and then breaking promises, saying, “I was just joking,” after sending out a barbed missile-like message intended to stop others dead in their tracks. This is the type of bully who avoids taking any leadership position, letting others take the lead instead, only to sit back and criticize them on all of their decisions. Passive-Aggressive types can also act ridiculously literal. For example, if you ask these bullies to go and pick up a paper, they go pick it up and then stand there looking at you for their next command. Yet another favorite tactic is to ignore you when you ask a question, causing you to feel discomfort when you ask it again. In the hallway, they say hello to everyone else but you. After all, why should they waste their breath? Another form of Passive-Aggressive behavior is making threats. These can be direct threats such as, “I can’t wait to see what HR thinks about this,” or indirect threats such as, “We’ll just have to see what happens.” Either way the point of a threat is to cause you discomfort, make you question yourself and establish themselves in the one-up position.
1. Aggressive Behavior Elizabeth Cates This in-your-face bully operates from a place of intimidation. Their motto is “I’m okay, you’re not okay and it’s your fault!” They enjoy heated arguments filled with put-downs. They talk at a volume that can be heard in the next county over and they make comments that are destructive and combative. They in no way make it safe for you to have a conversation with them. They cut you off mid-sentence to put their ten cents in, and if they do let you finish, they find ways to use what you have said against you.
3. Blame Game This bully makes mistakes and you guessed it—it’s never their fault! Individuals who have perfected this behavior shirk responsibility for any wrongdoing and find a way to direct the blame onto others. Forget about them sharing what they can do, what they are willing to do and what they have done. Rather, they are quick to share what isn’t their job, what they can’t do, and what they haven’t done, which is, of course, no fault of their own. The blame bully makes you believe it is actually your fault for something that did not go their way. They excel at making others personally responsible for their shortcomings.
2. Passive-Aggressive Behavior Passive-Aggressive individuals have perfected the act of sabotage. This bully behaves stealthily in a way that says I’m okay, you’re not okay, but I’m not going to tell you that
4. The One-Upper Never wanting you to think you are better, stronger or smarter, this bully never lets you get the advantage. For this power-monger everything is a life-or-death competition. If you’ve done it, then they have done it bigger and better. No matter how awful your story is, their story is worse. If you’re stressed out, they’re about to blow a gasket. They know more, they knew it earlier than you and they remind you about this often. This bully seeks to maintain or boost their self-esteem and self-confidence by deflating yours. 5. Mr. Know-It-All Next of kin to the One-Upper is Mr. or Ms. Know-ItAll. This bully knows EVERYTHING about anything. When asked even the simplest of questions the Know-ItAll delivers a Shakespearian soliloquy that makes you want to cover your ears and say repeatedly, “I can’t hear you. I can’t hear you!” This wastes hours (or what seems like hours) of your precious time. Like a jackhammer they
pound away with irrelevant details you don’t want to hear and that you certainly won’t remember. Mr. Know-It-All also relishes in letting you know when you are wrong. They take great pride in letting you (and everyone else in a 10-mile radius) know that you are, in fact, w-r-o-n-g and therefore well below their Know-It-All status. 6. Gossiper By gossiping just 10 minutes a day, this bully loses forty-two hours of productivity a year. But why stop there, as most gossipers deliver much more gossip than this. This bully creates verbal viruses that spread like the flu. They infect everyone around them by sharing needless tidbits designed to make them look like they are “in the know.” This type of bully is notorious for baiting people by using questions such as, “So what have you heard about the new hire,” and “So what do you think of what the boss said in the meeting this afternoon.” Like a fisherman they stand with their line in the water waiting for you to bite, only to use your own words to filet you later. 7. “Negator”—The Stupor-hero of Negativity Faster than a speeding bullet! More spirit-sucking than a red-eyed ravenous vampire. Able to spoil positive conversations in a single bound. This stupor-hero of negativity’s slogan is, “I’ve come to ruin the day!!” Negator’s list of negative phrases includes: • “It’s not going to work.” • “Where’d you dig that one up?” • “You’re wrong.” • “That’s stupid.” • “Duh!” • “Whatever!” Forget maintaining the recommended 3-to-1 ratio of positive-to-negative communication now recommended by experts. Forget boosting anyone’s self-confidence or self-esteem. Forget any good feelings that you had before they entered the room. Negator’s sole mission is to create downward emotional spirals for everyone involved. The drain on energy after even a short visit is palpable. Seeing this bully’s car in the parking lot is quite enough to break even the strongest resolve. 8. …Ist-Behavior Racist… Sexist… Elitist… Whatever you call it, this person chooses to demean others in an attempt to elevate him or herself. Quite often, this bully’s attitude has little to do with his or her true thoughts or beliefs. This person just knows that the best way to injure someone, thereby gaining power and control, is to hit them where it hurts. Focusing on personal characteristics such as race, sex, age, religion, national origin or disability is not only abusive, it is actually illegal. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 allows for protection under the law in the workplace for these protected categories. 9. Micromanager Whether it is a bullying technique or simply bad Taking Back The Playground continued on page 7
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 7
Personal & Financial Health
Taking Back The Playground continued from page 6 management, the Micromanager tends to question the skills and abilities of those reporting to them. This person tends to make those around them uncomfortable with their constant hovering and lack of trust. This person takes credit for the work of others, since they will often swoop in and take over a project in the 11th hour—claiming the glory for a job well done. Most people working for a Micromanager eventually decide they need to go somewhere else where their talents are recognized, or they become apathetic and only do the bare minimum. 10. Electronic Bullying Too cowardly to confront you face-to-face, this bully hides behind a screen name, sending out flames… or Molotov cocktails, if they see fit. This bully doesn’t just burn a bridge… after all why stop there? Instead, they communicate in a way that torches the whole town. Rarely do they send out an e-mail without copying or blindcopying it to several others. Their other favorite tactic? Hitting ‘Reply to All’. They leave their victims confused and uncertain as to how to respond. If you saw even a little of yourself in these characters, you aren’t alone. Don’t be discouraged because the good news is: behavior is different from personality. Unlike personality, behaviors can be changed at any time, by simply adopting a new behavior! How many good people are you driving out of the workforce? Once you can accept that you are participating in bullying behaviors, the end result is up to you. You can continue on this path, or you can make a change. What will you choose? BULLYING QUIZ Do you find people shooting eye-daggers at you or refuse to make eye contact all together?
Did the productivity in your department drop dramatically when you came onboard?
Bullying Cost-Benefit Analysis:
Do you have high turn-over in your department and a lack of completed exit interviews?
Let’s be honest: There is an upside to being a bully. If there wasn’t, no one would do it!!
Does all talking cease when you walk in the room? Do you build yourself up by standing on the bones of those you have cut down? Is your theme song for life “I’ve got the power?” FUN FACT!: Over pay and over benefits, the number one reason why most people leave their jobs is because of their immediate supervisor. Susanne Gaddis, Ph.D., CSP, professionally known as The Communications Doctor, is an internationally known interpersonal communications expert. She is one of 615 speakers worldwide to have earned the Certified Speaking Professionals designation. Susanne delivers workshops, seminars, and keynote presentations for hospitals and healthcare organizations. For more information, or to book Dr. Gaddis for an upcoming conference or event, call 919-933-3237 or visit: www.CommunicationsDoctor. com. Elizabeth Cates, M.A., is an Organization Development Specialist in Houston who has worked with a variety of companies in the greater Houston Metropolitan area in a number of industries, including healthcare, education, government, and transportation. Elizabeth specializes in communications coaching, competency development, training facilitation, and leadership/management development. For more information on programs or services please call 832-465-7196 or email at elizabeth.
[email protected].
~ Being a bully means that you often get your way. ~ It’s a power trip. Watch as the peasants flee before you! ~ People tend to agree with you more (even if your idea STINKS!) ~ You probably have more time (because no one wants to talk with you!) ~ Everybody knows your name (and your evil nickname, too). ~If intimidation is your goal—Um…good job! On the flip side, the costs of being a bully are plentiful: ~ Nobody wants to talk with you. This lack of feedback causes you to have massive blind spots. ~ You have a shortened career life-span. When there is downsizing, guess whose head will be first on the chopping block? ~ You’ll be overlooked for certain jobs due to your lack of people skills. ~ People will undermine you and go out of their way to go around you to get things done. Informed? Not quite. ~ In meetings you can expect a great deal of eyerolling behavior whenever you present your ideas/ demands (let’s face it they are demands!) ~ Bullying makes it nearly impossible to get a good recommendation. ~ You tend to bring out the worst in people (beware of the angry mob with the pitchforks.)
Do others withhold their opinions or are they reluctant to share facts with you?
“shedding Light on seasonal Affective Disorder” Submitted by: Evy Smith, MA LCMHC Fletcher Allen Health Care EFAP Counselor & Tobacco Treatment Specialist It is that time of year where our energy does seem to naturally slow or shift. This is a normal phenomenon as long as one is able to continue normal activities of work, play and other life demands. Why is it that some people experience a shift evidencing notable disturbance in mood and functioning? It is possible that they may suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is a form of depression that recurs at about the same time each year for a period of at least two years in a row. There are two types of SAD: winter and summer types. This article will focus on the winter type. The symptoms can last for up to 6 months. Some of the symptoms associated with winter SAD are fatigue, increased sleep, decreased energy, decreased libido, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, lack of social interaction, increased sadness and irritability, indecision, forgetfulness, headaches, lethargy. SAD is more than the “winter blues”. There is a cause/effect relationship along with the seasonal variations in daylight hours. The shorter and darker days increase the production of melatonin which is a hormone associated with sleep. Interestingly, this was first observed in 1845, but not officially cited until the early 1980’s. The incidence is more evident in people living in high latitudes. Circadian rhythms are affected by reduced light. There is an increase in melatonin during long nights of winter and this is linked to depression. Concurrently there is a decrease of serotonin which is activated by sunlight. These chemical shifts are normal as we consider the natural forces of nature with regard to hibernation. There may be other psychosocial factors at play to explain why some people’s chemical composition reaches different levels resulting in such extreme mood shifts. Certainly, the interactions of the psychological and somatic aspects of human health are at play in this phenomenon. This leads us to some of the solution approaches that are at the forefront of best practice for treating SAD. The effective
combination of medication, light therapy, exercise along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which incorporates positive self-talk/affirmation and visualization techniques along with some mindfulness based approaches are at the forefront of treatment. Light therapy, negative ion air purification and psychotherapy are among the most prescribed treatment modalities for effective remedies for SAD. Other preventive and self-help techniques include: increasing full spectrum light at work and home prior to onset of symptoms, regular exercise (30 minutes 3 times per week), spending time outdoors and/or winter vacation to warm sunny climate if possible. I suggest designing a plan for your health over these extra demanding winter months. I encourage that you do attend to yourself and get extra sleep if needed. It is imperative, as we know, to eat a well-balanced diet. Change things up; think outside
of the box regarding trying some new ways to spend fall and winter months. We cannot underestimate the influence of the impending holiday stress which can drain one’s energy, financially, physically, emotionally, relationally etc. Remember, the whole person is always involved in experiencing the dis-ease and therefore must be involved in creating greater ease or health by following certain known principles! Seeking professional help is encouraged as part of the health care plan. Employee and Family Assistance Programs through one’s employer can be a good place to start. A couple of websites where SAD lamps are available: http://www.verilux.com/light-therapy-lamps http://www.yankeemedical.com/index.asp http://www.northernlighttechnologies.com/index.php?
Page 8 • Vermont Nurse Connection
Continuing Education Opportunities Upcoming educational Opportunities (Non-VsNA) UVM College of Medicine The following educational events are sponsored by the University of Vermont. For more information contact: Continuing Medical Education 128 Lakeside Avenue, Suite 100 Burlington, VT 05401 (802) 656-2292 http://cme.uvm.edu Emergency Medicine Update Date: 02/03/2010-02/06/2010 Location: The Stoweflake Resort & Spa Stowe, VT 19th Annual Current Concepts & Controversies in Surgery Date: 02/03/2010-02/06/2010 Location: The Stoweflake Resort & Spa Stowe, VT Vermont Blueprint for Health Date: 03/08/2010 Location: Sheraton Burlington So. Burlington, VT 2010 Vermont AHEC Geriatrics Conference Date: 04/06/2010 Location: Sheraton Burlington So. Burlington, VT Women’s Health Issues: Perception, Prevention and Practice Date: 05/05/2010-05/07/2010 Location: Sheraton Burlington So. Burlington, VT 36th Annual Vermont Family Medicine Review Course Date: 06/08/2010-06/11/2010 Location: Sheraton Burlington So. Burlington, VT Vermont Summer Pediatric Seminar Date: 06/17/2010-06/20/2010 Location: The Equinox Manchester, VT 8th Annual Northern New England Critical Care Date: 09/29/2010-10/02/2010 Location: Stoweflake Hotel and Conference Center Stowe, VT Advanced Dermatology for the Primary Care Physician Date: 10/07/2010-10/10/2010 Location: Sheraton Burlington Burlingon, VT
February, March, April 2010
Student News
The Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation Announces The Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. 2010 Scholarship Applications 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, 2010. Please complete the application below and submit it to: Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation, Inc. 100 Dorset Street, Suite #13 South 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 Awards Two scholarships Two nurses, matriculated students in masters programs, were awarded scholarships at the Vermont State Nurses’ Association Convention on November 12, 2009 held at the Stoweflake Resort and Conference Center in Stowe, Vermont. The nurses, Terry Powers Phaneuf, winner of the Arthur L. Davis Scholarship and Carmel Thomas, winner of the Pat and Frank Allen Scholarship are both employed at Fletcher Allen Healthcare. Terry Powers Phaneuf, RN, BSN, CCRN is currently a full time nurse educator in the Inpatient Rehabilitation Center. She is an active member of District I, Vermont State Nurses’ Association, the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses and the Kappa Tau Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Honor Society of Nursing. She is also
involved in a nursing research study describing the process by which an electronic health record is implemented. Carmel Thomas, RN, BSN is currently an assistant nurse manager on a general surgical unit. She participated in the Leadership Institute at Fletcher Allen Healthcare and then began her graduate studies in nursing at the University of Vermont. She is working on changing the health care delivery system on her clinical unit to improve patient and staff satisfaction and to improve patient outcomes. She also has had experience teaching junior nursing students which she enjoyed. Congratulations to these nurses! The Board of Trustees of the Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation extend their best wishes for continued success in their nursing careers.
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 9
General News
Legislative Committee 2009 Margaret Luce, MSN, RN The Legislative Committee has reorganized and Margaret Luce and Chris Steier are the co-chairs. Members are: Tina Blust, Ellen Ceppetelli, Richard Frank, Mary Ellen Kilgallen, Christina McCaffrey, Meredith Roberts, Bonnie Strand, and Jeanne Marie Vayda. The Legislative Committee has requested the name be changed to Government Affairs Committee which more accurately describes the committee’s activities; and reflects our efforts to engage and educate not only legislators, but also other elected officers and commissioners and staff of state agencies; and other professional and nonprofit organizations. The committee has identified Safe Patient Staffing as an issue we will focus on. Research indicates a correlation between staffing and patient outcomes. Nursing Education: The Vermont legislators continued their support for nursing education in the ’09-’10 academic year. VSAC has received $60,000 for scholarships for LPN and RN students. AHEC received funding for loan repayment: $250,000 for graduates of LPN and RN programs; $45,000 for graduate education of nursing faculty; and $455,000 for primary care providers including nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives, physicians, and dentists. The loan repayment program has been instrumental in attracting new LPNs and RNs to all areas of the state, and the retention rate remains high. Nurses’ Day at the State House on April 1 was very successful. Seventy two nurses from around the state came to learn how to effectively advocate in the political arena. Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders and the Vermont Diabetic Educators Association were VSNA’s partners for Nurses’ Day. Representative Johanna Donovan, Burlington,
introduced the nurses to the full House and the nurses received a standing ovation! The nurses had plenty of opportunities to learn and share their own perspectives on health care: • The Diabetic Educators offered free blood glucose screening and more than 40 legislators were tested. • Pat Jones, Director of Health Care Quality Improvement, BISHCA, discussed Act 53 and Vermont’s Community Report Cards for hospitals. Status of Legislative Bills: S. 80/H. 238, An act related to safe patient handling: The Senate Health and Welfare Committee took testimony on this bill but there has been no recent action. H. 268, An act relating to prohibiting mandatory overtime for health care employees: The General Housing, and Military Affairs Committee took testimony, but there has been no further action. H. 435, An act relating to palliative care: Passed. The purpose of this act is “to improve the quality of palliative care and pain management available to all Vermonters, to ensure that Vermonters are aware of their rights and of care options available to them, and to expand access to palliative care services for children and adults in this state.” The Vermont Ethics Network has created a work group to implement this legislation. VEN is currently working on a survey to identify health care providers, agencies and institutions that presently provide chronic pain management and palliative care. It was clear from testimony from patients and their families that access to pain management and palliative care varies, and legislators were concerned that there appears to be both under treatment and overtreatment of pain.
research round-Up The 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: • Name and Credentials of Author: • Telephone #: • Email address: • Place of Employment: • Position: • Educational institution (if student):* • Current Year of Study: • Faculty contact person: Name: Telephone #: Email address: • Date: *Student Abstracts must be submitted by their school of nursing. 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.
Nurses Day at the State House Wednesday, April 7, 2010
8:30 am to 3:30 pm FREE and OPEN TO ALL! SAVE THIS DATE! We are hoping that many nurses and nursing students from around Vermont will come to the State House in Montpelier to meet your elected legislators and be witness to the legislative process. The day starts off with speakers from the offices of Senator Leahy, Senator Sanders, and Representative Welch who will discuss national health care legislation. This is an excellent opportunity to meet your elected officials and share your personal thoughts and concerns. Join nurses from around Vermont to help increase our political profile. Specialty nursing groups and associations are also invited to set up a table in the Card Room that day. Please let the VSNA know if you would like to have a table (
[email protected]). There is true strength in numbers! Come out and help represent our nursing profession! A brochure will be mailed out soon. It is free and you do not need to register.
Page 10 • Vermont Nurse Connection
February, March, April 2010
ANA/VSNA News
Convention 2009: Nurses: Building a Healthy Vermont The 2009 VSNA Convention was held at the Stoweflake Resort & Spa in Stowe, Vermont on November 11th and 12th. Our theme, “Nurses: Building a Healthy Vermont” highlighted the many ways nurses contribute to the health and wellbeing of Vermonters and how nurses care for each other. The VSNA wishes to thank our sponsors, which included Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc., Fletcher Allen Health Care, Visiting Nurse Association of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties, Vermont State Nurses Foundation, University of Vermont Department of Nursing, and Merry Meadow Farm, Inc. We also wish to thank our 18 exhibitors, which included Copley Hospital, The Gideon’s International, Vermont Assembly of Home Health Agencies, United States Army Health Profession Recruiting, Vermont Information Technology Leaders Inc., Sanofi-Aventis, APS Healthcare Inc., The University of Vermont Area Health Education Centers Program, Kappa Tau Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, Sage Colleges, Gifford Medical Center, and the Center For Donation and Transplant. Our sponsors and exhibitors allow us to provide continuing education to nurses at a reasonable cost. We had a great turnout for Convention and all speakers received positive evaluations. On Wednesday evening, November 11th our Convention opened with a presentation by Sandy Summers, RN, MSH, MPH, co-author of Saving Lives: Why the Media’s Portrayal of Nurses Puts Us All at Risk. Sandy presented the sobering facts that despite nursing being the most trusted profession, the media continues to create television programs and advertisements featuring inaccurate portrayals of nurses. Sandy’s talk was a powerful call to action for our profession to stand up and help dispel these myths. On Thursday, November 12th the VSNA was fortunate to have as our keynote speaker ANA President Becky Patton. Becky discussed ANA’s important relationship with each nurse and each state constituent member association. She highlighted the many reasons nurses should become active in the VSNA and ANA. She shared how ANA and the CMAs have been key players in health care reform strategies and how President Obama has recognized nursing’s importance. She described ANA’s increased visibility in 2009 with seven million media impressions equivalent to $500 million dollars in ad value. ANA has been featured in the New York Times, on CNN, ABC news, MSNBC, and in USA today. ANA continues to be on the front line of health care reform activities and has participated in many White House strategy meetings. President Patton was voted one of Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Powerful People in Healthcare. ANA continues to push forward its’ National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators—5 hospitals participate in Vermont. ANA provides nurses in all practice settings with publications that address cutting-edge issues and explore the most critical trends in health care. The Magnet Recognition Program® was developed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to recognize health care organizations that provide the very best in nursing care and uphold the tradition within nursing of professional nursing practice. The Commission on Magnet Recognition Program recognizes 289 health-care organizations in 45 states, as well as one in Australia and New Zealand, for their excellence in nursing service. Through these initiatives nurses support improved health and well being of patients. A mid-morning panel discussion focused on ways nurses care for patients. Pam Farnham (Fletcher Allen Health Care), Alison White (Central Vermont Medical Center), and Lauren Young (Open Door Clinic in Middlebury) shared initiatives in various practice settings that focus on improved patient care/ outcomes. Participants learned how the Vermont Department of Health’s Blueprint for Health is having a positive outcome for patients with chronic medical conditions. They also learned how the Open Door Clinic in Middlebury helps improve the health of their area’s uninsured and underinsured. During the noon break the VSNA paid tribute to Marilyn Rinker, MSN our past Executive Director who passed away suddenly last May. A moving video tribute of her life was played and the Nightingale Tribute was presented for Marilyn and other nurses who had died. VSNA Awards were also presented during lunch. The Distinguished Service to the VSNA Award was presented to Carol Hodges, BSN for her leadership, professionalism, and her dedication to the Vermont State Nurses’ Association as the Association Vice President and Coordinator for Continuing Education activities. The Non-Nurse Significant Contribution to the VSNA Award was given to Angie Chapple-Sokol, M.L.S. from the Dana Medical Library for her assistance across the Fletcher Allen Nursing community to gain access to the most current nursing evidence and research, her continuing support of educational efforts within the University of Vermont Department of Nursing, and her active participation in the Nursing Writing Group which works on the development of nurses’ writing skills and scholarship through publishing. In addition, the
Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation named the nurses who were recipients of this year’s Honor a Nurse Campaign. The focus of the first afternoon sessions was on how nurses care for colleagues. A panel discussion on strategies for improving the work environment was presented by Jill Lord (Mt. Ascutney Hospital) and Sandy Robinson (Northwestern VT Medical Center). President Patton was also the featured speaker for a special educational session geared for nursing students. During her lively presentation, Becky shared with them strategies for making the most of their first year as a registered nurse. The final sessions on Thursday afternoon focused on how nurses could care for themselves with a presentation by Mary Val Palumbo (UVM’s Office of Nursing Workforce, Research, Planning, and Development) on how to plan for your nursing career to last a lifetime and a financial planning presentation by Cindy Hounsell (The Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement). At the end of the afternoon sessions the popular raffle was held. Besides a large array of desirable products, two new raffle items were introduced this year. The Membership Committee funded a $50 raffle for those members who were successful in getting someone else to register for Convention. Mary Val Palumbo won that raffle prize. The other new
raffle prize, a free registration to the New Hampshire Nurses Association’s Annual Convention was won by Clifford A. LaPlante. VSNA Business Meeting in Convention Highlights: Membership voted to continue our Vermont State Nurses’ Association—State-Only Membership option. Members recognized the importance of this option. In addition, members voted to change the name of our Legislative Committee to the Government Affairs Committee recognizing that the focus of this important committee is much broader than just legislation. Election 2009-2010 Results President-Elect 2009-2010: still vacant but will be filled by the Executive Board* Secretary 2009-2011: still vacant but will be filled by the Executive Board* Convention Committee: Elaine Owens, Debbie Sanguinetti, Mary Anne Douglas Nominating Committee: Lauren Bailey *Anyone interested in either of the above vacant positions or committees should contact June Benoit at
[email protected]
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 11
ANA/VSNA News
Nurses Honored at VsNA Convention The Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation (VSNF) recognized nurses that were honored by a donation to the Scholarship Fund. Certificates citing their contributions and a bit of Lake Champlain chocolate were presented to the nurses by VSNF president of the board of trustees Lorri Welch. Dr. Welch read each donors name and reason for the honor to those assembled at convention. The following describes their contributions for which they were honored and the names of the nurses. Fourteen nurse team leaders from the Visiting Nurses’ Association of Chittenden & Grand Isle Counties were honored. “These dedicated and professional nurses help the VNA care for 5,000 clients each year-over 550 visits each day. Our Team Leaders coordinate care, provide clinical supervision and oversee our talented staff of RNs, LPNs, LNAs and PCAs. They collaborate with other disciplines and providers, constantly striving to provide the best possible care to our clients and their families. Theses nurses are the heart of our mission and the epitome of VNA Cares. The fourteen Nurse Team Leaders are: Dina Child, Eileen Curtis, Pat Donehower, Jean Harry, Diane Hebda, Catherine Holdway, Ellen Leff, Linda Martinez, Angel Means, Claire McCabe, Margaret Pickett, Lynne Robertson, Suzie Staples and Jessica Whitney.” Pauline Holman—honored by Alice Kempe— “Caring for the elderly in an assisted living facility in Vermont. She has been a nurse for about 60 years, always working in a variety of settings, including Gifford Hospital. She has also been the town of Brookfield’s nurse, taking care of neighbors and their families. She served as a mentor role model for me and encouraged me to be a nurse. She deserves such an award.” Jennifer Laurent—honored by June Benoit— “Continually trying to increase access to health care in her role as President of the Vermont Nurse Practitioners’ Association. Jennifer is committed to assuring appropriate access by removing barriers for nurse practitioners to assume roles as primary care providers.” Members of the nursing department at Vermont Technical College at all the six sites around Vermont are honored by Anna Gerac, Director of Nursing Education Programs. “All of these individuals work diligently throughout the academic year to provide an invaluable amount of knowledge in the art and science of nursing to students throughout the entire State of Vermont. It is because of their efforts and dedication that Vermont Technical College Nursing Programs are regarded highly by employers.” These six sites being recognized include: Fanny Allen/Blair Park Campus, Putnam/Bennington Campus, Thompson/Brattleboro Campus, The Northeast Program, Randolph Center Campus, and the Extended Campus. Representatives from each site received the certificates on behalf of their group. Mary Val Palumbo—honored by Jeanine Carr— “Her excellent work in building a strong and healthy workforce in Vermont.” Diana Peirce—honored by Margaret Luce—“Her 30 years of service developing hospice and palliative care to patients at home, in hospitals, and long term care facilities;
Committee on education Update The COE has been busy revising the application process to meet the 2009 ANCC criteria. Two manuals have been created to help both the Activity Applicants and Provider Applicants meet the new criteria, these manuals will be posted on the new web site for easy access to applicants. There will be two educational sessions, focusing on what constitutes continuing nursing education and contact hour approval as per ANCC guidelines on January 12 (1pm5pm) in Burlington and January 13 (1pm-5pm) in St. Johnsbury. Contact hours will be provided to participants and registration can be done by contacting Carol Hodges, VSNA COE Education Coordinator at 802-748-7394 or
[email protected].
chair of Vermont Hospice Council; teaching registered nurse students care of dying; encouraging all hospice nurses to become certified.” Jean Graham—honored by June Benoit—“Her work and dedication to fragile newborns in the Fletcher Allen Health Care, Newborn Intensive Care Nursery. She also continues to provide incredible support in the Vermont State Nurses’ Association by her dedication as the Editor of the Vermont Nurse Connection, Vermont State Nurses’ Association website’s administrator and for facilitating our conversion to MemberClicks.” Mary L. Botter—honored by Alan Weiss—“Her excellent leadership as Executive Director of the Vermont Board of Nursing. Her professional and personal styles helped the Board and Profession to meet the standards of today’s practices.” June Benoit—honored by Lorri Welch—“Her commitment to excellence in her role as a nurse practitioner and as President of the Vermont State Nurses’ Association. Her energy, patience and determination have motivated a new generation of leaders in this nursing organization.” The Honor a Nurse campaign is held each year to recognized nurses’ contributions and to help raise funds for the VSNF scholarship fund. The campaign begins each year at Nurses’ Week in May and culminates with the VSNA Convention in November.
VsNA Membership Committee Update Committee: June Benoit, Michele Wade, Richard Frank, Ann Laramee (Chair) The VSNA Membership Committee continues to meet monthly to strategize ways to increase our membership and retain members of VSNA. Currently there are 261 members: 240 are ANA/VSNA members, 21 are VSNA only members. We have an additional 9 new members these past few months and 10 renewals. There have been a number of outreach efforts occurring with Schools of Nursing, Long Term Care Facilities and other professional organizations. Remember there are a variety of options to join. Read more about it and see the application in this newsletter. Membership options: In-State Only Membership Dues—$99.00 Dual (ANA & VSNA) Membership Dues—$264.00 • Employed Full Time • Employed Part time Reduced Membership Dues (for Dual Membership Option)—$132.00 • Not employed • Full-time student • New graduates from basic nursing education programs, within six months of graduation, first year of membership only. • Sixty-two (62) years of age or older and not earning more than Social Security System allows Special Membership Rate (for Dual Membership Option)—$66.00 • Sixty-two (62) years of age or over and not employed • Totally disabled. How to join: Visit our site at www.vsna-inc.org/index.htm to download an application. For more information visit the website www.vsna-inc. org/index.htm I deas or comments please direct them to Ann Laramee, chair of the committee at
[email protected]
IS YOUR NURSING ORGANIZATION PLANNING AN 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 Program Planning Committee Margaret Luce, MSN, RN The VSNA Program Planning Committee reorganized in January, 2009. Members are: June Benoit, Chair, Jane Birnn, Patricia Donehower, Heather Evans, Tepin Johnson, and Margaret Luce. The responsibilities of the PPC include creation of a standard educational calendar for VSNA, and creation of a timeline template for event planning. PPC works closely with the Education Committee for contact hour approval. The committee is grateful to Lorri Welch for her advice and assistance with the contact hour approval process. The PPC set a goal of two educational offerings each calendar year in order to meet VSNA’s mission to educate nurses, and to increase non-dues revenue to support VSNA’s operations. On September 22, 2009 VSNA sponsored a Mental Health Update: Caring for the Child and Adolescent at Risk for Self Injury Behavior and Suicide at Rutland Regional Medical Center. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in the 10 to 24 year old age group. Faculty for the conference were: Robyn L. Ostrander, MD, Medical Director of Child and Adolescent Services, Elizabeth Wilkins-McKee, LICSW, Program Manager of Outpatient and Family Services, and Darcy Gingerich, LCMHC, LADC, Senior Program Therapist, all are on the staff of The Brattleboro Retreat; and Beth Ann Maier, MD, Associates in Pediatrics. Brian Remmer, from the Youth Suicide Prevention Project, was also present and discussed the grant for the project and activities to build resiliency in youth. Dr. Ostrander is the co-author with Ronald L. Green, MD of “Neuro-anatomy for Students of Behavioral Disorders” which addresses the current research on neurobiology, its contribution to understanding suicidal behavior, and current pharmacological management of depression. The book is available through DartmouthHitchcock Medical School Bookstore. The PPC is at work on a conference on chronic pain and palliative care to be offered in the spring, 2010. Please contact VSNA with your ideas for faculty for this conference, for topics for future conferences; and, of course, we always welcome new members. The PPC meets via conference calls.
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February, March, April 2010
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 13 Purposes
• Work for the improvement of health standards and the availability of health care services for all people.
Vermont State Nurses’ Association, Inc.
• Stimulate and promote professional development. • Serve Vermont nurses as the constituent association of the American Nurses Association.
The Voice for Vermont Nurses
These purposes shall be unrestricted by consideration of nationality, race, creed, lifestyle, sex or age.
Providing:
VSNA/ANA Membership Benefits
• Opportunity to network with Nurse Professionals
Advocating for Nurses American Nurse Today
• VSNA Annual Convention
Credit Card Program
• Vermont Nurses’ Day at the State House
Education OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing
• Annual Awards recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nursing profession in Vermont.
Political Representation in Vermont and Washington, D.C. Reduced liability insurance rates plus options on life, disability, retirement, auto. Reduced fees for workshops and conferences with Continuing Education Contact Hours.
• Education Programs • Contact Hour Approval
Reduced cost for ANA certification.
• Lobbying
Reduced rates on ANA publications including Standards of Practice.
• The Vermont Nurse Connection, our official organization publication
The American Nurse Travel Discounts Workplace Health
12” Ads OPEN 10” Ads OPEN 8” Ads OPEN
v t nu
[email protected]
Page 14 • Vermont Nurse Connection
February, March, April 2010
District News
New VsNA Members: District 1: District 2: District 3:
Mohamed Basha Irene Bonin Debra Smejkal Margaret Becker Toni Kaeding Diane Martin Kathleen Boyd Karen Ellison Carlie Felion Patricia Meredith
renewals by District District 1: District 2: District 3:
Doreen Benoit Jeanne Graham Susan Sykas Paula Chiuchiolo Anne Marinello Kathy Pelletier
sAVe THe DATe Training Sessions: Understanding the New ANCC Criteria for Nursing Education and Contact Hour Approval January 12, 2010, 1 pm-5 pm Burlington, VT January 13, 2010, 1 pm-5 pm St. Johnsbury, VT For information or to register, contact: Carol Hodges Phone: 802-748-7394 Email:
[email protected]
VSNA District I Update District I held an educational program on Dec 3rd @ 5pm on Mistake Proofing your Practice. The presenter was Jeffrey Solomon from General Dynamics—a Black belt in Lean Six Sigma. The program was attended by a small group who found the event very interesting. Irene Bonin has accepted the role of Vice President for the remaining term (spring 2010) and Chris Steiers has resigned her role as Secretary due to other commitments. Please join me in thanking Chris for her service in the role of Secretary for VSNA District I and wish her well as she continues to serve VSNA in other capacities. We are planning a fun event for Valentine’s Day 2010 and invite all VSNA members, their friends and family to attend. We are having a reading from “the Hackie”—also known as Jernigan Pontiac. Jernigan is a featured writer in Seven Days newspaper and writes about his adventures as a cab driver. You can read more about Jernigan at http://www.yohackie. com. The event is being held at Fletcher Allen Health Care—Davis Auditorium at 4pm. All are invited to join in a dinner meal at the new Harvest Cafe, Fletcher Allen’s ‘green’ cafe that features locally grown foods. Read more about Fletcher Allen’s Harvest cafe at: http://www.7dvt. com/2009what-doctor-ordered. VSNA District 2 The re-organizational meeting for District 2 was held on Tuesday, May 12, 2009. June Benoit presided over the meeting. Steven Maier, Chairman of the VT House of Representatives Committee on Health Care was the guest speaker. The newly elected District 2 officers were announced as follows: President (2009-2010) Catherine Ann Guy; Vice President (2009-2011) Diana Hamilton; Secretary (2009-2011) Heather Evans; Treasurer (20092010) Janice Oliver; Auditor (2009-2011) Pat Archbold; Nominating Committee—Cindy Bullard, Julie Morse &
Alma Mueller (all one year); District Directors—Catherine Clark (2 yr) & Mollie Chamberlain (1 yr.) The meeting was attended by 18 members and 2 guests. June Benoit presented the President’s message, and recognition was given to the most recent District 2 board members whose terms ended in 2007. District 2 members should contact one of the officers for any clarification, feedback, or suggestions to help us remain a visible force in our area of Vermont. VSNA District 3 The VSNA District 3 Annual meeting was held at Rutland Regional Medical Center on June 24, 2009. The group established a Bylaws Committee that will review how our current bylaws compare with those in the other two districts and propose any necessary revisions/updates to be voted on at the 2010 District 3 Annual meeting in May. Our next District meeting was held at the Sirloin Saloon in Rutland on September 22, 2009. At this meeting, the group developed the schedule for our remaining meetings. The group voted to meet on the following dates: at the VSNA Annual Convention in Stowe on November 11, 2009; in Springfield, VT, on March 10, 2010; and in Bennington, VT, on May 18th. Locations for the Springfield and Bennington meetings have not yet been determined. The District 3 Board is very interested in receiving feedback as to how we can meet the needs of our members. Please feel free to contact any Board members with suggestions or comments: Virginia Umland, Jane Worley, Richard Frank, Kathy Felder, and Michelle Wade. It is most helpful for communicating with our members if we have current email addresses, so please make sure your contact information is current with the VSNA. Your support is most helpful as we strive towards making District 3 an active force in the VSNA.
February, March, April 2010
Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 15
Specialty Organizations Upcoming events
Health Care Reform: The Impact for Vermont (What every health care trustee needs to know) February 3, 2010 9:30 am - 2:30 pm Capitol Plaza ~ Montpelier, VT Please plan to join us for a conference to focus on federal and state health care reform efforts and what it will mean for health care trustees. For more information, contact: Dave Yacovone, Director of State Legislative Affairs Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems 148 Main Street • Montpelier, VT 05602 Phone: (802) 223-3461 x110 To Register, visit: http://www.vahhs.org/events/index.htm
VONL Leadership Summit March 25-26, 2010 Killington Grand Resort Hotel & Conference Center Killington, VT For more information, contact: Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders 148 Main Street • Montpelier, VT 05602 Phone: (802) 223-3461
How staffing shortages Put You at risk You’ve surely seen the headlines announcing the nationwide nursing shortage, but have you heard the country is also experiencing an alarming shortage of trained allied health professionals too? Working in the healthcare field, you’ve undoubtedly encountered a staffing shortage at one time or another. Unfortunately, it appears these shortages may stick around for awhile. The allied health provider shortage is predicted to reach between 1.6 and 2.5 million workers by 2020.1 What does a staffing shortage mean for you? If you’re working in a setting with reduced staff, you could encounter one of the following situations: • You may be required to care for more patients or clients than normal • You may need to assume the responsibilities of a coworker who is absent • You may be expected to complete duties you don’t normally perform • You may have less time to spend with your patient or client in order to meet the demand of your practice Any of these scenarios could impact your ability to provide proper, quality care to your patients and clients. Not only does this compromise them, you become increasingly susceptible to making a mistake—and that puts you at a greater risk for a malpractice lawsuit. What can you do? Patient and client safety come first. If you feel your ability to provide quality care is compromised by staffing challenges, you should: • Speak up and ask for help if asked to do something out of your normal scope • Prepare for the shortage ahead of time if possible by doing your research and preparing questions • Ask for direct supervision • Be proactive about sharing information between clinicians to reduce the risk of miscommunication • Never leave your workplace in the middle of treating your patients or clients
Reduce your liability risk Further protect yourself and your career with an individual liability coverage policy. Professional Liability Insurance protects you against covered real or alleged malpractice claims you may encounter from your professional duties. Even if you have Professional Liability coverage through your current employer, it may not be enough. That coverage may have some serious gaps, including: • Policy limits may not be high enough to protect you and all of your co-workers named in a lawsuit. • You may not be provided with coverage for lost wage reimbursement, licensing board hearing reimbursement and defense costs. • You may not be covered outside of the workplace, such as volunteer and part-time work. In the event of a lawsuit, your own Professional Liability Insurance policy would: • Provide you with your own attorney • Pay all reasonable costs incurred in the defense or investigation of a covered claim • Pay for approved lost wages up to the limits of the policy • Provide reimbursement of defense costs if licensing board investigations are involved • Pay approved court costs and settlements in addition to the limits of liability Working in an environment that is understaffed can be difficult and frustrating. Arm yourself with the protection you need so you can focus on providing excellent patient care and reduce your exposure to liability. For more information about Professional Liability Insurance, visit www.proliability.com. This article contains a summary of the insurance certificate provisions. In the instance of conflict between this article and the actual certificate, the insurance certificate language will prevail and control. 1
recruitingtrends.com
The Professional Liability Insurance Plan is underwritten by Chicago Insurance Company, a member company of the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Companies.
Updates from the Board of Nursing – December 2009 • Recruitment for the Executive Director position continues. The Office of Professional Regulation is searching for an experienced Nurse Leader with a Masters degree in Nursing. Go to www.vtpersonnel. org for further info. • The Practice Committee is currently updating and revising the Board of Nursing’s existing position statements found at www.vtprofessionals.org/opr1/ nurses. You can find two new position statements there—Determining Scope of Practice and The Nurses Role in the Administration of Cosmetic Injectables. There is also a form to request the development of position statements on additional topics. • Concerned about a practice issue? Call the Board of Nursing at 802-828-2396 and ask for Ellen Hagman. You may also consult the Statutes, Rules and Position Statements that are available on our web site. • The Board is currently drafting revisions to the Administrative Rules that pertain to Advanced Practice RN’s in Vermont. Please check the Board of Nursing web page for updates. • The Education Committee recommended updating the curricular requirements for Nursing education programs in Vermont. The Board approved changes in the minimum criteria used for evaluation as well as a broadened interpretation of “clinical” to include all settings where nursing is practiced (such as schools, offices, communities). If you have any questions about a nursing education issue, please call 802-828-2396 and ask for Elizabeth Hansen. • Mary Botter, the Executive Director was honored recently by the Vermont State Nurses Association and the National Association of Nurse Practitioners.