Culture of Safety:It Starts with

N U R S I N G A C H I E V E M E N T S 2 0 1 5

2

Transformational LeadershipWelcoming Raritan Bay to Our Meridian Health Family 4

Awards and Honors 5

Exemplary Professional Practice

Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence 11

Meridian’s Cultural Ambassador Program 13

ITEAM: A New Grant to Provide Interprofessional Education and Improve Care Coordination 14

Certifications 15

Life-Long Learning 20

Professional Organizations 21

New Knowledge, Innovations, and ImprovementsResearch 23

Bringing Integrative Medicine to Life 25

Publications 26

Presentations 27

Structural Empowerment

The Transformation of Shared Decision Making at Meridian Health 31

The Creation of a New Shared Decision Making Model 31

Synergy Team Award 32

2015 Magnet Conference 33

Community Service and Outreach 34

International Service and Educational Achievements 38

Foundation Awards 41

National Awards 45

This annual report was prepared by Meridian’s Corporate Communications and Marketing Department in collaboration with the Ann May Center for Nursing and Allied Health

Table of Contents

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Dear Colleagues and Friends of Nursing at Meridian Health, When I think about our past year here at Meridian, two words immediately come to mind: growth and development. While both encompass everything that has been buzzing around our organization, they factor into one of our most important objectives for Meridian Nursing: to promote a culture of safety. This concept cannot be achieved without constant growth and permanent development within each and every one of you.

One of the most exciting highlights from 2015 is that we welcomed Raritan Bay Medical Center to our family, better positioning both of our organizations for the future. Included among our many synergies is the fact that Raritan Bay also has Magnet-recognized nurses. With the addition of Raritan Bay, Meridian has grown to include more than 3,700 nurses and has more than 2,300 beds caring for more than 81,000 inpatient admissions and 338,000 Emergency Department visits annually. I believe there is a power in numbers and together we will focus on improving outcomes, overall health, and even the way we provide care for our communities.

In 2015, we also began to lay the groundwork for creating a high-reliability organization (HRO). This type of organization involves in a complex environment that delivers exceptionally safe and consistently high-quality care over time. We’ve introduced training across Meridian to improve safety and quality through the practice of mindfulness, the use of tools and checklists that turn behaviors into habits, and a preoccupation with failure so strong that we always feel comfortable and supportive in speaking up to prevent errors.

The underpinnings of Meridian Nursing also include our new Shared Decision Making Model. At Meridian, we believe excellence in nursing practice is achieved through a shared decision-making approach that promotes the involvement of the professional nurse in all aspects of professional practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. This means providing opportunities for nurses at all levels of the organization to have a voice, and advocating for the patient and family in clinical and organizational decision-making. Such collaboration contributes to the achievement of outstanding organizational outcomes.

The tools for success are at your fingertips. You have a responsibility to yourself, your profession, and your patients to be the best nurse you can be. Nurture your mind, commit to excellence, expand your competence, and always practice compassion – success will then be yours.

The future of Meridian is filled with so many possibilities. I thank you all for your outstanding commitment to excellence in patient care and to the ideals of the profession. With you, we are able to achieve a culture of safety at Meridian for our teams and our communities, ultimately contributing to the growth, development, and success of ourselves.

Maureen E. Sintich, MSN, MBA, R.N., WHNP-BC, NEA-BC Senior Vice President Chief Nursing Officer

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Welcoming Raritan Bay to Our Meridian Health Family

As of January 1, Meridian’s merger with Raritan Bay Medical Center was completed. As of now, we are working to align Meridian and Raritan Bay’s operations. This merger will be about delivering value to the patients Meridian Health serves, which means providing the highest quality care and the best access at the most appropriate cost. By combining and expanding our resources and services, we will better meet the needs of our communities and will enhance our ability to thrive in this increasingly challenging health

care environment. While Meridian Health serves primarily Monmouth and Ocean counties and parts of Middlesex County, Raritan Bay services Middlesex County and parts of Northern Monmouth County. The neighboring geography will allow us to give residents in those areas more choices for accessing care and tertiary services.

In addition to sharing Meridian’s charitable mission, Raritan Bay also has Magnet-recognized nurses and is committed to similar services such as cardiovascular, stroke, cancer, and orthopedics. Meridian and Raritan Bay share common interests and cultures, and our synergies will work well together as we continue to develop the continuum of care through ambulatory centers and joint ventures. Meridian and Raritan Bay also participate in a group-purchasing organization together and have collaborated on services in the past, like Raritan Bay’s cardiac catheterization laboratory.

With Raritan Bay now as a member of the Meridian Health family, we comprise more than 15,000 team members, 2,700 physicians, 3,700 nurses, 2,900 volunteers, and have more than 2,300 beds caring for more than 81,000 inpatient admissions and 338,000 Emergency Department visits annually.

Transformational Leadership

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Awards and Honors

Our nurses continually raise the bar of excellence, so it is not surprising to find that so many Meridian nurses have been recognized for their exceptional accomplishments.

Elizabeth Akinlolu, BSN, RN-BC Sigma Theta Tau, JSUMC International Honor Society of Nursing

Maria Soledad Banal, BSN, Florence Nightingale RMC RN-BC, CCRN Award, Meridian Health; Elizabeth Kellogg Award for Nursing Excellence; David A. Jasper Scholarship

Lillian Barnickel, R.N. Florence Nightingale JSUMC Award, Meridian Health

Katie Belko, BSN, R.N., CEN Galaxy Award, Meridian Health; Nominee, Nurse of the Year, MH Bayshore Community Hospital

Lisa Bellingham, BS, R.N., CCRN Barbara “Foof” Forfar Nursing Scholarship OMC

Rose Benanti, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Krysta Berkowitz, BSN, Dean’s List, Utica College OMC RN-BC, CEN

Rocel Besa, Ph.D., RN-BC, CNE Preceptor of the Year Award (MSN-Nursing Education Track); RMC Marjorie Unterberg School of Nursing & Health Studies, Monmouth University; Nurse Educator of the Year, Philippine Nurses Association of New Jersey

Sheila Boylan, BSN, RN-BC Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health; JSUMC Ann May Alliance Educational Fund Scholarship

Corina Broderick, R.N. David A. Jasper Scholarship RMC

Jennifer Brown, BA, Dorothy Kaywood Shafer Nursing Scholarship; JSUMC CNOR, RN-BC Mildred H. Rosa Trust President’s Scholarship Award

John Buckley, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Sarajane Campbell, MSN, Lloyd Family Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC RN-BC, CHN

Shirley Campuzano Joann Watson Cultural Diversity Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC

Nicholas Cardinale, R.N., CRNI Nominee, Elizabeth Kellogg Award for Nursing Excellence; RMC Ann May Center for Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health

Lisa Carter, MSN, R.N., CCRN Orion Award, Meridian Health SOMC

Awards and Honors

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Lisa Chrepta, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Gabrielle Cifaldi, BSN, R.N., CCRN Mark & Cindy Lefkowitz Nursing Scholarship JSUMC

Melissa Cloutier, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Mary Cohen, R.N., WCC Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing MNRW

Charlotte Cole, MSN, RN-BC Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Jennifer Collins, BA, RN-BC, CNOR Mildred H. Rosa Trust President’s Scholarship Award JSUMC

Michelle Cowan, RN-BC Patricia Leone Nursing Scholarship RMC

Carey Cranmer, BSN, R.N., CCRN Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health SOMC

Jo Ann Cummings, Ph.D., R.N., Certificate of Appreciation-Abstract Judge, Annual Behavioral MH PPCNP-C, CEN and Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students, Seattle, Washington

Diane Cusick, AAS, R.N., CEN Dr. Harry Poppick Nursing Scholarship BCH

Shannon Davis, R.N. James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift JSUMC Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

Michelle DeGennaro, BSN, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health OMC

Mariebelle DelMundo, RN-BC Orion Award, Mehandru 5 Team, Meridian Health JSUMC

Jennifer Dember, BSN, R.N., PCCN Nominee, Nurse Excellence Award, Riverview Medical Center RMC

Tara DeNucci, BSN, R.N. Cum Laude, Stevenson University; Sigma Theta Tau, OMC International Honor Society of Nursing; Sigma Alpha Pi Honor Society Leadership and Success, Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honor Society

Corinne DeSevo, BSN, R.N., OCN Sally Hetzler Nursing Scholarship RMC

Sue Diehl, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Carmela Dirosa, BSN, R.N., CRN Doctors Choice “Nurse of the Year”, Ocean Medical Center OMC

Susan Dowd, BSN, RN-BC Polaris Award, Meridian Health BCH

Jennifer Drew, BSN, RN-BC Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health, JSUMC Rudolf and Ellen Rumeld Memorial Scholarship

Jackie Dwyer, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Janet Edinger, MSN, R.N., High Honors with Distinction 4.0 GPA, SOMC CEN, CPEN Chamberlain College of Nursing

Michele Fagely, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Awards and Honors

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Awards and Honors

Alicia Fernandez, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Jelomay Gautier, BSN, R.N. Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing; OMC President’s Honor, Chamberlain College

Ryan Geraghty James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift JSUMC Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

Angela Gilani, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health, JSUMC Megan Barnes Cardiovascular Memorial Scholarship

Deborah Goldman, BSN, Emerging Leaders under 40 Scholarship Award, OMC R.N., OCN National Oncology Nursing Society

Terri Gonzalez, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Christine Hader, DNP, RN-BC, The Meridian Health Synergy in Action Recognition Award MH CPAN, CCRN-K

Maryna Hall, R.N. Peggy Wines Scholarship JSUMC

Marianne Halleran, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Joan Hallman, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Pattyann Hansen, MSN, RN-BC, Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health RMC CMSRN, CNOR

Melissa Harker, MSN, R.N. Ann May Alliance Educational Fund Scholarship JSUMC

Kim Hart, RN-BC Golden Rule Nursing Scholarship JSUMC

Joan Harvey, DNP, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Annette Henry, RNC-BC Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Amanda Hessels, Ph.D., MPH, Hero’s Implementation Research Scholar Award, Association MH RN, CIC, CPHQ for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC); APIC Chapter Leadership Award, Annual Conference; Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Training, Columbia University, School of Nursing

Marcia Hogarth, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Kristi Huffert, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Cathy Isnardi, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Shannon Jones, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Sharon Jones, MS, RN-BC, CCRN Ann May Center for Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health OMC

Cara Kennedy, R.N. Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health OMC

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Greta Keturakyte Veronica B. & Felix J. Wolfe Scholarship; OMC Barbara “Foof” Forfar Nursing Scholarship

Stephanie Kingston, R.N. Mildred H. Rosa Trust President’s Scholarship Award BCH

Marissa Klein, BSN, RNC Mehandru Award for Nursing Excellence, Meridian Health JSUMC

Kimberly Kruesi, RNC Mildred H. Rosa Trust President’s Scholarship Award OMC

Debra Kyne, R.N. Kenneth and Millicent Brown Memorial Scholarship JSUMC

Erin Lacey, BSN, R.N., CMSRN David A. Jasper Scholarship RMC

Lainey Lally, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Barbara Lawless, BA, RN-BC, OCN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health SOMC

Duane Leist, R.N. Sally Hetzler Nursing Scholarship RMC

Jennifer Lindquist, BSN, R.N. Dawn’s Gift Award, Ann May Center, Meridian Health; JSUMC Kathryn Breslin Bahrt, R.N. Memorial Scholarship

Tara MacIntyre, LPN Polaris Award, Meridian Health MNRB

Genevieve Marino, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Kathleen Martin, MSW, LSW, Honoree, OMC Hospital Association Trustees Reception; OMC RN-BC, OCN Brick Township Proclamation of “Kathy Martin Day” Galaxy Award, Meridian Health

Fiona McArdle, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Lori Messer, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health; JSUMC Ann May Alliance Educational Fund Scholarship

Patricia Mezzina, BSN, R.N., Nominee, Elizabeth Kellogg Award for Nursing Excellence JSUMC CCRN, NE-BC

Michael Milano, R.N. James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift JSUMC Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., Lester Z. Lieberman Humanism in Health Care Award, MH CCRN, AG-ACNP Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey

Caren Milne, LPN Polaris Award, Meridian Health MNRB

Kristine Monia, DNP, R.N., CEN The Meridian Health Synergy in Action Recognition Award MH

Edwin Montanez, LPN Dorothy Salerno Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health MNRB

Katherine Morris, BSN, R.N. Nurse Residency Graduate 2015 BCH

Stacey Musto, BSN, R.N., Gail Lawrence Memorial Award, Meridian Health JSUMC CCRN-CSC

Awards and Honors

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Awards and Honors

Jennifer O’Scanlon, BA, BSN, R.N. David A. Jasper Scholarship RMC

Patrice Pearce, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Megan Pecelli, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Amy Piccicacco Veronica B. & Felix J. Wolfe Scholarship OMC

Rose Polasky, MA, R.N., James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift JSUMC CCRN, CPAN Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

Landa Poiani-Darocki, MSN, R.N., Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health MH APN-BC, COHN-S, FAAOHN

Jason Poranski, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Haley Priestley, R.N. Golden Rule Nursing Scholarship JSUMC

Iwona Regula, RN-BC Mildred H. Rosa Trust President’s Scholarship BHCC

Kaitlyn Reiff, R.N. Frank S. Hedges Memorial Scholarship, Meridian Health; JSUMC Nelda Ragan Memorial Scholarship, Meridian Health

Vera Reiner, R.N., CPN Barbara Bailey Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health; OMC Physician’s Scholarship Award, Ocean Medical Center; Ann May Center for Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health; Nominee, Elizabeth Kellogg Award for Nursing Excellence

Rebecca Reinhold, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Diane Resnick, MPA, RN-BC Health Care Leadership and Community Service Award, JSUMC Latino American Association of Monmouth County, Inc.

Kerrianne Reuter, BSN, R.N. Dean’s List, Chamberlain College of Nursing JSUMC

Thomas Ringwood, R.N. Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health BCH

Jennifer Rochesky, R.N. Rich Hader Pay it Forward Nursing Award, Meridian Health; SOMC Mildred H. Rosa Trust President’s Scholarship

Bernie Romer, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Kathleen Rospos, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Tracy Ross, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Karen Rothenberg, Honoree, Health Care Leadership and Community Service, JSUMC BSN, RN-BC Annual Awards Banquet, Latino American Association, Monmouth County NJ

Kelly Rubino, BSN, R.N., Lloyd Family Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health; JSUMC CCRN-CSC James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

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Lorraine Ruchalski, BSN, Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing JSUMC R.N., CNOR Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship

Mymil Santos, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Kelly Sattler James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift JSUMC Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

Courtney Scheiderman, R.N. Leslie Stewart SGNA Scholarship, Meridian Health; JSUMC James F. Ackerman Federation, Yesterday’s Best Thrift Shop Scholarship, Meridian Health

Michele Schuetz, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Sarina Sestito, R.N., OCN Sally Hetzler Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health; OMC Mehandru Award for Nursing Excellence, Meridian Health

Kathy Simmonds, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Barbara Sopko, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Misty Springer, R.N. Dorothy Salerno Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health OMC

Mary Lou Stevens, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Kameka Thompson, BSN, RN-BC Specialty Scholar, Meridian Health JSUMC

Debra Umlauf, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Christine Ward, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Jenna Wallace, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Jennifer Waraska, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Lisa Weiss-Walters, R.N. Mary Louise Parry Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC

Diana Waltz, BSN, RN-BC Alpha Sigma Lambda, Lambda Tau Chapter, RMC National Honor Society

Patricia Weber, R.N., OCN Kellogg Award for Nursing Excellence OMC

Nicole Wedding Barbara “Foof” Forfar Nursing Scholarship OMC

Shakia West, R.N., SW, CDN David A. Jasper Scholarship RMC

Gail Williams, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Helen Yousef, R.N. Ann May Alliance Educational Fund Scholarship JSUMC

Christine Zebrowski, BSN, The Carol Ann Cawley Weshnak Pediatric Nursing JSUMC R.N., CPN Scholarship Award

Awards and Honors

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Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence

FELLOW

Elizabeth Axelson, R.N., BSN OMC

Nanci Barta-Kovic, R.N., CNOR, DIP JSUMC

Marylen Basilio, R.N., BSN, CNN OMC

Jayme Bland, R.N., BSN, CCRN JSUMC

Jenelle Boda, R.N., BSN BCH

Thomas Booth, R.N., BSN BCH

Monica Brown, R.N. JSUMC

Lisa Carter, R.N., MSN, CCRN SOMC

Michelle Cowen, R.N., BSN, RN-BC RMC

Suzanne S. Darby, R.N., BSN, OCN SOMC

Nigell Daradar, R.N. RMC

Carolyn Deering, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Michelle Degennaro, R.N., BSN OMC

Yvonne Desbordes, R.N., ONCB RMC

Marie Rose Espinosa, R.N., BSN, RNC JSUMC

Joseph Greenly, R.N., RN-BC OMC

Patricia Hanson, R.N. BCH

Candace Horneck, R.N., BSN BCH

Marie Italiano, R.N., RN-BC, NVRN OMC

Satwant Kaur, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Kaylynn Kinhofer, R.N., BSN BCH

Tae Susan Klein, R.N., CNOR JSUMC

Megan Klein-Burke, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Daniel Laing, R.N., CNOR RMC

Alex Lavarez, R.N. RMC

Jenna Lawson, R.N., BSN, RN-BC OMC

Patria Rose Licas, R.N. RMC

Alice Marasco, R.N., BSN, CNOR JSUMC

Christopher Marchand, R.N., RT OMC

Maryjoy Marzan, R.N., BSN, RN-BC JSUMC

The C.A.R.E. Program acknowledges and rewards nurses who have demonstrated a level of clinical expertise and who practice at a level that improves patient outcomes.

Danielle N. Marzarella, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Julia Molettiere, R.N., BSN, CPEN, CBC SOMC

Sara Montasaro, R.N., OCN OMC

Anastasiya Mora, R.N. RMC

Felicia Mulholland, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Trisha Novello, R.N., MSN, RNC OMC

Kristen O’Hagan, R.N., BSN SOMC

Nicole Ossichak, R.N. JSUMC

Megan Pfeifer, R.N. OMC

Hayley Priestly, R.N. JSUMC

Laura Rudorfer, R.N. OMC

Victoria Russo, R.N., BSN OMC

Marina Shirley, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Jill M. Smyth, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Christine Starr, R.N., RN-BC OMC

Lauren Tagle, R.N., BSN, ONC OMC

Laurette Vivaldi, R.N., BSN RMC

Katelyn Webster, R.N., BSN JSUMC

Nicole Zieser, R.N., BSN, RN-BC JSUMC

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RESOURCE

Wilhelmina Alvia, BSN, R.N., CRN RMC

Anne Bakalian, BSN, R.N., CNOR OMC

Sara BaoAngan, BSN, R.N. JSUMC

Jennifer Barsky, BSN, R.N. BCH

Barabara Bosch, R.N., CMSRN, OCN SOMC

Debra Bower, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Maureen A. Brock, AAS, R.N., CRN RMC

Kathleen Caprio, BSN, R.N., CMSRN BCH

Sonia D. Chapman, BSN, R.N., PCCN BCH

Jessica Compoly, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Almera Espanol, BSN, R.N., RNC BCH

Emelie Ann Fano, BSN, R.N., RNC BCH

Galina Gaczynski, R.N. RMC

Ann M. Hazen, R.N., CCRN BCH

Jogle Ann Hertzog, R.N., RNC BCH

Grace Khalil, BSN, R.N., CGRN BCH

Sara Joy Kristinsson, BSN, R.N., ELNEC OMC

Sylvia Lau-Kwan, BSN, R.N., RNC RMC

Dominique Legotte, BSN, R.N., RNC JSUMC

Josephine Linderoth, BSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Sonya Li Pera, BSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Kathleen Lind, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Catherine Lopez, BSN, R.N. BCH

Justina Ann Mastro, R.N. BCH

Jennifer McCartney, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence

Meghan Mees, R.N., CCRN JSUMC

Nestor C. Mercado, R.N. BCH

Jennifer Minotti, R.N. SOMC

Lisa Morris, BSN, R.N., RNC-OB SOMC

Joal Nisler, MSN, R.N., CCRN JSUMC

Marie Ombres, R.N. JSUMC

Patricia Peras, BSN, R.N., CCRN JSUMC

Jodi Piserchia, R.N., RN-BC, CAPA JSUMC

Yvonne Pornel, BSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Maria Chona Quinto, BSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Kaitlyn Reiff, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Armie Reyes, BSN, R.N. JSUMC

Krista Roberts, BSN, R.N., CCRN, CEN OMC

Dorthy Russell, R.N., CAPA JSUMC

Courtney Schneiderman, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Kristen Siebert, BSN, R.N. JSUMC

Marian Villanueva, BSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Sally Walsh, BSN, R.N. RMC

SCHOLAR

Kimberly Alcott, R.N. JSUMC

Ma Elisa Aquino-Oliveros, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Marie T. Arbour, MSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Ellen Asaro, BSN, R.N., RNC OMC

Lynn-Holly Benzon, R.N., PCCN JSUMC

Sheila Boylon, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Christine M. Brown, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Deborah Corsair, BSN, R.N., CCRN, CMC OMC

Glynda Daradar, BSN, R.N., RNC RMC

Jackie DiBernardo, BSN, R.N., RNC, OCN, CHPN RMC

Bridget Finnegan, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Giovanna Giordano, R.N., RNC RMC

Adele D. Giovia, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Pattyann Hansen, MSN, R.N., CMSRN, RNC RMC

M E R I D I A N H E A LT H N U R S I N G A C H I E V E M E N T S 2 0 1 51 3

Meridian’s Cultural Ambassador Program

Knowledge of cultural customs enables nurses to offer better care to racially and ethnically diverse groups. Most importantly, this knowledge provides the foundation for specific assessments of individual patients, families, and communities, allowing nurses to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” approaches toward the provision of culturally competent care. Care that is congruent with patient’s cultural background, as well as expectations, is imperative for positive patient outcomes. To empower nurses at the bedside in cultural competent care for our older adults, the Cultural Ambassador Program was implemented. The goals of the program are to build positive nurse-patient relationships, increase the nurse’s confidence to understand the cultural context of health behaviors, increase sensitivity, and learn cultural nuances associated with the decision making process and health care preferences.

The Cultural Ambassador acts as a role model for other staff by championing cultural best care practices and protocols, while assisting colleagues and other health care workers with cultural competencies, with an emphasis on improving care and outcomes for the patients in the health care system. By creating this cadre of Cultural Ambassadors at the bedside, these Ambassadors are the go-to person for each individual unit and will improve the access to culturally appropriate resources. The development of the role, challenges, and successes, as well as role responsibilities and outcomes, will continue to grow as the program is executed at Meridian. It is important that cultural competence be viewed as health care competence, meaning that health providers have the capacity to be equally therapeutic with older adult patients from any social context or cultural background.

Exemplary Professional Practice

Ellen Heffernan, BSN, R.N., RNC JSUMC

Kathleen Heggie, R.N., CCRN, RN-BC JSUMC

Noreen Imbemba, R.N., MSNCB OMC

Kristin Inzana, BSN, R.N., RN-BC RMC

Robyn Kroon, BSN, R.N., RNC OMC

Brianne McNamara, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Therese Meisenhelter, R.N., CPAN BCH

Carol Nickel, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Eileen O’Malley, BSN, R.N., CGRN RMC

Eileen Pruchnik, R.N., CGRN RMC

Noelle S. Ragusa, R.N., CPN JSUMC

Rebecca Reiff, BSN, R.N., RN-BC JSUMC

Patricia Renna, MS, R.N., CNOR RMC

Enid Russell-Hernandez, R.N., RNC OMC

Pamela Sachkowsky, R.N., PCCN JSUMC

Ann-Marie Scala, BSN, R.N. OMC

Eddy M. Sousa, R.N., CRN JSUMC

Elizabeth Spinosa, BSN, R.N. JSUMC

Jennifer Stigler, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Patricia Weiss, BSN, R.N., CNOR BCH

Marilou P. Yosuico, BSN, R.N., PCN JSUMC

SPECIALTY SCHOLAR

Bernard Bandong, BCN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Gloria Amy Borja, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Kathleen George, BSN, R.N., CEN SOMC

Joleen L. Mandel, BSN, R.N., RN-BC BCH

Jessica O’Neill, BSN, R.N., CPN JSUMC

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ITEAM: A New Grant to Provide Interprofessional Education and Improve Care Coordination

The Ann May Center for Nursing and Allied Health has been awarded a three-year $1.5 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to implement the Interdisciplinary Teamwork and Education Across Microsystems (ITEAM) program. The purpose of ITEAM is to provide team members across disciplines with education and training that will result in improved patient outcomes for our older adult patients across our continuum of care. A Geriatric Consultation Team consisting of a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, clinical pharmacist, geriatric education program manager, health education transition coordinator, and physician educator are working on Jersey Shore’s Booker 3 with geriatricians, attending physicians, medical residents, nurses, other members of the care team alongside patients and families to provide smooth transitions in care.

The grant will allow Meridian Health to promote and provide better collaborative practice and care by providing interprofessional education using active learning methods such as simulation and drama based modalities. Additionally, the Ann May Center for Nursing and Allied Health will be able to provide mini-grants to interdisciplinary teams to foster the development and implementation of practice change that directly impacts outcomes for older adult patients. Specific measures to ensure a collaborative care environment for older adults include:

• An inpatient geriatric-focused team of an APN, pharmacist, and patient transition and education coordinator review patient files and conduct interdisciplinary rounds on patients over the age of 75 and patients over 65 with multiple co-morbidities.

• Use of the BOOST tool, developed by the Society of Hospital Physicians, in which the ITEAM members assess a patient’s risk for adverse events after discharge in order to mitigate those risks.

• Use of the SPICES tool, developed by Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders, in which the team works with the nursing staff to identify common geriatric syndromes in order to prevent adverse events while in the hospital.

• Grants to encourage interprofessional quality improvement activities, which are available to improve care processes

• The ITEAM works closely with the Transition Care Unit to assure that effective education is started prior to the actual move to the Transition Unit

• By using the Beers criteria, medications are reviewed and recommendations are made to the care provider on possible interactions and adverse reactions common in the geriatric patient populations.

Meridian Health nursing continues to honor its long-standing commitment to improving care for our most vulnerable older patients, and through this grant, the care team is striving to improve communication, education, practice and care coordination for the benefit of Meridian Health’s patients.

Exemplary Professional Practice

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Certifications

The enduring desire to advance one’s clinical skills and to achieve new knowledge is a powerful motivation for Meridian nurses.

Acute/Critical Care Knowledge Christine Hader, DNP, RN-BC, CPAN, CCRN-K recert MH Professional – Adult, Pediatric, Neonatal (CCRN-K)

Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist Maureen O’Brien, DNP, R.N., CCRN, ACNS-BC recert SOMC Board Certified (ACNS-BC) Kathleen Russell-Babin, Ph.D., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC recert MH

Adult Gerontology Acute Care Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., CCRN, AG-ACNP recert MH Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)

Adult Gerontology Primary Care Racel L. Fernandez, MSN, RN-BC, PCCN, AGPCNP-BC SOMC Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC) Marie Paz Basinang, MSN, RN-BC, AGPCNP-BC JSUMC

Adult Nurse Practitioner Board Margaret Corcoran, ANP-BC recert MH Certified (ANP-BC)

Ambulatory Care Nursing (RN-BC) Karen Cadigan, RN-BC recert JSUMC Patti Lucarelli, MSN, RN-BC, CPNP-PC, ANP, PMHS recert JSUMC Kathleen Martin, MSW, LSW, RN-BC, OCN recert OMC Karen Rothenberg, BSN, RN-BC recert JSUMC

Cardiovascular Registered Nurses Cathy Schlick, BSN, R.N., CVRN-BC recert SOMC Board Certified (CVRN-BC)

Cardiac Vascular Nursing (RN-BC) Rocel Besa, Ph.D., RN-BC, CNE recert RMC Shirley Marina, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC

Certified Ambulatory Jacqueline Harmon, R.N., CAPA RMC Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA)

Certified Breastfeeding Julia Angelo, BSN, R.N., CPN, CBC recert SOMC Counselor (CBC) Kim Aufiero, RNC-NIC, CBC recert JSUMC Joanne Dougherty, RNC-MNN, CBC RMC Maryann Steinel, RNC-OB, CBC recert SOMC

Certified Cardiovascular Care Kim Pheifer, BSN, RN-BC, NE-BC, CCCC JSUMC Coordinator (CCCC)

Certified Case Manager (CCM) Robin Paczkowski, MSN, R.N., CCM JSUMC Margaret Sparandera, MSN, R.N., CCM JSUMC

Certification Clinical Research Linda Murphy, MSN, MPA, R.N., NE-BC, CCRC JSUMC Coordinator (CCRC)

Certified in Electronic Fetal Barbara Taylor, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM recert JSUMC Monitoring (C-EFM) Judith Sweeney, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM recert OMC

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Certifications

Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Katie Belko, BSN, R.N., CEN MH Diane Cusick, AAS, R.N., CEN recert BCH Janet Edinger, MSN, R.N., CEN, CPEN recert SOMC Marie Kalletta, R.N., CEN BCH Kristine Monia, DNP, R.N., CEN recert MH Guy Moyer, BSN, R.N., CEN recert RMC

Certified Gastroenterology Dara Bachman, R.N., CGRN JSUMC Registered Nurse (CGRN) Christina Barrett, BSN, RN-BC, CGRN recert JSUMC Robyn McNamara, R.N., CGRN recert JSUMC Cindy Stagg, BSN, R.N., CGRN recert SOMC

Certified General Nursing Kathy Colangelo, RN-BC recert JSUMC Practice (RN-BC)

Certified Heart Failure Georgina Muth-Maurelli, MSN, R.N., APN-C, CHFN OMC Nurse (CHFN)

Certified Hospice and Palliative Michele Guide, R.N., CHPN JSUMC Care Nurse (CHPN) Kristen Perri, MSN, R.N., OCN, CHPN recert JSUMC

Certification in Infection Amanda Hessels, PhD, MPH, R.N., CIC, CPHQ recert MH Prevention and Control (CIC)

Certified Medical Surgical Barbara Bosch, CMSRN, OCN recert SOMC Registered Nurse (CMSRN) Alyssa Reichard, BSN, RN-BC, CMSRN RMC Dion Shaw, BSN, R.N., CMSRN JSUMC Brenda Snow, MSN, R.N., CMSRN recert SOMC Tracey Yaeger, BSN, RN-BC, CMSRN RMC

Certified Nephrology Nurse (CNN) Jennifer Harper, R.N., CNN recert OMC

Certified Nurse Operating Mary Clair Delbury, BSN, R.N., CNOR recert SOMC Room (CNOR) Lorraine Ruchalski, BSN, R.N., CNOR JSUMC

Certified Occupational Health Lisa Deeves, BSN, R.N., COHN-S MH Nurse – Specialist (COHN-S)

Certified Oasis Specialist – Deborah Zabilowicz, BS, R.N., CWCN, COS-C MHCS Clinical (COS-C)

Certified Pediatric Emergency Idisbeth Burke, BSN, R.N., CEN, CPEN recert RMC Nurse (CPEN)

Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) Julia Angelo, BSN, R.N., CPN, CBC recert SOMC Donna Bator, R.N., CPN recert OMC Ann Marie Conte, MSN, R.N., CPN recert JSUMC Patricia Saklas, R.N., CPN, CCRN recert JSUMC Sara Scheller, BSN, CCRN, CPN, HHC-AADP recert JSUMC Vera Reiner, R.N., CPN recert OMC

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Certifications

Certified Pediatric Nurse Nicole Jurik, MSN, R.N., CCRN-NIC, CPNP-PC JSUMC Practitioner – Primary Care Patti Lucarelli, MSN, RN-BC, CPNP-PC, ANP, PMHS recert JSUMC (CPNP-PC) Nancy Winouski, MSN, APN, CPNP-PC recert JSUMC

Certified Post Anesthesia Patrice Levy, APN, RN-BC, CPAN recert JSUMC Nurse (CPAN) Nancy Trione, BSN, R.N., CPAN recert OMC

Certified Professional in Amanda Hessels, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., CIC, CPHQ recert MH Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN) Carmela Dirosa, BSN, R.N., CRN recert OMC

Certified Registered Nurse Nicholas Cardinale, R.N., CRNI recert RMC Infusionist (CRNI)

Certified Rehabilitation Natalie Arrowood, R.N., CCRN SRI Registered Nurse (CRRN) Cortney Dunn, BSN, R.N., CRRN SRI Caitlyn Fallon, R.N., CRRN SRI Allison Gough, BSN, R.N., CRRN RMC Victoria Hanrahan, R.N., CRRN SRI Jane Juezan, R.N., CRRN MNRB Laura Landre, R.N., CRRN SRI Krystal Ruerup, R.N., CRRN SRI Jennifer Sager, R.N., CRRN SRI

Critical Care Registered Maria Soledad Banal, BSN, RN-BC, CCRN recert RMC Nurse-Adult (CCRN) Lisa Carter, MSN, R.N., CCRN recert SOMC Donna Ciufo, DNP, R.N., FNP-BC, NE-BC, CCRN recert JSUMC Carey Cranmer, BSN, R.N., CCRN recert SOMC Marie Foley-Danecker, MSN, R.N., CCRN, NE-BC recert OMC Sharon Jones, MS, RN-BC, CCRN recert OMC Patricia Mezzina, BSN, R.N., CCRN, NE-BC recert JSUMC Arriel Hosein-Rogers, R.N., CCRN RMC Kelly Rubino, BSN, R.N., CCRN-CSC JSUMC Shirley Shook, MSN, RN-BC, CCRN, NVRN-BC, SCRN recert BCH

Critical Care Registered Christine Powers MSN, CCRN, CPNP JSUMC Nurse-Pediatric (CCRN) Patricia Saklas, R.N., CPN, CCRN JSUMC

Family Nurse Practitioner Board Rachel Hollywood, MSN, FNP-BC, ONC, RN-BC OMC Certified (FNP-BC)

Gerontological Certified Charlotte Cole, MSN, RN-BC JSUMC Nurse (RN-BC) Gail Harning, RN-BC BCH Joan Harvey DNP, RN-BC, CCRN MH Megan Movelle, RN-BC MNRB Iwona Regula, RN-BC recert BHCC Kameka Thompson, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC

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Certifications

Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (RNC-OB) Heidi Grady, BSN, RNC-OB recert SOMC Pamela Rossan, RNC-OB recert RMC Sharon Smith, MSN, RNC-OB recert JSUMC Maryann Steinel, RNC-OB, CBC recert SOMC Judith Sweeney, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM recert OMC Barbara Taylor, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM recert JSUMC

International Board Certified Joyce McKeever, MS, R.N., IBCLC, LCCE recert JSUMC Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)

Maternal Newborn Joanne Dougherty, RNC-MNN, CBC recert RMC Nursing (RNC-MNN)

Medical-Surgical Nursing (RN-BC) Ellen Asaro, BSN, RN-BC, CNRN recert OMC Elizabeth Akinlolu, BSN, RN-BC recert JSUMC Violeta Baguio, BSN, RN-BC recert OMC Krysta Berkowitz, BSN, RN-BC, CEN OMC Lynne Bottge, RN-BC recert JSUMC Charlotte Cole, MSN, RN-BC JSUMC Stephanie Ceylan, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Tricia D’Aloia Gandolfo, MSN, RN-BC recert RMC Marguerite DeMaio, RN-BC recert OMC Susan Dowd, BSN, RN-BC BCH Naomi Goldman, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Rachel Hollywood, MSN, FNP-BC, ONC, RN-BC recert OMC Amanda Lillis, RN-BC recert JSUMC Kathleen Lind, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Ean Manansala, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Maria Victoria Mapoy, BSN, RN-BC, ONC recert OMC Marieta O’Brien, BSN, RN-BC, CNRN recert OMC Regina Opare-Sem, MSN, RN-BC recert RMC Mathew Philips, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Alyssa Reichard, BSN RN-BC, CMSRN RMC Carol Sinahon, BSN, RN-BC recert JSUMC Kameka Thompson, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Barbara Valentin, RN-BC recert RMC Orlene Van Duyne, MSN, RN-BC recert JSUMC Diana Waltz, BSN, RN-BC recert RMC Tracey Yaeger, BSN, RN-BC, CMSRN RMC

Neonatal Intensive Care Kim Aufiero, RNC-NIC, CBC JSUMC Nursing (RNC-NIC)

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Certifications

Neurovascular Registered Nurse Meghan Mosakowski, BSN, R.N., CCRN, NVRN-BC JSUMC Board Certified (NVRN-BC) Shirley Shook, MSN, RN-BC, CCRN, NVRN-BC, SCRN recert BCH

Nurse Executive Advanced, Kathleen Russell-Babin, Ph.D., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC recert MH Board Certified (NEA-BC) Patricia Worth, R.N., ANP-BC, NEA-BC MQC

Nurse Executive Board Donna Ciufo, DNP, R.N., FNP-BC, NE-BC, CCRN recert JSUMC Certified (NE-BC) Ulanda Marcus-Aiyeku, DNP, NE-BC, RN JSUMC Kim Pheifer, BSN, RN-BC, NE-BC, CCCC recert JSUMC

Nursing Informatics (RN-BC) Joy Mamuszka, MSN, RN-BC MH

Oncology Chemotherapy Peggy Lauro, R.N., OCN recert BCH Biotherapy Certificate

Oncology Nursing Deborah Goldman, BSN, R.N., OCN recert OMC Certification (OCN) Sara Kovaly, R.N., OCN recert OMC Peggy Lauro, R.N., OCN recert BCH Kathleen Martin, MSW, LSW, RN-BC, OCN OMC Suzanne Penna, R.N., OCN recert OMC Patricia Weber, R.N., OCN recert OMC

Orthopedic Nurse Certified (ONC) Rachel Hollywood, MSN, FNP-BC, ONC, RN-BC recert OMC Lora Lenahan, MS, RNC, ONC recert JSUMC Maria Victoria Mapoy, BSN, RN-BC, ONC recert OMC Linda Robinson, BSN, R.N., ONC recert OMC

Pain Management Certified (RN-BC) Christine Hader, DNP, RN-BC, CPAN, CCRN-K recert MH Patrice Levy, APN, RN-BC, CPAN recert JSUMC

Pediatric Mental Health Patti Lucarelli, MSN, RN-BC, CPNP-PC, ANP, PMHS recert JSUMC Specialist (PMHS)

Progressive Care Certified Bruce Alston, MSN, MBA, RN-BC, PCCN recert SOMC Nurse (PCCN) Shaun Haughey, R.N., PCCN-CMC recert JSUMC

Registered Nurse Surgical Jerry Bertekap, BSN, R.N., CNOR, RNFA RMC First Assistant (RNFA)

Resident Assessment Coordinator Iwona Regula, RN-BC recert BHCC Certified (RAC-CT)

Wound Care Certified (WCC) Mary Cohen, R.N., WCC recert MNRW

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Life-Long Learning

I remember hearing those words for the first time in 1990 as a young idealistic nursing student. Never could I imagine that 25 years later, I would still be learning; still be motivated to continue learning; or still be seeking to fulfill my dream of becoming an educator myself. Yet, over the past four years, well into my career as an R.N., I have achieved that very goal.

As an experienced Emergency Department nurse, I had maintained certifications, collected my CEUs, and dutifully attended continuing education classes. I was one of many nurses who felt that obtaining my BSN was not needed. After all, would it really make me a better nurse? But I also knew I wanted more for myself both personally and professionally. Whether I had 10 years or 20 years remaining in my career, I knew I wanted to fulfill my dream of becoming an educator. My hope was to impart the knowledge I had learned and more importantly to provide the support and encouragement I had received as a new nurse.

Four years ago, I began the BSN program through Chamberlain College of Nursing. An online program seemed very foreign to me as I had always attended traditional classes. How would I interact with the instructor and other students? How would I apply for tuition reimbursement or student loans? How would they ever find my transcripts, which by now I was sure where buried deep in the basement of Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center? Also, I was not exactly ‘computer literate’ and the thought of even the most basic computer functions seemed terrifying! Thankfully, I found tremendous support in the online community and within Meridian Health.

Chamberlain, like many online programs, provided excellent telephone support for their students. I also contacted the librarians of Booker Library at Jersey Shore, who provided a class on conducting online literature searches. This proved very helpful throughout my courses. The Booker librarians were also helpful when I needed to complete a paper on different religions in various world cultures. They retrieved articles and recommended sites that were informative and prescient to my paper. But my true God-send was found when I met Elizabeth Carlson, coordinator for Talent & Organizational Optimization at Meridian. Elizabeth guided me through the tuition reimbursement process, she explained FAFSA loans, and directed me toward the numerous scholarships available through Meridian.

One by one, I completed my online classes. Soon, a year had gone by and my goal was in sight. A funny thing happened in that first year, as my goal became more tangible, my understanding of different aspects of nursing expanded. Research, statistics, nursing theory, informatics all became clear and I truly gained new insight that I used at the bedside, in staff meetings, and when precepting novice and expert nurses. My computer skills improved exponentially! By the end of the first year I was making PowerPoints and Excel spread sheets.

Finally, two years had gone by and I obtained my BSN. I was fortunate to travel to St. Louis, with my husband, mother, and two sons and walk for my graduation. It was a proud moment and I was very excited to finally meet the many friends I had made in the online classroom. It is amazing to speak with nurses from across the country and share similar clinical and professional experiences.

My personal decision to return to school was centered upon my desire to become an educator. Perhaps you have a similar goal in mind, to be an educator, work in informatics, obtain a leadership position or become a nurse practitioner. While it was not always easy, it was always doable. So much so that on December 20, 2015, I was conferred my MSN-Educator and have indeed reached my goal and realized my dream of becoming a nurse educator.

Janet Edinger, MSN, R.N., CEN, CPEN

Exemplary Professional Practice

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Professional Organizations

Collaboration, interaction with peers, and leadership skill development are all fundamental to advancing the nursing profession.

Bruce Alston, MSN, MBA, SOMC Member, Professional RN-BC, PCCN Practice Council; Member, Nursing Research Council

Jerry Bertekap, BSN, R.N., RMC Representative Operating CNOR, RNFA Room, Professional Practice Committee

Rocel Besa, Ph.D., RN-BC, CNE RMC Board of Directors, Philippine Nurses Association of NJ Monmouth Sub-chapter

Barbara Bosch, CMSRN, OCN SOMC Vice president, Health Professionals and Allied Employees HPAE Local 5138

Lynne Bottge, RN-BC JSUMC Co-chair/mentor, Professional Practice Committee Member, Shared Decision Making Committee, Meridian Health; Member, Falls Prevention Committee, Meridian Health; Member, Ambulatory Nursing Council, Meridian Health

Nicholas Cardinale, R.N., CRNI RMC Member, editorial review board, Infusion Nurses Society, Journal of Infusion Nursing

Jo Ann Cummings, Ph.D., R.N., MH Editorial board member, Journal of Emergency Nursing PPCNP-C, CEN

Tricia D’Aloia Gandolfo, RMC Vice president, Board of Health, Shrewsbury Boro, MSN, RN-BC Shrewsbury, NJ

Patricia Durski, MSN, RN-BC MH Co-chair, Technology Committee, Delaware Valley Nursing Computer Network

Evelyn Ferguson, MSN, R.N., OMC Secretary, Oncology Nursing Society, Central OCN, ONC New Jersey Chapter

Marie Foley-Danecker, MSN, RN, OMC President, American Association of Critical Care Nurses, CCRN, NE-BC Jersey Shoreline Chapter

Deborah Goldman, BSN, R.N., OCN OMC Secretary, Oncology Nursing Society Central New Jersey Chapter

Amanda Hessels, Ph.D., MPH, MH Chair, Nominating Committee, Association for Professionals in R.N., CIC, CPHQ Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), Northern New Jersey Chapter; Peer Reviewer, American Journal of Infection Control; Board Member, Meridian Health Institutional Review Board (IRB)

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Professional Organizations

Sharon Jones, MS, RN-BC, CCRN OMC Board member/program chair, American Association of Critical Care Nurses, Jersey Shoreline Chapter; Review panel, Chapter Awards, AACN’s 2015 Fiscal Year

Patti Lucarelli, MSN, RN-BC, JSUMC Board of directors member, American Academy of Pediatrics, CPNP, ANP, PMHS NJ Chapter PCORE; Advisory council member, Pediatric and Adult Asthma Coalition of NJ

Ulanda Marcus-Aiyeku, DNP, JSUMC Board member, Rutgers University School of Nursing NE-BC, RN Alumni Board

Kathleen Martin, MSW, LSW, OMC President, Oncology Nurses Society (ONS), Central RN-BC, OCN New Jersey Chapter

Lizzie Martinez, MSN, R.N., OCN SOMC Newsletter editor, Central New Jersey Oncology Nursing Society

Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., MH Review panel – research grant, American Association of Critical CCRN, AG-ACNP Care Nurses; Review panel – evidenced-based poster abstract, American Association of Critical Care Nurses

Maureen O’Brien, DNP, R.N., SOMC Treasurer, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), CCRN, ACNS-BC Jersey Shoreline Chapter

Diane Resnick, MPA, RN-BC JSUMC Advisory board member, Leadership Special Interest Group, American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing

Linda Robinson, BSN, R.N., ONC OMC Co-chair, Professional Practice Committee

Kathleen Russell-Babin, Ph.D., MH Board of directors, Organization of Nurse Executives NJ; NEA-BC, ACNS-BC Board president/founding member, NJ Organization of Nurse Executives, Political Action Committee

Cindy Stagg, BSN, R.N., SOMC President, Region 67 Ocean CGRN Monmouth NJ SGNA

Diane Stanaway, MSN, JSUMC President of New Jersey R.N., NE-BC, OCN Women of Today; Secretary of Central New Jersey Women of Today

Aisa Uguumursaikhan, R.N. JSUMC Member, Patient Education Committee

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Research

The key to providing exceptional patient care is the continuous effort to define and implement best practices. Through research and evidence-based practice, Meridian nurses strive for the knowledge and evidence that improves outcomes and the quality of care.

Site Study TitlePrincipal Investigator Name(s)

Principal Investigator Credentials

JSUMC Gauging Assistant Nurse Managers’ Perceptions of Charge Nurse responsibility

Michael Rupp BSN, RN-BC

JSUMC Development and Implementation of an Interdisciplinary Plan of Care for Orthopedic Patients undergoing Total Hip and Knee replacement Surgery

Ulanda Marcus-AiyekuMargaret DeBari

MSN, R.N.

JSUMC Efficacy between finger labyrinth and progressive muscle relaxation tape for anxiety

Betty Ann Brooks Conrad Ehrig

MSN, R.N.

JSUMC Examining anticipated turnover of newly hired nurses in a long term care setting

Darry Guli MA, R.N., APN

JSUMC Factors that contribute to and impede exclusive breastfeeding after discharge

Sharon HerlanBarbara Williams

R.N., Ph.D.R.N.

JSUMC Comparing the accuracy and timliness of manual and automated vital signs workflow

Christine DevineBill Schreiber

MSHI, RN-BCBSN, R.N.

JSUMC Infant driven feeding vs scheduled feeding and the effect on length of stay in hospitalized premature infants

Lori Messer MSN, R.N.

JSUMC A descriptive study of universal point of care testing for early detection of pediatric dyslipidemia

Barbara Scarano DNP, MSN, R.N.

JSUMC Impact of Nurse Staffing on patient Readmissions within 30 days of discharge

Tara Claudio MSN, R.N.

JSUMC Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Kathy Russell-BabinEileen Fuorry

Ph.D., MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNSR.N.

JSUMC A comparison of educational interventions to impact behavioral intent toward pressure ulcer prevention among nurses on a medical surgical unit

Kathy Russell-Babin Ph.D., MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS

JSUMC Certification, Clinical Advancement, Work Empowerment and Engagement and Healthcare outcomes

Christine HedgesBarbara Williams

Ph.D., R.N.Ph.D., R.N.

JSUMC Geriatric Institutional Assessment Profile of: A Benchmarking Study

Joan Harvey DNP, RN-BC, CCRN

BCH RN Transitions to Practice Residency Model for Long Term Care

Linda J. Hassler R.N., MS, GCNS-BC, FNGNA

BCH Comparison Study of Opioids alone vs Ofirmev and Opioids

Gail HarnigSusana Adal

BSN, RN-BCR.N., BSN

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Research

Site Study TitlePrincipal Investigator Name(s)

Principal Investigator Credentials

BCH Proposal for Psychometric and Pilot Testing of Standard Precautions Climate and Observation Tools

Amanda HesselsAnne BreenSusan InwrightPatty Ann HansenMaureen O’BrienSusan DowdKatie Belko

Ph.D., MPH, R.N., CIC, CPHQMSN, CNS, CCRN, CMCRN-BCMSN, RN-BC, CMSRN, CNORDNP, R.N., CCRN, ACNS-BCBSN, RN-BCBSN, R.N., CEN

BCH Nursing Patient Communication Wendi Hodapp R.N., BSN

OMC Stop CAUTI Nicole Ortiz R.N., SOCH

OMC Techniques to enhance intravenous insertion in an infusion center: Dry Heat vs. Standard Therapies

Cheryl Capetta Barbara Lawless

RN BSN OCNRN-BC, OCN

OMC The Impact of an Out of Bed (OOB) Initiative on Length of Stay (LOS) in Elderly Patients Admitted to an Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit in a Community Hospital

Barbara Williams Ph.D., APN, R.N.

OMC Implementation of a Delirium Predictor in Elderly Hip Surgery Patients

Helen Miley Sharon Lubeck

Ph.D., R.N.Ph.D., R.N.

OMC The Relationship of Hospitalized Elders’ Perceptions of Nurse Caring Behaviors, Type of Care Unit, Satisfaction with Care, and the Health Outcome of Functional Status

Linda Hassler MS, R.N., GCNS-BC, FNGNA

OMC Partnership for Use of Patient Activation to Address Employee Obesity.

Kathy Russell-Babin Ph.D., MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS

OMC Prevalence and Predictors of Undernutrition in Hospitalized Elderly

Rhodora Barretto MSN, RNC

OMC “QUEST to Safe Care at Home: Transition Care and Empowerment of the Older Adult”

Amanda Hessels (MH-PI)Nancy Lenaghan

Ph.D., R.N.

MSN, R.N.

OMC Work Empowerment and Engagement: Is There a Difference Between Certified and Non-Certified Nurses?

Christine Hedges Ph.D., R.N.

SOMC Pilot Study to assess the Self Care Abilities of Heart Failure

Bruce Alston R.N.

Meridian at Home

Comparative studies of low vision rehabilitation outcome measures (Johns Hopkins sponsored)

Dawn Jacobsen R.N.

CORP “Use of Electronic Data to Improve Risk Adjustment for Hospital Infection Rates.” STUDY SPONSORS: UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND AND PREMIER, INC. (AHRQ GRANT RO1 HS022291-0)

Amanda Hessels Ph.D., MPH, R.N., CIC, CPHQ

CORP Brigham & Womens’ Hospital, Harvard Medical School, UC Irvine. “Automated Cluster Detection in Hospitals” (CDC Prevention Epicenters III) (grant #1U54CK000172)

Amanda Hessels Ph.D., MPH, R.N., CIC, CPHQ

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Bringing Integrative Medicine to Life

Last year, Meridian announced that a new holistic approach to medicine was being developed in the form of an Integrative Health & Medicine Program. Our program will focus on incorporating evidence-based medicine and multi-disciplinary collaboration in the delivery of world-class, integrative patient-centered care, and will address five pillars of wellness (nutrition, activity, resilience, purpose, and sleep) by providing care for patients with conditions such as sleep disorders, chronic pain, cancer, depression, anxiety, stress, cardiovascular disease, and women’s health-related conditions. Since the announcement, we have been working steadily to make this dream into a reality.

Integrative health and medicine is an approach that addresses the whole person and looks at the root cause of disease and illness. Additionally, evidence-based interventions such as acupuncture, health coaching, mind-body therapies, and nutritional supplementation, may be incorporated. Our goal for integrative health and medicine is to have it weaved into the tapestry of care provided by Meridian so that no matter where a patient is along our continuum, they will have an opportunity to connect with our experts. Primary care physicians (PCPs) will be integral to the success of this program. Patients without a PCP will be scheduled for a consult with a Meridian-affiliated PCP through a health coach. If further acute care is required for more critical health care needs, patients will be referred to a participating specialist or a Meridian hospital as needed.

Beginning July 1, we will be offering our services in a dedicated center located in Meridian Health Village at Jackson; however, it is important to note that our program will delve beyond a simple brick-and-mortar operation. We have been working steadily with our service line leaders and nurse navigators in oncology, cardiology, neuroscience, women and children’s services, and behavioral health to determine an approach that is both mutually beneficial and can also help optimize clinical outcomes. In regards to the neurosciences, we are examining how integrative medicine can complement the already outstanding treatment we provide for stroke, brain injury, pain management, and more. As an example, health coaches will work closely with our nurse navigators in stroke and sleep to help bridge conventional medicine with complementary interventions.

A successful program requires a strong foundation from which we can continue to build. To that end, we are building our staff and our professional affiliations with thought leaders in this field. Stay tuned for updates this summer about our Integrative Health and Medicine Program.

About Lori Knutson, R.N., BSN, HNB-BC, director of Integrative Medicine at Meridian Health

Lori Knutson is both a clinician and health care administrator with over 25 years of dedication to the advancement of integrative health care. Lori is the founding executive director (2002-2011) for the Penny George Institute for Health and Healing, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, recognized as the largest and most comprehensive integrative health program in the U.S. She is founder and president (2011-2016) of Integrative Healthcare Solutions, an international consulting firm that partnered with individuals and organizations to develop and advance sustainable integrative health initiatives.

In 2013, as the senior director of Health and Wellness Services for Touchstone Mental Health, she opened a community-based integrative mental health clinic for the underserved in Minneapolis. Lori also served (2006-2008) as executive director of Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute with Allina Health in Minneapolis. She is core faculty for Duke University’s Integrative Health Leadership Program and has co-authored several book chapters and published peer-reviewed articles.

New Knowledge, Innovations, and Improvements

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Publications

Katie Belko, BSN, MH Co-Author, “Improving Heparin Dosing for AMI Patients” Meridian R.N., CEN CardioVascular Network

Jo Ann Cummings, Ph.D., MH Cummings, J.F. (2015). Pediatric procedural pain – How far have we come? R.N.,PPCNP-C, CEN An ethnographic account. Pain Management Nursing, 16 (3), 233-241

Amanda Hessels, Ph.D., MH Hessels, A., Moving toward zero hospital-acquired infections. American Nurse MPH, R.N., CIC, CPHQ Today [Special report Infection Prevention], 10(9), p.2; Hessels, A., Flynn, L., Cimiotti, J. Cadmus, E., Gershon, R. The impact of the nursing practice environment on missed nursing care. Clinical Nursing Studies, 3(4), p. 60-66. Hessels, A.J. & Larson. E.L. Systematic Review of Patient Safety Climate and Standard Precaution Adherence. Hessels, Larson. Journal of Hospital Infection. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2015.08.023 (NIHMS 725528). Hessels, A.J., Flynn, L., Cimiotti, J.P, Gershon, R.R. & Bakken, S. Impact of Health Information Technology on the Delivery and Quality of Patient Care. Online Journal of Nursing Informatics, Fall 2015, Volume 19. (ISSN # 1089-9758.); Loyland, B. Wilmont, S., Hessels, A.J. & Larson, E.L. KICK Interview Project: A qualitative exploration of barriers to infection prevention practices in pediatric long term care. Nursing Research. [In press]; Hessels A.J., Robinson B, O’Rourke M, Begg MD, Larson EL. Building interdisciplinary research models through interactive education. Clin Transl Science J 2015; Dec 4. doi: 10.1111/cts.12354. [Epub ahead of print]

Marcie Jannetti, MSN, MH Jannetti, M. C. (2015). Managing medical device alarms in the hospital setting. R.N., CNOR AORN Journal, 101(4), P13-4 1p. doi:10.1016/S0001-2092(15)00227-6

Ulanda Marcus-Aiyeku, JSUMC Marcus-Aiyeku, U, DeBari, M, & Salmond, S. (2015). Assessment of the DNP, NE-BC, R.N. Patient-and-Family-Centered Care Experience of Total Joint Replacement Patients Using a Shadowing Technique. Journal of Orthopaedic Nursing, 34, 5.

Helen Miley, Ph.D., MH Miley, H, & Reinisch, C. (2015) Addressing the Health Care Delivery Needs in R.N., CCRN, AG-ACNP the Acute Care Setting by Developing a Postmaster’s Acute Care Certification Program. Clinical Scholars Review, 8(1), 39-42; Practice Considerations for Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners, 2nd Ed. Chapters on Hypertension and Health Promotion

Brenda Snow, MSN, SOMC Snow, Brenda L., and Virginia Fitzsimons. 2015. “Message From Plato: R.N., CMSRN Expanding Our Nursing Horizons.” Creative Nursing 21, no. 2: 119-122 4p. CINAHL with Full Text, EBSCOhost (accessed February 17, 2016).

Carisa Sulkowski, SOMC Author, “A clinical nurse’s perspective on Magnet® recognition: Is your staff MSN, R.N. prepared?” July 2015 in Nursing Management

Barbara Williams, MH Author, Williams, B. (July, 2015). Evaluating Qualitative Research. American Ph.D., APN Nurse Today, American Nurses Association Author, Williams, B. (November, 2015); Understanding Qualitative Research. American Nurse Today, American Nurses Association

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Presentations

Maria Soledad Banal, BSN, RMC Podium presenter, “Pressure Ulcer Prevention,” St. Joseph RN-BC, CCRN Hospital, Paterson, NJ

Rocel Besa, Ph.D., RN-BC, CNE RMC Presenter, “Reducing Recognition to Balloon Time for Inpatient STEMI,” Society of Chest Pain Center, San Antonio, TX

Lynne Bottge, RN-BC JSUMC Presenter, Evidence-based teaching strategies “Active vs. Passive Learning” and “De-Briefing,” Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Simulation Lab; Presenter, “Repurposing a Business Communication Platform Nursing,” Shared Governance, Nursing Forum, Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Mary Cohen, R.N., WCC MNRW Presenter, “Staging of Pressure Ulcers” medical residents, Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Susan Dowd, BSN, RN-BC BCH Poster presenter, “We CAN Protect Our Patients!” 2015 NICHE Conference, Farmingdale, NJ

Patricia Durski, MSN, RN-BC MH Presenter, “Navigating the Sea of Big Data,” Delaware Valley Nursing Computer Network Conference 2015, Voorhees, NJ

Marie Foley-Danecker, OMC Presenter, “Do You Have the Courage to Build a Healthier Work MSN, R.N., CCRN, NE-BC Environment?”American Association of Critical Care Nurses, AACN Regions 2&3 Collaborative, Spring Lake, NJ

Christine Hader, DNP, RN-BC, MH Podium presenter, “Mitigating Risk: Putting Policy and CPAN, CCRN-K Procedure to the Test,” Laerdal Medical SUN, Holy Name Medical Center, Teaneck, NJ; Presenter, “Using Clinical Simulation to Solve Complex Leadership Problems,” Pre-Conference Workshop, Nursing Management Congress 2015, Lake Buena Vista, FL

Joan Harvey DNP, RN-BC, CCRN MH Presenter, “Implementation of Bedside Reporting,” NICHE Conference, Orlando, FL

Amanda Hessels, Ph.D., MPH, MH Presenter, “Impact of Health Information Technology on the R.N., CIC, CPHQ Delivery and Quality of Patient Care,” St. Clare’s Health System Annual Nursing Research Day, Denville, NJ; Podium presenter and workshops, “National Testing of the Nursing-Kids Intensity of Care Survey,” Pediatric Complex Care Association Annual Conference, New Brunswick, NJ; Podium presenter and workshops, “The Role of Patient Safety Culture in Pediatric Long Term Care,” Pediatric Complex Care Association Annual Conference, New Brunswick, NJ; Lecturer, “Nursing Leadership in Quality and Performance Improvement,” Nursing students at Georgian Court University; School of Nursing lecturer,

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Presentations

“Introduction to Evidence Based Practice,” for entry-to- practice Nursing students, Columbia University; School of Nursing lecturer and teaching assistant, “Building Interdisciplinary Research Models,” for graduate students, Columbia University, MailmanSchool of Public Health and School of Nursing

Patti Lucarelli, MSN, RN-BC, JSUMC Panel presenter, “Nurse Practitioner Role,” Meridian-Neptune CPNP-PC, ANP, PMHS High School Mini-Medical School, Neptune, NJ; Presenter, “The Pediatric Health Care Medical Home,” New Jersey Health in Child Care Conference, Neptune, NJ; Presenter, “Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE): Truth and Consequences for Adult Health,” Meridian’s Ambulatory Nursing Conference, Red Bank, NJ; Presenter, “Developmental Assessment of Infants and Toddlers” and Presenter, “Safeguarding Moms’ and Babies’ Health: The Meaning of Screening,” Partnership for Maternal & Child Health of Northern NJ Conference, Mountainside, NJ

Kathleen Martin, MSW, OMC Presenter, “Why you should know more about your colorectal LSW, RN-BC, OCN health...” to the senior communities, Winding Way and Meridian Health Village at Jackson; Lecturer, “The benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation,” Ocean Medical Center Survivorship Workshops

Maria Victoria Mapoy, BSN, OMC Presenter, “Automatic Patient Repositioning Method,” Magnet RN-BC, ONC Conference, Atlanta, GA; Presenter, “Automatic Patient Repositioning Method,” Nursing Forums, Meridian Health

Ulanda Marcus-Aiyeku, DNP, JSUMC Poster presenter, “Assessment of the Patient-Centered and NE-BC, R.N. Family-Centered Care Experience of Total Joint Replacement Patients using a Shadowing Technique,” 11th Annual Meridian Health Ann May Center Nursing Research and Evidence- Based Practice Conference: Through the Magnifying Glass, Farmingdale, NJ; Podium presenter, “Evidence-Based Techniques & Strategies for Total Joint Replacement Care,” Ocean Medical Center

Lizzie Martinez, MSN, SOMC Lecturer, community talks on Meridian Cancer Care, R.N., OCN Nurse Navigation and Survivorship, various locations

Joyce McKeever, MS, R.N., JSUMC Poster presenter, “The Role of the Nurse-Physician IBCLC, LCCE Leadership Dyad in Implementing the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative,” International Lactation Consultant Association Conference, Washington, DC

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Presentations

Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., MH Poster presenter, “Charting NP Education: Building Blocks for CCRN, AG-ACNP Excellence”, Technology Based Innovation for NP Student Tracking, National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) 41st Annual Meeting, Baltimore, MD; Presenter, “Bedside Ultrasound”, National Conference for Nurse Practitioners & Advanced Practice Clinicians

Kristine Monia, DNP, R.N., CEN MH Presenter, “Using Clinical Simulation to Solve Complex Leadership Problems,” Pre-Conference Workshop, Nursing Management Congress 2015, Lake Buena Vista, FL

Meghan Mosakowski, BSN, JSUMC Presenter, “Relevant Studies and Guidelines,” and “Stroke R.N., CCRN, NVRN-BC Assessment Scales,” Neurovascular Nursing Review Course, Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Kim Pheifer, BSN, RN-BC, JSUMC Poster presenter, “Developing New Workflows After NE-BC, CCCC Emergency Department Expansion,” The Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care Congress 2015, San Antonio, TX; Poster presenter, “Process Improvement Project: Improving Heparin Dosing for AMI Patients,” National Cardiac Data Registry Conference 2015, San Diego, CA

Diane Resnick, MPA, RN-BC JSUMC Nurse planner and presenter, “A History of Evidence to Strengthen Ambulatory Care Nursing,” 7th Annual Ambulatory Nursing Conference, Meridian Health, Red Bank, NJ; Presenter, “First Things First: A Book Review,” American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing, 41st Annual Conference, Orlando, FL

Linda Robinson, BSN, R.N., ONC OMC Presenter, “Accountable Care Organizations,” Magnet Conference, Atlanta, GA; Presenter, “Accountable Care Organizations,” Nursing Forums, Meridian Health

Kathleen Russell-Babin, Ph.D., MH Poster presenter, “Development of a reliable and valid NEA-BC, ACNS-BC instrument for measuring pressure ulcer attitudes of professional nurses.” National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel 14th National Biennial Conference, Orlando, FL; Podium co-presenter, “Quality and Safety Education: Your Awesome Path to Today’s Full Competence,” with Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., NEA-BC, Knowledge in Motion Conference, Red Bank, NJ

Sara Scheller, BSN, CCRN, JSUMC Program coordinator and presenter, “Nurturing the Nurse CPN, HHC-AADP Within: A Day of Self-Care and Renewal,” Meridian Health nurses at Jersey Shore University Medical Center;

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Presentations

Presenter, “From Burning Out to Burning Up,” Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) at Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Shirley Shook, MSN, RN-BC, BCH Community lecturer, “Stroke and Hypertension,” Clients of Camp CCRN, NVRN-BC, SCRN Happiness for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Leonardo, NJ; Community lecturer, “Stroke Facts,” Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet; Community lecturer, “Are You at Risk for Stroke?” Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet; Community lecturer, “Stroke: Time is Brain,” Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet

Brenda Snow, MSN, SOMC Presenter, “Creating A Proactive Environment of Restful R.N., CMSRN Sleep: Sleeping Well and Living at Your Best,” Community talk to breast cancer support group

Cindy Stagg, BSN, R.N., CGRN SOMC Coordinator, multi-regional conference, educated nurses and techs working in the field of GI provided nine CEs, Atlantic City, NJ

Diana Waltz, BSN, RN-BC RMC Presenter, “Identifying a Patients Risk of Sleep Apnea During the Perioperative Period,” Quality Scholar presentation, Meridian Health

Patricia Worth, R.N., MQC Presenter, “Transitional Care,” Philippine Nurse’s Association, ANP-BC, NEA-BC Monmouth Medical Center, Long Branch, NJ

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Structural Empowerment

The Transformation of Shared Decision Making at Meridian Health

In 2015, it became evident through the findings of the Shared Governance Survey that was sent out the year previously, that Meridian Health had not quite fallen into the range of Shared Governance. With our impending application for Magnet, our merger with Raritan Bay Medical Center, and our intention to be a Highly Reliable Organization, it became apparent that creating a work environment where the voice of the nurse would be heard and contribute to patient safety. This would require changes to the Shared Governance Model.

In August 2015, a survey was sent out to nurses throughout Meridian and over 950 nurses responded to questions about the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the current Shared Governance Model. There were five elements that emerged which needed to be addressed. These findings included education on shared governance, as well as manager facilitation at unit based council meetings, support to attend meetings for better participation from every nurse, night shift involvement, and improved communication.

A task force was developed and clinical nurses from every campus were invited to attend as well as nurse educators, managers, senior leaders, and union representatives to discuss our current structure and how we could move towards a new and better shared decision making model. This task force of nurses was charged with expanding participation and engaging front-line nurses to improve communication and coordination amongst clinical nurses and leaders. New ideas began to surface and to address the insufficiencies in the current model and to make sure we are in alignment with the organizations current strategic goals for our future.

The Creation of a New Shared Decision Making Model

The first step, after a vigorous literature review, was to create a way to enhance communication and move from a reporting structure to a decision-making structure. Nurses at every level were given a Meridian Health e-mail so that there was an additional way to communicate vital information to nurses across the system. This communication was essential as the cornerstone of shared governance is the voice of the nurse. Nurses needed a forum where their voices could be heard.

The current Unit Based Council Structures were no longer meeting this demand since they were not well-attended, and there was a lack of managerial support needed to assist with making positive changes. In light of this, an all-day workshop was developed so that all nurse managers could attend and learn their role in facilitating effective unit based council meetings. This was a missing link, as managers previously had not played an active role in the unit based council meeting. It was decided to let go of the traditional monthly staff meetings and have a merged unit based counsel/staff meeting instead, with a shared agenda and have it run by the unit based counsel chair, having the manager there for support. Because clinical nurses across the system are required to attend at least 50 percent of these unit meetings, this initiative heightened participation.

Night councils were developed at every campus to get involvement from the clinical nurses working on the night shift to address issues that are important to their work. Lastly, and most importantly, a Nursing System Council Day was initiated to better support Nursing Congress and engage clinical staff in meaningful problem solving. Each campus Chief Nursing Executive was to recruit six clinical nurses, one nurse manager, and one nurse

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Synergy Team Award

The Synergy in Action Award was established in 2015 to recognize the work of nursing led by teams that support the mission, vision, and values of Meridian Health and advance the strategic initiatives of our organization. The team must include a Meridian Health nurse and should consist of members from multiple campuses and disciplines.

The first annual award was presented to Oncology clinical nurse specialists and pharmacists who

worked on a project to determine the best evidence based management for hypersensitivity infusion reaction in oncology patients. Clinical nurse specialists (CNS) Kathy Gelchion, Kathy Colopoulos, Mary Brandsema, and Natasha Mehra, PharmD., clinical pharmacist, worked on this project. Once the protocol was developed, the Center for Experiential and Simulation Based Learning team, Dr. Chris Hader and Dr. Kristine Monia, worked with staff to introduce the new protocol in a safe practice environment using simulation. The new protocol that was developed has been instrumental in reducing patient harm, and ensuring quality and safety outcomes, as well as impacting overall cost.

educator to attend the nursing system council day in order to have frontline participation in decision making. New councils emerged to add or replace the existing system councils. These councils are:

• Ambulatory Council

• Informatics Council

• Professional Growth & Development Council

• Quality & Safety Council

• New Knowledge & Innovation Council

• Transitions of Care Council

These councils meet simultaneously in the morning then break out into leadership development sessions where education is offered. Task force groups have an opportunity to be formed so if there are issues that affect multiple councils the right nurses can work together on the activity. A coordinating council was formed so that clinical nurses and leaders from all of these councils can review ideas, suggestions, and issues brought up from nurses throughout the system and direct these items to the appropriate council. An action request form is currently under development so that all nurses can go into the computer and generate a request for new ideas, suggestions, and improvements easily, while being able to track the progress of their request through Meridiancarelink. This should be readily available in 2016.

The first Nursing System Council Day was held on February 25, 2016, at Ocean Medical Center. Over 125 nurses throughout Meridian Health attended and the feedback was affirmative that the New Shared Decision Making Model is off to a great start. Nurses are currently being educated on all aspects of this change through Professional Practice at every site, Nursing Forums, and participation on the new Unit Based Council Staff meetings. Implementing Shared Decision Making is a journey, not something that is done. It has no end, and must continue to evolve as nurses become more empowered to make decisions that affect patient care. It is very exciting for all to have the integration of nurses throughout all Meridian Health come together under one roof to bring about positive changes to support the delivery of patient care.

Structural Empowerment

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2015 Magnet Conference

In October 2015, over 20 Meridian Health nurses from every campus attended the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet Conference in Atlanta, GA. This week was full of learning opportunities, networking, and having fun with other nurses from Magnet organizations across the world. It was a powerful week of learning with hundreds of concurrent educational sessions that focused on leadership, teamwork, innovation, and universal challenges in health care along with strategies to advance our profession.

There were great exhibits showcasing the latest technology and products that are available to improve the management of health and the delivery of care. On display were over 150 poster presentations from Magnet-designated hospitals throughout the world showcasing some of the great developments from nurses involved with quality improvement projects. The keynote speakers included David Marquet, author of Turn The Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders, who described what he learned about leadership when he served as a U.S. Submarine Commander. Composer, musician, and conductor, Eric Whitacre, provided an inspirational endnote where he described his work on creating Virtual Choirs. All of the highlighted speakers reminded us what great work can be done by nurses individually and collectively to impact practice.

We returned to New Jersey with new ideas, and a contemporary perspective of the issues surrounding Reducing Hospital Acquired Conditions, Understanding Data, and improving Shared Decision Making. This new knowledge will help us progress toward high reliability by actively engaging nurses to be leaders and decision makers throughout the continuum of care.

Structural Empowerment

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Community Service and Outreach

Meridian nurses often serve as health care ambassadors and advocates in the communities in which they live and work.

Elizabeth Akinlolu, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer nurse, blood pressure check and health counsel, Senior Citizen Center, Long Branch, NJ

Maria Soledad Banal, BSN, RN-BC, CCRN RMC Volunteer, Lunchbreak, Red Bank, NJ

Rhodora Barretto, MSN, R.N., OMC Fundraiser, bake sale, Parish Nurses Association, APN-C, GNP-BC, APN-C Saint Dominic Church, Brick, NJ; Fundraiser, bake sale, Alzheimer Walk, 4 North – Ocean Medical Center

Marie Paz Basinang, MSN, RN-BC, JSUMC Volunteer, World Changers Organization Volunteers, AGPCNP-BC Lunch Distribution, Neptune Township, NJ

Donna Bator, R.N., CPN OMC Lecturer, “Baby Care Class” new moms and dads, Ocean Medical Center

Katie Belko, BSN, R.N., CEN MH Nurse volunteer, Monroe Township Special Sports, Buddy Baseball, Basketball Pals, Soccer Stars

Rocel Besa, Ph.D., RN-BC, CNE RMC Volunteer nurse, community health fair, St. Dorothea’s Church, Eatontown, NJ

Jerry Bertekap, BSN, R.N., RMC Instructor, CPR education to Oceanport First Aid Squad CNOR, RNFA and community members; Second Assistant Fire Chief, Oceanport Fire Department

Lynne Bottge, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer/committee member, Brick Township Relay For Life; Volunteer/team member, Strides Against Breast Cancer, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Karen Cadigan, JSUMC Volunteer, diabetic eye RN-BC screening, NJ Commission for the Blind

Mary Cohen, MNRW Fundraiser participant, MS R.N., WCC Walk, Seaside Heights, NJ

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Jennifer Collins, BA, RN-BC, CNOR JSUMC Volunteer, EMT, Barnegat First Aid Squad; Volunteer, EMT, Surf City Volunteer Fire Company and EMS; Town Co-Chair for Surf City (Surf Pink), Paint The Town Pink

Ann Marie Conte, MSN, R.N., CPN JSUMC Deputy Mayor, Wall Township; Chairperson, Community Day, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Meridian Health Bowl For Kids’ Sake; Committeeperson, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Super-Hero Fundraiser; Volunteer, Kids Day America, Wall Township, NJ; Committeeperson, Meatball Gala, Wall Community Alliance; Volunteer, Pancake Breakfast, Wall Community Alliance; Committeeperson, Wall Township Fair; Senior Mentor, Gettysburg College, Communications High School and Allied Health High School; Advisory Representative, Senior Citizens and Community Relations/Community Alliance, Wall Township, NJ; Chairwoman, Police Emergency Management and Municipal Court, Wall Township, NJ; Liaison, Public Assistance Board, Wall Township, NJ; Liaison, Wall Township Library, Wall Township, NJ; Liaison, Wall Township Board of Education, Wall Township, NJ; Chairwoman, Recreation Master Plan/Town Center and Marconi Park, Wall Township, NJ; Liaison, Affordable Housing Committee, Wall Township, NJ; Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association, BlueClaws Stadium, Lakewood, NJ; Adjunct Clinical Nursing Professor, Georgian Court University

Jo Ann Cummings, Ph.D., R.N., MH Volunteer, Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, PPCNP-C, CEN Parker Family Health Center, Red Bank, NJ

Tricia D’Aloia Gandolfo, MSN, RN-BC RMC Coordinator, blood drive/health fair, Shrewsbury Boro; Volunteer Nurse, Blood Pressure Screenings, Shrewsbury Boro School, Shrewsbury, NJ

Mariebelle DelMundo, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association, BlueClaws Stadium, Lakewood, NJ; Volunteer, Neptune Community Day, Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Joanne Dougherty, RNC-MNN, CBC RMC Unit representative, Triple “C” Professional Development Day, Riverview Medical Center

Janet Edinger, MSN, R.N., CEN, CPEN SOMC Director of Nursing, American Legion Auxiliary NJ Girl’s State Program

Community Service and Outreach

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Community Service and Outreach

Marie Foley-Danecker, MSN, R.N., OMC Member, Point Pleasant Foundation for Excellence CCRN, NE-BC in Education

Deborah Goldman, BSN, R.N., OCN OMC Volunteer educator, Meridian’s Community Outreach Event, Smoking Cessation and Lung Cancer programs available at Ocean Medical Center, Lakewood BlueClaws Stadium, Lakewood, NJ

Heidi Grady, BSN, RNC-OB SOMC Fundraiser and educator, Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Village Lutheran, Lanoka Harbor, NJ

Christine Hader, DNP, RN-BC MH Lecturer, JumpStart, Neptune High School, Neptune NJ; CPAN, CCRN-K Lecturer, Jersey Shore University Medical Center Medical Explorers, Neptune NJ

Jennifer Harper, R.N., CNN OMC Parish nurse, St. Pius X Church, Forked River, NJ

Marie Kalletta, R.N., CEN BCH Volunteer, Food Pantry, Bradley Beach, NJ

Mary Koppa, RN-BC, OCN SOMC Leader, New Lisbon Christmas Wishes Campaign, Southern Ocean Medical Center

Barbara Lawless, BA, RN-BC, OCN SOMC Coordinator, Ninth Annual “Deck the Walls” Oncology Department Project, Southern Ocean Medical Center

Patti Lucarelli, MSN, RN-BC, JSUMC Board of Directors member, American Academy of CPNP-PC, APN, PMHS Pediatrics, NJ Chapter PCORE; Advisory council member, Pediatric and Adult Asthma Coalition of New Jersey; Panel presenter, “Nurse Practitioner Role” at Meridian- Neptune High School “Mini-Medical School”

Maria Victoria Mapoy, BSN, RN-BC, ONC OMC Volunteer, Seafood Festival, Point Pleasant, NJ

Kathleen Martin, MSW, LSW, RN-BC, OCN OMC President, Seashore Family Services of New Jersey Board of Trustees; Facilitator, Ocean Medical Center Bereavement group, Brick, NJ; Volunteer Nurse, “Choose Your Cover” skin cancer screenings, Brick Beach, NJ

Lizzie Martinez, MSN, R.N., OCN SOMC Team Captain, Light the Night Walk for Leukemia, Long Branch, NJ; Volunteer, Relay for Life, Barnegat, NJ; Volunteer, David’s Dream and Believe Holiday Party for Oncology Patients, Southern Ocean Medical Center

Kristine Monia, DNP, R.N., CEN MH Lecturer, JumpStart, Neptune High School, Neptune NJ; Lecturer, Jersey Shore University Medical Center Medical Explorers, Neptune NJ

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Community Service and Outreach

Marieta O’Brien, BSN, RN-BC, CNRN OMC Volunteer nurse, Community Outreach Stroke Risk Factors Screening, Ocean Medical Center

Maureen O’Brien, DNP, R.N., SOMC Volunteer, American Heart Association Heart Walk, CCRN, ACNS-BC Lakewood, NJ; Volunteer, Big Brothers/Big Sisters Bowling Fund Raiser Manahawkin, NJ;

Vera Reiner, R.N., CPN OMC Parish nurse/volunteer, Church of Epiphany, Interfaith Ministry, Brick, NJ; Volunteer, Girl Scouts of America Health Clinic, Brick, NJ; Volunteer, Pink Teddy Bear Clinic, Brick, NJ; Volunteer, Lakewood Library Teddy Bear Clinic, Lakewood, NJ; Volunteer, Lakewood BlueClaws Health Clinic, Lakewood, NJ; Volunteer, Hand Washing Clinic, at Veterans Memorial Middle School, Brick, NJ; Organizer/Volunteer, Breast Cancer Fund- Bake Sale for Paint The Town Pink, Brick, NJ

Diane Resnick, MPA, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer nurse, eye screening program, New Jersey Commission for the Blind, Jersey Shore Family Health Center; Volunteer nurse, Children’s Health Fair, Jersey Shore University Medical Center; Volunteer, Neptune Community Appreciation Day with NAACP, West Lake Avenue, Neptune, NJ

Pamela Rossan, RNC-OB RMC Medical Reserve Corp Volunteer, Autism Belmar Bash, Belmar, NJ

Karen Rothenberg, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Chairwoman, Manalapan Township Board of Health

Sara Scheller, BSN, CCRN, JSUMC Troop leader, Daisy Girl Scout Troop #1060, Ocean CPN, HHC-AADP Township, NJ and Troop #480, Point Pleasant, NJ

Diane Stanaway, MSN, R.N., JSUMC Volunteer EMT, Jackson First Aid; Corresponding NE-BC, OCN secretary, Board of Jackson First Aid Coordinator, Paint the Town Pink for New Egypt, NJ

Barbara Taylor, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM JSUMC Captain, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, March of Dimes March for Babies Captain, March of Dimes, Pick-a- Pumpkin fundraiser

Barbara Valentin, RN-BC RMC Volunteer, Boy Scouts of America, Troop #22, Atlantic Highlands United Methodist Church, Atlantic Highlands, NJ

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International Service and Educational Achievements

While many Meridian nurses volunteer their time and skills outside the walls of our hospitals, some also give of their time beyond the boundaries of the United States. They act as goodwill ambassadors by bringing their knowledge and expertise to those in need.

Kim Aufiero, RNC-NIC, CBC JSUMC Volunteer nurse, Helping Hands Medical Mission, San Salvador, El Salvador

Jennifer Collins, BA, RN-BC, CNOR JSUMC Volunteer Operating Room Nurse, Surgical Mission Trip, Dominican Republic

Maintaining a work/life balance is a challenge for nurses working in today’s health care environment. Yet many Meridian nurses continue to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in order to advance their clinical and leadership skills.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Maureen O’Brien, DNP, R.N., CCRN, ACNS-BC Walden University SOMC

Masters in Nursing Practice

Kate Boskey, MSN, R.N., FNP-C Monmouth University JSUMC

Rachel Hollywood, MSN, FNP-BC, ONC, RN-BC Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey OMC

Christine Powers MSN, CCRN, CPNP Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey JSUMC

Grace Schoonmaker, MNP Monmouth University OMC

Krislin Yosuico, MSN, R.N., APN-C Seton Hall University JSUMC

Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Charlotte Cole, MSN, RN-BC Monmouth University JSUMC