Vol. 80, No. 2 Quarterly publication direct mailed to ...
16
current resident or Presort Standard US Postage PAID Permit #14 Princeton, MN 55371 Vol. 80, No. 2 Summer 2018 Quarterly publication direct mailed to approximately 58,000 RNs and LPNs in Mississippi. A Message from the President The Mississippi Nurses’ Association’s House of Delegates will convene on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. at the MS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center, Biloxi, MS. NOTICE OF HOUSE OF DELEGATES MEETING Debra Allen, MSN, RN Debra Allen, MSN, RN How many times have we used the expression “I feel at home here?” Each of us wants to be valued as a part of a group and feel comfortable in our surroundings. This is the time of year that many of our new nurse colleagues are beginning their careers in nursing, and it’s up to us to make them feel at home in our profession. They are experiencing the excitement and nervousness of obtaining their first nursing job – just as we did. I recall that on my second day as a brand new nurse, I had to work by myself due to my preceptor’s unexpected absence. Reflect on how you felt entering this fast-paced and ever changing profession, and determine how you can make their transition easier. This first experience creates a desire to remain and excel in nursing or, unfortunately, may result in a decision to pursue a new job somewhere else, or even another profession. When I ask new nurses what they find important coming into a new job, they frequently respond “to feel accepted and supported.” Those who report feeling valued by their employer are significantly more likely to be motivated to do their very best. 1 As seasoned nurses, we should strive to create a nurturing environment for our new colleagues, fostering respect and support. That means that we not only provide advice, we actively seek feedback as well. Their observations and ideas provide an opportunity to view processes in a new light. These new nurses are our leaders of tomorrow. The significant number of nurses at or near retirement age increases the urgency of developing these nurses’ leadership skills. It’s much easier to encourage them to embrace leadership opportunities if we connect with them on a personal level and they feel comfortable asking questions. Let them know that every one of us has good days and bad days – no matter how many years we’ve been a nurse. Let them know that it’s normal to feel frustrated, tired, or even a little scared, especially during the first year as a nurse. Let them know it’s essential to have a sense of humor to get you through those bad days and that the good days are often great days! Be the nurse mentor they trust and in whom they can confide. When they reflect on their first year as a nurse, be the colleague who readily helped them through that first exciting and exhausting year. MNA welcomes these new nurses and wants them to feel at home as members of MNA. From this first year as a nurse through retirement, being a member of MNA is beneficial to your career and shows pride in your profession! Invite a new nurse to lunch and discuss the many benefits of being a member of MNA. Encourage them to attend a District meeting with you and introduce them to other members. MNA’s numerous networking opportunities will allow them to connect with their colleagues, many of whom are also newly entering the nursing profession. Invite them to accompany you to one of MNA’s continuing education events and explain that MNA hosts events throughout the state. Relate to them how you have personally benefitted by being a member, and how the nursing profession has benefitted from MNA’s successful advocacy efforts! Let’s make our new colleagues “feel at home” as they join with us! 1 Workplace Survey, American Psychological Association, Harris Interactive, March 2012 2018 Annual Convention October 23-26, 2018 Biloxi, MS Racing to Meet Nursing Challenges of Today and Tomorrow
Transcript of Vol. 80, No. 2 Quarterly publication direct mailed to ...
current resident or
Presort StandardUS Postage
PAIDPermit #14
Princeton, MN55371
Vol. 80, No. 2 Summer 2018Quarterly publication direct mailed to approximately 58,000 RNs and LPNs in Mississippi.
A Message from the President
The Mississippi Nurses’ Association’s House of Delegates will convene on
Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. at the MS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center, Biloxi, MS.
NOTICE OF HOUSE OF DELEGATES MEETING
Debra Allen, MSN, RN
Debra Allen, MSN, RN
How many times have we used the expression “I feel at home here?” Each of us wants to be valued as a part of a group and feel comfortable in our surroundings. This is the time of year that many of our new nurse colleagues are beginning their careers in nursing, and it’s up to us to make them feel at home in our profession. They are experiencing the excitement and nervousness of obtaining their first nursing job – just as we did. I recall that on my second day as a brand new nurse, I had to work by myself due to my preceptor’s unexpected absence. Reflect on how you felt entering this fast-paced and ever changing profession, and determine how you can make their transition easier.
This first experience creates a desire to remain and excel in nursing or, unfortunately, may result
in a decision to pursue a new job somewhere else, or even another profession. When I ask new nurses what they find important coming into a new job, they frequently respond “to feel accepted and supported.” Those who report feeling valued by their employer are significantly more likely to be motivated to do their very best.1 As seasoned nurses, we should strive to create a nurturing environment for our new colleagues, fostering respect and support. That means that we not only provide advice, we actively seek feedback as well. Their observations and ideas provide an opportunity to view processes in a new light.
These new nurses are our leaders of tomorrow. The significant number of nurses at or near retirement age increases the urgency of developing these nurses’ leadership skills. It’s much easier to encourage them to embrace leadership opportunities if we connect with them on a personal level and they feel comfortable asking questions. Let them know that every one of us has good days and bad days – no matter how many years we’ve been a nurse. Let them know that it’s normal to feel frustrated, tired, or even a little scared, especially during the first year as a nurse. Let them know it’s essential to have a sense of humor to get you through those bad days and that the good days are often great
days! Be the nurse mentor they trust and in whom they can confide. When they reflect on their first year as a nurse, be the colleague who readily helped them through that first exciting and exhausting year.
MNA welcomes these new nurses and wants them to feel at home as members of MNA. From this first year as a nurse through retirement, being a member of MNA is beneficial to your career and shows pride in your profession! Invite a new nurse to lunch and discuss the many benefits of being a member of MNA. Encourage them to attend a District meeting with you and introduce them to other members. MNA’s numerous networking opportunities will allow them to connect with their colleagues, many of whom are also newly entering the nursing profession. Invite them to accompany you to one of MNA’s continuing education events and explain that MNA hosts events throughout the state. Relate to them how you have personally benefitted by being a member, and how the nursing profession has benefitted from MNA’s successful advocacy efforts! Let’s make our new colleagues “feel at home” as they join with us!
1 Workplace Survey, American Psychological Association, Harris Interactive, March 2012
2018 Annual ConventionOctober 23-26, 2018
Biloxi, MS
Racing to Meet Nursing Challenges of Today and Tomorrow
Page 2 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
Board of Directors
President Vice PresidentDebra Allen, MSN, RN Tonya Moore, PhD, [email protected] [email protected]
Secretary TreasurerSandra Arnold, MSN, RN Carl Mangum, PhD, [email protected] [email protected]
Directors
Council on Nursing Education Council on Nursing ResearchTomekia Luckett, PhD, RN Lorraine Gaddis, PhD, [email protected] RN, FNP-BC [email protected]
Council on Health Affairs Council on Nursing PracticeAlice Messer, DNP, Shonda Phelon, DNP, RN, RN, FNP-BC FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, [email protected] [email protected]
Council on Council onOrganizational Affairs Advanced PracticeDeloris Slade, MSN, RN, FNP-BC Rebecca Cagle, PhD, RN,[email protected] FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC [email protected]
MNA Staff
Executive Director Finance Administrator/Teresa Malone Membership [email protected] Deborah Norman [email protected]
Executive Assistant Director of EventsLaGina Walker & [email protected] Dana Walker [email protected] Practice Coordinator/Publishing CoordinatorDionne Inman [email protected]
MNA District Presidents
AdvertisingFor advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur L. Davis Publish-ing Agency, Inc., 517 Washington Street, PO Box 216, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613, (800) 626-4081, [email protected]. MNA 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 Mississippi 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. MNA 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 necessar-ily reflect views of the staff, board, or membership of MNA or those of the national or local associations.
Mississippi RN is published quarterly every March, June, September and De-cember and is the official publication of the Mississippi Nurses’ Association, 31 Woodgreen Place, Madison, MS 39110, a constituent member of the Ameri-can Nurses Association.
District 1: Adams, Franklin, Jefferson, and Wilkinson countiesBrenda [email protected]
District 2: Amite, Copiah, Lawrence, Lincoln, Pike, and Walthall countiesTammy [email protected]
District 5: Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River, and Stone countiesDeborah [email protected]
District 6:Jackson, George, and Greene countiesRobbie [email protected]
District 7: Covington, Forrest, Lamar, Perry, Jefferson Davis & Marion countiesLinda [email protected]
District 8: Jasper, Jones, and Wayne countiesEmily [email protected]
District 11: Simpson and Smith countiesTeresa [email protected]
District 12: Claiborne, Issaquena, Sharkey, and Warren countiesDebbie [email protected]
District 13: Hinds, Rankin, Madison and Yazoo countiesBeverly [email protected]
District 15: Leake, Neshoba, Newton, and Scott countiesCassandra [email protected]
District 16: Clarke, Kemper, and Lauderdale countiesLinda [email protected]
District 18: Choctaw, Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Webster, and Winston countiesAlena [email protected]
District 21: Humphries, Sunflower, and Washington counties Kaffie [email protected]
District 23: Bolivar, Coahoma, Quitman, Tallahatchie, and Tunica counties.Shelby [email protected]
District 25: Alcorn, Benton, Calhoun, Chickasaw, Itawamba, Lee, Monroe, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo, and Union counties Donna [email protected]
District 28: DeSoto, Marshall, and Tate countiesPhyllis [email protected]
District 31: Lafayette, Panola, and Yalobusha countiesMorgan [email protected]
District 32: Attala, Carroll, Grenada, Holmes, Leflore, and Montgomery countiesHeather [email protected]
MNA: Meeting the CNE Needs of Mississippi’s RNs & APRNs
NRCME/FMCSA DOT Medical Examiner Course & Pharmacology
Singing River Medical System - Pascagoula, MS Friday & Saturday, June 15-16, 2018
Opioids: A Wake Up Call – In Conjunction with Pine Grove Behavioral Health
Forrest General Hospital - Hattiesburg, MS Friday, June 29, 2018
2018 APRN Symposium: Gateway to a Healthier Mississippi - In Conjuction with Tri-State Provider Regional Network and Magnolia Regional Health Center
Pizza Grocery & Magnolia Regional Health Center - Corinth, MSFriday & Saturday, August 10-11, 2018
2018 Annual ConventionMS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center - Biloxi, MS
Tuesday – Friday, October 23-26, 2018
2019 Lobby Day Mississippi State Capitol – Jackson, MS
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
25th Annual Nursing Summit Jackson Convention Complex – Jackson, MS
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Nightingale Awards Gala Jackson Marriott – Jackson, MS
Monday, March 4, 2019
Treasures of Northern California July 22-30, 2018
Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights November 6-12, 2018
CONNEC
TIVE
SMART
STRATEGIC
RELIA
BLE
The Mississippi Center for Quality and Workforce is focused on solutions for the emerging healthcare workforce challenges due to changes in the nursing workforce.
Impacting Healthcare & Health Workforce daily.
MSCQW.ORG
QUALITY
– Hospital Improvement Innovation Network – HIIN
WORKFORCE
– Summer Student Nurse Externship Program
– Annual MS Report of Nursing Vacancy, Turnover & Anticipated Future Demand
Executive Director: LaNelle Weems, MSN, RNClinical Director: Debbie Logan, MHA, RNPrograms Manager: Robin Powell
Office: 601-368-3321 Fax: 601-368-3200
Visit us online to learn more:
Memphis VA Medical Centerhas exciting career opportunities available for
Registered Nurses & Nurse PractitionersWe invite you to join our team, where every day
We Proudly Serve Our Nation’s Heroes!
For more information, contact: Angelique Graham, Nurse Recruiter, 901.523.8990; by email at [email protected]; or,
apply online at www.USAJobs.gov E.O.E
Contact Tina Alexander, Executive Director662-756-4361
Skilled Nursingat
Ruleville Nursing& Rehab
LPN & RNOPPORTUNITIES
Privately owned and operated Senatobia, MS
Join ourtalented team!
Feel free to...come in and apply or send us a resume or apply onlineat senatobiahealthcare.com or on or
Contact:Tawnya Pionk, Director of Nursing662-562-5664 • [email protected]
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 3
Support Your Nursing Profession!
Take part in the Mississippi Nurses’ AssociationSummer Sizzling Membership Challenge
Let’s sizzle along with the summer sun and make our voice even stronger!
For Every Application received by July 15th, Recruiting Members and New Members will be placed in a drawing for great prizes.
Visit our website at www.msnurses.org for details.
Encourage your colleagues to Join MNA!
Be a part of MNA’s legacy of taking the Lead in advancing the nursing profession!
By working together, we will continue to Succeed in Mississippi!
Summer Sizzl ing
Membership Drive!
Executive Director’s Column
Teresa Malone
Who says continuing education events can’t be exciting? Attendees wholeheartedly declare that the MNA APRN’s Charting the Course: Change, Innovation, Opportunity Conference hosted in Natchez was stimulating on all levels!
We were honored to have Dr. Leandro Mena as our opening speaker on Friday morning presenting on Population Health to Address the HIV Epidemic. Dr. Mena is recognized throughout the country for his work in developing programs to treat HIV patients. It’s incumbent on nurses across all roles to understand the growing challenge of human trafficking in our state. We sincerely appreciate Paula Broome, Bureau Chief, Bureau of Victim Assistance, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, for her insightful presentation on this issue, and North Sunflower Medical Center for sponsoring this session. We also appreciate the coverage of this session by The Natchez Democrat. On Saturday, we were privileged to be joined by Dr. Melissa King, DNP, FNP-BC, ENP-BC, President of the Mississippi Board of Nursing, and Phyllis Johnson, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, Executive Director. Dr. King’s presentation focused on the opioid epidemic, and Phyllis Johnson provided information on recent changes, both regulatory and practice oriented. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to interact and pose questions to both of these individuals after their presentations. Renowned career coach and sought-after presenter, Olivia Martin, engaged attendees with her unique style - blending humor and data to encourage attendees to navigate change full steam ahead by assessing their individual energy levels and taking action to improve their careers, their mindsets, and their lives. Everyone enjoyed reading the message in a bottle composed by one of their colleagues. For those wanting to take advantage of additional continuing education opportunities, the pre-conference sessions included ASCCP Guidelines on Pap Smears and HPV testing presented by Dr. Freddy Grant, and the NRCME/FMCSA DOT Medical Examiner Course presented by Deloris Slade, MSN, RN, FNP-BC. We were delighted to be welcomed to the beautiful city of Natchez by the distinguished Mayor Darryl Grennell. True to the gracious reputation for which Natchez is known, Mayor Grennell also presented us with a gift basket containing some of the best finds in Natchez.
Replete with steamboat photo opportunities, nautical inspired conference totes, and a Chart Your Course to the Fiesta on the Bluff Street Party, the Conference sought to interweave the best of Natchez throughout the event. Providing a taste from some of the most famous restaurants, the Street Party featured margaritas, tamales, and nachos from Fat Mama’s, and empanadas and tacos from Grindstone. Adding to the ambiance was music provided by one of the Natchez’s most requested bands, Bubba and Drew. Networking with colleagues is always enjoyable in such a fun and beautiful setting!
A special note of thanks to the many exhibitors who joined us at the Conference! We also extend our appreciation to Laerdal for use of their simulation models at numerous sessions during the Conference. Most importantly, we thank the many attendees who joined us, shared your ideas, and provided feedback to us! Thank you for your support of the Mississippi Nurses’ Association!
We have many more events planned over the next several months and encourage registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses to join us as we host events across the state. MNA is here for you and welcomes your suggestions on continuing education events. Please contact us so that we may continue to meet your needs!
Page 4 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
2018 APRN Spring Conference Sponsors and ExhibitorsSpecial Thanks to...
North Sunflower Medical Center, Our 2018 APRN Spring Conference Lunch Sponsor
and
Amgen and Visit Natchez, Our 2018 APRN Spring Conference
Networking Break Sponsors
AbbVie
Amgen
Arbonne International
Becker Professional Education
Blackston Consulting PLLC
Bling with Dow
Calmoseptine
Cardionics
CRAssociates
Enhanced Wellness Living
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Hologic
Keystone Healthcare Management
kyBoot Walk-on-Air
Laerdal
MiMedx
Mississippi Blood Services
Mississippi Nurses Foundation
Mississippi University for Women College of Nursing
Mississippi Vein Institute
Molnlycke
MS AETC / AIDS Education & Training Center
Mississippi State Department of Health
North Sunflower Medical Center
NRD New Orleans/NORS Jackson US Navy Recruiting
Office of Oral Health
Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services
Regions Bank
Southern New Hampshire University
Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center
The Gideons International
Troy University
University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing
Visit Natchez
Walgreens
APRN Spring Conference
Office: 601-978-2391
Online Enrollment:enrollmyplans.com
DISABILITY INSURANCEfor the Nursing ProfessionIf you are a nurse, you need employee benefits, such as nurse disability insurance and critical illness insurance. The Enroll Me Now team has more than 100 years combined experience providing nurses, just like you, with nurse disability insurance and critical illness insurance. If you are a member of an approved nurse association group, we can provide these employee benefits to you today.
Exclusive Offers for Members
Members need services that they own and control. The Enroll Me Now program was created to provide exclusive services for which only a Member can qualify:
• Guaranteed Issue (No health questions)• Disability benefits for off the job accident or illness• No offset (reduction) of benefits if you have other disability plan• Annual cash wellness payments• Accidents: more than 40 cash payments for accidental injury,
ranging from medical, hospital, to accidental death• May include family members; plus spouse accident disability• $10,000 cash payment for diagnosis of Critical Illness• (Children covered at no charge for Critical Illness)• Not tied to any employer – you control your plan
and pay via convenient bank draft
“We focus on you, so you can focus on them.”
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 5
APRN Spring Conference
Page 6 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
Rebecca Cagle, PhD, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BCDirector, Council on Advanced Practice
Several events of late have prompted me to reflect on professionalism in nursing and advanced practice nursing. Whether one is a new graduate from an advanced practice program or a seasoned nurse practitioner, I ask each this question: do you have a career resolution to develop and maintain professionalism throughout your career? Is it in your five year plan? Often while in nursing school we develop plans, be they individual or business. Sometimes once the goal of graduation, certification and licensure has been obtained, the long term plan gets set aside for being thankful for a NP job and learning the tasks to survive in this health care business. As requirements for certification and indeed licensure are changing, and with additional certification requirements varying, one can become bewildered and confused. Has anyone had the experience of finding out too late their basic life support credential has expired and you cannot work until it is current? With all you were keeping up with, you simply missed the basics. Has anyone received an unfavorable patient and family satisfaction survey report to realize that despite your skill and knowledge, you were not perceived as professional or caring to a patient or family?
Do You Have Professionalism as a Career Resolution?
Rebecca Cagle, PhD, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
Report from Council on Advanced Practice
A conversation I had this week with a man who was quite satisfied with his new PCP, a nurse practitioner, reminded me of the importance of presence and professionalism, caring for and caring about our patients. He mentioned that he had not really had a PCP since his doctor had left the primary care setting for a practice as a hospitalist. He had gotten very sick during the winter and had need for a PCP. He selected a local NP, whom he did not know, but she was from his area. As he put it “she is the only provider I may ever need.” He described how competently she had assessed and treated him with appropriate diagnostic tests and medications. She even called to see if he was improving the next day. He felt that his health was cared for, but also that he as an individual was cared about as a person. I beamed with pride for our discipline as this was a former student of mine of years past. She was still keeping the common touch and was linked with her purpose many years after becoming a NP. She was the ultimate professional by keeping professionalism in the focus, along with CEUs and skills competencies.
Consider taking a moment to sit down, reflect, and look at several areas in the next five years. The areas will naturally include requirements for licensure and certification, but also areas of career job goals, overall professional goal, and professional service to patients and fellow health care providers, be it medical mission trips or academic/mentoring roles. The one thing we know for certain is that we cannot do everything all the time or at the same time necessarily. We need to look at the season that we are in and the season we want to reach that is our preferred one. We must find a way to keep ourselves connected to our inner purpose of serving our patients. I have of late given up television and social media as a distraction to keeping myself balanced, focused, and on task. I am not suggesting that you should do this. You know what you need to be healthy.
Professionalism can be improved through many avenues. Professional development through membership, service in a particular office locally, state-wide, or even nationally can help us remain connected to the cause. What is your plan to give back and serve? We can all serve through membership in MNA. We may also consider running for office. Might you want to be a local MNA officer in preparation to becoming a state wide board member for MNA? Likewise presenting your knowledge and expertise to fellow NPs to obtain those CE hours can be a goal. Sometimes we have a need for a particular CE offering that we don’t have locally, but what can we do to make that CE happen? MNA is always working to meet the needs of the NPs in all nursing roles. Let us know your need and we will make an effort to schedule your requested topic.
Lastly, on a rather personal note, I lost a family member and mentor this past month. She was my Aunt Jo. She was a nurse. She was my first nurse to work with as a NP in the clinic. At the age of 43 with six children, she went to LPN school. She graduated third in her class and made a perfect score on her boards. She was the epitome of nursing for as long as she worked. She was born to be a nurse, some might say. She always kept her patient as her focus. She advocated for the patient and simply did her job. She helped all that she could for as long as she could. She always looked and acted professionally.
She was the most practical and professional nurse that I have known. I am who I am because of who she was. She used her talents and abilities despite challenges to make the world a better place for those about her. Thank you Joyce Ann Stephens, LPN for being professional and caring for and about people. Can the same be said of us? Do we inspire others to our profession because we are professional nurse practitioners?
Hattiesburg Clinic, Laerdal, and the Mississippi Nurses’ Association hosted a Hands Only CPR event for the public at Hattiesburg Clinic on April 10th. Attendees encouraged each other as they learned how to successfully administer Hands Only CPR. We extend our sincere appreciation to instructors Paul Thompson, RN with Laerdal and Sandi Arnold, MSN, RN with Hattiesburg Clinic.
Hands Only CPR
Graduate Academic Programs· Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) Research Focused Program· Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
BSN to DNPAdvanced Practice Roles
• New: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care or Primary Care• New: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner• Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner • Nurse Anesthesia• Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
Aggregate, Systems, and Organizational Roles:• Executive Nurse Leader• Public/Community Health
Post Masters DNP· Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Clinical Nurse Leader• Nurse Educator
Pursue your DNP degree at the only nursing school within an academic health science center that is the only recognized National League for
Nursing Center of Excellence for Nursing Education in Louisiana.
For more information, please contact: Jillian Gibbs (504) 568-4188
Leaders Defining the Art & Science of Nursing
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 7
Lorraine Gaddis, PhD, RN, FNP-BCDirector, Council on Nursing Research
Convention is right a r o u n d t h e c o r n e r with its many exciting o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r l ear n i ng, network i ng and presenting. Please take advantage of the opportunity to submit and present your completed scholarly work or work in progress at MNA's poster session! If you have considered submitting and presenting a poster, or even if you have been reluctant to do so, read on and ask yourself these essential questions.
Do I have to be a formal "researcher" to present my work? Not at all. Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses are involved in all kinds of creative enterprises that have a profound impact on the art and science of nursing. Formal research is certainly a part of what we showcase, but a poster session is the ideal way to share all your efforts in improving nursing practice. Quality improvement projects, safety initiatives, needs assessment outcomes, community-based endeavors, new practice prototypes, qualitative findings – these are but a few of the types of innovative undertakings you are encouraged to share. If your project is evidence-based and has the potential to improve the practice of nursing, chances are others will benefit from hearing about it.
What is the professional value of presenting at the poster session? The poster session offers a chance for a deep level of engagement with other Convention attendees about your special interests. Presenting a poster is the perfect opportunity to share ideas one-on-one with those whose scholarly work is similar to your own. This session is different from the other networking you will do at Convention. The poster session clearly identifies you in your area of scholarly endeavor and facilitates conversation among those who share that interest. Many collaborative projects, joint publications, and job opportunities have come out of a personal interaction that started at a poster session. In addition, you will likely get positive feedback as well as friendly critique that will help you take your ideas to the next level. As you take this feedback home, don't forget that your submission was peer-reviewed and can be added to your resume as such.
Have I been struggling to find a forum to disseminate my work? Students at all levels, along with working registered nurses in Mississippi, conduct rich and valuable scholarly work. Too often the outcomes of evidence-based practice initiatives are not disseminated after completion. Podium presentations and publications are too often considered the "most prestigious" ways to share ideas and completed works. This thinking leaves poster sessions to be undervalued for their rich opportunities to advance ideas and stimulate meaningful dialogue among professionals. Because of time constraints and concurrent sessions, you could end up with as high attendance at your poster session as your colleagues who presented from the podium. We structure the poster session to provide time for all attendees to have an opportunity to view the posters and interact with authors.
What if I have a fear of public speaking? Luckily for you, a poster session is one of the best ways to overcome that fear. Christie Davis, poster presenter at a recent event, had this to say: "I was nervous about presenting but I passionately believed in my subject matter. Having the opportunity to present at MNA gave me the confidence to submit and present from the podium at a national conference just a few months later." At our poster session, you will present the content of your poster several times to a small number of individuals. This will help you hone your presentation skills. Because you are the expert on your project, you cannot fail when attendees ask questions about your work. The poster session is therefore ideal for novice speakers. Experts, don't forget that it also gives you the chance to be a role model and mentor colleagues, supervisees, and students.
Does presenting my poster really make a difference? Emphatically, yes! A life affirming visual might draw the attention of a fellow nurse who is nearing burnout. A safety issue resolved might save the life of a patient in another's care. A personal story shared in a private conversation might change the world view of a colleague seeking to find his or her own core values in nursing. There are many professional benefits to be gained from conducting and presenting scholarly work including those that improve a resume. But at its heart, nursing scholarship is about your passion for changing practice for the better and delivering excellent nursing care. Take a chance. Make that difference!
The deadline for poster abstracts is September 12th. For questions regarding the poster session, abstract submission, or the selection process please contact MNA at (601) 898-0670 or [email protected].
Poster Session Benefits Nurses
Lorraine Gaddis, PhD, RN, FNP-BC
District 13 presented five complimentary one-year MNA memberships to one graduating nursing student from Belhaven University, Hinds Community College, Holmes Community College, Mississippi College and the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing. Each recipient was active in the Mississippi Association of Student Nurses, and upon successful passage of the NCLEX, we look forward to welcoming these new members to MNA!
District 15 hosted a lunch for the graduating class of East Central Community College and provided gift bags to each student. District 15 and MNA are looking forward to having these new nurse leaders join with their colleagues as members of MNA!
DistrictSpotlight...
District 16 and Eliza Pillars Nursing Organization celebrated a successful community health fair on Saturday, March 17, at the East Mississippi Electric Power Association Building in Meridian, Ms.
Vendors representing a wide range of healthcare and wellness products and programs participated in the health fair event. Blood sugar, kidney function and vision screenings were provided for health fair attendees. Guest speakers presented on a variety of health related topics as well as updated information on Cyberbullying and Human Trafficking.
District 7 presented a donation of $550 to Fellowship Health Clinic from proceeds of the Fourth Annual Heart & Sole Race/Walk. Fellowship Health Clinic provides services to uninsured and under insured in our community. Katie Heindl, RN serves as Assistant Director of Clinic, she accepted the check from Shenika Russell, Race Committee Chair and First Vice-President of DNA 7.
Pictured: Katie Heindl, RN, Assistant Director Fellowship Health Clinic; Shenika Russell, RN, DNA 7 First Vice-President and Heart & Sole Race Committee Chair; and Linda Holmes, MSN, RN-BC, DNA 7 President.
RN to BSN Concentration
Leaders Defining the Art & Science of Nursing
For more information contact: Dr. Stephanie Pierce • [email protected]
RNs earn your BSN degree in JUST 3 SEMESTERS
· Apply BSN competencies to work experiences
· Hybrid model of delivery supporting peer/faculty engagement
· Face to face meetings at least monthly
· Early admissions to our MSN/DNP programs
Magnolia Health is currently hiring for
Registered Nurses!Apply online at
www.magnoliahealthplan.com
Page 8 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
The Importance of Addressing Health Literacy & the Social Determinants of Health Michael L. Jones, PhD(c),
RN, MSN, MBA
C o n s i d e r t h i s : Healthcare goes far beyond what we see presented before us. What is presented before us as healthcare providers is a small symptom of a much larger problem.
For many years, the state of Mississippi has been plagued with many chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and obesity. According to Mississippi State Department of Health (2016), Mississippi ranks second in the nation for diabetes prevalence. Cardiovascular disease, which also includes diseases of the heart and stroke, is the leading cause of death in Mississippi. It is estimated that more than 700,000 Mississippians have hypertension. Attributed to one in every five deaths in Mississippi, cancer prevalence is also a major issue for our state. Obesity is most often the underlying cause or contributing factor of many of the aforementioned conditions (Mississippi State Department of Health, 2016). Because of the aforementioned chronic diseases and their burden on the state and health practices, meeting quality measures (e.g. average blood pressure, average hemoglobin A1c, average BMI, etc.) may also be a challenge.
Getting back to the initial statement of this article, in many instances, these conditions are further exacerbated by poverty and limited access to health care. There is also the issue of health literacy and the environment in which individuals must live (the social determinants of health). It is also important to mention the limited number of primary healthcare professionals in the most rural areas of our state. It is certainly no secret that Mississippi is one of the most rural states in the country with some of the highest poverty rates. These are known facts and there is no need to rehash what is already known.
Health LiteracyHealth literacy is a common exacerbating factor
of the issues we face in our state related to chronic disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2017), health literacy is defined as “the degree to which an individual has the capacity to obtain, communicate, process, and understand basic health information and services to make appropriate health decisions.” In other words, health literacy has to do with an individual’s ability to put into practice the information he or she has been provided by the healthcare professional. It also has to do with the overall actions of the individual as it relates to his or her health outcomes. It is estimated that approximately 9 out of 10 individuals in our nation struggle with understanding health information. Such information literally comes across as a foreign language to individuals with limited health literacy. Costing millions of dollars to the healthcare system each year, limited health literacy limits one’s ability to find health information and services, effectively communicate needs to the healthcare provider,
process the meaning of medical jargon, and ultimately make the best decisions needed for positive health outcomes. All too often, limited health literacy is mistaken for “noncompliance,” when, in fact, the individual is unable to process health information effectively. In addition to worsening chronic disease states, individuals with limited health literacy also have increased emergency room visits and often struggle with medication adherence, which can be both deadly and costly. So what can be done to address the issue of health literacy?
Below are a few things to consider: • Conduct a thorough assessment of the
individual’s level of understanding. Instead of asking close-ended questions, ask open-ended questions. For example, instead of asking “do you eat fruits and vegetables with each meal?”, ask the following: “tell me about your meals each day.” This gives you an opportunity to understand whether the individual has truly processed what has been taught to them.
• Provide information in terms in which the individual understands. This may also include using pictures to illustrate the message you are attempting to convey.
• Utilize community liaisons (i.e. community health workers) to follow up with the individuals while they are at home.
The Social Determinants of HealthAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (2014), “social determinants of health are economic and social conditions that influence the health of people and communities. These conditions are shaped by the amount of money, power, and resources that people have, all of which are influenced by policy choices.” The most prevalent driving force in an individual’s health is the social determinants of health. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of avoidable deaths are related to the social determinants of health (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). Let’s dig a little deeper into what this all means. According to the World Health Organization (2010), there are 10 components to the social determinants of health. They include the social gradient, early life, work, social support, food, stress, social exclusion, unemployment, addiction, and transport. Whether you are the nurse caring for a patient or a Nurse Practitioner serving as the health care provider, it is important to provide holistic care in order to ensure the best possible health outcomes.
Below is an explanation of each social determinant of health and are a few things to consider when providing care to your patients.
1. The Social Gradient – life expectancy is much shorter and disease prevalence is more common the farther down the social gradient an individual lives.
2. Stress – excessive stress leads to physical health issues. Nurses should assess for stress, and work with patients to alleviate the source of the stress. Prolonged stress leads to depression. Ensure patients are effectively screened and treated for depression (i.e. PHQ-9 screening tool). Depression can lead to physical health issues.
3. Early Life – early health care impacts the rest of our lives. Nurses should ensure children get their necessary screenings and preventive care (i.e. dental, immunizations, hearing, etc.).
4. Social Exclusion – hardship, resentment, poverty, and discrimination impacts overall physical health. Nurses should partner with other professionals in the interdisciplinary team to ensure patient needs are met. For example, there should be assessments performed to identify instances of intimate partner violence. The nurse works with a social worker, for example to address patient needs and ensure safety.
5. Work Life – a stressful workplace increases one’s likelihood of developing certain diseases. Nurses should assess for and assist patients with coping mechanisms related to dealing with stressful situations. In this instance, working with the interdisciplinary team is essential.
Michael L. Jones, PhD(c), RN, MSN,
MBA
Congratulations!Dr. Cindy Luther was selected to serve on the
Content Expert Panel for the American Nurses Credentialing Center - Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP Panel. She recently visited the ANA Headquarters where the panel was tasked with Reviewing Role Delineation Studies and Certification Exam Test Content Outlines.
Dr. Cindy Luther at ANA headquarters in front of original letters of Florence Nightingale
Addressing Health Literacy continued on page 14
Hospital/Facilities/Home Care Staffing
WE NEED YOU!
From the
Serving Mississippi
RNs & LPNs
for over 25 years
Gulf Coastto Memphis...
PCNURSING.COM 1-800-844-4298
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 9
MNF Announces 2018 Money Raffle! Get your $25 tickets online at
www.msnursesfoundation.com or call 601.898.0850
*Winner is responsible for all taxes *Winner need not be present to win
*Proceeds support the programs and daily operations of MNF
Mississippi Nurses Foundation
Through the foundation’s Car Tag Program, Nurses Touch Lives, MNF is fortunate to offer each School of Nursing a $1,000 scholarship for one deserving student. The student is selected by the Nursing School Leadership based on academic excellence, leadership abilities and community involvement.
Thank you to our Schools of Nursing for allowing the Mississippi Nurses Foundation to be a part of your students’ success.
The 2018 Schools of Nursing Scholarship recipients are listed below:
Scholarship Recipient School of Nursing
Ophelia Fleming Alcorn State University
Latoya Nicole Smith-Gray Belhaven University
Brittany Mitchell Coahoma Community College
No Name Submitted Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Anna Carver Delta State University
Khalil Triplett East Central Community College
No Name Submitted East Mississippi Community College
Janaisha Berry Hinds Community College
Tonya Owens Holmes Community College
Iheshia Trimble-Koonce Itawamba Community College
Carmen Breland Jones County Junior College
Pamela Watson Meridian Community College
Anna Grace Davis Mississippi College
Cyneiceya Wallace Mississippi Delta Community College
Jessica Ginn Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Emily Kruse & Victoria McDaniel Mississippi University for Women
William Fowler Quinn Northeast Mississippi Community College
Adrianne Browning Northwest Mississippi Community College
Taylor Autin Pearl River Community College
Brandi Hamilton & Fall Awardee to be named
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Olivia Herrington University of Mississippi Medical Center
Annie Doster University of Southern Mississippi
Rebekah Nevala William Carey University
MNF School of Nursing Scholarship
• BSN (Traditional and Accelerated)
• RN to BSN
• BSN to MSN
• RN to MSN
• Post MSN to DNP
• BSN to DNP
• Post Graduate Certificates
• Subspecialty options available
The University of South Alabama is a place of unlimited possibilities, unrestricted ideas, and exceptional accomplishments.
• USA College of Nursing is currently the largest academic program at USA.
• One of the largest Nursing programs in the United States.
• Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE),
655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 887-6791.
#WeAreSouth
www.southalabama.edu/colleges/con
College of Nursing University of South Alabama
High quality programs online and on-campus
Page 10 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
DEDICATED COMPASSIONATE HOME CARE SERVICESOur team of first rate RNs, LPNs and CNAs enable us to offer comprehensive services for virtually every need from 24 hour home care to sitter services.
Our Home Care Services are provided for your loved one in their personal residence, hospital, nursing home, assisted living facility or hospice.
MISSISSIPPI’S MOST PROGRESSIVE MEDICAL STAFFING AGENCYPOSITIONS INCLUDE:
• All Clerical Positions
• X-Ray Techs/Lab Techs
• Certified Medical Assistants
• Nurses
• Phlebotomists
• CNAs
• And More!
FBI Fingerprinting and Extensive Background Checks
Mississippi’s first Healthcare Staffing Agencyto earn The Joint Commission Certification.
SPECIALIZING IN THE TEMPORARYAND PERMANENT PLACEMENT OF
MEDICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS.
www.SouthernHealthcare.com301 New Pointe | Ridgeland, MS 39157T: 601.933.0037 | 800.880.2772Successfully Serving Mississippi Since 1993
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 11
The Mississippi Nurses Foundation Coffee Club was started in April 2009 with the support of Dr. Kim Hoover, Dean of the University of MS School of Nursing, with her donation for MNF daily operations. The coffee club recognizes individuals who donate between $300- $5,000 or more to the Foundation.You can join today with a monthly donation of $25.00 to the Nurses Foundation. Please select your level of support for membership into the Mississippi Nurses Foundation Coffee Club. Bank draft and credit card monthly donations will automatically renew every 12 months unless notified by the donor.
_______ Espresso Level$4,000 to $5,000----Two packages of MNF signature coffee and two coffee mugs, four tickets to all upcoming events sponsored by the Foundation, recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, Recognition on MNF’s website, newsletter, recognition at the Mississippi Nurses Association Annual Convention and a 4” X 8” engraved brick in the Mary E. Stainton Center for Nursing Garden.
_______ Cappuccino Level$2,000 to $3,999----Two packages of MNF signature coffee and two coffee mugs, two tickets to all upcoming events sponsored by the Foundation, recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, Recognition on MNF’s website, newsletter and recognition at the Mississippi Nurses Association Annual Convention.
_______ Mocha Level$500 to $1,999-----One package of MNF signature coffee and coffee mug, two tickets to one of MNF’s sponsored events, recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, Recognition on MNF’s website, newsletter and recognition at the Mississippi Nurses Association Annual Convention.
_______ Coffee Level$300 to $499 -----One package of MNF signature coffee and coffee mug, a ticket to one of MNF’s sponsored events, recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, recognition on MNF’s website, newsletter, and recognition at the Mississippi Nurses Association Annual Convention.
_______ No, I cannot join the Coffee Club but I will give a donation to support the MS Nurses Foundation.
( ) $25 ( ) $50 ( ) $75 ( ) $100( ) $150 ( ) $200 ( ) $250
Name (Please print) _________________________________
Address _________________________________________
City ____________________________________________
State ________ Zip ________________
Phone: Home ______________ Cell __________________
Email address _____________________________________
Method of Payment
Credit Card # ______________________________________
Exp. Date _____________ 3 digit code/ back of card ______
Amount ________
( ) Amex ( ) MasterCard ( ) Visa
( ) Bank Draft 1st or 15th (circle one) Amount per month ____ Month to start _________________ Send a voided check to the MS Nurses Foundation
( ) One time payment for yearly membership _____________ Please include check or money order and mail it to the MS Nurses Foundation
( ) DONATE ONLINE at www.msnursesfoundation.com
Your tax deductible donation to the Coffee Club will help support the Nurses Foundation in its daily operations of carrying out its mission of raising, accepting and dispersing charitable donations to promote professional nursing and better health in Mississippi. Sponsored events exclude the Nightingale Awards Gala.
Mississippi Nurses Foundation 31 Woodgreen Place • Madison, MS 39110
Phone: (601) 898-0850 Fax: (601) 898-0190
Coffee Club Application
Mississippi Nurses Foundation
WISHES & KISSES 2018A campaign to support Make-A-Wish Mississippi in granting wishes
With the support of nurses and friends of nurses, our Wishes and Kisses Campaign was a huge success. We raised $8,000 to grant Angel his wish. MNF hosted a pizza party to celebrate with Angel and his family, friends, and representatives from Make-A-Wish® Mississippi. Angel and his family will be heading to Florida to make his Wish come true.
Thank you for Touching Lives and Granting Wishes!
I wish to go to my favorite
Florida Theme ParksAngel, 5Cancer
Nurses Touch Lives... and grant wishes
Our Campaign was a Success!Your gift helped to grant Angel’s Wish!
Pictured: Angel; Rod Henderson, Senior Director of
Development, Make-A-Wish® Mississippi; and Rosalyn
Howard, Executive Director, Mississippi Nurses Foundation.
For more information contactDana Walker • [email protected]
Mississippi Nurses’ Association(601) 898-0670
View online brochure at www.msnurses.org
Mississippi Nurses’ Association presents...
Iceland’s Magical Northern LightsNovember 6-12, 2018
Book Now!
For more information contactDana Walker • [email protected]
Mississippi Nurses’ Association(601) 898-0670
View online brochure at www.msnurses.org
Mississippi Nurses’ Association presents...
Treasures of Northern CaliforniaJuly 22 - 30, 2018
Book Now!
Page 12 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
Mississippi Nurses Foundation
The Mississippi Nurses Foundation held its Brick Garden “In Honor” and “In Memory” ceremony Saturday, May 12, 2018 at the Mississippi Center for Nursing, in Madison MS. A special thanks to Mary Stainton, for which the brick garden is named, for joining us and sharing the history of the garden. Another special thanks to our sponsor and nurse, Dr. Kaye Bender, for her generous support of the Brick Garden Ceremony. It was a beautiful event as nurses and friends of nurses joined us in celebrating the life and legacy of nurses throughout the state. Please join us in congratulating and remembering the following nurses “In Honor” and “In Memory”:
“In Honor” Mary Ann ChilesJennifer DumalEast Mississippi Community College ADN
Program Class of 2017Kim W. HooverAnnette Joyner Cindy LutherMatty Hersee Nurses 1913-1986Tammie M. McCoyAngela SkinnerWallace StricklandEstelle Watts
“In Memory” Tammy L. JohnsonHiawatha NorthingtonRosie Small-GregorySandra Townsend LaDine WashingtonKimberly Holcomb Watts
Amy Lampton Walker, MSN, FNP-BC
Chief Clinical OfficerDelta Regional Medical Center
Ann Barnes, RNPresident
Prime Care Nursing
Alicia Lundstrom, PhD, RN, CNE
Associate Dean of Nursing
Associate Professor of Nursing
William Carey University
Joseph and Nancy Fail School of Nursing
Dana Walker, DNP, RN Assistant Professor and RN-BSN Coordinator
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
Mississippi University for Women
Dr. Kaye Bender
Mary Stainton
The Mississippi Nurses Foundation
Welcomes New Board of Trustees
Eileen S. and Earl C. Whittemore Fund Advanced Practice/Nurse Practitioner Scholarship
MNF and The Gulf Coast Community Foundation will present a $2,500 scholarship to a student in an accredited nurse practitioner program. The student must also be a resident of Hancock,
Harrison, Jackson, Pearl River, Stone or George County. Deadline for application is July 6, 2018.
Mississippi Nurses Foundation announces deadline for two (2) PhD Research Grants up to $10,000 each.
Applicant must be a member of MNA, enrolled in a PhD Nursing program in Mississippi, and a resident of Mississippi.
Deadline for application is July 9, 2018.
$1,000 Award for Scholarly Writing Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. will sponsor a $1,000 award for scholarly writing.
The Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency publishes The MS RN magazine for the Mississippi Nurses Association.
Deadline for application is August 20, 2018.
For application information and forms, please visit www.msnursesfoundation.com or contact: MS Nurses Foundation
31 Woodgreen Place Madison, MS 39110
601-898-0850Email: [email protected]
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 13
Mississippi Nurses Foundation
A minimum of 1 yr med surg, long term care, or emergency room experience. Must possess a valid MS license,
TB certification and BLS. Correctional experience a plus, but not required. Competitive salary.
Please forward resumes to [email protected]
RNs & LPNs needed for PRN work; days, nights and weekends
in Jackson County Detention Center in Pascagoula, MS
Correctional Medical Associates
Eastern LAMental Health System Call (225) 634-0559 for more info
Recruiting all RN’s
New Base Pay Rates
The largest publicly funded Mental Health System in Louisiana
Leading the way in Mental Health Care!
Registered Nurse & Licensed Practical Nurse
The North Mississippi Regional Center accepts applications for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses on three shifts. These positions are assigned to the main campus in Oxford, MS supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Minimum Requirements: Applicants must possess a valid Mississippi License for Registered/Practical Nurse.
For an application contact the North Mississippi Regional Center,Human Resources Office at (662) 513-7772.
• Health Insurance• Vacation Leave• Medical Leave
Excellent benefit package, including:
• Paid Holidays• Public Employee’s Retirement
System of Mississippi
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
YOUR SOURCE FOR JOBS IN MISSISSIPPI
(OR ANYWHERE)
Page 14 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018
6. Unemployment – one’s job security increases his or her level of satisfaction with life, thus leads to better physical and mental wellbeing. Unemployment also leads to one not having adequate health insurance required to fund health care. Nurses should assess for issues related to unemployment. For example, prior to prescribing a medication, ask the patient if he or she has the funds to afford the medication. This is also yet another opportunity to work alongside the larger interdisciplinary team to ensure patient needs are met.
7. Social Support – good social relations, friendships, and a strong and supportive network often equates to healthy outcomes. The nurse must assess for the patient’s level of social support and work to address any gaps identified. This includes inviting the patient’s family to be part of the care experience and working alongside the member to identify support groups in the individual’s own community to ensure more positive health outcomes.
8. Addiction – when dealing with social hardships and stress (mental and physical), individuals often turn to addiction as a coping mechanism. It is important for the nurse to assess for addiction and ensure any identified issues are addressed through identifying available community resources (i.e. mental health and chemical dependency). Working along with the interdisciplinary healthcare team is essential in this regard as well.
9. Food – healthy food and access to it is essential to good health. Individuals who live in food deserts (lack of food sources within a certain mile radius) increase the likelihood of one not having access. While interacting with the larger disciplinary team, the nurse should ensure the patient has access to food sources (i.e. community food bank, food stamps, WIC, etc.). There is also the opportunity to ensure the patient has access to nutritional education (referral to dietician as an example).
10. Transport – adequate transportation equates to enhanced access to healthcare services. Individuals with limited transportation tend to have poorer health outcomes. The nurse should assess for adequate transportation and work with the interdisciplinary team to ensure the patient has adequate transportation. It is essential to identify and utilize available resources (i.e. transportation for Medicaid beneficiaries) to ensure patients have transportation to and from visits to the health care facility (i.e. doctor’s visits, procedures, etc.).
(World Health Organization, 2010)
ConclusionIn conclusion, because our state is faced with so
many health issues and because we have so many great resources in our state such as our communities, it’s time that we begin to think outside of the box as it relates to addressing patient health needs. The first step is to not only address health care needs, but to also take a step back and assess whether the member actually understands what we teach them to do. Additionally, we must incorporate the communities in which the patient lives in the care continuum.
Taking a step back and addressing the many factors that are in the communities in which individuals come from is essential. I often say that as healthcare professionals, we don’t actually manage healthcare, but instead we monitor healthcare. We must ensure patients are effectively managing his or her healthcare. In doing so, we can ensure a step in the right direction toward positive health outcomes, which benefits not only the patient, but also the health care provider as we work to ensure the highest quality of those in which we serve. To do so, we must equip them with what they need to be healthy. Conducting a thorough assessment of the individual’s environment and addressing any identified issues is necessary.
ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (2017). Health
Literacy. Retrieved May 8, 2018, from http://www.cdc.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014). Social Determinants of Health. Retrieved May 8, 2018, from http://www.cdc.gov
Mississippi State Department of Health (2016). Chronic Diseases. Retrieved February 24, 2017, from http://msdh.ms.gov
World Health Organization (2010). Social Determinants of Health. Retrieved May 10, 2018, from http://www.who.int.social_determinants/en/
Addressing Health Literacy continued from page 8
At Hattiesburg Clinic, our goal is to provide quality health care with a focus on service and excellence to the patient. Hattiesburg Clinic has over 300 physicians and providers representing over 45 specialties and covering an 18 county region. As the largest multi-specialty clinic in the state, we offer care tailored specifically to the physical and emotional needs of every patient.
From family medicine to medical specialists, come explore some of the many reasons why Hattiesburg Clinic strives to be the health care provider of choice for South Mississippi for more than 50 years.
For employment opportunities, visit us online at
www.hattiesburgclinic.com.
June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 15
Membership
Whether caring for patients in one of our hospitals or out in
the community, we’ve created environments that allow our
nurses to live, grow and thrive! Forrest Health offers one of
the most competitive benefits packages in Mississippi and
provides opportunities for career development and growth.
Learn more at joinforresthealth.org.
