April, May, June 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 1

current resident or

Presort StandardUS Postage

PAIDPermit #14

Princeton, MN55371

Volume 15 • Number 2 April, May, June 2012Vermont State Nurses’ Association Official Publication

OR Nurses Go Green

Page 3

Celebrate National Nurses’ Week

Page 10

Inside...

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

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

Continuing Education Opportunities . . . . . . . . . 6

Nursing Quality Conference Convenes

Leaders to Focus on Patient Outcomes . . . . . 6

Save the Date—Nurse Summit 2012 . . . . . . . . . . 7

Research Study on RNs with Disabilities . . . . . . 7

Save the Date—Legislative Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

ANA/VSNA News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Legislative Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Membership Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

VSNA New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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

Vermont Nurse Connection

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

Ruth Elsa Baldwin RN, VSNA President

We look forward to working together to lead our association with continued success. VSNA could not be successful without all the hard work and dedication of all our staff and volunteers. Thank you to all.

I would encourage every nurse to be a member and to get involved to whatever degree possible. It is through our members’ active participation and networking connections that we will best achieve excellent outcomes for our patients. We are the most trusted professionals in the world and our license obligates us to advocate for our patients to ensure that they receive what they need to be well.

We look forward to meeting together for Legislative Day, April 19, 2012. Nurses are powerful when they work in unity. Let us unite and let our voices be heard.

Ruth Elsa Baldwin

President’s Letter

Save the DatesNurses Day at the State House

“Harnessing Nurses’ Political Power”April 19, 2012

Capitol Plaza, Montpelier, VT

Kappa Tau Chapter Presents:Our Annual Meeting

Sponsored by Fletcher Allen Health Care

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Page 2 • Vermont Nurse Connection April, May, June 2012

Published by:Arthur L . Davis Publishing Agency, Inc .

www .vsna-inc .org

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

a constituent member of the American Nurses Association. Published quarterly every January, April, July and October. Library subscription price is $18 per year. ISSN# 1529-4609.

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

South Burlington, VT 05403, PH: (802) 651-8886, FAX (802) 651-8998, E-mail: vtnurse@sover.net

Editor: Jean E. Graham

AdvertisingFor advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur L.

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

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

ContentVermont State Nurses’ Association welcomes unsolicited

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

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

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

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

3) Or e-mailed as a Word Perfect or MS Word document file to vtnurse@sover.net.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

District PresidentsDistrict 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jill FedericoDistrict 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catherine GuyDistrict 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Otero

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

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

VNC EditorialJean Graham

Voices of Vermont Nurses

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

100 Dorset Street, #13 South Burlington, Vermont 05403

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

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

Name: _________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________

City: ___________________________________________

State: __________________ Zip: ___________________

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

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

Requests for additions or changes to the VSNA website should be communicated before the 1st of each month to the site’s webmaster at vtnurse@sover.net.

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

Hope to see you on the web!Deadlines for the Vermont

Nurse ConnectionAre you interested in contributing an article to an

upcoming issue of the Vermont Nurse Connection? If so, here is a list of submission deadlines for the next 2 issues:

Vol . 15 #3—April 23, 2012Vol . 15 #4—July 23, 2012

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

Vermont State Nurses’ AssociationAttention: VNC100 Dorset Street, Suite 13South Burlington, VT 05403-6241Articles may also be submitted electronically to

vtnurse@sover.net .

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

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

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

Jean Graham, Editor

Quality Assurance ManagerPACE-Vermont

Colchester Job Description The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for the development, organization and monitoring of PACE-Vermont’s Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement Plan (QAPI). The Quality Assurance Coordinator is responsible for developing the QAPI annual plan, and guiding the implementation of the plan. Ensuring that data is collected from all appropriate sources; and the data is examined and the result are shared with all stakeholders. Oversees the process to evaluate and resolve medical and non-medical grievances by participants, their family members, or representatives. The Quality Assurance Coordinator acts as the HIPAA Privacy Compliance Officer for PACE VT. The Quality Assurance Coordinator is responsible for over sight of the Medical Records, Contract Liaison, and the Compliance Officer to ensure all CMS and State required activities related with these positions.

Skills and Knowledge:• Abilitytoleadandsuperviseeffectively.• Creative,detailed-orientedandorganized.• Excellentwrittenandverbalcommunicationskillswithspecificabilityto

maintain accurate records. • Abilitytofacilitateeffectivemeetings.• Excellentcustomerserviceskills.• Musthaveintegrity,practicediscretionandpracticeobjectiveproblemsolving.• Datacollectionskillsandknowledgeofbasicstatisticalprinciples.• Skilledinestablishingandmaintainingeffectiveworkingrelationshipswith

participants, co-workers, medical staff, and the public. • Skilledinidentifyingandrecommendingproblemresolution.

To apply contact:Joshua Darragh, Human Resources Manager

P: (802) 655-6700 F: (802) 655-6762Email: jdarragh@pacevermont.org

Job Requirements Education: RN Licensure in Vermont required.

Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of demonstrated experience in quality assurance and performance improvement activities in a health related work environment.

Attention RNs with 1 year long term care experience interested in

administering the State of Vermont Nurse Aide test. Flexible schedules

call toll free 1-877-851-2355and ask for Jess or

fax resume to 1-419-422-8328.

April, May, June 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 3

OR Nurses Go Green: Blue Wrap Recycling Program Up & Running

Q&A with Monique Citro –by Hollie Shaner-McRae, DNP, RN, FAAN

Hollie: Describe the blue wrap recycling program.Monique: The recycling

program keeps Kimguard, a “spun polypropylene” product from ending up in the landfill. Kimguard is a plastic and doesn’t biodegrade easily. Most sterile instrument sets that we use in the Operating Room (OR) are wrapped in blue wrap as part of the sterilization process.

The Central Sterile Reprocessing Department has been great in trying to reduce the amount of blue wrap we use by buying more closed steel instrument cases to sterilize instrument sets, but some sets are too large for the cases or they don’t make cases for odd size sets. Fletcher Allen buys, on average, 16 tons of blue wrap per year! Before the patient comes into each OR, the sterile instrument sets are opened, and the blue wrap is discarded. Everything that is generated as waste before that patient gets to the room is clean, and we would have full bags of garbage before the case begins. We started basic recycling

in the OR over a year ago with co-mingled #1- #7 plastics, glass, and cardboard. It was a natural transition to try to find a vendor who would recycle the blue wrap, and we did!

Hollie: Who collects the blue wrap?Nurses, techs, others?

Monique: Everyone! Everything we need for each surgery comes to the room in a “case cart.” As the nurses and techs are opening the sterile instruments for each surgery they set the blue wrap aside. Labels and tape are removed from the blue wrap (as these items are considered contaminants in the recycling process. The blue wrap is placed into a box that contained supplies on the case cart. Once filled, the boxes are collected and put in a common area where they are consolidated to maximize the amount of blue wrap in each box. The hospital’s Distribution staff collects the boxes and delivers them to the Fletcher Allen supply warehouse where the boxes are palletized, shrink wrapped and stored until the recycling company comes to pick them up. Only blue wrap opened prior to the beginning of surgery is collected and removed in the boxes. Anything blue wrap generated once the surgery is underway is considered “contaminated” and discarded.

Hollie: How much blue wrap is collectedeach day/week/month?

Monique: We average about 6 large boxes each day,

Monique Citro Monday - Friday. The blue wrap is light weight and fluffy so we can compress it and put a lot into each box. After 12 days of collection, we’ve sent 44 boxes to the warehouse.

Hollie: Where is it sent and what happens to it?Monique: The blue wrap is collected by Canusa

Hershman, a recycling company in St Albans. Canusa Hershman has agreed to bale the material and market the blue wrap to a recycling vendor that will process the polypropylene wrap into plastic pellets to make new products.

Personal & Financial HealthSleep and the Night Shift Professional

Evelyn A. Sikorski, CSW, CEAPFletcher Allen Employee and

Family Assistance Program (EFAP)evelyn.sikorski@vtmednet.org

Night shift work can be a difficult adjustment. The body wants to sleep at night and be active during the day, and when you change this, you may find yourself tired all the time, not sure when to eat your meals, and just generally disoriented and feeling in a fog. While none of this sounds ideal, some professions, like that of a night shift nurse, require you to make these adjustments. You can get valuable experience on the night shift, so here are ways to meet the challenges.

The main issue with the night shift is that you are disrupting your natural rhythm by staying up all night and sleeping in the day. An internal clock that generates circadian rhythms governs your body. These rhythms regulate sleep. The circadian rhythms run over a 24-hour cycle, prompting you to sleep when it gets dark and wake up and be active when it’s light. You must fight these natural tendencies in order to be a successful night shift worker.

• Establishing a sleep routine that enables you tofunction at work while getting enough daily rest is one of the keys to success while working the night shift. Some people will do best by going to bed as soon as they return from work, while others may prefer staying up for a few hours and sleeping until just before they must go to work, as they would on a day shift. Whichever strategy you choose, stick to it as often as possible so your body learns to relax and rest each day.

• Eat amainmeal before you begin the night shift.Wake up and kick start the night in preparation for your upcoming shift. Eat a protein rich meal, shower to refresh yourself, have a cup of tea, coffee

or ice water. This will help you tell your body to get into gear.

Another way to stay alert is to try breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth, which will raise your heart rate and alertness at the same time.• Bring your day planner to work and bring along

a variety of low-fat healthy snacks to keep you energized throughout the shift. Oranges, crisp apples, vegetables with dressing, hot chocolate, or tea are snacks you can count on to give you a lift. Enjoy your snack and keep yourself organized. Balance work and home activities by planning after work errands, grocery shopping or appointments for efficiency with the day time you do have available.

• Pack your next meal to avoid expensive, heavyor highly processed meals or “candy dish”

temptations. This will help you save money and avoid weight gain.

• When you get off your shift try to fit in somestretching, walking or other physical activity. You may not feel like exercising at first, but after a workout you will feel the many benefits of an active lifestyle. It will also help you rejuvenate and feel refreshed.

When it is time to relax and go to sleep find a routine that provides you with the reliability and assurance that you will get the amount of relaxation and sleep you need to sustain yourself and be ready for your next shift. Relax before trying to sleep so your mind can unwind. Stay away from alcohol or sleeping aids as they can interfere with, rather than offer more, restful sleep and make getting through that next shift even harder.

NursiNg CareersJoinourmission,bepartofourculture!Comejoinourorganization which has provided care to our Vermont community for over 100 years. We have full and part time benefited openingsaswellasPerDiemandPayPerVisitopportunitiesfor:

• Pediatric High Tech Nurses (RN or LPN)• Adult High Tech Nurses (RN)• AdultHomeCareProfessionals: • Intake Nurse (RN) • Registered Nurses • Licensed Practical Nurses • Licensed Nursing Assistants

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

Check out our job openings and apply online

www.vnacares.orgThe VNA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We’re the region’s leading psychiatric and addictions treatment center—conveniently located

in nearby southern Vermont.

Where nurses make a difference—day, evening and night!

• Generous Shift Differentials• Excellent Salary & Benefits Package

• Supportive Clinical Environment

“Help change lives in a place that could change yours.”

To apply, please visit our website: www.brattlebororetreat.org

EOE/M/F

Psych RNsAdult Units

(Day & Evening shifts – 24 & 32 hours)

Greensboro Nursing Home

“Living Center”

Greensboro Nursing Home in Greensboro, VT is seeking an

Experienced Director of Nursingfor its 30 bed non-profit SNF. Ideal candidate will be a strong

director who works well under pressure and has excellent leadership skills. Competitive pay with more than excellent

benefit package including 30 paid days off per year (ETO), 401K, paid health insurance, dental benefits and more.

Apply in confidence to Administrator, Greensboro Nursing Home, 47 Maggie’s Pond Rd., Greensboro, VT 05828 or

email to GNH@vtlink.net.

Page 4 • Vermont Nurse Connection April, May, June 2012

work they do, to be a part of something meaningful, to take on challenging projects, to collaborate with others, to take risks, to belong to something larger than themselves. Once a nurse leader has developed her personal vision statement he/she then needs to develop a vision for his/her team and then guide them into the process of creating a shared vision. When people are aligned around a shared vision, they are clear about where the team is going, how it will contribute to its customers and what it will take to succeed. They understand how their work serves the big picture—the organization’s success; and they feel they are at the center of things, making a significant contribution.

So how does a nurse leader develop this forward-looking capacity evolving into a shared vision? They must carve out time to ask and listen to their people. They must ask, “What’s new? What’s next? What’s better?”—but they can’t present answers that are only theirs. Employees want visions of the future that reflect their own aspirations. They want to hear how their dreams will come true and their hopes will be fulfilled. Kouzes and Posner say the best way to lead people into the future is to connect with them deeply in the present and that the only vision that take hold are shared visions, and you will create them only when you listen very, very closely to others, appreciate their hopes, and attend to their needs. The best leaders are able to bring their people into the future because they engage in the oldest form of research: They observe the human condition (Kouzes, Posner, 2008).6

Turning the pyramid upside down seems unnatural and brings to mind the image of a pyramid teetering unsteadily on its tip. For managers who are committed to the hierarchal process the idea of turning the pyramid upside down might seem too unsettling. To the newest generation to the nursing workforce, Generation Y (Millennial, Nexters), this is how it is going to be as they gradually take over leadership positions. They have already begun to practice this philosophy as it comes naturally to them to have a vision for the future, to include everyone, to seek out everyone’s opinion, stay connected 24/7 and to serve one another. This generation is globally aware, well educated, wired, and technologically sophisticated. They have positive expectations and a desire for collective action (Zemke, Raines, & Filipczak, 2000).7 ”Futurizing your organization—that is, creating an organization that thinks in the future tense and acts in the present—is prerequisite for success in a rapidly changing and uncertain world” (Morrison, 2007).8 Nursing teams that thrive will be those that are open to imagination, adapt quickly to change, and entice employees to participate in the creating the shared vision for the future.

Turn the pyramid upside down. Have your team bring

their brains to work vs. kiss up the hierarchy. Don’t have them be

ducks (who just quack excuses why they can’t do this or can’t do that.) Empower

them to be eagles who soar above the crowd. ~ Ken Blanchard

Priscilla Smith-Trudeau MSM RN BSN CRRN CCM is a healthcare management consultant specializing in workforce development. She can be reached at priscilla.trudeau@wealthindiversity.com.

1 Blanchard, K., (2006), Leading at a Higher Level, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle Hill, NJ

2 Smith-Trudeau, P., (2011), The Journey to Becoming a Successful Nurse Leader, Vermont Nurse Connection, Vol. 14, No. 4, Pg. 4

3 Daft, R., Lengel, R., (2000), Fusion Leadership, Berrett-Koehler Pub, San Francisco, CA

4 Cecile Peterkin, www.cosmiccoachingcentre.com5 Kouzes, J., Posner, B., (2009), To Lead, Create a Shared

Vision, Harvard Business Review, Harvard Business School of Publishing, Boston, MA

6 Kouzes, J., Posner, B., (2008), Leadership Challenge, Jossey-Bass Publ., San Francisco, CA

7 Zemke, R., Raines, C., & Filipczak, B. (2000). Generations at work. Wichita Falls, TX: Claire Raines & Associates

8 Morrison, J.L. (2007). Ideas to consider when designing a next generation workplace. Retrieved November 19, 2007, from http://www.slideshare.net/dirkshaw/ideas-to-consider-when-designing-a-next-generation-workplace/

Personal & Financial HealthSuccessful Nurse Leaders Turning the Pyramid Upside Down

Priscilla Smith-Trudeau, RN, MSM, CRRN, CCM

Leadership is vision. There’s nothing more to say.~ Peter Drucker

For a long time, probably as far back as Florence Nightingale’s time, two different roles have existed in the nursing culture. One has been called the management role—doing things right. The other is the leadership role, which is doing the right thing. Creating a vision is the first step toward creating the future of any nursing team. Creating a shared vision is the ideal vision. We now know that we can’t have one group (management) creating the vision, the values and the direction and another group (staff) implementing them. Although, the vision has to start at the top, everyone must be able to provide input to buy into that vision and direction.

Ken Blanchard, author and management expert believes that successful leaders are expected to turn the traditional pyramid upside down so the customer-contact people are at the top of the organization’s concerns. In this scenario, leaders need to understand that part of their job is to take care of the people who take care of their customers. In other words, leaders work for the people who report to them. A lot of leaders don’t see it this way, but this mindset is vital to empower people to serve customers at a high level. Elements of this mindset create a high-investment, high-expectation environment that supports an engaging environment for employees who in turn deliver superior experiences for customers (Blanchard, 2006).1 This approach requires the nurse leader to shift from being the judge, critic or evaluator to becoming and excelling as cheerleader, supporter and encourager. The result is an ultimate nursing team where nurses not only know where they are headed but are empowered to get there.

Creating a Personal Vision StatementSo many of our dreams seem impossible, then

improbable, then inevitable.—Christopher ReeveSuccessful nurse leaders choose their life’s work to

connect deeply with their purpose and find their work intrinsically rewarding. They know that their ability to grow as a leader is based on their ability to grow as a person. They know that the external act of leadership cannot be put into a formula of ten easy-to-follow strategies or quick tips. Rather, they frequently take reflective journeys to foster

the personal awakening needed to enhance their leadership effectiveness (Smith-Trudeau).2 Shared vision cannot exist without personal vision. Creating a personal vision statement is a leader’s first responsibility before any attempt to create a shared vision statement. A personal vision statement defines a person’s destination and journey. Two questions that have often helped ground me in this reflective process are:

1. If I never had to work another day in my life, how would I spend my time instead of working?

2. When my life is ending, what will I regret not doing, seeing, or achieving?

A leader has to have a foundation of personal experience to envision a plausible future; otherwise the vision will come from the head rather than the heart. The source of a personal vision is your hopes and dreams for the future. To fully access these, you must quiet your conditioned rational mind so that inner images can emerge (Daft, Lengel, 2000).3

Cecile Peterkin,4 a talent management consultant offers the following exercise:

Close your eyes and picture yourself in the future. It may be a few months or years from today. See the person you are; what you are doing, who you are with, what you have accomplished, what is important to you, and how people relate to you. How does it feel to be you? Feel the person you are, your true self. Now, open your eyes and see your life and yourself in the present, through those eyes. You will begin to notice the changes you need to make to honor this vision and lead a powerful life.

Creating a personal vision statement provides clarity which is a precursor to success. Not only is clarity critically important to achieving personal success, but it’s equally important in achieving professional success. Clarity plays a crucial role in developing a team vision because it helps one make the right decisions and take the right actions.

Creating a Shared VisionTurning the Pyramid Upside Down

The greatest leaders mobilize others by coalescing a shared vision.—Ken Blanchard

According to Kouzes and Posner, being forward-looking—envisioning exciting possibilities and enlisting others in a shared view of the future is the attribute that most distinguishes leaders from nonleaders. In an ongoing project surveying tens of thousands of working people around the world, they asked, “What do you look for and admire in a leader (defined as someone whose direction you would willingly follow)?” Then they asked, “What do you look for and admire in a colleague (defined as someone you’d like to have on your team)?” The number one requirement of a leader—honesty—was also the top-ranking attribute of a good colleague. But the second-highest requirement of a leader, that he or she be forward-looking, applied only to the leader role. Just 27% of respondents selected it as something they want in a colleague, whereas 72% wanted it in a leader. Among respondents holding more-senior roles in organizations, the percentage was even greater, at 88%. No other quality showed such a dramatic difference between leader and colleague (Kouzes, Posner, 2009)5.

As healthcare becomes increasingly more chaotic and uncertain, any sense of order and purpose must be based on shared vision and common ground. Successful nurse leaders understand that everyone wants to be proud of the

Priscilla Smith-Trudeau

April, May, June 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 5

Student NewsThe Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation

AnnouncesThe Arthur L . Davis Publishing Agency, Inc .

2012 ScholarshipApplications for the $1,000 scholarship are open to Vermont State Nurses’ Association members who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate nursing program and who are active in a professional nursing organization. Submit application by August 1, 2012. Please complete the application below and submit it to:

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

Name: _______________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________

City: __________________________ State _______ Zip ______________

Phone: ______________________ E-mail: __________________________

Nursing Program and Degree Currently Enrolled in:

____________________________________________________________

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

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation, Inc.

100 Dorset Street, Suite #13

S. Burlington, VT 05403

(802) 651-8886

Application for the2012 Pat and Frank Allen Scholarship

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

Name: _____________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________

Phone: (day) __________________________ (evening) ____________________

Email: _____________________________________________________________

Vermont license number: ______________________________________________

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

__________________________________________________________________

Degree that you are seeking: ___________________________

Credits completed: ___________________________________

Current Grade Point Average: __________________________

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

Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders

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

Application Deadline: February 28, 2013

Name: ______________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________

Telephone #: ____________________ Email Address: ______________________

Vt RN Lic # _____________________ VONL member since _________________

School of Nursing: _____________________________________________________

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

Graduate school _______________________ 1st yr _________ 2nd year _________

expected date of graduation ______________

If employed in nursing, current employer ___________________________________

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

If yes please list the sources ______________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

Student signature: ______________________________ Date: _________________

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

Martha Buck VAHHS/VONL 148 Main Street Montpelier, VT 05602 (802)223-3461/ext. 111 Martha@vahhs.org

The Award will be announced in April 2013

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

Advanced Degree Program

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

Purpose• Toprovide scholarship support forqualified individuals toparticipate in anapproved

course of study leading to an advanced degree.

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

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

• Currentlyenrolledoraccepted inanaccreditedprogramthatwill lead toanadvanceddegree in nursing

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

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

available• Individualswithdemonstratedfinancialneed• Individualscurrentlyworkinginthefieldofnursingeducation

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

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

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

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

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

Page 6 • Vermont Nurse Connection April, May, June 2012

General NewsNursing Quality Conference Convenes Leaders to

Focus on Patient Outcomes NDNQI® Study Linking Infection Rates to

Nursing Care Hours to be PresentedSILVER SPRING, MD—Hospital-acquired infections

are the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States and cost an estimated $28 billion annually, yet they are largely preventable. That’s where the American Nurses Association’s (ANA) National Database for Nursing Quality Indicators® (NDNQI®) can make a life-or-death difference and significantly reduce cost through evidence-based practices.

NDNQI, the nation’s most comprehensive database of nursing performance measures, links patient outcomes to the quality of nursing services and nurse staffing characteristics, such as education levels. Quality experts use the evidence to implement new processes of care and nurse staffing arrangements to improve patient safety and achieve better outcomes.

More than 1,100 nursing and hospital leaders from across the country and overseas gathered Jan. 25-27 in Las Vegas to share strategies on achieving and sustaining improvements in the quality of America’s health care at the ANA Nursing Quality Conference.™

There, attendees learned about a recent study by NDNQI researchers that shows a strong correlation between nurse staffing patterns and hospital-acquired infections in adult critical care units. According to NDNQI data, higher levels of registered nurses’ hours worked per patient were associated with lower rates of blood stream and urinary tract infections. Also, units with higher percentages of RNs with national specialty certifications, such as critical care or cardiac surgical, had lower infection rates.

More than 1,800 hospitals, about one-third of the nation’s hospitals, participate in NDNQI, a program

of ANA’s National Center for Nursing Quality®. The program collects data quarterly at the hospital unit-level on such indicators as patient falls, pressure ulcers and infections, which are linked to the quality of nursing services. NDNQI allows hospitals to compare the performance of their nursing units to others locally, statewide and nationwide, and set benchmarks.

NDNQI has been expanding internationally, with 17 hospitals from Europe, Australia, Asia and other continents now participating. About two dozen representatives from foreign hospitals will attend the conference, many of whom will tour several Nevada hospitals that use NDNQI to improve their performance.

The NDNQI Award for Outstanding Nursing Quality® was presented Jan. 26 to six hospitals that achieved overall excellence in nursing quality, based on data they report to NDNQI. See how one of the 2010 award winners, Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, Colorado, improved its urinary tract infection rate using NDNQI data.

# # #The ANA is the only full-service professional

organization representing the interests of the nation’s 3.1 million registered nurses through its constituent member nurses associations and its organizational affiliates. The ANA advances the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the rights of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Congress and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.

Upcoming Educational Opportunities (Non-VSNA)

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

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

Vermont Blueprint for HealthDate: 04/10/2012

Location: Sheraton Burlington Hotel & Conference Center - Burlington, VT

Northeastern Genitourinary Oncology SymposiumDate: 04/13/2012 - 04/14/2012

Location: Hilton Hotel Burlington

2012 Vermont AHEC Geriatrics ConferenceDate: 04/17/2012

Location: DoubleTree HotelBurlington, VT

Women’s Health IssuesDate: 05/09/2012 - 05/12/2012Location: Sheraton Burlington

So. Burlington, VT

Vermont Summer Pediatric SeminarDate: 06/14/2012 - 06/17/2012

Location: The EquinoxManchester, VT

15th Annual Breast Cancer ConferenceDate: 10/05/2012

Location: Sheraton BurlingtonSo. Burlington, VT

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

Location: The EssexEssex, VT

Advanced Dermatology for the Primary Care ProviderDate: 10/18/2012 - 10/21/2012Location: Sheraton Burlington

So. Burlington, VT

Continuing Education

Opportunities

Looking for a job in home health anywhere in Vermont,

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

Founded in 1787, Castleton is a college community that values personal interaction with students and among colleagues. Your work will be appreciated here. You can help us make a difference in the lives of our students, and for the benefit of Vermont.

Castleton State College seeks a Director of Nursing Education.TheDirectoroftheNursing Education program will serve as a liaison between the nursing program(s) and the administration, is responsible for providing leadership, continued development, implementation, promotion, and daily operation of the Associate degree in nursing, the RN to BSN program, and the new BSN four-year Baccalaureate program.

Ph.D.innursingorrelatedfield,plusthreetofiveyearsofrelevantteachingandadministrative experience, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.

Salary is within the VSC salary range for a Grade 16 plus excellent benefit package. This position is exempt from the Bargaining Units. Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. To apply send a completed Castleton State College application (found on www.castleton.edu/employment/application),aresumeandthreereferencesto:

Office of Human ResourcesCastleton State College

Castleton, VT 05735

Make a difference

April, May, June 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 7

SAVE THE DATENurse Summit 2012

Leadership across the Continuum– from Classroom to Boardroom

Sponsored by Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders (VONL) and theVermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (VAHHS)

The Nurse Summit 2012 will be held on April 19 & 20, 2012 at the Sheraton Burlington

Hotel & Conference Center, 870 Williston Road, Burlington, Vermont.

The purpose of the Nurse Summit 2012 is to explore the transformative power of nurse leadership across the continuum, from classroom to boardroom. In light of the 2010 IOM Report on the future of nursing, it is a critical moment for nurses to create their own future for the decades to come.

What does nurse leadership look like for the student, charge nurse, academic leader, direct care provider, nurse executive, at the bedside, and within the allied healthcare team?

Join Us • Tolearnfromnationalthoughtleaders;bothonstageandamongus; • ToexploretheimpactoftheIOMreportonhealthcareeducation&practicesettings • Andtoshowcaseinnovativeinitiativesthatsupportourhealthcareworkforce,

leadership,research,education,excellenceinclinicalpracticeandpatientcare

Wednesday, April 18th VNIP Pre-conference Session: Transition to Practice & Competency Programs

LearnhowtheVNIPnursetransitionandpreceptordevelopmentprogramsrelatetochallengesinherenttonurseeducation,practicesettingsandtheimplementationoftheIOMrecommendations.

Thursday, April 19th, spend your morning at the Annual Legislative Dayat the Vermont State House

Buffet lunch at the Burlington SheratonHear an overview of the Activities of the Blue Ribbon Commission—

Implementing the IOM RecommendationsJoin us for a discussion of the activities of the Regional Action Committees in the

New England AreaVONL & Vermont Inservice and Continuing Education Group meetings

Friday, April 20th Keynote: Strategies for creating and sustaining a Professional Practice Environment

Friday ❒ ElectronicHealthRecordsfornursestudentuse,learningandclinicalpractice.Concurrent I ❒ Transforming the Nursing Department at an Academic Medical Center ❒ Root Cause Analyses in a Just Culture Environment ❒ Use of Social Media in the Boardroom

❒ Simtrack:PaneldiscussionforacutecaresimulationlabsConcurrent II ❒ Creating a Professional Practice Environment in Ambulatory Care: A Shared Governance Council ❒ Learning the Language of Leadership – Graduate education ❒ The Nurse Leader in the Medical Home Setting

❒ UsingMobileAccessDevices,AppsandSocialMediainthecurriculaConcurrent III ❒ Vermont Nurse Wellness – Time for Action - Statewide Nurse Wellness Challenge ❒ Leading From Within: Employee Engagement the path to excellance ❒ Life After Death: Improving Tissue Referrals to the Center for Donation & Transplant

General NewsResearch Round-Up

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

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

• NameandCredentialsofAuthor:

• Telephone#:

• Emailaddress:

• PlaceofEmployment:

• Position:

• Educationalinstitution(ifstudent):*

• CurrentYearofStudy:

• Facultycontactperson:

Name:

Telephone #:

Email address:

• Date:

*StudentAbstractsmustbesubmittedbytheirschoolofnursing.

Abstracts may be e-mailed to vtnurse@sover.net, or a hardcopy can be sent to the VSNA, Inc, VNC Abstract, 100 Dorset Street, # 13, South Burlington, VT 05403.

Research Study onRNs with Disabilities

Leslie Neal-Boylan, PhD, RN, Professor of Nursing at Southern Connecticut State University, is conducting a study of registered nurses with permanent physical and/or sensory disabilities. The study’s purpose is to explore how closely nurse job descriptions match the actual expectations of the job. This study is part of an ongoing program of research regarding the work life of nurses with disabilities. The study involves one interview of approximately one hour. If interested, please contact Dr. Neal-Boylan of further information at 203-392-6480 or nealboylanL1@southernct.edu.

The UNIVERSITY of VERMONTCollege of Nursing & Health Sciences

Seeking a dynamic and committed tenure track faculty: an Adult Nurse Practitioner.

This 9 month position begins in August 2012, with an appointment at the rank of assistantprofessor.TheidealcandidateswillhaveaPhDinnursingorarelatedfield;doctoralcandidatesandDNPswithsubstantialresearchsuccesswillbeconsidered.Clinical excellence, eligibility for Vermont licensure, and a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion are essential. A history of extramural funding is highly desirable. Primary responsibilities of the positions include research and scholarship, grantsmanship, teaching in area of expertise, student advising, and service to the University.

The University of Vermont is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and encourages candidacies of women, people of color and people with disabilities.

Prospective candidates should apply online at www.uvmjobs.com. Attach curriculum vitae and letter detailing areas of expertise and professional goals. The positionwillremainopenuntilfilled.Foradditionalinformationpleasecontact:

Betty Rambur, Ph.D., R.N., Search Committee Chair Department of Nursing, University of Vermont

Rowell 216, 106 Carrington Dr. • Burlington, VTBetty.Rambur@uvm.edu

Page 8 • Vermont Nurse Connection April, May, June 2012

General NewsNurses Day at the State House

“HARNESSING NURSES’ POLITICAL POWER”

April 19, 2012Presented by the

VERMONT STATE NURSES’ ASSOCIATION, INC .

Capitol Plaza, Montpelier, VT(Will move to State House at 10:30)

Pre-registration required

Schedule

8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Registration, Coffee

8:30 – 9:00 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Nursing

June Benoit, RN, MSN, FNPc

9:00-10:00 Moving Toward a Single-Payer System

Anya Rader Wallack, PhD

10:00 – 10:30 Review current bills Committee Hearings Christine Ryan, RN, MS

10:30 – 12:30 Tour of State House Available Attend committee meetings

12:30 p.m. Lunch on your own Meet with your legislators

1:00 House of Representatives Resolution for Nurses’ Day at

the State House

1:00 – 3:00 Committee Hearings (if scheduled)

3:00 Convene in the Cafeteria. Wrap up— Christine Ryan, RN, MS

Program GoalTo educate nurses on current health care issues and

how to effectively advocate in the political arena. This is a hands-on approach.

Speakers:

Anya Rader Wallack, PhDIn September 2011, Anya Rader Wallack was appointed

by Governor Shumlin to lead the Green Mountain Care board which will be responsible for implementing the single-payer system.

Dr. Wallack is President of Arrowhead Health Analytics. A native Vermonter, Anya has a deep knowledge of state health policy, including Medicaid policy and the effect of national health reform on states. She established Arrowhead after serving as interim President of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation (BCBSMAF) and Executive Director of the Massachusetts Medicaid Policy Institute (MMPI). Anya has served as a consultant to state governments and multi-state organizations for most of the past decade.

Anya served from 1991-1994 as Policy Director and then Deputy Chief of Staff for Vermont Governor Howard Dean, M.D. In that capacity she coordinated efforts to pass and implement two major health reform initiatives and served as the governor’s liaison to the Agency of Human Services and BISHCA. From 1995-1998 Anya ran the Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care, a quasi-governmental agency that specializes in quality measurement and improvement at the state level. Anya earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Vermont and a Ph.D. in social policy from Brandeis University’s Heller School.

June Benoit, RN, MSN, FNPcIn October 2011, Governor Shumlin appointed

June Benoit as one of the members of the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Nursing to plan for the implementation of the Institute of Medicine’s The Future of Nursing, Leading Change, Advancing Health.

Ms. Benoit is a nurse practitioner at the Veteran’s Administration. She is the past president and acted as interim Executive Director of Vermont State Nurses’ Association.

She received her education at the University of Vermont and Graceland University.

Christine Ryan, RN, MSChristine is currently Chair of the VSNA Committee

on Government Affairs and the VSNA Lobbyist. In her Master’s work she looked at the distribution of health care services for Vermonters and the role of legislation in the provision of those services.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL:Vermont State Nurses’ Association, Inc .

802-651-8886 or 1-800-540-9390 vtnurse@vsna-inc .org

www .vsna-inc .org

General Information

Contact Your Legislator: We strongly encourage you to call your legislators to let them know that you will be there and will visit their committee, and perhaps join them for lunch.

Directions and Suggested Parking1-89 to Exit 8, Montpelier. Memorial Drive at 2nd stoplight turn left onto Bailey St. Ext. Turn right onto State St., Capitol Plaza will be on right, parking in rear. You will receive parking validation.

Visit the Web site: http://www.leg.state.vt.usState Home Page for information on Legislators and bills. You may also want to arrange to meet your legislators for lunch.

Ensuring Excellence in Nursing Care for All Vermonters through Advocacy, Expertise, Innovation and Leadership

Voice CollaborationSupport AdvocacyNetwork ResponsibilityAdvancement Education Standards

Follow Health Care In Action!

http://www .vsna-inc .org

Political ActionFollow the Links

www .nursingworld .org

Nursing IssuesGovernment Affairs

Join ANA/VSNA!Help ensure nurses have a voice in health care

policy decisions . Application available at www .nursingworld .org

or Join VSNA onlywww .vsna-inc .org

Registration Form

Name: ____________________________________

Credentials: ________________________________

Address: __________________________________

______________________Zip _______________

Email: ____________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________❒ Home ❒ Work

Cell: ______________________________________

Registration Fees❒ Student Affiliate: Free (Check on website www.

vsna-inc.org to see how to become an affiliate)❒ All other students: $10 (Scholarships available—

Contact VSNA Office email: vtnurse@vsna-inc.org)

❒ Members: $20❒ Non-members: $30

Mail to:VSNA100 Dorset St, Suite #13South Burlington, VT 05403-6241 orRegister online: www.vsna-inc.org

April, May, June 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 9

ANA/VSNA NewsIn Recognition of Caring Honor a Nurse

Through a gift to the Vermont State Nurses’Foundation Scholarships for Nurses

Nursing continues to be the most trusted profession asindicated in annual surveys. This attests to the collectivecontributions nurses make as they care for patients, families and communities. Efforts of individual nurses however need special recognition by colleagues, employers, patients, families and friends.

Is this an anniversary year for a colleague you admire?

Is this the way that you can thank a mentor?

Is this an opportunity for a patient or family to acknowledge excellent care given by a nurse?

There are many milestones such as a birthday or retirement to celebrate. These are the times to:

Honor A NurseCelebration

The honored nurses and the persons nominating them will be recognized at the Vermont State Nurses’ Association Convention in the Fall of 2012. The honored nurses each will receive a certificate identifying the reason for the honor. The honored nurses’ name will also appear in the Vermont Nurse Connection and on the VSNF website.

The minimum suggested donation to the fund is $25.00 for an individual and $100.00 for a group (up to six) nurses.

Complete the information requested and mail your contribution to :

Vermont State Nurses’ Foundation100 Dorset Street, Suite 13, S. Burlington, VT 05403

VSNF is a 501(c)3 organization.

All contributions are tax deductible to thefull extent allowed by law.

I am honoring:

Name: ________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________

Please indicate on a separate piece of paper thereason (s) you are recognizing this nurse

Nominator’s name : ______________________________

Address: ______________________________________

Submit nominations by 9/7/2012

As the health care environment becomes increasingly complex so does the importance

of continuing academic study for nurses. Vermont’s nurses recognize the need for advanced study as they progress in their

careers. Two nurses who are continuing their nursing education with support from

the VSNF scholarship fund in 2010 are:

CongratulationsPam Kupiec

andMegan Hess

Committee on Government Affairs ReportSubmitted by Christine Ryan, RN, MS

VSNA Lobbyist

Legislative Day at the State House for Vermont nurses will be held April 19, 2012. The theme of this year’s event will be “Harnessing Nurse’s Political Power.” The VSNA is honored to have several speakers for the morning portion of the event. Anya Radar Wallack, PhD will discuss the efforts being made to move to a single-payer system and the important work of the Green Mountain Care Board. An update of the activities of the Blue Ribbon Commission will be presented by June Benoit, RN, MSN, FNPc and I will be providing a review of current bills and committee hearings.

The event will begin at the Capitol Plaza Hotel at 8:00 a.m. for registration and breakfast. Presentations will begin at 8:30 and conclude at 10:30. Immediately following the morning speakers, nurses will have the opportunity to walk to the State House and receive an official tour of this historical building, sit in on committee meetings, and speak to their representatives. At 1:00 p.m., nurses will be honored in the House Chamber by the reading of the Resolution declaring it, “Nurses Day in Vermont.”

Please plan to attend and participate in the political process. Please contact the Vermont State Nurses Association office at 802-651-8886 or by email VSNA-lobbyist@vsna-inc.org with any questions.

Listed below are several bills that are of interest this legislative session:

1. H.151—An act relating to the imposition of an excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages

2. H.274—An act relating to patient choice and control at end of life

3. H.358—An act related to advanced practice registered nurses

4. S.199—An act relating to the immunization exemptions and the immunization pilot program

5. S.236—An act relating to health care practitioner signature authority

Health care reform and the work of recovery surrounding the impact of Tropical Storm Irene are also of interest.

The VSNA Committee on Government Affairs is working hard to engage and educate others about the nursing profession and the important role of the profession within the political process. Please contact me at VSNA-lobbyist@vsna-inc.org to join the committee.

Legislative UpdateSubmitted by Christine Ryan, RN, MS

VSNA Lobbyist

Governor Shumlin said in his state of the state address, “I say we must,” in response to how the state of Vermont will proceed with recovery efforts from tropical storm Irene, the establishment of broadband access statewide, the continuation of the important work of health care reform and renewable energy policies, and tackling the costly issue of substance abuse in our communities. With a busy political agenda beginning to take shape, it is imperative that all nurses participate in the legislative process. Here are several ways that nurses can become involved:

1. Join the Vermont State Nurse’s Association. Becoming a member supports the important work—Expertise, Advocacy, Innovation, and Leadership—of your state organization. Consider dual membership and join the American Nurses Association. Your participation supports the nursing profession nationwide.

2. Attend “Legislative Day” for nurses at the State House on April 19th, 2012. This is an important opportunity to witness and participate in legislative activities. Check out the Vermont State Nurse’s Association website at, www.vsna-inc.org, for more details.

3. Introduce yourself. We have the luxury of living in a small state. Contact your local representatives and introduce yourself. Let them know you are a nurse and that you are going to be attending “Legislative Day” at the State House. Do not allow yourself to be intimidated by the process. Remember our legislators are our friends, neighbors, and fellow community members. Visit www.leg.state.vt.us.

Nurses are educated to advocate for the individuals they provide care for. It is equally important for nurses to advocate for the nursing profession. The nursing profession continues to stay at the top of the list of most trusted professions. We are roughly 14,000 strong in Vermont. Can you imagine how powerful it would be if half of the registered nurses in Vermont—7,000—came together and participated in a legislative event? Let us accept the challenges put forth by Governor Shumlin. As Vermont nurses lets:

— Commit individually and professionally to our state and national nursing organizations

— Participate in the legislative process— Continue to communicate and collaborate about

the health care environments that we contribute to and about the important work we do within our profession.

We Appreciate You!

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RN Free Float Supervisor, 3-11

RN or LPN Charge Nurse, 3-11 & 7-3

Happy Nurses Week May 6-12

Camp Half Moon in the Berkshires—Camp Nurse positions available. RN, LPN. Beautiful lakefront setting with heated pool. Salary, room, board and travel—families welcome. Partial summer available. Season dates: June 23rd-Aug. 17th. Must enjoy working with children in a camp setting. Day Camp & Sleepover Camp, coed, ages 3 to 16.

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email: info@camphalfmoon.com

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

– Susie Ecker, RN

EOE

Page 10 • Vermont Nurse Connection April, May, June 2012

ANA/VSNA NewsIS YOUR NURSING

ORGANIZATION PLANNINGAN EDUCATION PROGRAM?

CONSIDER APPLYING FOR CONTACT HOUR APPROVAL

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL THE VSNA OFFICE @ (802)

651-8886

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

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

VSNA New Members:District 1

Aimee FosterFrancine Liberty

District 2Kathleen Killary

District 3Shiela Boni

Marvy Mangundayao

Celebrate National Nurses’ Week—May 6-12

All across the United States,registered nurses are being saluted .

On May 6, 2012, the Vermont State Nurses’ Association (VSNA) is joining the American Nurses Association in celebrating Nurses: Advocating, Leading, Caring, as part of National Nurses Week, which is held May 6-12, every year. The purpose of the week-long celebration is to raise awareness of the value of nursing and help educate the public about the role nurses play in meeting the health care needs of the American people.

In honor of the dedication, commitment, and tireless effort of the nearly 3.1 million registered nurses nationwide to promote and maintain the health of this nation, the ANA and (your acronym) are proud to recognize registered nurses everywhere on this particular day for the quality work they provide seven days a week, 365 days a year.

In honor of Nursing: Advocating, Leading, Caring, all registered nurses in America are encouraged to proudly wear the official ANA “RN” pin or any other pin that clearly identifies them as registered nurses, and/or their nurses uniform on May 6, 2012.

Beautiful NH camp serving inner-city and

low-income boys and girls seeks LPN or RN from

6/19-8/22.

Responsibilities: health care, meds,

first aid for 60 campers, 25 staff. Minutes from MD/

hospital. Supportive environment.

Private accommodations, meals, children’s tuition, salary all

included.

Contact Amy Willey at 603-924-3542.

www.brantwood.org

Find your perfect nursing career on

nursingALD.comRegistration is free, fast, confidential and easy!

You will receive an e-mail when a new job posting matches your job search.

Search for Balance

April, May, June 2012 Vermont Nurse Connection • Page 11

ANA/VSNA News

Specialty Organizations

VSNA Membership and Publicity Committee Update

The Membership Committee Goals:• EnsurethatVSNAremainsrelevanttotheneedsof

Vermont nurses• Retaincurrentmembers• Attractnewmemberstotheorganization• Increasevisibilityofnursesandtheroleweplayin

health careThe Membership Committee continues to meet monthly

to create and plan innovative strategies to meet our goals. Our membership continues to be strong and growing by a few members each quarter.

New Recruitment Incentive!!Members will receive a $10 coupon towards VSNA

products, programs or membership for each nurse recruited that joins ANA/VSNA. There is no limit on the number of coupons received.

Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to help our professional organization as well as our own pocket books!!

How to join:Application in this newsletter on page (10) ORVisit our site at www.vsna-inc.org/index.htm to

download an application.

How is my membership fee used?By becoming a member of ANA, you’re helping to

further our advocacy efforts on behalf of all nurses. ANA is a recognized and respected voice, with considerable clout in Washington, DC. Here are just a few of the reforms we’ve been able to achieve, as a result of our membership:

• RNReinvestmentAct• NeedlestickSafetyandPreventionAct• Medicare reimbursement ror advanced practice

registered nurses• AffordableCareAct

Membership also supports periodicals including The American Nurse, American Nurse Today, and the Online Journal of Issues in Nursing.

The Membership Committee will continue to strive to meet our goals. We look forward to serving you again.

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

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

Ideas or comments please direct them to Ann Laramee, chair of the committee at ann.laramee@vtmednet.org.

District 1 UpdateVSNA District 1 Winter Meeting was planned for

February 8, 2012 at the Apollo Diner in Milton, VT (this issue of VNC went to press prior to this event). The agenda included a chance to meet the new VSNA Lobbyist, Christine Ryan. Also planned is a chance to vote on our new bylaw change adding the option to have electronic voting for District elections.

Irene Bonin RN MS, Vice President, District I

District 3 UpdateA small group of members worked on revising District

3 bylaws. Our district has openings for Secretary/Treasurer and Assistant Director. If anyone is interested, please contact me via email onenurse@comcast.net. Our next meeting will be in March—watch the website for details.

Linda Otero, President/Director, District 3

Updates from the Vermont Board of NursingMany changes have taken place recently at the Board of

Nursing. The Board has been expanded to eleven members so there are now two APRN members. The person appointed by Governor Shumlin to take the new seat on the Board is Ellen Watson, APRN from Chittenden County.

Two long-time Board members, Ken Bush, RN and De-Ann Welch, LPN, left their positions near the end of 2011. Their dedication to the work of the Board in protection of the public was significant and much appreciated. Ms. Welch was appointed in 2002 and served as Secretary for the past several years. Mr. Bush was initially appointed in 2005 by Governor Douglas.

Douglas Sutton of Addison County was appointed

to one of the open RN positions and Virginia Hudson of Caledonia County was appointed to the other. The new LPN Board member is Sheila Davis from Windsor County.

The Board chairperson, Ellen Leff, resigned in January to accept the case manager position on the Board of Nursing staff. Jeanine Carr, RN, former vice-chair of the Board, was accepted as the new Chair at the January Board meeting. The new vice-chair is John Todd, APRN who has been on the Board since 2009.

Stay turned for more detailed bios on the new Board members. As always, use the Board of Nursing website as a resource: www.vtprofessionals.org/opr1/nurses or call us at 802-828-2396 if you have questions.

PERSONAL BEST.ANCC Board-Certified.

I’m proud and in charge of my nursing career. And I trust ANCC certification to help me maintain and validate the professional skills I need to remain a confident and accomplished nurse for years to come.

Find out how to be the best at www.nursecredentialing.org/Certification

American Nurses Credentialing Center. All Rights Reserved.The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association (ANA).

© 2012

Page 12 • Vermont Nurse Connection April, May, June 2012

certification

For additional information contact: Tina Dupuis, Human Resources(802) 334-3210, ext. 407 E-Mail: tdupuis@nchsi.org

Careers

North Country Hospital has immediate openings for the following nursing positions:

• RN,StaffNurse,EmergencyDepartment,PerDiem,CombinationofDay& EveningShifts,8Hrs.P/P• RN,StaffNurse,EmergencyDepartment,FullTime,RotationofDay& NightShifts,72Hrs.P/P• RN,StaffNurse,IntensiveCareUnit,PerDiem,AllShifts,8Hrs.P/P• RN,StaffNurse,IntensiveCareUnit,FullTime,RotatingShifts,Day& NightShift,7amtill7pm&7pmtill7am,72Hrs.P/P• RN,StaffNurse,InpatientMedical/Surgical,PerDiem,RotatingShifts, 7amtill7pm&7pmtill7am,8Hrs.P/P

NCH is a 25-bed, state-of-the-art, acute-care rural hospital located in the beautiful, four season Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. Interested candidates may apply online at www.nchsi.org.

North Country Hospital is committed to improving the health status of its communities by encouraging wellness, providing care to the ill, providing palliative care, actively collaborating on health initiatives, and supporting the improved economic health of the region.

Join the Vermont State Nurses Association today!

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