current resident or Presort Standard US Postage
PAID
Permit #14 Princeton, MN 55371From Montana to Malawi
Page 12
102
ndConvention, 2014
Page 7
Oral Health Care - Nurses Make
A Difference
Page 10
Quarterly circulation approximately 17,000 to all RNs, LPNs, and Student Nurses in Montana.
Like us on
Follow us on Twitter
www.mtnurses.org
Executive Director Report
Executive Director Report
Vicky Byrd, BA, RN, OCN MNA Executive Director
Many nurses over the years have misunderstood exactly what MNA is and I am hoping to clear some of that up! Comments from “I don’t want to join the union” to “do you monitor my license” are frequent and just a couple among many. I have been involved with MNA for the past 25 years in a variety of roles, and now am privileged to serve as your Executive Director. In my new role, I want to be sure that everyone understands and appreciates who we are, what we do, and how we advocate for all Montana RNs.
MNA is your professional organization. It is comprised of Montana registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses. MNA is your state voice to advocate for your profession. MNA is not exclusively a union, it is a professional organization that has a collective bargaining component.
MNA Mission statement: The Montana Nurses Association promotes professional nursing practice, standards and education; represents professional nurses; and provides nursing leadership in promoting high quality health care.
Did you know that MNA’s publication “The Pulse” is mailed to every RN in the state of Montana, whether or not they are a member? Many members assume because they receive the Pulse that they are members, and that is not so. It is just an awesome service we provide for all nurses, whether a MNA member or not, to stay connected.
Being a MNA member automatically makes you an American Nurses Association (ANA) member. You get two organizations that concentrate on registered nurses’ professional issues. ANA is the national voice to advocate for our profession. ANA is the only professional organization representing the
interests of all registered nurses, regardless of areas of specialization, clinical setting or work environment. Membership in ANA connects you with nurses from across the country. Your membership provides unique opportunities for you to advance your career, gain knowledge that will improve patient care, and influence decisions that impact nurses at national and state levels. 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 lobbying Congress and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.
ANA Mission Statement: Nurses advancing our profession to improve health for all.
MNA is comprised of two arms: bargaining unit and non-bargaining unit nurses. Approximately 91% of the membership is bargaining unit nurses, approximately 9% of the membership consists of non-bargaining nurses. The non-bargaining unit nurses are comprised of staff nurses, clinic nurses, public health nurses and most recently a group of stand-alone surgery center nurses who form local units. The non-bargaining nurses include nurse educators, advanced practice nurses, school nurses, and staff nurses not in a collective bargaining institution, nurse navigators and others in diverse nurse roles.
ANY registered nurse is welcome and can join MNA, no matter what work status or practice setting. Even retired nurses and new RN graduates can be members – and at a reduced price! The only qualification needed is possessing a Montana Registered Nurse license. MNA is our professional organization!!
Advocacy, education, representation, lobbying, networking, support, nursing practice, and high quality patient care are what we provide and promote to advance our profession and improve health for all (ANA mission).
In addition to our ANA affiliation, which is through our professional organization as a whole, we also have additional national affiliations through our collective bargaining arm. These include the National Federation of Nurses (NFN) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). At the state level through this arm is an affiliation with AFL-CIO and a ‘joint agreement’ with the Montana Education Association-Montana Federation of Teachers (MEA-MFT) that we have respected and enjoyed for years. Another affiliate MNA has joined is the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), giving us benefits and opportunities for collaboration for our advanced practice nurses and our organization.
Our main event annually is the MNA convention held in Helena the first week of October. Next year’s Convention is slated for Sept 30th, October 1st and 2nd 2015. Plan ahead now to take all 3 days off and attend convention for the continuing education (this year we offered 13.5 contact hours) and/or attend as a delegate from your respective district. Serving as a delegate offers you the opportunity to join the other delegates that form the business house (HOD-House of Delegates). Decisions by the HOD direct your MNA board and staff in business, legislation,
Montana Nurses Association –
Advocating for All RNs
Vicky Rae Byrd, BA, RN, OCN
CONTACT MNA
Montana Nurses Association20 Old Montana State Highway, Montana City, MT 59634 Phone (406) 442-6710 Fax (406) 442-1841
Email: info@mtnurses.org Website: www.mtnurses.org
Office Hours: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
VOICE OF NURSES IN MONTANA
MNA is a non-profit, membership organization that advocates for nurse competency, scope of practice, patient safety, continuing education, and improved healthcare delivery and access. MNA members serve on the following Councils and other committees to achieve our mission:• Council on Practice & Government Affairs (CPGA) • Council on Economic & General Welfare (E&GW) • Council on Continuing Education (CCE) • Council on Advanced Practice (CAP)
MISSION STATEMENT
The Montana Nurses Association promotes professional nursing practice, standards and education; represents professional nurses; and provides nursing
leadership in promoting high quality health care.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Montana Nurses Association is accredited as an approver of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses CredentialingCenter’s Commission on Accreditation.
Montana Nurses Association (OH242, 12/01/2017) is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the Ohio Nurses Association (OBN-001-91), an accredited approver by the American Nurses
Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
MNA
Board of Directors Executive Committee:
President Lucy Ednie, RN-BC Vice President Open
Secretary Brenda Donaldson, RN Treasurer Linda Larsen, RN-BC
Directors at Large: Council Representatives:
Advanced Practice Arlys Williams, APRN, FNP-BC CCE Deborah Lee, BSN, RN-BC CPGA Sharon Sweeney Fee, RN, PhD E&GW Daylyn Porter, RN-BC Editorial Board:
Chair–Barbara Prescott Schaff, APRN, DNP, FNP-BC Mary Pappas, RN, EdD
Kate Eby, APRN, MN, FNP-C MNA Staff:
Vicky Rae Byrd, RN, OCN, Executive Director
Pam Dickerson, PhD, RN-BC, FAAN, Director of Continuing Education Kathy Schaefer, Continuing Education Specialist
Robin Haux, Labor Program Director
Amy Hauschild, BSN, RN, Labor Representative Caroline Baughman, Labor Representative
Kimberly Kralicek, Administrative & Marketing Specialist Cathy Ransier, Membership & Finance Specialist
Questions about your nursing license? Contact the Montana Board of Nursing at: www.nurse.mt.gov
PUBLISHER INFORMATION & AD RATES
Circulation 17,000. Provided to every registered nurse, licensed practicalnurse, nursing student and nurse-related employer in Montana. The Pulse is published quarterly each February, May, August and November
by the Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. for the Montana Nurses Association, 20 Old Montana State Highway, Montana City, MT 59634, a
constituent member of the American Nurses Association. For advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc., 517 Washington Street, PO Box 216, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613, (800) 626-4081, sales@aldpub.com. 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 Montana 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 necessarily reflect views of the staff, board, or
membership of MNA or those of the national or local associations.
WRITER’S GUIDELINES:
MNA welcomes the submission of articles and editorials related to nursing or about Montana nurses for publication in The PULSE. Please limit word size between 500-1000 words and provide resources and references. MNA has the right to accept,
edit or reject proposed material. Please send articles to: kim@mtnurses.org.
Published by:
Arthur L. Davis
Publishing Agency, Inc.
www.mtnurses.org
Please visit MNA’s
constantly updated website!
www.mtnurses.org
Enjoy a user friendly layout and access to more information, including
membership material, labor resources, Independent Study Library, a
new Career Center for Job Seekers & Employers, and more
downloadable information.
PULSE SUBMISSIONS
We are gathering articles that are relevant and appealing to YOU as a nurse.
What is happening in your world today? Is there information we can provide that would be helpful to you? The Pulse is YOUR
publication, and we want to present you with content that pertains to your interests.
Please submit your ideas and suggestions to Kim.
kim@mtnurses.org
Welcome,
Caroline Baughman,
MNA’s New Labor
Representative!
I moved to Montana over three years ago after falling in love with these mountains, and I’ve enjoyed plenty of miles of trail on them. My background is in Math and English education, but instead of teaching, I always knew I wanted to be involved in some level of advocacy.
M y u n d e r g r a d u a t e program showed me the importance and power of professional organizations and affiliations, as I was heavily involved in the Association of Middle Level Education and sat on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Middle School Association. After volunteering and working for several Helena nonprofits (including some contract work with MNA), I’m so pleased to have found my niche as a Labor Representative for Montana nurses. It is such a great opportunity to be able to work for such a well-respected and high-impact organization, as well as support nurses as they serve as the faces for modern healthcare. Thank you for allowing me to be part of such a great team!
UPCOMING MNA
EVENTS
u Transition to Practice
– January
25th & 26th, 2015 (Helena, MT)
u APRN Pharmacology
Conference
– March 13th &
14th, 2015 (Helena, MT)
u Labor Retreat
– April 19th –
21st, 2015 (Chico Hot Springs…
Pray, MT)
Caroline Baughman
AdvAnce your PrActice And cAreer
RN–BS | AGNP | DNP
Boise State University is a leading center for nursing education.
Contact us and experience our supportive approach and flexible online options!*
208-426-4632
onlinenursingdegrees@boisestate.edu hs.boisestate.edu/nursing/na
At our 2014 MNA Annual Convention, your labor department unveiled a new
Nurse Advocate program
for all of our local units! We are very excited to promote this program in each of our locals and look forward to encouraging participation with all of MNA’s local bargaining units!
The Nurse Advocate program was designed to create a new name for local unit reps, local department reps, and local unit leaders, etc. We wanted to rename these positions to reflect what these nurses are already doing, advocating for their co-workers, their profession, and their patients! Our goal is to promote advocacy within your locals by encouraging more involvement.
Your MNA Labor Representatives will be bringing the Nurse Advocate information to all of your local units as we travel to bring you support. To qualify for a Nurse Advocate Kit, each advocate will need to sign a Nurse Advocate job description. The job description requires a two year commitment to your local, two supporting signatures from other members, and a selection of any activity you agree to volunteer for. We understand your local leaders are consistently looking for assistance and wanted a program created that would offer that support, while allowing our nurse members to choose their level of involvement. Any involvement will aid your leaders and your MNA representatives. Remember your collective voice makes your union strong!!
Robin Haux Labor Program
Director
Become your Local Unit’s Nurse
Advocate!!!
Here are some of the activities a Nurse Advocate can be involved in with your local:
◊ Print, post, and distribute informational flyers in other departments
◊ Attend local meetings
◊ Help organize and promote union meetings ◊ Participate in new employee orientation ◊ Bring a new employee to a union meeting ◊ Be available to assist Local leadership with
initial investigatory/disciplinary meetings ◊ Help develop contract campaigns and
pre-bargaining surveys
◊ Assist or participate in contract negotiations and help encourage participation in pre-bargaining surveys.
◊ Track and inform members of proposed legislation that will impact nursing and collective bargaining
◊ Testify on behalf of nurse legislation during session
◊ Participate in efforts to recruit more MNA members and activists.
For more information on the MNA Nurse
Advocate Program, please contact your labor
representative. Your labor team is excited for this new program and we look forward to sharing all the details with each of you!
nurse practice and patient safety issues, to name a few. Delegates are also able to obtain all continuing education offered during the convention experience. All Registered nurses, members or not, are invited to attend convention under the MNA organization. This is a time when all nurses of all specialties of all work environments come together collectively to collaborate, learn, network, and tend to the business of Montana nurses. We do provide special group meetings for our advanced practice nurses and our collective bargaining nurses during convention week.
In addition to convention, MNA hosts an APRN Pharmacology conference held typically in March or April (for the advanced practice nurses) and a Labor retreat typically held in April (for those in a collective bargaining unit). Both of these offer continuing nursing education opportunities and are a great way to learn more about the organization and network with your fellow nurses.
In addition to these three major events, MNA maintains a library of independent study materials and offers a variety of “live” webinars and other learning opportunities to enhance your professional development.
Another benefit belonging to MNA is our recommendation for liability insurance through NSO. This organization is noted on our website and you know if MNA has recommended them, they are a trusted colleague providing a reputable service.
MNA as your professional organization has your best interests as a professional RN and the best interests of your patients at heart. We will do whatever it takes, for however long it takes, to advocate for our profession, with the ultimate outcome being high quality healthcare for all Montana citizens.
Please don’t hesitate to call or stop by YOUR office.
Labor Reports and News
Labor Reports and News
Big Sky,
Big Opportunities!
For more information and to apply, visit
www.billingsclinic.com/careers or call (406) 238-2638
• Nurse
Practitioners
•
Nursing
Leadership
•
Experienced RNs
msun.edu/hr
THE MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM Montana State University-Northern
Havre, MT 59501
Assistant Professor Nursing, Tenure-track
Havre Campus
RESPONSIBILITIES: Teach nursing courses in the associate degree and RN to BSN (online) nursing programs as well as provide clinical instruction in medical surgical or geriatric areas. Will teach approximately 24 semester credit hours of classes per year. For more information about the program and MSU-Northern, go to www.msun.edu. Effective teaching is the primary mission of this position and MSU Northern.
QUALIFICATIONS: Required: • A Master’s degree in Nursing and current licensure as a registered nurse in the state of Montana. • Demonstrated recent experience in medical surgical or geriatric nursing. Preferred: • Doctorate, experience in distance education including interactive television and web-based course delivery.
APPLICATION: Applications accepted until position is filled. Please click on
the Applicant Portal link to apply for this position at https://jobs.msun.edu If you would like more information, please contact
Kathy Jaynes, Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 7751, Havre, MT 59501 (406) 265-4147 • hr@msun.edu
Montana State University is an ADA/AA/EEO/Vets Preference Employer.
umt.edu/sell/cps/bigskypulmonary For more information call 406-243-4623
Sponsored by:
FEBRUARY 26-28
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort • Anaconda, Montana
Join our Ohana today & feel the Aloha spirit
Customized travel packages, because every nurse is unique.
Call today 808-951-0111 www.kahumalama.com
Kahu Malama Nurses invites you to work and play
in Hawaii!
Kahu Malama Nurses is the FIRST and, to date, ONLY Joint Commission Certified Healthcare Staffing Services in the State of Hawaii.
Northern Rockies Medical Center
“The right care...right here!”
$2,000.00 SIGN-ON
BONUS!
Northern Rockies Medical Center, a
Critical Access Hospital in Cut Bank,
MT, is now hiring
Full-Time RNs
Please contact:
Kandie Lemieux at
406-873-3737
nrmchr@nrmcinc.org
Labor Reports and News
Labor Reports and News
MNA Local #2 Nurses
in Billings Ratify New
3 year Agreement
MNA Local #2 nurses are pleased to report they ratified their new contract on October 8, 2014. This agreement came with a full recommendation from the bargaining team. Delayne Gall, RN, Barb Moser, RN, Deanna Evans, RN, Lynn Hilliard, RN, Brenda Doherty, RN, Just Humphrey, RN and Christina Van Dyke, RN represented their bargaining unit in negotiating the successor agreement.
Reaching an agreement during this round of contract negotiations was extremely difficult. The parties spent approximately 115 hours at the bargaining table over the course of nearly six months, during which MNA filed an unfair labor practice complaint over actions the employer engaged in during bargaining. The National Labor Relations Board investigated the circumstances and found merit in the complaint.
The employer issued their last, best and final offer on August 4. The bargaining team did not recommend that proposal for ratification; on August 12 the membership failed to accept the offer. The parties resumed negotiations on September 28 and reached a tentative agreement on September 29 which was overwhelmingly ratified by the nurses on October 8.
Highlights of the ratified agreement includes assured wage increases over three years, rather than the former compensation system which included merit increases which were not assured (they were at the discretion of the hospital board of directors). The agreement also includes institution of on-call pay and increased stipends for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) nurses when they perform exams; increased “extra shift differential” when nurses work an extra shift; successor language protecting the contract should the hospital sell its assets to another entity and
language prohibiting bullying and workplace harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation.
The parties are eager resume their monthly Conference Committee meetings and collaborating about delivering high-quality patient care.
MNA Local #12 Nurses Ratify
Their New 3 Year Contract
MNA Local #12 nurses in Havre ratified their new contract by a very wide margin on September 17, 2014. Kristin Donoven RN, Riki Ross RN, Ellen Osborne RN and Jody Whittmer, RN were the nurse representatives at negotiations.
Several economic and non-economic agreements were reached during the bargaining process. Of note, nurses will no longer be scheduled above their FTE without mutual agreement. Nurses were being scheduled for mandatory overtime; RN morale and retention suffered greatly. Both parties are confident the new contract language will help both morale and recruitment/retention of nurses.
Many agreements were reached in an effort to clean up outdated language so the contract is clear and unambiguous. There was a complete overhaul and expansion of grievance and arbitration and shift differential/ shift time definitions. In addition to assured across the board increases, there was agreement to increase float differential and bonus shift pay (when a nurse agrees to work an extra shift).
Negotiations were completed in 3 days, approximately 20 hours were spent at the table working collaboratively for mutual gain.
Congratulations to all the nurses in Local #12!
MNA Local #38 Ratifies
New 3 Year Agreement
MNA Local #38 RNs in Forsyth successfully bargained a new 3 year contract which was unanimously ratified in September. Debra Valdiviez R.N, new MNA member, represented her colleagues at the bargaining table. The contract was brought up-to-date in several areas. The nurses elected to begin a trial period of a two-pronged approach to annual compensation increases. One aspect is guaranteed across the board increases and the other is assured merit-based compensation based on objective criteria. The parties easily reached agreement and the bargaining process was accomplished in less than 4 hours.
Congratulations MNA Local #38 Nurses!!!
MNA Local #44 Ratifies
New 3 Year Contract
Local #44 nurses in Miles City ratified their new collective bargaining agreement on October 6, 2014. The nurse bargaining team consisted of Penny Haughian, RN, Nettie Mitchell, RN, Denise Singleton, RN, Kim Flotkoetter R.N. and Jennifer Chamberlin R.N. and they tirelessly represented their colleagues throughout the bargaining process.
Local #44 RN’s came together and formed their Union in 2009. The first collective bargaining agreement in 2010 did not contain a wage scale for newly hired RN’s nor did it contain a “step scale” for wages which the nurses progress through over time. As a consequence, there was significant wage disparity and compression among rates of pay in correlation with experience as an RN.
Truly, in the spirit of cooperation and creativity, the parties crafted a wage scale based on years of experience. The system is objective and easily applied. All currently employed nurses were appropriately placed on the scale and all newly hired nurses will be placed on the same scale using the same methodology and equity will be assured.
Even though the contract was only 3 years old, there is always room for improvement and clarification. A complete overhaul of the layoff and recall and attendance articles was crafted. Strengthening and clarification of the articles containing language about scheduling, use of travel nurses, orientation and no strike/no lockout were also included.
Negotiations for the second agreement were smooth and relatively swift considering the complexity of constructing the equitable wage scale. The parties met on seven occasions over two months; approximately forty-two hours were spent at the table. The ratification timeline was somewhat protracted while the parties fine-tuned the wage scale and associated language. All wage increases were retroactive.
Congratulations Local #44 Nurses! Amy Hauschild,
BSN, RN, Labor Representative
Local #2 Bargaining Team having a light moment during caucus
MMA Local #2 nurses Joan Ferguson, (left) Sarah Leland (right) Delayne Gaill (center) review
documents before voting
MNA Local #2 “Union Hall on Wheels” - Nurses came out to the
RV for their ratification vote Tessa Whitney, MNA Local #44
member casting her ratification ballot
Continuing Education
Continuing Education
Thank You to MNA
Member Volunteers
I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the work of our MNA member volunteers who contribute substantially to the success of the continuing education program at MNA. The Council on Continuing Education is a team of volunteers elected by their peers to lead the work of the approver and provider units at MNA. The bylaws of the Association describe the purpose and functions of this Council. One Council member serves as a representative on the MNA Board of Directors, so there is a direct link between the work of the Council and decisions affecting the organization as a whole.
Some members of the Council work with MNA’s approved provider unit. These volunteers serve on planning committees for MNA-provided learning activities, provide input regarding suggested topics and approaches to learning experiences, and help facilitate sessions at convention and other events. At times, members of the Council serve as speakers for our educational sessions.
Some members of the Council work with MNA’s accredited approver unit. These volunteers serve as peer reviewers for individual activity applications and approved provider applications submitted to MNA for approval to award contact hours for nurses. Peer reviewers are educated on international accreditation program standards and evaluated on a regular basis to maintain their competence in the evaluation and approval processes. Qualified non-council peer reviewers also contribute to this important work. Between staff time and volunteer time, recent evidence shows that 12-20 hours are required for review of an individual activity application and up to 40 hours are required for review of an approved provider application. This is a substantial commitment of time, energy, and professional expertise for volunteers!
Being a volunteer in the work of the continuing education program at MNA supports us in our work and also contributes to the volunteer’s own learning and growth. Thanks to all of you who have contributed to the success of our efforts to enhance professional development of all nurses in Montana!
Pam Dickerson PhD, RN-BC, FAAN
Director of Continuing Education
MNA Approved Providers
St. Vincent Healthcare Billings, MT
Alaska Native Medical Center Anchorage, AK Kalispell Regional Medical
Center Kalispell, MT
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital Alaska or Montana Benefis Healthcare Systems
Great Falls, MT Central Peninsula General
Hospital Soldotna, AK St. Peter’s Hospital
Helena, MT Wrangell Medical Center
Wrangell, Alaska Community Medical Center
Missoula, MT
Montana Health Network Miles City
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital Bozeman, MT
Livingston Healthcare Livingston, MT
Providence St. Patrick Hospital Missoula, MT
Alaska Nurses Association Anchorage, AK
Billings Clinic Billings, MT North Valley Hospital
Whitefish, MT
MT Geriatric Education Center Missoula, MT
South Dakota Nurses Association Pierre, SD
St. James Healthcare Butte, MT
Partnership Health Center Missoula, MT Providence Alaska Medical
Center Anchorage, AK
Mountain Pacific Quality Health MT, WY, HI, AK
South Peninsula Hospital Homer, AK
Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska Anchorage, AK
Bartlett Regional Hospital Juneau, AK
Wisconsin Nurses Association Madison, WI
Alaska Division of Public Health Anchorage, AK
Mat-Su Regional Medical Center Palmer, AK
January 25 & 26, 2015 – Transition to Practice: To provide tips, tools and resources to enable the newly licensed registered nurse to effectively transition from student to engaged professional. Helena
March 13-14, 2015 – APRN Pharmacology Conference, Helena
April 19-21, 2015 – Labor Retreat, Chico Hot Springs
May 7-8, 2015 – Alaska Provider Update – Anchorage
May 14, 2015 – Montana Provider Update – Helena
September 30-October 2, 2015 – Montana Nurses Association 103rd Convention – Helena
MNA Independent Study Library Available Online @ www.mtnurses.org
Upcoming Events
Register online at www.mtnurses.org
For more information call 406-442-6710
Montana Nurses Association
Chairperson – Department of Nursing
Carroll College invites applications for a full-time Chairperson with our CCNE accredited baccalaureate nursing program. Applicants must possess exceptional communication skills, commitment to academic excellence and support the mission of the college. A Masters Degree in Nursing is required, Doctoral degree preferred. For more information and to apply visit www.carroll.edu.
Home Care
Nurses
Partners in Home Care is a nationally accredited,
not-for-profit, full-service home care agency
located in spectacular Missoula, Montana. We recruit registered nurses for our Hospice
and Home Health programs to serve clients
in their homes. Additional information
and applications can be found at: www.PartnersIn HomeCare.org
Livingston HealthCare in
Livingston Montana, is accepting applications for the position of
Surgical Services Manager
This position is responsible for the management of nursing practice and operations on the Operating Suites, PACU, Day Surgery, and Central
Sterile units. A bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or equivalent and a minimum of two years of Peri-Operative nursing experience is required. If you enjoy fly fishing, skiing and hiking, or if you just love the outdoors
and are looking for a balance of lifestyle and career, complete an application at www.livingstonhealthcare.org or call 406-823-6471 for more information. Pre-employment drug screen and background check
required. Livingston HealthCare is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Looking for the
perfect career?
Look no further than...
nursingALD.com
Find the perfect nursing job
for you!
Continuing Education
Continuing Education
Rita E. Cheek, RN, PhD Co-Project Director, APIN Grant Montana Center to Advance Health through
Nursing (MT CAHN)
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) announced in August that Montana was chosen to receive another $300,000, two-year grant in Phase II of its Academic Progression in Nursing program (APIN). APIN is advancing state and regional strategies aimed at creating a more highly educated, diverse nursing workforce. This program is managed by the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) on behalf of the Tri-Council for Nursing, consisting of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the National League for Nursing, American Nurses Association, and AONE, which is leading the four-year initiative. “Action Coalitions” in all nine states that were part of Phase I of the program have met or exceeded their benchmarks, and are receiving funding to continue their work for two additional years. Funding from RWJF to the states over the four years will total $5.4 million.
In addition to Montana, the states receiving Phase II APIN grants are California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Texas, and Washington. The grants will allow them to continue working with academic institutions and employers to help nurses in their states get higher degrees, so they can be essential partners in providing care and promoting health, as well as more easily continue their education and fill faculty and primary care nurse practitioner roles. The Action Coalitions in all these states have been encouraging strong partnerships between community colleges and universities to make it easier for nurses to transition to higher degrees.
The Montana grant was made to the Montana Office of Rural Health and Area Health Education Center in Montana State University (MSU) College of Nursing on behalf of the Montana Action Coalition. The Action Coalition in Montana will continue to focus on nursing education, specifically developing a model of nursing education that fosters seamless transition from one level of nursing education to the next. Dr. Cynthia Gustafson, Executive Director of the Montana Board of Nursing and co-lead of the Montana Action Coalition, said, “We are thrilled to be one of the nine states receiving the APIN grant because it gives our state significant resources to work together as leaders in education, practice and regulation in order to open up pathways for nurses to be prepared for the future health care needs of Montanans. We’ll be focusing on increasing the number of Native American nurses in Montana by working cooperatively with nursing education programs to provide inclusive environments for student success. It is an exciting time for nurses and for our citizens to understand the importance of how nurses, as the largest group of health care providers, really make a difference in advancing the health of Montanans!”
In its groundbreaking 2010 report, The Future
of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health,
the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommended that 80 percent of the nursing workforce be prepared at the baccalaureate level or higher by the year 2020. At present, about half of nurses in the United States have baccalaureate or higher degrees. While acknowledging the contributions of Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses and associate-degree-prepared Registered Nurses, the IOM report said a better educated nursing workforce can help ensure that our nation’s population has access to high-quality, patient- and family-centered care and can meet the growing need to provide preventive care in schools, communities, and homes.
“The APIN teams have been making great progress developing initiatives and curricula that are encouraging and making it easier for more nurses to earn their BSN degrees,” said Pamela Austin Thompson, MS, RN, CENP, FAAN, national program
director for APIN, chief executive officer of AONE, and senior vice president for nursing at the American Hospital Association. “We know that the nation needs a well-educated nursing workforce to ensure an adequate supply of public health and primary care providers, improve care for patients living with chronic illness, and in other ways meet the needs of our aging and increasingly diverse population. The strategies these nine states are implementing, and the models they are developing for other states to replicate, will help us meet the IOM’s target for BSN and higher prepared nurses.”
As part of Phase II of this work, each state Action Coalition will develop a sustainability plan to ensure that the work to promote seamless academic progression for nurses in their states will continue beyond the grant period. During Phase II, each state also will develop a robust diversity plan and focus on academic-practice partnerships to expand and support the work to date.
The specific objectives for the Montana APIN grant during the next 2 years include:
1) Work with nursing leaders from education and practice to create a model of nursing education that will enable academic progression from LPN to ASN to BSN to masters and doctoral levels.
2) Expand current mentoring programs to reach more RN to BSN students and new BSN graduates entering the workforce.
3) Increase the number Native Americans that are in Montana nursing education programs and nursing leadership positions by July 2016. 4) Develop a comprehensive sustainability plan
for academic progression in nursing strategies throughout the state of Montana.
5) Increase employer support of and engagement in academic progression in nursing initiatives in Montana through changes in practice and policy, participation in coalition leadership, and expanded involvement in preceptor and mentor opportunities.
6) Expand the depth and breadth of the MT CAHN Preceptor Continuing Education and Recognition Program to academic/practice partnerships in each of the five MHA Regions of the state.
RWJF is also helping advance recommendations in the IOM report by supporting the Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action – a collaborative effort to advance solutions to challenges facing the nursing profession in order to improve quality and transform the way Americans receive health care. It is coordinated through the Center to Champion
Nursing in America, an initiative of AARP, the
AARP Foundation, and RWJF. It supports state-based Action Coalitions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia; Action Coalitions are leading the APIN work in each of the nine funded states.
“Advancing a more highly educated, diverse workforce where nurses are able to practice to the top of their education and training is essential to achieving the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s
Montana Selected for Second Grant Towards Building a More
Highly Educated Nursing Workforce
You have a CHOICE.
Ask for us by name. We’re looking for nursesof the CARING KIND
www.rockymountainhospice.com
Billings (406) 294-0785
Bozeman (406) 556-0640 Butte Helena (406) 442-2214(406) 494-6114
Serving:
Missoula (406) 549-2766
We’re looking for nurses
of the CARING KIND.
You have a CHOICE.
Ask for us by name. Serving:Billings (406) 294-0785 Butte (406) 494-6114 Bozeman (406) 556-0640 Helena (406) 442-2214
Missoula (406) 549-2766
Salish Kootenai College
Nursing Department
Offering Accredited
RN-BSN Program
New curriculum beginning Fall 2014 RN-BSN program online with
decreased clinical hours Admission application deadline for RN-BSN:
Winter Quarter: November 24, 2014 Spring Quarter: February 23, 2015
For more information Call: 406-275-4909 or Email: nursingadmissions@skc.edu
Also check us out on Facebook
Chester, MT
Chief Nursing Officer
Liberty Medical Center has an immediate opening for a Chief Nursing Officer, this position includes quality of patient care, program/care management, environmental safety, budget constraints, and responding to identified need to ensure regulatory compliance, performing necessary delegation and coordination of clinical, operational, and managerial activities to accomplish the objectives of the departments
Applicant must be a graduate from Accredited College; Prefer Bachelors Degree in Nursing with experience but not required; Must be an RN licensed within the State of Montana
Check out our excellent benefits! www.libertymedicalcenter.org Applications are available from Bev Halter, Director of Human Resources
406-759-5181 ext. 5972
Applications will be taken until position is filled.
EXTENDED CARE FACILITY Employment Opportunities DIRECTOR OF NURSING-RN
Requirements: 2 years of supervisory & leadership skill R.N. & L.P.N
New Graduates are welcome to apply! If you would like more information about our
facility go to: www.ponderamedical.com Contact Human Resources at 406-271-2235 or Fax
406-271-3917 melissasp@ponderamedical.com
OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
RNs, LPNs – StatewidePCAs, CNAs – Greater Missoula area, Helena, Billings,
Ravalli Co.
For more information contact us today! Missoula Helena Billings 406-549-8059 406-442-6755 406-969-2846
Continuing Education
Continuing Education
102
nd
Convention, 2014
Kathy Chappell, PhD, RN
VP, Accreditation Program and Institute for Credentialing Research
Director, ANCC Accreditation Program American Nurses Credentialing Center It was a sincere pleasure participating in Montana Nurses Association’s 102nd Annual Convention. Learners, from “soon-to-graduate” to “mature-and-experienced”, were actively engaged in presentations on Interprofessional Education to Improve Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and Patient Outcomes, and Transition Programs for Registered Nurses and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. Different learner perspectives facilitated depth in discussions. One experience in particular was highly interactive. Learners planned an Interprofessional educational activity as members of a 6-person planning team that included a Nurse, Student Nurse, Physician, Social Worker, Mother and Patient. One group even added the role of Father to the discussion! All groups were quick to recognize how important it is to include the patient’s perspective when planning educational activities. Throughout discussions, there was a frequent request from Patients – “Listen to me!” An important “ah-ha” moment for us all!
Gwyn Palchak, BSN, RN-BC MNA CE Council Member
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Convention this year was the presence of Dr. Kathy Chappell, Director of Accreditation Programs at ANCC. In addition to her three presentations during Convention she was also able to meet with senior students from Carroll College, attend the CE Council meeting early in the week, work the CE staff and was easily available for conversation with attendees.
Kathy’s 3 sessions during Convention focused on the role of Interprofessional education in both the
academic and continuing education arenas. In her first session she provided definitions of what this concept is and what it is not, why it needs to be initiated or fully and the benefits to the patient and the health care system. Using this foundation, her next session was a hands-on practice of planning an educational session involving all players: RN, SW, MD, parent, adolescent patient and respective support professionals. The overwhelming “aha” moment occurred with the inclusion of the patient and their respective ideas of what and how education should occur. This proved to be very different from how the RN planner would have put together the educational session. The last session Kathy presented was on integrating the new RN successfully into professional practice. She identified the hopes and fears of the new grads and examined ways to leverage that information to ensure a smooth and enduring transition.
So how it is that MNA was able to have Dr. Chappell at our convention? Kathy’s presence, and the length of time she was in Montana, is a testament to the respect MNA is accorded at the national level. Not only for the work of our CE staff and Council members but our leadership in advocating for nurses and patients alike. The rigor and exactness to upholding accreditation standards make for comprehensive and time intensive work and occasionally tough decisions for an applicant, but it is this very commitment to excellence that sets MNA apart.
Thank you to Council on Continuing Education and the Board of Directors for a great Convention.
Susan Porrovecchio, BSN, RN, CARN CE Council Member
It was such an honor to have guest Kathy Chappell, PhD, RN, Director, ANCC Accreditation Program with us both before and throughout the Convention. She has a wealth of knowledge and that spark of enthusiasm that really engages an audience. Thank
Kathy Chappell, PhD, RN and Sandy Sacry, MSN, RN
Amy Clary Assistant Director AFT Healthcare
Katherine R. Petersen, Detective Missoula
Police Department 102nd MNA ConventionHouse of Delegates
102nd Montana Nurses Association Convention 2014
you! As a 2003 Carroll College graduate of the Parish Nurse Program, I was very interested in the development of the Faith Community Nursing Program and pleased to hear how this area of nursing remains relevant and vital to our Montana communities. It is an area of nursing I still hold dear and hope one day to revisit. The whole discussion of interdisciplinary collaboration was fascinating and very engaging – the time is NOW! Our new MNA Executive Director, Vicky Byrd, BA, RN, OCN did a wonderful job during the Convention and received a very warm welcome from her colleagues. For me, one of the biggest surprises, and most memorable, was hearing from the Montana Student Nurses Association President, Zack Stricklin, and viewing his video of a local fundraising activity he was responsible for – we are in good hands!
Kathy Umphres, MS, RN-BC
I was fortunate enough to attend the Association for Nursing Professional Development (ANPD) annual convention “Aspire to Innovation” July 16-19, 2014 in Orlando, Florida. There were so many excellent concurrent sessions that it was difficult to choose which sessions to attend. After reviewing the titles and objectives I chose sessions based on the challenges we were facing at Benefis Health System, including retention and cost-effective training through simulation.
One of the most helpful sessions was “Improving Nursing Retention: The Magic of Mentoring,” reminding us how important mentors are as they care for patients while teaching and advising new staff. Reward and recognition, from a written thank you
Benefis Nurse Reflects On
National Conference Attendance
note to extra paid time off, may help the mentors stay energized as they continually work with new staff.
Another excellent session, “Aspire to THRIVE not SURVIVE: Innovative Tools for a Successful Transition to Practice”, included team activities emphasizing how much is expected of new nurses and how difficult it can be to prioritize the multitude of tasks required to care for more and sicker patients than they encountered in school with the support of instructors. It is important to have good mentors to help the new nurse transition to practice in the hospital setting and to use simulation in a safe environment to bridge the practice gaps encountered as a new nurse, hopefully resulting in our goal of retaining nurses.
Attending the ANPD conference was a rewarding experience. The speakers were phenomenal and I came away with “pearls” from each of the 17 sessions I attended. Networking with other NPD specialists is extremely valuable, as we face many of the same issues and are finding some creative ways to address those issues. It is reassuring to know that whether you work in a small hospital or a large teaching hospital, there are similar challenges and our colleagues are more than happy to share ideas and information that can be adapted to different settings. I came away from the conference feeling energized, with information that will benefit my organization.
Blackfeet Community Hospital/ Indian Health Service
Browning, Montana Recruiting for experienced: Labor & Delivery, Newborn Care, and
Medical –Surgical Clinical Nurses Contact Inpatient Unit at 406 338-6277
Or 406 338-6269 To view current openings and
apply online, visit: www.usajobs.gov
Rocky Boy Health Board
is an outpatient clinic and offers General Clinic, Dental, Pharmacy, Lab and Optometry Clinics and is committed to provide, maintain, and improve the highest quality of health care delivery systems in the spirit of Self-Governance and Self-Determination. The Rocky Boy Health Board recognizes and respects the holistic and unique structure of the Chippewa Cree and will remain dedicated to their health needs.
Clinical Nurse Position Available Montana RN licensed required, BSN desired
Contact Geri Racine, Personnel Officer or Taunia Racine, Personnel Asst.
Rocky Boy Health Board RR 1, Box 664, Box Elder, MT 59521
406-395-4486, ext. 2080 Qualified Caring
Staff
RNs • LPNs • CNAs
We are currently taking applications for traveling careers for licensed / certified nursing staff, for long term care, hospital, correctional, mental health, clinics and treatment facilities, throughout Montana. Excellent wages, flexible work assignments, and other opportunities
For an application or more information contact us:
406-360-5199 • 406-360-5149 • Fax 406-363-5726
Email angeltravelers@yahoo.com
www.angeltravelers.com
Equal opportunity employer
Full Time Adult Health Instructor Miles Community College is seeking a dynamic, learning-centered, student-oriented individual to instruct second year nursing students
in Adult Health Nursing for our Associate Degree Registered Nurse Program.
This is a full-time, nine-month teaching appointment which is renewable annually based upon satisfactory job performance. Overload and summer teaching opportunities are sometimes available. The college provides a competitive benefits package.
Master’s Degree in Nursing required by the current Statutes and Rules Relating to Nursing, issued by the Montana State Board of Nursing. Minimum of two (2) years experience in clinical nursing. Teaching experience preferred. RN license in the State of Montana Required.
To apply for this position, please send a cover letter, résumé, list of three references, unofficial college transcripts, and a completed Miles Community College application to Kylene Phipps, Human Resources Director, Miles Community College, 2715 Dickinson Street, Miles City MT 59301 or you may e-mail your application materials to
humanresources@milescc.edu.
For further information about this employment opportunity and a MCC application please view our website at www.milescc.edu.
Miles Community College is an equal opportunity employer.
Blackfeet Community College PO Box 819, Browning, MT 59417-0819
Nursing Instructor: Will instruct courses in general nursing
and in the instructor’s specialty area following a rural community based curriculum; will have classroom, lab and clinical responsibilities; will provide guidance and direction to allow students to achieve course objectives. Working within a detailed course syllabus, the instructor is expected to be an effective classroom/clinical manager and an advocate of the philosophy and policies of BCC. Required Qualifications: Master degree in Nursing from a nationally accredited program; completed course work in curriculum development, principles and methods of teaching, and measurement and evaluation of learner outcomes in nursing program or community health nursing; two years of teaching experience in nursing education; current unencumbered RN licensure in the State of Montana.
Open until filled.
.5 FTE Clinical Resource Registered Nurse Instructor:
Responsible for instruction within clinical settings for clinical education of nursing students. This position may include afternoons or weekends. Individual may work a semester at a time or year-round. Required Qualifications: Minimum of bachelor degree in nursing from a nationally accredited program; previous experience in supervision of nursing students in clinical sites; three years or more of clinical experience; current unencumbered RN license in the state of Montana.
Open until filled.
Application procedures/materials are available at www.bfcc.edu or contact Human Resources Director Dana Pemberton at (406) 338-5441, Ext. 2205; danalou@bfcc.edu
Blackfeet/Indian preference applies. EOE/ADA
Missoula
Health and Rehab Center
Missoula Health and Rehabilitation seeking candidates to fill open FT/PT nursing positions. We offer competitive wages, full health benefits, dental, 401k, life insurance, and flex plans. Candidates need to have active, in good standing MT license. Evening and Night shifts available. Offering a sign on bonus of up to $2,000 Contact us today for career opportunities!
Clark Keith, RN, Director of Nursing Services Fax: 406-549-3064 • ckeith@empres.com
http://missoulahealthandrehab.com
Advanced Practice Nurse - Psychiatric
Essential Functions: Montana Mental Health Nursing Care Center located in Lewistown, Montana provides long term care to adults with serious mental illness. This position is responsible for treating and prescribing care to residents as referred. Provides direct resident care and collaborates as a provider and care plan team member in medication management of facility residents. $78,500-$117,748 DOE, plus State of Montana Benefits Package. Minimum Qualifications
• Masters’ Degree as an Advanced Practice Nurse
• ANCC certification as Psychiatric- Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric -Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Licensed as APN in the state of Montana; prescriptive authority with assignment of DEA number.
• Two years of experience providing psychiatric patient care as an APN preferred.
Applications/Inquires can be addressed to Ron Balas, Superintendent
Mental Health Nursing Care Center 800 Casino Creek Dr
Lewistown, MT 59457 406-538-7451 ext 218
mission to advance a culture of health in our nation,” said RWJF Senior Adviser for Nursing Susan B. Hassmiller, PhD, RN, FAAN. “In the last two years, APIN grantees have laid important groundwork to build that workforce. We are pleased to provide the financial support they need to continue their essential work.”
About the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
For more than 40 years the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has worked to improve the health and health care of all Americans. We are striving to build a national Culture of Health that will enable all Americans to live longer, healthier lives now and for generations to come. For more information, visit www.rwjf.org. Follow the Foundation on Twitter at www.rwjf.org/twitter or on Facebook at www.rwjf.org/facebook.
About the Tri-Council for Nursing
The Tri-Council for Nursing is an alliance of four autonomous nursing organizations each focused on leadership for education, practice and research. The four organizations are the: American Association of Colleges of Nursing; American Nurses Association; American Organization of Nurse Executives; and the National League for Nursing. While each organization has its own constituent membership and unique mission, they are united by common values and convene regularly for the purpose of dialogue and consensus building, to provide stewardship within the profession of nursing. These organizations represent nurses in practice, nurse executives and nursing educators. The Tri-Council’s diverse interests encompass the nursing work environment, health care legislation and policy, quality of health care, nursing education, practice, research and leadership across all segments of the health delivery system.
The Montana Center to Advance Health through Nursing (MT CAHN) is committed to leading nursing practice through collaboration in order to advance the health of Montanans. Please visit mtcahn.org to learn more about the Montana Action Coalition.
Continuing Education
Continuing Education
Membership
Membership
Cathy Ransier
Membership & Finance Specialist
October started with our 102nd Annual Convention. Attendance was good with some new faces as well as our many faithful. This is a fun three days and the CE contact hours benefit nurses all over the state. Networking is always a success at convention. We had some super guest speakers and the possibility of some of those speakers returning in the future was mentioned more than once. Joining us this year was a group of nursing students attending classes, watching the process of the House of Delegates and generally infusing us with their youth and enthusiasm. The Student Nurses Association scheduled their annual convention to follow our convention, and having their participation is warmly welcomed. We not only had the power of youth in attendance, we also had the power of wisdom with long-standing MNA member Mary Munger also attending for a day. Mary is a past Executive Director and has been a very active member with Montana Nurses Association for 69 years. Isn’t that incredible?
I would like to extend a big cheer to our Labor Representative, Amy Hauschild, for her excellent work at Billings Clinic in negotiating that contract. It was a long summer of dedicated effort from Amy and Local Unit 2, but it paid off in a great contract for over 500 nurses. If you see Amy around, be sure to give her a pat on the back.
A few changes at MNA have also taken place recently. We welcomed a new Western Labor Representative, Caroline Baughman. She is small but mighty, and I know you will enjoy getting to know her. It was with great sadness that we then saw Lori Chovanak take her skills to Ohio. Lucky for Ohio, sad for us here, but I can’t find enough great words to describe our new Executive Director, Vicky Byrd. One thing is for sure, she is here to take care of nurses all over Montana and we are extremely lucky to have her with us.
It is going to be a fun ending to 2014 around here, and I hope to share that with as many new members as I can. Keep spreading the word, share your enthusiasm of nursing and lets work together to create one strong voice to advocate your enduring profession.
Recently, I experienced a sudden, rather extended stay at our Helena hospital, St Peter’s. I can’t tell you enough how important you are when one is ill. My care from nurses was outstanding and of exceptional comfort.
Never underestimate the power of yourself as a nurse! Cathy Ransier Membership & Finance Specialist
The Power of
Involvement
We would like to welcome the following nurses to Montana Nurses Association!
Below are the names of New Members and Members who have renewed their membership
betweenJune 15, 2014 & September 30, 2014.
If your name is not listed, and you believe it should be, please contact Cathy Ransier at 406-442-6710 or email cathyr@mtnurses.org
Teri Sparrow Karmen Williams Amelia Clark Diane Hurd Alexis Czorny Olivia Thompson Donna Britzius Rory Clark Debra Holm Tara Gallagher Deborah Davis Judy Wonnacott Kristen Downey Teresa Knepper Gloria Clark Sadie Wiseman Theresa (Polly) Jasmine Zamora Troutman Debra Gesel Kelly Hunt Debra Rapaport Mark Duda Jennifer Tollefson Kelly Damberger Jamie Davies Angela Brady Jodi Wipf Sarah Beams Lara Pollington Brandi Glibbery Janet Campana Valerie Gordon Kelly Cassidy Bruce Squires Jeni Murphy
Kacia Bundle Valerie Detonancour Lisa Jewett Heidi Hittner Seely Bergstad Bonnie Campbell Michael Denny Melissa Finley Sandra Dubose April Crowley Kelly Kurvink Jan Fredrick Candace Barrenchea Linda McDonald Tony Ballensky Emmarie Schledewitz Michelle Boyer Kristin Sherman Austin Wagner Linda Ann Buxton Kristin Hawkinson Katherine Kaiser William Brewer Scott Hollingsworth Kathy Toney Mary Goldammer Klista Roberts Melissa Scharf Maria Brosnan Cindy Sheridan Kathryn Jordan Lezlie McKenzie Jennifer Elison Pamela Keierleber Merridee Moshien Celeste Bonnecarrere Melinda Christman Adrian Shively Angela Schell Lisa Hastings Chelsey Jansman Virginia Tymrak Rebecca Gibson Krystal Faulkner Julia Bechtold Callie Hastings
Welcome New Members!
MEMBERSHIP MATTERS!
Montana Nurses Association would
like to invite you to join us today!
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
• EMPOWERING RNs TO USE THEIR VOICES IN THE WORKPLACE
• IMPROVING PATIENT CARE • HAVING INPUT REGARDING
WAGES & BENEFITS • CONTINUING EDUCATION
OPPORTUNITIES
• LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION
Call or email today
cathyr@mtnurses.org
(406) 442-6710
Applications also available
on our website.
mtnurses.org
Has your contact
information
changed?
New name? New address?
New phone number?
New email address?
To update your contact information, please email or call Montana Nurses Association: cathyr@mtnurses.org or
406-442-6710
RN to BSN Online Program MSN Online Program
BSN-LINC: 1-877-656-1483 or bsn-linc.wisconsin.edu MSN-LINC: 1-888-674-8942 or uwgb.edu/nursing/msn • No Campus Visits • Liberal Transfer Credits
• Classes That Fit Your Schedule • Competitive Tuition
Sidney Health Center is accepting applications for the following positions:
• Charge Nurse • Clinic RN or LPN • Med/Surg RN • OB RN • Surgery RN
For additional information or to apply online, please visit our website at:
www.sidneyhealth.org
0r contact: Marilyn Olson
216 14th Ave SW • Sidney, MT 59270 • Phone: (406) 488-2571 mjolson@sidneyhealth.org
EOE
DID YOU KNOW…Teton Medical Center in Choteau, MT qualifies for the NURSE Corps Funding Program?
In exchange for a 2 year service commitment at TMC, nurses can get 60% of their school loan paid with a 3rd year eligibility to receive an additional 25% of loan balance.
Applicant eligibility includes:
• Baccalaureate or associate degree in nursing • Unrestricted license as an RN in the state of Montana • Be employed at least 32 hours
Current openings: RNs and CNAs
Full-time and Part-time competitive wages and benefits
To take advantage of this federally funded NURSE Corps Program and for more information contact Human Resources at
Around the State
Around the State
Elizabeth Kinion, Ed.D, MSN, RN
“I am a professor in the College of Nursing at Montana State University and an MNA member. I teach in the undergraduate and graduate programs. I became aware of the importance of the nurses role in oral health several years ago when I was the Director of a Nurse Managed Center in Akron, Ohio. We provided health care to persons who did not have health insurance and who were not eligible for other health care resources. Many of our clients had chronic illnesses and poor oral health. I was fortunate to collaborate with public health dentists, and together, we were funded by HRSA so that through collaboration we could provide oral health care and our clients would have access to dental care.” ~ Elizabeth
As nurses, we are key players as client advocates, inter-professional team members, and direct care providers. Yet oral health is often excluded during medical care and overlooked by nurses. More than ten years ago the Surgeon General called oral health disease a “silent epidemic.” Unfortunately this situation remains largely unchanged. Diseases of the oropharynx, which includes the oral cavity, teeth, and supporting structures, have a significant impact of the overall health of the U.S. population (Institute of Medicine {IOM}, 2011).
Dental decay continues to be one of the most prevalent diseases of childhood (IOM, 2011 p. xi). The factors contributing to dental decay are complex, spanning individual, family, and community-level influences (Fisher-Owens et al., 2007). Decayed, broken, and abscessed teeth are the end stage of a pathological process caused by a chronic bacterial infection, associated with the Mutans streptococci organism (Milgrom, Weinstein, Huebner, Graves, & Tut, (2011) and Berkowitz, (2006). Children become infected with the decay-causing bacteria shortly after birth through transmission from caregivers, most often mothers. Infection offers an increased risk for chronic dental disease; however, early preventive care may alter the progression of disease. Nurses have a primary role in facilitating prevention by identifying children at high-risk for dental decay, providing guidance to parents, and offering primary preventive services (Kagihara, Niederhauser & Stark, 2009).
Preventive care can begin as early as pregnancy. Nurses may identify mothers with high rates of dental decay, refer them to a dental provider, and reduce the risk of transmission of decay-causing bacteria to the infant following birth. Increasing the utilization of dental care among women during pregnancy offers an opportunity to improve the oral health of U.S. children and mothers. “Dental decay is not the only oral disease affecting the U.S. population. Periodontal (gum) disease among adults has an impact on overall health. The inflammation associated with periodontal disease may create negative health consequences for individuals with heart disease, diabetes and other health conditions.” Jeffcoat, Jeffcoat, Gladowski, Bramson, and Blum, (2014), p. 166.
For many Montanans oral health is a health disparity. Individuals have limited access to dental care for multiple reasons; Montana is a large rural state, inclement weather may prevent travel and seeking dental care may require an overnight stay, and loss of time at work. Many rural communities do not have dentists. Addressing the web of causes of health disparities is beyond the scope of this article; however nurses can become full partners with clients by learning about oral health care and assisting clients with oral health. The Smiles
for Life: A National Oral Health Curriculum is an
excellent resource for nurse practitioners. www. smilesforlifeoralhealth.org. This curriculum is designed to enhance the role of primary care clinicians in the promotion of oral health for all age groups. This program consists of online courses, patient education materials and resources. Two additional important resources that provides a wealth of information about oral health are the Montana Department of Health and Human Services Oral Health Program http://www.dphhs.mt.gov/ publichealth/oralhealth/. Tonette Hollingsworth, Oral Health Program Coordinator, can be reached at Thollingsworth@mt.gov to offer resources and primary prevention guidance. The mission of the Oral Health Program is to improve the oral health
of Montanans through prevention and education.
The Oral Health Program collaborates with and identifies oral health resources available for local health departments, schools, daycares, tribes, Head Start programs, and others concerned with oral health promotion activities. The website will soon
Oral Health Care – Nurses Make A Difference
be updated with additional resources on Dental Services in Montana, Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD), Fluoride, Oral Health Education and Training, School Based Oral Health Screenings, National and State-Reports, Brochures, and a Newsletter.
The Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors(ASTDD) http://www.astdd.org, a national nonprofit organization representing the directors and staff of state public health agency programs for oral health. The mission of the ASTDD is to provide leadership to promote a governmental oral health presence in each state and territory, to formulate and promote sound oral health policy, to increase an awareness of oral health issues, and to assist in the development of initiatives for prevention and control of oral disease. The organization web site also provides a plethora of information on a variety of oral health topics from A-Z, some examples are Basic Screening Surveys, Best Practices Approach Reports, Community Water Fluoridation, Perinatal Oral Health, and Periodontal Disease.
References:
Berkowitz, R. (2006) Mutans Streptococci: Acquisition and Transmission (2006) Pediatric Dentistry (28), 2 106-109.
Fisher-Owens, S., Gansky, S., Platt, L., Weintraub, J., Soobader, M., Bramlett, M., & Newacheck, P. (2007). Influences on children’s oral health: A conceptual model. Pediatrics, 120(3) 120e510. Doi:10.1542/ peds.2006-3084
Kagihara, L. E., Niederhauser, V. P., & Star, M. (2009). Assessment, management, and prevention of early childhood caries. Journal of the American Academy
of Nurse Practitioners, 21, 1-10.
doi:10.1111/j1745-7599.2008.00367.x:
Institute of Medicine (IOM) Committee on an Oral Health Initiative (2011) Advancing Oral Health in America.
National Academies Press Washington D.C. www.
nap.edu
Jeffcoat, M., Jeffcoat, R., Gladowski, P., Bramson, J., Blum, J., (2014). Impact of periodontal therapy on general health: Evidence from insurance data for five systemic conditions. American Journal of
Preventive Medicine 47(2) 166-174.
Milgrom, P., Weinstein, P., Huebner, C., Graves, J., & Tut, O., (2011.) Empowering Head Start to improve access to good oral health for children from low income families. Maternal Child Health Journal;
