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NV HOPE: Student Highlight 916 607 Master Admin

NV HOPE: Student Highlight

Rosamaria Ruiz- Valedictorian

A single mother of 9 children amid a divorce and survivor of domestic abuse, she prayed for a miracle to financially take care of her family independently and manage the household. Rosamaria said her prayers came true when she heard about the Certified Nursing Assistant program with Goodwill and NV Hope.

Tired, drained, and depressed, she fought for her kids and for her future. Rosamaria attended the program with her oldest daughter Dominique. Both joined the NV Hope family in April 2022. On day one of Boot Camp, Rosamaria was shy, introverted, and insecure. She doubted herself and her ability to complete the program. However, a remarkable change transpired shortly after day two of Boot Camp.

Rosamaria was engaging in class and amongst her peers. By the end of the week, she nailed her interview and transcended self-love, high self-esteem, and confidence. “The program changed my life for the better we met some really good-hearted, straightforward people there.” She also said that the team allowed her to feel welcomed and safe. “Goodwill and NV Hope showed me how to become a better version of myself, no matter my background.”

Rosamaria worked very hard with little to no sleep to ensure she completed the intense and accelerated CNA program. She took advantage of tutoring daily, and her hard work paid off. “I didn’t want to give up or fail, I kept reminding myself of “my why.” Rosamaria graduated as Valedictorian and also received an award for perfect attendance. “I did it and graduated with my daughter by my side, a memory I will never forget.”

In a week, she passed her Headmaster’s exam and was hired in a long-term facility where she gained hands-on experience. She loved doing her job and performing the skills that she learned. Rosamaria was offered a new opportunity to work for DaVita as a Patient Care Tech, where they paid for her additional training. “This opportunity allows me to make a difference every day, and it is the best feeling in the world”.

Rosamaria’s said her spirit ignited, and she loves her health care career. Rosamaria’s story doesn’t end there; she is on the path to become a Registered Nurse in the OR. “Goodwill and NV Hope gave me a second chance, hope, and the ability to care for my children and, most importantly, believe in myself again.”

Perry Foundation: Congratulations to all of the Future of Nursing Award Winners! 916 607 Master Admin

Perry Foundation: Congratulations to all of the Future of Nursing Award Winners!

The Perry Foundation Academy of Health provides superior-quality education programs. Focused on ensuring learners are equipped to meet the needs of the workforce through student-centered education and training. Utilizing a person-centered care approach, our academy will provide the tools needed for students’ personal fulfillment with an appreciation for their dignity of work.

Click Here to learn more.

Podcast: Exploring the Importance of Resilience in Healthcare 1000 1000 Master Admin

Podcast: Exploring the Importance of Resilience in Healthcare

Season 2, Episode 1: Little Moments Of Light

Within this episode Dr. Michael Ungar, founder and Director of the Resilience Research Centre at Dalhousie University, shares his wealth of knowledge on the key elements of resilience. His research focuses on the impact of the environment on our resilience. You’ll hear about the complexities of resilience and what healthcare providers can do to support their own resilience.

Click Here to listen to the Podcast

 

About Michael Ungar, Ph.D.

Michael Ungar, Ph.D. is the founder and Director of the Resilience Research Centre at Dalhousie University. His ground-breaking work as a family therapist and resilience researcher is recognized around the world, with much of that work focused on the resilience of marginalized children and families, and adult populations experiencing mental health challenges at home and in the workplace. His work emphasizes how to use the theory of resilience to increase both individual and institutional agility during crises, with numerous organizations having adopted his concept of resilience as a negotiated process that enhances wellbeing and social responsibility.

Dr. Ungar is the author of 17 books for lay and professional audiences, and over 200 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters. These include Change Your World: The Science of Resilience and the True Path to Success, a book for adults experiencing stress at work and at home, and I Still Love You: Nine Things Trouble Teens Need from their Parents. His blog, Nurturing Resilience, can be read on Psychology Today’s website.

The Cost of Doing Business in High Stress Environments with Dr. Kathy Kain 640 640 Master Admin

The Cost of Doing Business in High Stress Environments with Dr. Kathy Kain

Podcast Season 2|Episode 3

In this episode Dr. Kathy Kain discusses the science behind a somatic approach to help heal the impacts of stress and trauma. She also describes how the body responds to the experiences of our lives, and gives important recommendations for how to support ourselves when working in high stress environments.

Click Here to listen to the Podcast

 

About Kathy L. Kain, Ph.D.

Kathy L. Kain has practiced and taught bodywork and trauma recovery skills for nearly 40 years. She teaches in Europe, Australia, Canada, and throughout the United States.

Kathy’s trainings cover various interwoven focus areas, including trauma recovery, somatic touch, self-regulation skills, and resilience. These focus areas ultimately weave together into a unified somatic approach to touch, awareness, and relationship. Her educational approach encourages students to engage an ongoing practice that deepens their skills and expertise as they gradually embody the work and make it their own.

Kathy developed her Touch Skills Training for Trauma Therapists as a way to support professionals in more fully integrating a somatic and touch-oriented approach in their practices.  She also co-created the Somatic Resilience and Regulation: Early Trauma training program with Stephen J. Terrell, which was the basis of their book together, Nurturing Resilience: Helping Clients Move Forward from Developmental Trauma.  In addition, Kathy is a senior trainer in the Somatic Experiencing training program, and was a senior trainer for 12 years in the Somatic Psychotherapy training program based in Sydney, Australia.  In addition to Nurturing Resilience, Kathy also co-authored The Tao of Trauma: A Practitioner’s Guide for Integrating Five Element Theory and Trauma Treatment, as well as Ortho-Bionomy; A Practical Manual.

Horsford, García, Barragán Introduce Resolution to Designate National Hispanic Nurses Day 150 150 Master Admin

Horsford, García, Barragán Introduce Resolution to Designate National Hispanic Nurses Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), and Nannette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) introduced a resolution to designate September 22 as National Hispanic Nurses Day to recognize the strength and dedication of Hispanic nurses and thank them for their service to their communities.

“Throughout the course of the pandemic, nurses have demonstrated a profound commitment to keeping Americans safe,” said Congressman Steven Horsford. “Even before this public health emergency, Hispanic nurses played an essential role in delivering culturally competent care to our communities. Increasing diversity in the health care workforce has long been a priority of mine, and I have pushed Congress to invest in programs that train and support health care workers from underrepresented backgrounds. I’m proud to introduce this resolution alongside Reps. García and Barragán to honor Hispanic nurses for their dedicated work in Nevada and across the nation.”

“Hispanic nurses have served on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic for more than a year now as our trusted health care workforce, all while enduring sleepless nights, burnout, and the devastating loss of patients, peers, and friends,” said Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García. “For many Latinos, they play a critical role as our translators, educators, and biggest advocates, which is especially true and much-needed in a pandemic that has disproportionately impacted our community. I am proud to introduce this resolution with my colleagues Congressman Horsford and Congresswoman Barragán to recognize the sacrifice and selflessness of Hispanic nurses and designate September 22 as National Hispanic Nurses Day.”

“Hispanic nurses deserve to be recognized for their selfless contributions to our communities and our country. This is especially true while battling a deadly pandemic,” said Congresswoman Nannette Diaz Barragán. “As we honor the thousands of Hispanic nurses, it’s past time to recognize and honor the contributions the Hispanic and Latino community have made to our healthcare system. I am proud to join my colleagues, Congressman Horsford and Congressman García, to designate September 22 as National Hispanic Nurses Day.”

“The resolution designating September 22 as ‘National Hispanic Nurses Day’ elevates the role Hispanic nurses play in improving Latino Health outcomes across the country. Hispanic Nurses are at the forefront of healthcare leadership in our communities as we serve as volunteer leaders and advocates. We have led, advocated, and provided important health services and education to our communities since 1975, and most recently during the pandemic. Our work and programming touches the lives of underserved communities whom have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. This recognition highlights our commitment to improving health outcomes in our local communities and throughout the United States,” said Adrianna Nava, President of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses.

“The Nevada Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses is honored to celebrate all the great work that is being done by Hispanic nurses in our communities and across our great nation! We are making a difference in the health of a nation and are proud to celebrate our efforts on such a great day!”said Lisa Marie Pacheco, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, President of Nevada Hispanic Nurses Association.

“Hispanic nurses are essential in the endeavor to reduce health disparities in our communities. They bring a strong spirit and varied cultural backgrounds that strengthen nursing as a whole.” said Esmeralda Clark, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, a nursing lecturer at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and founding member of the Nevada Chapter of the Association of Hispanic Nurses.

MINDBODYSTRONG™ 1024 424 Master Admin

MINDBODYSTRONG™

MINDBODYSTRONG™ is an evidence-based cognitive skills-building program launched by The Ohio State University College of Nursing. The goal of MINDBODYSTRONG™ is to improve resiliency and self-protective factors for the overall well-being of clinicians.

MINDBODYSTRONG™ consists of 7 weekly sessions aimed to improve overall mental and physical health and support positive adaptation to stress, anxiety and depression. The sessions provide in-between practice to establish and support the positive behavior patterns and are in a manualized format. The MINDBODYSTRONG™ program approaches well-being and mental health in two ways, providing preventive techniques and proven methods for those who have anxiety and depressive symptomatology.

There are 16 research studies supporting positive findings in lowering depression, anxiety, and stress among those with elevated symptoms. The MINDBODYSTRONG™ program emphasizes consistent evidence-based interventions and healthy lifestyle behavior for preventive lifestyle modifications to improve mental and physical well-being.

Click Here to learn more.

Statement on Violence Against Black Men 150 150 Master Admin

Statement on Violence Against Black Men

The Nevada Action Coalition (NAC) calls for an end to the inhumane treatment of people of color. The racial violence and senseless killing of black people especially black men, who have been killed by the hands of law enforcement more than any other race, must STOP now. Those responsible must be held accountable including law enforcement officers, who are charged with protecting ALL people.  Our elected officials must bring forth actionable policies to dismantle institutional and structural barriers that have feed racism and inequality for way to long.

George Floyd, a Black man, minding his own business was senselessly killed, before our eyes on national television. As he laid in the street with a knee in his neck, while other police officers watched, he repeatedly said, “I can’t breathe”, and called for his mother.  He died before our eyes.  As nurses, we preserve life and know that being unable to breathe for eight minutes leads to a poor outcome.

The world is grieving. All races, all states, all genders and all ages are protesting the unjustified violence among law enforcement officers and racism in America.  Tensions have risen and protests for justice and peace are erupting locally and internationally because of the relentless and needless violence that continues against our communities of color, in particular against Black men.

Nurses go beyond the call of duty to restore health to their patients and save lives. Which we are currently in the mist of fighting the pandemic.  NAC demands that law enforcement officers do their job and protect ALL people.

The Nevada Action Coalition stands in solidarity with our partners to end police brutality and racial injustice in our communities.

All lives matter including Black Lives.

Patsy Ruchala named dean of Orvis School of Nursing 150 150 Master Admin

Patsy Ruchala named dean of Orvis School of Nursing

Patsy L. Ruchala, DNSc, RN, has been named dean of the Orvis School of Nursing at the University of Nevada, Reno, following a decision by the Nevada System of Higher Education’s Board of Regents meeting earlier this month. The reorganization reinstates the Orvis School of Nursing as an independent school led by a dean after 24 years. The change is effective Oct. 1, 2016. Ruchala said the reinstatement is significant as it elevates the school and gives it “a seat at the table” alongside the nursing deans at other state schools throughout the nation.

“It increases our ability to recruit research-focused faculty and gives us our own voice in the community,” she said, adding that she expects additional positive impacts from friends and donors of the Orvis School of Nursing.

“The change also will allow us to further build and enhance our programs to meet the nursing needs of Nevada. And it gives us a national presence at a much higher level.” The change comes as the Orvis School prepares for its 60 anniversary in 2017.

“Patsy has been a tireless advocate for the Orvis School of Nursing for many years,” Kevin Carman, the University’s executive vice president and provost, said. “Her leadership, vision, and expertise will continue to enhance the school’s national reputation and build upon what is already a high-quality nursing program. Her new title of ‘dean’ is well deserved and mainstream with the structure of other schools of nursing.”

The Orvis School of Nursing was established at the University and authorized as a free standing school with a dean in 1955 by the Board of Regents and the Nevada Legislature. The doors opened in 1957 when the first class of 12 students began taking classes.

Due to administration and general operational issues, the dean position was replaced with a director in the early 1990s and the Orvis School was moved into the newly developed College of Human and Community Resources. Ruchala became director in 2004 and started navigating the road back to independent school status through several initiatives including a major undergraduate curriculum revision in 2006, increasing the master’s degree tracks, establishing a post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in collaboration with UNLV, initiating the University’s own Bachelor of Science in Nursing-to-DNP and post-master’s DNP programs, increasing the number of full-time faculty and staff positions from 23 to 33 and increasing student enrollment and program quality across all programs.

She has served as teaching faculty in all levels of nursing education and has held administrative positions in nursing education at Georgia State University and Saint Louis University before coming to Nevada in 2004.

UNLV Named National Center of Excellence for Nursing Education 1024 683 Master Admin

UNLV Named National Center of Excellence for Nursing Education

The university was recognized for sustained excellence in student learning and professional development in nursing and became the first institution in Nevada to earn this distinction.

“This is a testament to the teaching excellence, dedication, and innovation that our faculty demonstrate daily,” said Angela Amar, dean and professor of nursing at UNLV. “We’re committed to delivering innovative educational experiences that transform student learning and advance the health of Nevada’s citizens.”

The nursing profession is growing at a fast pace, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 15 percent growth in employment opportunities for registered nurses through 2026. Several factors are driving that growth, including the country’s aging population and the need to replace retiring health care workers.

And UNLV is on the front lines.

The UNLV School of Nursing is expanding its competitive undergraduate program. Starting this fall, a total of 216 students will be accepted annually over three cohorts — an increase of 50 percent since fall 2017. The rigorous year-round undergraduate curriculum can be completed in just 16 months and speeds the transition of bachelor’s-prepared (BSN) graduates into an in-demand nursing workforce.

A signature piece of the undergraduate curriculum occurs at the Clinical Simulation Center of Las Vegas, a 31,000-square-foot innovative educational facility where students learn and practice their skills through simulated scenarios with realistic mannequins, patient actors, and surgical labs.

“Centers of Excellence help raise the bar for all nursing programs by role modeling visionary leadership and environments of inclusive excellence,” said Beverly Malone, CEO of the National League for Nursing. “These programs will nurture the next generation of a strong and diverse nursing workforce to advance the health of the nation and the global community.”

Earlier this year, UNLV was awarded a $900,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to develop a series of certificates for nurses targeting areas of need in the state, including specialty care, clinical research, and teaching. The school currently offers the state’s only Ph.D. in nursing, and its online and overall graduate programs are ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report.

“This designation is public recognition and validation of our excellence in nursing education, and we look forward to continuing to find new and innovative ways to educate future nurse leaders who will serve Nevada and beyond,” said UNLV nursing professor Jessica Doolen.

Each year since 2004, the National League for Nursing has recognized nursing schools nationwide that demonstrate excellence in faculty development, nursing education research, student learning and professional development. UNLV joins a cadre of top national programs, including Duke University, Johns Hopkins, and Vanderbilt as 2019 honorees.

The university was recognized for sustained excellence in student learning and professional development in nursing and became the first institution in Nevada to earn this distinction.

“This is a testament to the teaching excellence, dedication, and innovation that our faculty demonstrate daily,” said Angela Amar, dean and professor of nursing at UNLV. “We’re committed to delivering innovative educational experiences that transform student learning and advance the health of Nevada’s citizens.”

The nursing profession is growing at a fast pace, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 15 percent growth in employment opportunities for registered nurses through 2026. Several factors are driving that growth, including the country’s aging population and the need to replace retiring health care workers.

And UNLV is on the front lines.

The UNLV School of Nursing is expanding its competitive undergraduate program. Starting this fall, a total of 216 students will be accepted annually over three cohorts — an increase of 50 percent since fall 2017. The rigorous year-round undergraduate curriculum can be completed in just 16 months and speeds the transition of bachelor’s-prepared (BSN) graduates into an in-demand nursing workforce.

A signature piece of the undergraduate curriculum occurs at the Clinical Simulation Center of Las Vegas, a 31,000-square-foot innovative educational facility where students learn and practice their skills through simulated scenarios with realistic mannequins, patient actors, and surgical labs.

“Centers of Excellence help raise the bar for all nursing programs by role modeling visionary leadership and environments of inclusive excellence,” said Beverly Malone, CEO of the National League for Nursing. “These programs will nurture the next generation of a strong and diverse nursing workforce to advance the health of the nation and the global community.”

Earlier this year, UNLV was awarded a $900,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to develop a series of certificates for nurses targeting areas of need in the state, including specialty care, clinical research, and teaching. The school currently offers the state’s only Ph.D. in nursing, and its online and overall graduate programs are ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report.

“This designation is public recognition and validation of our excellence in nursing education, and we look forward to continuing to find new and innovative ways to educate future nurse leaders who will serve Nevada and beyond,” said UNLV nursing professor Jessica Doolen.

Each year since 2004, the National League for Nursing has recognized nursing schools nationwide that demonstrate excellence in faculty development, nursing education research, student learning and professional development. UNLV joins a cadre of top national programs, including Duke University, Johns Hopkins, and Vanderbilt as 2019 honorees.

Dr. Fildes, NAC Recommendation Champion, Inducted to the American Academy of Nursing 150 150 Master Admin

Dr. Fildes, NAC Recommendation Champion, Inducted to the American Academy of Nursing

Dr. Fildes is a leader who demonstrates passion and sustained commitment to improving health outcomes of persons in the US and Philippines who suffer from tobacco use and addiction in all its forms. Her unique approach has included mobilizing nurses to provide education and therapeutic interventions to improve population health in direct support of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control established to combat the global tobacco epidemic.

Her progressive track record spanning almost three decades of addressing tobacco use prevention and cessation as a clinical nurse specialist, educator, researcher, and international collaborator, reflects successful ventures to seed ideas to healthcare, public health, and policy stakeholders, secure significant funding, and bring cutting edge programs to fruition through partnerships and empowerment of nurses.

She has implemented programs that have had an impact at the individual, community, and country level. Using lessons learned from establishing the Nevada Tobacco Users Helpline, she parleyed her policy experience into more rapid implementation of similar programs in the Philippines. With faculty and student engagement to augment public health interventions, she applied solutions cross culturally to make significant impact in clinical services and educational curricula in two countries. She also extended her influence fighting addictions by facilitating Screening Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment hospital policy development and training from 2012 to present.

Dr. Fildes’ success is not surprising to those familiar with her critical thinking abilities. She initiates generative discourse on complex topics, and encourages colleagues to bring forward ideas about what is not known rather than repeat the obvious. I had the pleasure of her service on the ANA board of directors where her input was invaluable. She exemplifies the scholarly thinking and production expected of Academy fellows. Her continued clinical, scholarly, and policy efforts will accelerate achieving a tobacco free world.

She is married to Dean Fildes.