June 2004
Vol. 60 No. 2 Circulation 61,000 to all Registered & Licensed Practical Nurses in Louisiana Inside this issue.... LANPAC Exceeds Fundraising Goal ......3 Legislative Update ....................................4 Acadiana Celebrates Nursing 2004 Awards Ceremony ..................................................5 Baton Rouge District Nurses Association Celebrates Nursing..................................10 Shreveport District Nurses Association Honors Area Registered Nurses..............15 Alexandria District Celebrates 100 Ye a r s . . . .1 5 Nightingale Awards Nominations ..........17 Continuing Education Offerings ............19 NODNA Times........................................22 Speaking to a packed house of Louisiana State Nurses Association members, Governor Kathleen
Blanco told registered nurses that they were vital to the
health of Louisianas citizens. The Governor indicated
at a recent Health Care Summit that she was looking
for a spark to begin meaningful change. I cant get
change without registered nurses, she stated. The Louisiana State Nurses Associations annual political meeting was held on Tuesday, April 8, 2004.
More than 300 nurses attended the event representing
all areas of the state. Speaking at the event were state Senator Willie Mount, Democrat and candidate for the U.S. Congress,
and U. S. Senate candidates: Congressman David Vi t t e r, Republican; Congressman Chris John,
Democrat; and state Tr e a s u r e r, John Kennedy,
Democrat. Senator Willie Mount made an appearance at the program for the second consecutive year. Senator Mount expressed her concern for the working conditions of registered nurses and spoke
regarding mandatory overtime. She cited the work of the Nursing Supply and Demand
Commission and LSNA for shedding light on the issue in the state. Congressman Vitter quipped he was proud to be the Republican voice at the program. Vitter is especially concerned with the rising numbers of uninsured in Louisiana. Vitter
states that 831,000 Louisiana citizens have no health insurance. Congressman Vitter sup-
ports legislation that will increase accessibility of healthcare to small business employers. Governor Blanco Addresses LSNA 2004 Link to the Legislature Governor Kathleen Blanco, 2004 Link to the Legislature Melissa Stewart, LANPAC chair, with Governor Blanco LSNA Board of Directors. Sitting left to right: Patricia La Brosse, Governor Kathleen Blanco, Nita Green. Standing left to right: Evelyn Wills, Gail Tumulty, Gordon Natal, Maxine Johnson, Barbara Painter, Denise Danna, Janice Bonner Davis, Eddie Hebert. Congressman David Vitter addressing LSNA The Small Business Health Fairness Act would establish Associated Health Plans (AHPs).
AHPs would be groups of small businesses that have banded together to purchase health-
care insurance. Vitter also supports federal legislation to change rules regarding Medical Spending Accounts. Currently, if funds deposited into a MSA are not used within the year, the
employee forfeits them. Vitter favors legislation that would allow a carryover of $500 into
the next year. Congressman Chris John, Democrat, Louisiana 7th district, also addressed the unin- sured in the state. Like Vitter, he sees small business access to quality health insurance for
employees as a critical issue. John supports the Small Employers Health Benefits Program
(SEHBP). Similar to the Small Business Health Fairness Act, the SEHBP would allow small businesses to group together to buy health insurance. State Treasurer John Kennedy spoke warmly of his Louisiana roots and growing up in Zachary. He cited a
major cause of the states continuing health professional
shortages to be the outflow of our states professionals.
Kennedy stated that two of his brothers are physicians, one
a pulmonologist, the other a cardiologist. Both brothers
reside out of state. Kennedy said that early bills he would support as a U.S. Senator would be medicare reform and access to prescrip-
tion drugs. Kennedy favors importing medicines from
other countries, where they can be 30% to 50% cheaper. State Treasurer John
Kennedy speaking at
Link to the Legislature Louisiana State Nurses Association Board of Directors
President ..............................................................MARILYN SULLIVAN
President-Elect..................................................................NITA GREEN
Vice President ..................................................PATRICIA LA BROSSE
Secretary ........................................................RONDINE BOUDREAUX
Treasurer ......................................................................DENISE DANNA Chairs of Committees and Councils
Resolutions and Bylaws ..........................REBECCA HARRIS-SMITH
Health Policy ..........................................................MAXINE JOHNSON
Membership ..................................................JANICE BONNER-DAVIS
Workplace Advocacy ................................................GORDON NATAL
Clinical Practice Council ....................................BARBARA PAINTER
Education Council ........................................................GAIL TUMULTY
Leadership/Management Council ..............................EDDIE HEBERT
Research/Informatics Council ................EVELYN ERICKSON-WILLS
Immediate Past President ..............................................JAN CORDER District Presidents
Alexandria ................................................................ANN DESHOTELS
Baton Rouge ................................................................DARLA WEBRE
Northshore ....................................................................LAURA GARIN
Lafayette ........................................................JESSIE ELLIS-JAMISON
Lake Charles ............................................................GERALD BRYANT
Monroe ........................................................................LINDA DICKSON
New Orleans ....................................................................TONIA AIKEN
Ruston................................................................................NITA GREEN
Shreveport ....................................................................PATSY MCHAN
Tangipahoa ..........................................................BARBARA MOFFETT
Bayou ............................................................................EDDIE HEBERT
Feliciana ......................................................................BONNIE HURST Executive Director
TAWNA POUNDERS, 225-201-0993 LSNA Staff
CAROL CAIRO, PROGRAM, 225-201-0994, ccairo@lsna.org
KAREN LODEN, MEMBERSHIP, 225-201-0994, kloden@lsna.org
JUDI BAGWELL, OFFICE MANAGER, 225-201-0993
CONTINUING EDUCATION, 225-201-0995, continuinged@lsna.org
DARLA WEBRE, Associate Director, 225-201-0993,
dwebre@lsna.org
Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
225-201-0993
Fax 225-201-0971
lsna@lsna.org Acceptance of adv e rtising does not imply endorsement of approval by
the Louisiana State Nurses Association of the products adv e rt i s e d , t h e
a dv e rt i s e rs or the claims made. Rejection of an adv e rtisement does
not imply that a product offered for adv e rtising is without merit, or that
the manufacturer lacks integrity, or that this association disapprov e s
of the product or its use. LSNA and the Arthur L. D avis Publ i s h i n g
A ge n cy, I n c . shall not be held liable for any consequences resulting
f rom purchase or use of adv e rt i s e rs p ro d u c t s . A dv e rtisements will be
accepted on a firs t - c o m e, f i rs t - s e rved basis for preferred positions.
LSNA and publ i s h e rs reserve the right to reject any adv e rt i s i n g . Pelican News is the official publication of the Louisiana State Nurs e s
A s s o c i a t i o n . It is published quart e r ly. Subscription price of $8 ye a r ly is
i n cluded in annual dues for its members . Price is $20 for non-mem-
b e rs . Po s t m a s t e r : send ch a n ges of address and correspondence and
editorial and adv e rtising copy to 5800 One Perkins Place, Suite 2-B,
Baton Rouge, LA 70808.
FOR ALL ADV E RTISING RATES AND INFORMATION CONTACT T H E
A RTHUR L. DAVIS AG E N C Y, P. O. B OX 216, C E DAR FA L L S , I OWA 50613,
3 1 9 - 2 7 7 - 2 4 1 4 . THE LOUISIANA STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION AND
THE ARTHUR L. DAVIS AGENCY RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REJECT
A DV E RT I S I N G . Responsibility for erro rs in adv e rtising is limited to cor-
rections in the next issue or refund of price of adv e rt i s e m e n t . The Louisiana Nurses Political Action Committee exceeded their fundraising goal for the 2004 Link to the Legislature. The goal was to raise $5,000 for LANPAC, and the one-
day event raised approximately $6,200. GO, LANPAC MEMBERS! The LANPAC members at the annual fundraiser luncheon nominated and elected new officers. Melissa Stewart was affirmed as Chair of the committee. Donna Miller was nom-
inated for and elected to the position of Co-Chair. Genny Sheridan was nominated and elected as Treasurer. Three
m e m b e r s - a t - l a rge were nominated and elected:
Shelly Hebert from Shreveport, Sandy Macmurdo from Baton
Rouge, and Michelle Jewell
from Baton Rouge. Senator Willie Mount served as the keynote speak-
er for the PAC fundraising
luncheon. Senator Mount
praised the efforts of the
Louisiana Nurses Political
Action Committee. LANPAC Exceeds Fundraising Goal State Senator Willie Mount at LANPAC luncheon Nita Green, Senator Mount, Eddie Hebert at LANPAC luncheon Barbara Lowe (L) and Clara Earl work with the LANPAC booth at the 2004 Link to the Legislature The Louisiana State Nurses Association has been actively engaged at the legislature this spring. The session
closes the end of June. Following is a legislative action
update as of press time. The final legislative report from
the session will be posted on the Web at www.lsna.org.
Complete information on bills is available at the Louisiana
legislatures home page, www.legis.state.la.us. Prescriptive Authority
Several bills related to prescriptive authority for various healthcare providers were introduced during the session.
Nursing opened the door for non-physician prescribers in
1995 when advanced practice registered nurses were
defined and granted limited prescriptive authority. The
process for APRNs began with a controlled demonstration
study, then prescriptive authority approved by both the
boards of medicine and nursing, to the current sole over-
sight by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Advanced
practice registered nurses who wish to prescribe must have
a collaborative agreement with a physician. Groups seeking prescriptive authority this year were psychologists, physician assistants, and optometrists. HB 1426, granting prescriptive authority to psycholo- gists, was introduced early in the session by Representative
Salter and has been signed by the Governor as Act 11. Act
11 of the 2004 Legislature defines medical psychologist
as a psychologist who has undergone specialized training
in clinical psychopharmacology and has passed a national
proficiency exam. A medical psychologist may apply to the
State Board of Psychologists for a certificate of prescrip-
tive authority when he or she has met the following
requirements. The applying psychologist has: - a current Louisiana license to practice psychology with an applied clinical specialty, and - completed a post-doctoral masters degree in clini- cal psychopharmacology that includes instruction
in anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, neuro-
sciences, pharmacology, psychopharmacology,
p a t h o p h y s i o l o g y, and health, physical, and lab
assessments. HB 1426 was heard very early in the session and flew through both chambers. Dr. Don Hines, Bunkie, provided
lead on the Senate side. Opponents to the bill argued that psychologists, although holding doctoral degrees, are schooled in the
behavioral sciences and lack the foundation in biological
sciences to prescribe safely. It was also argued that there
was no need for psychologists to prescribe, as there is no
shortage of psychiatrists and other mental health providers.
Less than 20 psychologists currently hold the qualifica-
tions to apply for a certificate of prescriptive authority.
Only one other state has similar legislation. Particularly onerous to registered nurses, the original language of the bill contained language that would have
required registered nurses to execute the orders of a medical
psychologist. This presented a serious problem for the reg-
istered nurse in that it would have removed the ability of the
RN to deny implementation of an inappropriate medical
o r d e r. The Nurse Practice Act states that a component of
registered nursing is executing health care regimens pre-
scribed by authorized prescribers. LSNA was able to work
with the authors of the bill to amend the language. Psychologists have been seeking prescriptive authority in Louisiana since 1999. HB 1140, allowing physicians to delegate prescribing to physician assistants, was introduced by Representative
Durand with a companion bill by Senator Hines. The bill
passed the legislature and has become Act 10 of the 2004
Legislature. The act allows a physician assistant (PA) to prescribe drugs and devices to the extent delegated by a supervising
physician. The physician assistant must have completed a
minimum of one year of clinical during his or her training
and must have practiced for one year under a supervising
physician. The prescriptive authority of the physician assistant granted by Act 10 is significantly weaker than that granted
to an APRN. The APRN prescribes in collaboration with
a physician; the physician assistant prescribes only by del-
egation. HB 330, introduced by Representative Durand, would have expanded the prescriptive powers of optometrists.
The bill was killed in committee. Optometrists currently can prescribe topical solutions, sus- pensions, emulsions, or ointments other than narcotics that
assist in the diagnosis or treatment of the eye. HB 330 would
have allowed optometrists to prescribe any substance topical-
ly or orally for diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Louisiana Legislative Update A n e s t h e s i a
Several pieces of legislation were introduced regarding anesthesia. SB 387 was introduced on behalf of LSNA t o
assure the registered nurses role in the administration of
anesthetic agents. SB 607 and companion HB 1290 were
introduced on behalf of the Louisiana Association of Nurse
Anesthetists (LANA). SB 607 and HB 1290 said that only
certified registered nurses anesthetists (CRNAs), physicians,
and dentists could select and administer anesthetic agents. Also introduced on behalf of LANA was HB 1294, which prohibited a physician from delegating anesthesia
delivery to an anesthesia assistant, and SB 554 which
removed the requirement of physician supervision of the
CRNA. HB 1476 was introduced that established, recognized, and licensed anesthesia assistants in the state. SB 387, introduced by Senator McPherson on behalf of LSNA, assures that registered nurses can administer anes-
thetic agents in certain instances. The bill was introduced
with the concurrence of the Louisiana State Board of
Nursing who had been studying the issue of RN adminis-
tration of anesthetic agents for several months. The original bill amended the Nurse Practice Act and stated a registered nurse may administer analgesic doses of
an anesthetic agent when prescribed by an authorized pre-
scriberin accordance with rules of the Board of Nursing.
The Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists objected
to the language saying that only certified registered nurse
anesthetists (CRNAs) may administer anesthetics. LSNA brought SB 387 forward with the support of the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN). The LSBN had
studied, via a taskforce, three issues related to the adminis-
tration of anesthetics by registered nurses. The purpose of
the LSBN taskforce was to determine if the use of anes-
thetic agents by RNs is safe and appropriate. The taskforce
looked at three specific areas: registered nurse administra-
tion and monitoring of anesthetic agents - epidurally for pain control,
- in procedural sedation, and
- in the labor and delivery suite. Additionally, the LSBN taskforce investigated RN del- egation of intradermal lidocaine to a LPN. LSNAs collected information indicates that registered nurses in Louisiana do administer anesthetic agents, and
have been doing so for at least 10 years. Registered nurs-
es are most frequently involved with anesthetics in critical
care for sedation when a patient is intubated, during proce-
dural sedation, and for pain control. The Louisiana State Board of Nursing had issued sever- al declaratory statements regarding the authority of the RN
in administering and monitoring anesthetics. T h e
Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists voiced during
the taskforce meeting and during the legislative session
that RN administration of anesthetics was illegal due to the
wording of the Nurse Practice Act. The position that LSNA took, and holds, is that the administration of anesthetic agents by registered nurses is
safe, the practice has been in place for years, and the prac-
tice must be protected. LSNA and LANA met twice. The final form of SB 387 protects the RN practice of administering anesthetics when
a patient is intubated in a critical care setting and adminis-
tration of anesthetics epidurally for pain control. The original wording of SB 387 also addressed RN del- egation of intradermal lidocaine injection to a licensed
practical nurse (LPN) for the purpose of starting an intra-
venous line. The LPN board objected to this language say-
ing that LPN should not be in the RN practice act. An
amendment offered that would have changed LPN to
other licensed nursing personnel was also rejected. The
wording has been removed from the current bill. As of press time, SB 387 is awaiting final passage by the House. The Louisiana State Nurses Association contin-
ues to support SB 387. SB 607 and HB 1290, introduced by Chaisson and Townsend respectively, were introduced on behalf of the
Louisiana Association of Nurses Anesthetists (LANA) and
originally stated that only certified registered nurse anes-
thetists, physicians, and dentists could select and adminis-
ter anesthetic agents. The bill has passed the legislature and
is awaiting action by the Governor. LSNA opposed the original bill, as it was the opposite of SB 387. The bill was amended to state that certified
registered nurse anesthetists, physicians, dentists, perfu-
sionists, and other explicitly authorized providers may
select and administer anesthetic agents. Registered nurses
are other authorized providers. The intention of the bill, as stated by LANA, is to pro- hibit the administration of anesthetics by anesthesia assis-
tants. A large amended portion of the wording lauds certi-
fied registered nurse anesthetists and denigrates anesthesia
assistants. Amendments were defeated in both the House
and Senate to remove this particular portion of the bill. The
bill amends the Nurse Practice Act. HB 1290, currently on the Governors desk, will have no effect on the current practice of registered nurses.
LSNA does object to the section relating legislative intent
and history of certified registered nurse anesthetists and
anesthesia assistants. This type of wording is generally not
seen in professional practice acts. The final paragraph of the bill does protect RN admin- istration of anesthetic agents by SB 387. HB 1294 introduced on behalf of the Louisiana Association of Nurses Anesthetists amended the medical
practice act by stipulating to whom a physician could del-
egate anesthesia duties. The bill was voluntarily with-
drawn. A similar bill passed the legislature in 2002, but was vetoed by Governor Foster. At the time, Governor Foster
stated to the press that he did not feel a particular class of
workers (anesthesia assistants) should be summarily barred
from practicing in the state. SB 544 by Senator Chaisson and introduced on behalf of the Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists would
remove supervision of the certified registered nurse anes-
thetist by a physician. The bill did not move out of committee. HB 1476 by Representative Walsworth establishes and licenses anesthesia assistants in Louisiana. The bill passed
favorably out of the House Health and Welfare committee
by a vote of 9 to 8, the same count that moved HB 1290 out
of the same committee. HB 1476 and HB 1290 are at odds;
one (1476) establishes and regulates anesthesia assistants,
the other (1290) prohibits them. HB 1476 is on the subject to call calendar in the House of Representatives as of press time. The bill is eff e c t i v e l y
dead, as there is not time to pass the legislation through the
Senate prior to the legislatures close at the end of June. Miscellaneous
Several bills were filed this legislative session on issues affecting the State Board of Nursing, schools of nursing,
and registered nurses in general. HB 1494 by Representative Wright required that nurs- ing students completing their major prerequisites be
allowed into clinical courses the following semester. The
bill was deferred by the House Education committee the
end of May. The Louisiana State Nurses Association and the Louisiana Coalition of Administrators in Nursing
Education (LACANE) opposed the bill. Opposition to the
bill claimed that schools should have authority to deny pro-
gression through nursing programs. Opponents argued that
factors other than academics must be considered, i.e. avail-
ability of clinical sites and availability of faculty. LSNA was concerned that the State Board of Nursings authority to prohibit students from progressing into clinical
due to prior criminal conduct might be impeded. HB 1014 by Representative Flavin requires that health insurance issuers be notified of adverse actions against
health care professionals by licensing boards. The health
insurance issuer could then, based upon information
received, terminate their agreement with the healthcare
professional to provide services for enrollees. LSNA opposed HB 1014. The Louisiana State Board of Nursing currently makes available and freely disseminates
information regarding adverse actions. The bill was involuntarily deferred in the Health and Welfare committee. HCR 256 by M. Jackson directs all appropriate licens- ing boards, commissions, and associations to make avail-
able comprehensive Heptatitis C continuing education.
This concurrent resolution resulted from negotiation
regarding HB 1435. The Louisiana State Nurses Association opposed HB 1435 which required registered nurses to obtain mandatory
Hepatitis C continuing education. LSNA believes that reg-
istered nurses have the responsibility to determine for
themselves what type of continuing education would be
most suitable for their practice. HB 1435 was voluntarily deferred in the House Health and Welfare committee so that agreeable language could be
drafted. House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 256 requires that Hepatitis C continuing education be made available to regis-
tered nurses and other licensed professionals. It does not
mandate or require the education. LSNA supports HCR 256. The Lafayette District Nurses Association celebrated National Nurses Week by recognizing 25 registered nurses
at the Acadiana Celebrates Nursing (ACN) 2004 Awards
Ceremony. The event was held at the City Club, River
Ranch on May 8, 2004. P.K. Scheerle, RN, President/CEO
of American Nursing Service, was the keynote speaker. The 2004 Acadiana Celebrates Nursing award recipi- ents were nominated by family, friends, colleagues, and/or
patients. At the beginning of each year, the public is invit-
ed to submit names to nominate a nurse for this award.
Recipient selection occurs through a blind review panel of
LSNA members. A brief sketch of the 2004 ACN award recipients follows: Kevin Besse, RN, CCRN
Charity Hospital School of
Nursing, 1991, Diploma
Loyola, 1997, BSN
LSUHSC University Medical
Center
Nursing provides the rare opportunity to be involved with
people at crucial times in their
lives. To be witness to birth and
death and much in between...I consider it a privilege. A registered nurse for 16 years, K e v i n s nominator tells us he is known for his compassion, strong work ethic, and big heart.
One very special quality he shares with his patients and co-
workers is the capacity to illuminate the lighter side. He
brings joy and laughter to the workplace daily, which serves
to diffuse the tension of the high-stress ICU work environ-
ment. His nominator said that just seeing him walk into the
unit is a sure guarantee for all to have a good work day. He recently persevered through an illness with extraor- dinary strength and courage in order to return to a career
that allows him to do what he loves, care for people. His
nominator described Kevins persistent positive attitude as
integral to his return to health and as an inspiration to many. Kevin names among his heroes Margaret Sanger, who worked in advocacy for child labor laws and taught women
about reproductive health even though it was at great risk to
her safety at that time. Lillian Wald, founder of the Henry
Street Settlement, is another hero, for her pioneering work in
public health. He envisions the profession of nursing with an
active workforce who teaches the well to stay healthy, the ill
to regain optimal functions, and increasing involvement in
shaping public policy. For the renewal of his spirit Kevin
meditates, walks, prays and spends time with family. Pauline Breaux, RN, CCRN
Louisiana State University,
Eunice, 1981, AD
Loyola University, 2001, BSN
Certified Gerontology
Registered Nurse
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
I have been so fortunate in being able to obtain gifts of love,
caring and humilityI have
learned what true caring and unselfishness mean. Thro u g h
your touch youll realize what nursing truly means. Growing up in a large, loving family that included a grandmother who was a nurse, a mother who managed
every illness and injury with calm resolve, and a father
who worked with the handicapped, nursing was an easy
choice for Pauline Breaux. Pauline has dedicated her nurs-
ing career to the care of those in the post-acute care setting
and the geriatric population in Acadiana. Nationally certi-
fied in Geriatrics, she is known for her advocacy of
patients and models high quality, skilled care practices for
her staff in the long term care arena. As it was with
Florence Nightingales standard of care, Paulines long
term care patients receive exemplary personal hygiene
assistance which is extended beyond the person to the
environment for a holistic approach. Her nominator described the many hats she wears: bed- side nurse, charge nurse, case manager, clinical manger,
and expert in administrative regulatory statutes. She has
served as a liaison between the hospital and area nursing
homes and offers her expertise in CMS regulatory criteria
to anyone in need of guidance. Pauline enjoys traveling throughout the U.S. to attend soc- cer tournaments with her children. Other self-care activities
include playing with her grandchildren and trips to Disney
World every two years or so to honor the child within. Acadiana Celebrates Nursing 2004 Awards Ceremony Anne Broussard, RN, CNM,
DNS, FACCE
The Johns Hopkins Hospital
School of Nursing, 1967,
Diploma
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1972, BSN
University of Mississippi
Medical Center, 1983, MSN
LSU Medical Center School
of Nursing, 1995, DNS L a m a z e - C e r t i f i e d Childbirth Educator, Certified
Nurse-Midwife, Wo m a n s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Fellow of the American
College of Childbirth Educators College of Nursing and Allied Health Professions, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Being a nurse is an integral part of who I am. The experiences [clinical and teaching]have given me deep
satisfaction, and I know that care I have given has often
made a difference in peoples lives. Anne was inspired by many in her journey: a great-aunt, the first public health nurse in St. Martin parish, who trav-
eled by pirogue to reach remote areas; seeing the gentle
birth of a physicians wife, different from the other med-
icated births; and realization of the power of nurse as labor
coach to influence positive outcomes for every birth. A n n e s nominator wrote she is a gifted educator and described a unique service/learning clinical program which
brings nursing students and pregnant teens together to help
educate the teens while the students learn about this very
vulnerable population. She was one of 50 nurses worldwide
selected to be profiled on the Sigma Theta Tau International
Nursing Honor Societys web page project. An author,
r e s e a r c h e r, expert clinician, and educator who has poured
her heart and soul into her profession with intellect, grace
and aplomb, Anne epitomizes all of the characteristics that
make our profession strong, vital, and vibrant. Anne enjoys staying connected to her two daughters via long-distance phone conversations. She takes care of the
mind, body and spirit with regular Friday night sushi dates
with her husband Ken, reading, traveling, massage, and
Pilates. She studies languages, French and Spanish, and par-
ticipates in two womens spiritual study groups. In her nomi-
n a t o rs words, we are truly fortunate to have an individual of
such professional and personal caliber as Anne in nursing. Paula Broussard, RN, DNS
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1978, BSN
LSU Medical Center, 1983,
MN; 2001, DNS
Certified Infection Control
Nurse (ICN)
College of Nursing and
Allied Health Professions,
University of Louisiana at
Lafayette Being involved in peoples lives during the happiest and sad -
dest events is an honor and a very special gift. Nursing has given me the gift of perspective
and groundedness. It has taught me to take nothing for
granted in this life. Dedicated to nursing and a wonderful mentor is how Paula Broussards nominator described her; . . .she taught
me how to teach. Paula has taught critical care and med-
surg nursing skills and theory for over 21 years. Author of
14 publications, Paula is also respected for her presenta-
tions, locally as well as internationally. She recently creat-
ed a faculty workgroup to mentor others in research and
publishing to disseminate nursing knowledge to the world.
Her nominator describes her office as a refuge where
colleagues know that they can find compassionate wisdom
with the necessary dose of reality and mirth that comes
with years of experience. She lists among her heroes in nursing Mrs. Celina Haynie, who taught her how to be an advocate for patients;
faculty and colleagues; and students who never fail to
teach me something new and wonderful each and every
time I am with them. For renewal, Paula hangs out with precious daughters, Katie and Erin; An evening with those two makes every-
thing right with the world! Travel with her best pal [and
husband] Eddie and getting lost in murder mysteries are
also on her renewal agenda. Monica Chiasson, RN, MBA
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1972, BSN; 1985,
MBA
Our Lady of Lourdes Home
Health Agency
Nursing has given me won - derful co-workers who are smart
and admirable, a good living,
trips outside of Louisiana, an
ongoing education, and a sense of
accomplishment. A nurse for 32 years, Monica is now in the administrative role of Associate Vice President for Home Health Services. She
previously functioned as head nurse and neuroscience cli-
nician, where she was held in regard for her gentle profes-
sionalism and compassion, qualities valued in the home
care arena. Monica was inspired by a neighbor, a nurse-anesthetist who was always calm and in control and knew every-
thing. She names her neighbor, Margaret Philips, among
her heroes in nursing along with Harriet Daly, who was a
great trouble-shooter, and Jackie Espree, who was a won-
derful listener and a people person. Monica left a legacy for RNs at Lourdes when she developed standards of care for neurology and neurosurgi-
cal patients and a documentation system for use hospital-
wide. She has also served as editor and contributor to the
hospitals Patient Education Manual. Her nominator tells us that she has a unique ability to recognize the talents of others and possesses a great
sense of mission and values reflected in all of her deci-
sions. Monica takes care of herself by caring for antique
roses, reading and doing fun things with her husband and
children, ages 15 and 24 years. Besse Breaux Broussard Broussard Chiasson Acadiana cont. on pg. 6 Lois Domingue, RN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1968, BSN
Evangeline Oaks Guest
House
Nursing filled a void in my life after my husband died. I was
forced to help others and work
long hours to provide for my fam -
ily. It has also given me good
friends. I have so many good doc - tors that I worked with who I can
call on now for anything. The 13 nominators for Lois Domingue include her children, many co-workers (doctors,
nurses, administrators, aides, and orderlies) and grandchil-
dren. Widowed at age 40 with 11 children and a 12th child
on the way, Lois set a goal to attain a BSN and enrolled at
USL, completing her degree while working in the ER as an
LPN. Lois spent much of her career in the post-anesthesia
care unit (recovery room) where her skill and watchful-
ness were key to her success and her kindness and gen-
tleness supported the patients through difficult hours. Retirement at age 65 in 1985 did not last long. She accepted a position to help a nursing home regain its
accreditation. She is 84 years old and continues to serve as
assistant director of Evangeline Oaks Guest House.
Nominators comments include: always an atmosphere of
cheerfulness and optimism; a rare find; the most com-
plete nurse with the best bedside manner I have seen;
She has been a contributing factor to many of the health-
care providers of Acadiana personally, in the way of exam-
ple and motivation. A role model to many young nurses
even though at first we were intimidated by her.
Nominators comments on her administrative role: A great
knack for communication; always positive and encour-
aging; instituted programs that boosted the morale of
nursing home patrons; She is always helping someone;
always loved nursing; an amazing person. Lois attends
the Rosary and Mass each morning before work and loves
to spend time with her grandchildren. Julia Dupree, RN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1975, BSN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has given me the gift of coaching many young nurs -
esmany years of interaction
with patients, families, co-work -
ers and physicians. It has been a
rewarding career. J u l i a s nominator puts her at the top of the list of outstanding
nurses: She embodies all quali- ties that exemplify excellence as a nurse. Julia is known
for her passionate advocacy of patients and her supreme
technological skill blended with critical thinking. Julia
credits many who have inspired and taught her along the
way: her first head nurse, Dottie Gauthier; her supervisor,
Harriet Daly; and Dr. Gary Arnold who, in her words,
made all nurses feel invaluable, like we were his eyes and
ears in the absence of the physician. During her teenage
years, Julia was alone with her grandmother when she died
of a sudden heart attack. This was the pivotal event that
sparked Julias passion to acquire the skills necessary to be
able to help people in need. Her nominator tells us that as the first African-American nurse manager, she encountered many struggles but ulti-
mately earned the respect and admiration of patients, peers
and physicians. She is a role model and mentor for many
new nurses and nurse managers. Julia serves as the nurse
manager representative for LONE, Louisiana Organization
of Nurse Executives, where she advocates for the profes-
sion and patients. Julia is active in her church and enjoys
sports, music, and visiting with friends. Louise Frederick, RN,
CCRN, CNS
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1980, BSN
Northwestern State
University, 1993, MSN
Lafayette Heart Clinic
Nursing has been a tremen - dous spiritual journey. The sick
and the dying have taught me the
importance of my health, family,
and spiritual well being. It has made me extremely humble. Louise Frederick always knew she wanted to be a nurse. Today she is a Clinical Nurse
Specialist with prescriptive privileges in a busy cardiology
practice, known for her gift of helping others understand
complex concepts surrounding health and illness. As a clin-
ical instructor, Louise was an excellent role model.
Students recognized her blend of expertise and caring pres-
ence and often expressed intent to be that kind of nurse.
Both of her nominators wrote how impressed they were
with her commitment to quality patient care and personal
integrity. Recently, out of that commitment, Louise stepped
up to become the face of Acadiana Independent Nurses, a
group dedicated to improving patient care delivery and
nursing environments. She used her wisdom, experience
and excellent communication skills to channel energy and
emotions into positive action. One nominator described
this as more daring [a move] than I would choose. Louise acknowledges the bedside nurse among her heroes and sees the need for new and innovative approach-
es in the workplace to keep nurses at the bedside rather
than focusing on mass production. Tennis, biking, exercis-
ing and digging in her yard provide renewal for Louise. Sheryl Gonsoulin, RN, MSN,
CNS
N o rthwestern State University,
1971, BSN
Louisiana State University,
1975, MSN
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions,
University of Louisiana
at Lafayette
Nursing has given me many wonderful life experiences.... I wake up in the mornings wanting
to go to work. To truly love ones work is indeed a very special gift. An expert acute care nurse, Sheryl has spent much of her career in both practice and education. As head of the
Emergency Medicine Dept. at UL Lafayette she secured
the accreditation of the Emergency Medical Technician
(EMT) program, a program she directed until its transition
to the technical college system. She has published exten-
sively in peer-reviewed journals and wrote a textbook on
pre-hospital drug therapy, now in its second edition. She
has provided leadership to Sigma Theta Tau as a past pres-
ident of the Delta Eta chapter and to the American Heart
Association in teaching ACLS and PALS courses; was
appointed to the Governors Advisory Council for
Emergency Medical Services for Children, and served on
the states EMS Education Subcommittee. She also partic-
ipates in mission trips to Mexico. As an educator, Sheryls nominator tells us that she models a gentle, smart, compassionate nurse. Students say
she is a great teacher, a wonderful inspiration with a
big heart, and they aspire to be like her. She is well-loved
and respected by colleagues and students alike. For renew-
al, Sheryl enjoys family, church, reading, and tennis. Ann Guillotte, RN, PALS,
NALS
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1998, BSN
LSU-HSC, University Medical
Center
Nursing has presented me with the gifts of love, joy, compas -
sion, and self-knowledge. God did
not intend everyone to be a nurse,
but how blessed are we that are. It was through reflection, prayer and discernment that Ann
Guillotte came to find nursing after 15 years in business. Anns standard of care model
comes from Mother Theresa who did small things with
great love. Anns nominator recognized this standard in
calling Ann an angelwith qualities of compassion and
dedication that come from strong spiritual beliefs. She
communicates understanding to patients and families with
endless patience and even a hug. In addition to her love
of children and work in Pediatrics, she volunteers with
Hospice and the Alzheimers Support Group. Anns vision for the future of nursing: a future with adequate staffing which would afford a nurse the time to
care for the patient in mind, body and spirita culture
where the patient receives the best possible outcome and
nurses receive the satisfaction of making a difference. As for self-care for Ann, Next to squeezing my grand- daughter and going on spiritual retreats, I would have to
say quilting with my friends is the best medicine to renew
my spirit. Warren Hebert, RN
Charity Hospital School of
Nursing, 1979, Diploma
CEO, Home Care
Association of Louisiana
Nursing has given me the gift of recognizing the value in all life.
F rom the illiterate, impoverished
patients at Charity Hospital to the
most wealthy home care patients...each person has some - thing to teach us as nurses. Warren Heberts nominator described him as the most valu- able example of stewardship and leadership to nurses in the
home care arenaduring a time of tumultuous change.
He set the pace of advocating for home care nursing by
his participation in local, state and national committees and
educational forums in advocacy of home care nurses and
patients. Acadiana cont. from pg. 5 Frederick Acadiana cont. on pg. 7 Gonsoulin Guillotte Domingue Dupree Herbert Acadiana cont. from pg. 6 Although he is in an administrative role, his nominator notes that he has never forgotten his home care roots. Warren Hebert was recently appointed to the Board of Directors for the National Home Care Association. He sits
on the Advisory Board of the Home Health Care Nurse
Journal. Among his heroes in nursing: Melinda Granger Oberleitner, DNS, RN, who encouraged him to write his
first article; and Louise Charpentier of Franklin, who
worked her way up from an aide to LPN to RN, graduated
at age 62, and was selected as National Home Care Nurse
of the Year in 1992. Warren sees a future of home care nursing with an increase in the use of tele-health technology and promoting
wellness within our communities and in our own profes-
sion. For self-care Warren started running 18 months ago
and completed his first marathon in February. He reads a
lot and enjoys family time. Amelie Hollier, RN, MSN,
FNP
USL, 1985 BS Microbiology,
Chemistry
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1988, BSN
McNeese State University,
1995, MSN-Adult Health
University of Louisiana at
Lafayette, 1997, FNP
Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
Nursing has given me three wonderful and tre a s u red gifts. First, the gift of hope, hope in people in general and
mankind in general. Second, nursing has made me appre -
ciate and understand how fragile life is and how lucky we
are to wake up to a new day. Finally, nursing has made me
realize that one person can make a difference in the world.
Nurses do it every day. The following phrases were used by Amelies nomina- tor to describe her: Caring, intelligent advanced practice
nurse (APN); scholar of the highest level; outstanding
practitioner, excellent role model, expert educator, suc-
cessful entrepreneur, writer, publisher, and a wonderful
human being. Amelie is a family nurse practitioner (FNP)
at the Lourdes Employee Clinic. Upon completion of her
post-Masters FNP, she wanted to prepare for the board
exam, yet there was no text to guide her, so she wrote the
text for test preparation with her NP graduate colleagues.
She stays current on the cutting edge advances in pharma-
ceuticals and provides continuing education programs for
APNs across the U.S., which are always well-attended, as
she is known for her teaching talent and attention to detail. She believes a degree in nursing is a great foundation for success.... If you have a dream, a degree in nursing and
a lot of hard work can take you there. Im living proof.
Travel, exercise and spending time with family are how
Amelie relaxes and renews her spirit. Glenn LeBlanc, RN, CCRN,
CEN, TNCC, ACLS/I
Charity Hospital School of
Nursing, 1980, Diploma
N o rthwestern State University,
1995, BSN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1977 BS,
Chemistry
Doctors Hospital, Opelousas
Nursing has provided the ability to make a difference in patient care and the opportunity
to work with exceptional people constantly dedicated to improving patient care. Glenn LeBlanc is a well-respected director of the ICU and ER who steps in to provide bedside care when needed.
His credentials relevant to ICU/ER nursing speak to his
achievements: certified as a Critical Care RN, Certified
Emergency Nurse, Trauma Nursing Certification, Provider
and Instructor for Advanced Cardiac Life Support and
Basic Cardiac Life Support, Neonatal Life Support
Provider, and a Certified Crisis Prevention Instructor. But
the credentials tell only part of the story; the other part is
about leadership and advocacy. Glenn sees nursing as an
integral force in health care reform that will help to secure
a workable system that holds the patients needs as priori-
ty. Education does not end when you get the degree; all
nurses have an obligation to continue to learn and be
accountable to those entrusted to our care. Among his heroes in nursing Glenn lists the dedicated, compassionate ICU/ER staff and his devoted wife, also a
registered nurse. His nominator told us that he is highly
regarded by nursing and medical staff and strives to attain
the best possible care for critically ill patients and support
for his staff. Described as compassionate, dedicated,
always there, and super-intelligent by his staff, Glenn
finds renewal in outdoors, reading and sports events. Richard LeBlanc, RNC, MN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1981, BSN
Louisiana State University,
1989, MN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has provided me with a career that allows me to
assist people from the beginning
of life to the end of life... a won - derful sense of fulfillment when
you help patients and their fami -
lies through the good and difficult times in their lives. Certified in cardiovascular nursing, Richard LeBlanc has work experience as a head nurse, a nursing supervisor
and a Clinical Nurse Specialist caring for critical care,
emergency department and cardiac patients. He also dedi-
cates considerable time and energy to keeping up-to-date
with the new patient care information and sharing his
expertise with others as a frequent presenter of continuing
education programs. This comment, from a nurse who has
attended such programs, attests to his talent as an educator.
He is an excellent clinician who is dedicated to nursing
practice and expected patient outcomes through best prac-
tice guidelines. He is an active member of several work-
groups that strive to assure that the best practices identified
through research for heart patients are known and imple-
mented at his facility. He regularly evaluates the outcomes
and updates the nurses to improve the care practices and
outcomes for all cardiac patients. He serves as an officer for the local Critical Care Nurses Association and on the LSNA Continuing Education
Review Committee. He is a member of the National
Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. Richards self-
care best practices include exercise, reading and working
with computers. Glory Diane Lott, RN
West Louisiana Vocational-
Technical School, 1978, LPN
Regents College, 2000,
Associate Degree
LCS Correction Services,
Inc.
Nursing is a very rewarding c a reer: There are many ro l e s . . . c a regivers, advocates, educators, confidantes and so much more. Nurses truly make a
difference in the lives of others. Correctional nursing requires balance between the demands of medical needs and institu-
tional requirements to secure the safety and security of inmates
and employees alike. Diane Lott, a pioneer in correctional
nursing, has trained numerous nurses to perform successfully
in this unique environment. A leader in her field, Diane is the
Medical Administrator for LCS Correction Services, where
she oversees the nursing care in several institutions in
Louisiana and Texas. Dianes continued drive to enhance pro-
fessionalism in corrections nursing was fostered by earning her
RN while working full-time and caring for her family. Described as well respected by the inmates (no small feat!), fellow nurses, physicians, administrators everyone
with whom she comes in contact, Diane has created a cli-
mate that fosters teamwork and a family-like atmosphere. Her nominator, mentored by Diane in the corrections role,
told us that her quiet demeanor and steady guidance made
the difference for me and countless other LPNs. Diane
models the highest standard of nursing in all situations. Diane believes that being a nurse has made her a better person. Diane is also known for arranging get-togethers
with her staff to further develop relationships among the
healthcare team. For renewal, she enjoys reading, camping,
spending time with family and friends. Darlene Lovas, RN,
BCLS/Instructor-Trainer
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1972, BSN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has provided the o p p o rtunity to work with many
healthcare professionals, and I
have made lifelong friendships. I
t ruly value the gift of these friend - ships. A registered nurse of 34 years, Darlene Lovas has worn many hats in healthcare: bedside nurse, nursery nurse, PACU
nurse, instructor, C.E. developer; and most recently, she
has focused her talents in the community. As community
services nurse, Darlene works with the Lafayette
Community Health Care Clinic (for the working poor) and
St. Bernadettes Clinic (for at risk and homeless per-
sons). Darlene provides continuity through careful moni-
toring of patient activity. She has been integral in facilitat-
ing dental services to address a great need among the at
risk population by grant writing and enlisting the services
of 8 area dentists. She collaborates with many pharmaceu-
tical companies to maintain a stock of the most frequently
prescribed medications in an effort to see that no one goes
without the medicine they need. Another grant has gar-
nered funding for womens mammograms. Darlene joyfully shares the credit, I have the privilege of working with people who generously give of their time,
talents and resources to help others in need. Her nominator summed up, Darlenes foresightedness has led to easier access to healthcare, prompt intervention,
relief from painful conditions, reduced anxiety and con-
venient health/dental care for the underserved. Hollier LeBlanc LeBlanc Lott Lovas Acadiana cont. on pg. 8 Acadiana cont. from pg. 7 Dani Marine, RN, CNOR University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1982, BA,
Criminal Justice
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1994, BSN
Lafayette General Medical
Center
Nursing has given me the gifts of love, caring and a positive
outlook on life. I tell my employ - ees if we have to be here for 8
hours a day, then lets have some
fun. Encouraged by her sister Dru (a nurse anesthetist), Dani Marine completed a very rigorous Accelerated Option
Program at USL to obtain her BSN. After working as a
floor nurse, she navigated to the operating theater where
she is now the Director of Peri-Operative Services at
Lafayette General. Both nominators described several
examples of her giving nature, even in the face of personal
family challenges: She gives her heart and soul to anyone
in need; she works many hours to assure that patients
receive great care; she greets each day with a smile, a
pleasure to work with. She volunteers at charitable events, school activities, and organizes a golf tournament for the Association of
Operating Room Nurses (AORN). Her passion is caring for
others, and she seems to have the boundless energy to do it
with palpable commitment and compassion. Dani remembers her graduation as one of her most mem- orable events, realizing a great sense of accomplishment for
the many hours of hard work and determination. For renew-
al, Dani loves spending time with her family which includes
her three children, sisters, Mom and brother. MeJ Matte, RN, NMCC
Louisiana State University -
Eunice, 1984, Associate
Degree
Certification in Managed
Care
LSU-HSC University
Medical Center
The gifts that nursing has given me: Joy of caring and help -
ing others. Love and Respect for myself as well as my co-workers.
A foundation for a lifetime of
commitment, loyalty and integri - ty. A wonderful professional family. Faith in Gods healing
powers and to know that there is truly a divine plan for liv -
ing and dying. MeJ Mattes true inspiration and hero in nursing is her mother, a retired nurse who stood proud of the profession
and encouraged her to do the same. As Associate Director
of Nursing for Outpatient and Surgical Services at UMC,
MeJ is responsible for 11 head nurses in various settings
where 11,000 patients are seen on a monthly basis. Her
nominators tells us that She is an inspiration to all and
has contributed a sense of respect and loyalty among her
staff; one of the most dedicated and caring nurses I have
ever known; an excellent resource person; goes above
and beyond the call of duty; she is a patient advocate as
well as an advocate for nurses. Recently MeJ led the bio-terrorism preparedness pro- gram at UMC, writing the policies, seeking grant funds for
decontamination equipment, and providing training for the
staff. She is described as unselfish, wise and innovative
in her leadership style, with an open door policy encourag-
ing free speech among her head nurses in order to problem-
solve issues for the best outcomes. In MeJs words, caring
for patients became my life. Patricia Miller, RN, MN
Northwestern State
University 1971, BSN
Louisiana State University
1987, MN
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions, University
of Louisiana at Lafayette
Nursing gave me the ability to support myself and child as an
independent woman....there are so many events that have brought me
g reat joy deeply satisfying
moments... [including] my daugh - ter has become a nurse. Pat Millers vision of replicating the Great 100 cele- bration in New Orleans inspired the first Acadiana
Celebrates Nursing event in 2000. Pat now applies her
nursing creativity as an educator. As facilitator of the
bridge course that helps RNs return to school for a BSN,
Pat recently celebrated her students u n i v e r s i t y - w i d e
Service Learning Award for obtaining 21 wheelchairs for
UMC. She also directs the Continuing Education
Department, responsible for planning and implementing
C.E. programs for RNs throughout Louisiana. While serv-
ing as faculty in the studies abroad program at UL
Lafayette, Pat envisioned this opportunity for RNs. She
developed a program, now in its fourth year, to guide RNs
in C.E. modules as they travel Europe to study and observe
health care practices abroad. Leadership and advocacy are common threads in her career. Pat played a significant role in developing rehabili-
tation nursing services in 1980 when she spearheaded the
drive to develop the first physical musculoskeletal rehabil-
itation unit in Louisiana. Prior to 1980, Louisiana residents
in need of rehab traveled to one of five centers in the U.S.
for this care. She has served in many leadership roles: Sigma Theta Tau, LSNA District IV, and the Baton Rouge District, on
the Board of Directors for Hospice of New Orleans, and
the Louisiana Association of Rehabilitation Nurses. She
volunteers at the Lafayette Community Health Care Clinic
and continues to practice bedside nursing. Linda Morris, RNC
Oncology Certified Nurse
Louisiana State University -
Eunice, 1986, ADN
Loyola University -
New Orleans. 2001, BSN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has given me the opportunity to give of myself in a
profession that I truly love. My cancer patients have inspired me
with their courage in the face of a
life-threatening disease. I thank God for every day of life knowing that it is a treasure. Assisting a friend after multiple surgeries (the result of polio) in elementary school provided the inspiration that
brought Linda Morris to nursing. Her nominator described
Lindas dedication to not only providing proficient, com-
passionate care but to educating each of her patients to
empower them in their illness journey. She speaks of
Lindas leadership as Director of Oncology Services at
Lourdes and credits her for the patient satisfaction scores
measured in the 97th percentile nationwide and a low
turnover rate of staff. Lindas heroes in nursing include two nurses who she worked with in the 1980s: Cheryl Roy, her head nurse on
the oncology unit at Lourdes, who taught her to put the
patient first in all decisions and supported her growth
throughout her career; and the CNS on the unit, Melinda
Granger Oberleitner, who cultivated a genuine love for
oncology nursing through her wonderful example. Linda
also credits Selina Guidry for nurturing her management
abilities when she accepted the head nurse position. Lindas self care includes yard therapy and grandchil- dren Amelia and Lucas, who have made her life come full
circle. Seeing the world through their innocent eyes is
refreshing to the mind and soul. Susan Randol, RN, MSN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1977, BSN;
1993, MSN
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions, University
of Louisiana at Lafayette
Nursing is a rich career with many facets; extreme highs and
lows, hardships and humoro u s
experiences. I cant single out one
event, but there have been many moments, when a family mem -
ber touches your hand, someone thanks you, or you hold someones hand as they die. The
moments count! At a very young age Susan Randols desire to care for a sister who was ill and soothe her crying when she had to be
hospitalized defined her career path. Susan started her
nursing career in ICU and later helped to develop the nurs-
ing staffs expertise in neurology as a Neuroscience
Clinician. Now she concentrates her expertise as an educa-
tor. Her nominator tells us that she is the lifeline for stu-
dents entering the clinical setting in her role as
Freshman/Sophomore Nursing Coordinator at UL
Lafayette College of Nursing where she stimulates stu-
dents to critically think about patient care situations and
appropriate nursing management. Susan possesses the
unique ability to recognize the talents of others and encour-
age professional growth. While in the hospital setting in
clinical, she serves as a mentor to staff nurses to foster pro-
fessional growth in others. Susan is described as having a wonderful wealth of knowledge and never too busy to assist anyone in need.
She has co-authored a book chapter and maintains member-
ship in Sigma Theta Tau, National League for Nursing, and
Phi Kappa Phi. A wife, mother of three girls, and active in her
church parish, Susan finds renewal by reading and plans to
return to her artistic interests of drawing and painting soon. Matte Miller Morris Randol Acadiana cont. on pg. 9 Marine Acadiana cont. from pg. 8 Helen Sloan, RNC, DNS, GNP
N o rthwestern State University,
1970, BSN; 1970, MSN
1990, Gerontological Nurse
Practitioner Post Masters
Louisiana State University,
1997, DNS
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions, University
of Louisiana at Lafayette
Nursing has given me a love of aging persons, [the opportunity to conduct] research and write
about nursing. A leader in the care of the older adult, the following quotes from Helen Sloans nominators describe some of
her accomplishments: outstanding teacher of community
health and patient education; outstanding record of
research, publications and presentations; an athlete, a
nurse, a wife and mother and friend to all who know her;
truly a people-centered nurse; and greatly admired by
and respected by the faculty, students and alumni. Helen
Sloan is a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, the only
nurse to have achieved this professional designation in
Acadiana. She teaches undergraduate and graduate nursing
students at UL Lafayette and foot care to family practice
residents at UMC. An expert in care of the insensitive foot,
she initiated the Insensitive Foot Clinic at UMC and col-
laborates with several agencies to deliver expert foot care
to patients in need. She has garnered grant funds in excess
of $100,000, published over 30 articles, and spearheaded a
partnership with the Hartford Foundation to implement
Hartfords Best Practices for Gerontological Nursing in
both undergraduate and graduate course content. Helens interest in nursing began early in life when she was a canary (similar to a candy striper). Among her heroes
in nursing she names Judy Davis; Joy Regaldo (nurse edu-
cator); Melinda Oberleitner, whose talent helps faculty be
all they can be; and Betty Landreneau, who practices
what she teaches. Helens self-care includes meditation,
reading, gardening and avid tennis playing, which she
plans to return to as soon as possible. Ardith (Ardie) Sudduth, RN,
PhD, FNP
Bryan Memorial Hospital
School of Nursing, Diploma
Nebraska Wesleyan, BS;
University of Michigan, MS
University of Nebraska, PhD
University of Tennessee,
Nurse Practitioner
C e rt i f i c a t e
College of Nursing and
Allied Health Professions, University of Louisiana at
Lafayette I have been blessed with being able to work in multiple a reas of nursing which has given breadth and depth to my
nursing skills... surrounded by outstanding, caring, com -
passionate people And I am grateful that I have always
been employed in a field of work that I enjoy very much. Ardie Sudduth is an educator, a researcher, and a nurse practitioner and volunteers her time as a FNP provider at the
Lafayette Community Health Care Clinic (LCHCC). She
teaches full-time in the undergraduate and graduate nursing
programs at UL Lafayette. Her nominator wrote that she
likes to work with Ardie because of her no- nonsense, get-
it-done attitude. Ardie was described as very generous
with her time when being consulted about educational, pro-
fessional and personal issues. She has recently been
involved in talks to develop a nurse practitioner clinic to
bring primary care to women and children in a local shelter. Ardie listed among her heroes in nursing staff nurses t o d a y... highly educated and skilled in a workplace that
demands a high level of expertise and decision making who
are providing excellent care despite the stressful conditions. Her self-care is volunteering at church and LCHCC, quilting, and sharing her quilted creations as gifts to special
people or organizations in her life. Grandchildren bring a
special joy as well. Jerry White, RN, MS, PhD
Louisiana State University,
1970, BSN
Texas Womans University,
MS, PhD
Associate Professor,
Community/Mental
Health/Psychiatric
College of Nursing and
Allied Health Professions,
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Gifts from nursing: O p p o rtunities to be cre a t i v e , share in the lives of hundreds of patients and families, trav -
el and meet nurses in other countries, make projects and
program happen, develop skills in so many areas teach -
ing, leadership, writing, and speaking. Jerry White, a community health nurse/educator is a champion of the underserved and underprivileged in our
community. She has provided students with unique and
meaningful service-learning experiences that help to
broaden their view of nursing. Her nominator wrote that
she is an accomplished researcher, a spirited, innova-
tive educator, and told us how Jerrys vision and tenaci-
ty created Wellness Wednesdays, a health promotion/dis-
ease prevention initiative for faculty and staff; a multidis-
ciplinary International Health course that includes a mis-
sion trip to Mexico; and a global health course largely con-
ducted on the internet. In 2000 she was selected as a Fellow
in the Fuld Institute for Rural Health Nursing. She has pre-
sented her research and clinical initiatives to audiences
nationwide and was a guest lecturer at the Yanji School of
Hygiene in the Peoples Republic of China. She is a com-
passionate, spiritual provider of nursing care in settings
that most of us cant comprehend. Jerry, a mother of two, enjoys walks with the dog, work in the yard, visits with family, and involvement with her
church for rest and renewal. She also reads and writes cre-
atively in between semesters. White Sudduth Monika Williamson, RN,
BSN, OCN
Long Beach City College,
1977, Associate Degree
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1989, BSN
Lafayette General Medical
Center; Southwest Oncology
Associates
Nursing has allowed me to give back to the community, reach out to others prepare my family
for everyday issues. M o n i k a s nominators described her work in a variety of settings in the last 27 years: acute
care, clinics and patient support arenas where she embodies
the true spirit of nursing. She has focused on oncology for
the past 10 years, an area she was drawn to when her moth-
er became ill with cancer and found that it embraced holis-
tic nursing more than any other acute care specialty. S h e
chooses oncology nursing today, in memory of her mother. Monika has extensive experience in biofeedback and teaches relaxation and guided imagery techniques to patients
and friends. She also teaches skin care and encourages skin
cancer prevention, encouraging the regular use of sunscreen. Monika volunteers for the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and the Miles Perret Center,
where she volunteers to help the patients get through the
difficult issues of dealing with cancer with dignity. She is
an active member of the Oncology Nursing Society, cur-
rently serving as president, and has achieved a level IV, the
highest level of the clinical ladder that recognizes expert
nursing practice. Monika has published on the use of guid-
ed imagery in oncology nursing literature. For renewal she spoils her grandchildren, enjoys belly dancing, promotes healthy skin, and practices relaxation,
biofeedback and guided imagery. She sees life changing all
the time and looks forward to more to come. Williamson Sloan The Baton Rouge District Nurses Association held its fifteenth annual Celebrate Nursing Banquet, the oldest continually running district event celebrating Nurses Week.
This years event was held on the evening of May 12 at Boudreauxs on Government
Street in Baton Rouge. The BRDNA holds this event annually during National Nurses
Week in honor of the many registered nurses in our area. The BRDNA represents regis-
tered nurses from the following parishes: Pointe Coupee, Iberville, West Baton Rouge,
East Baton Rouge, Ascension, and Livingston. Each year, the district recognizes Registered Nurses for their outstanding service to the profession, the community, and their patients. This year fourteen nurses from different
employers and specialties were recognized as honorees. The honorees were: Carol
Backstedt (25 years in practice), Southern University School of Nursing; Rhonda Bailey
(13 years in practice), Womans Hospital; Pearl Domma (41 years in practice), Retired;
Neva Elliott-Carter (27 years in practice) Womans Hospital; Rose Gravois (12+ years in
practice), Heritage Manor of Baton Rouge; Pollie Harris (18 years in practice), Womans
Hospital Same Day Surgery; Kelli Lewis (13 years in practice), Womans Hospital;
Joanne Mancina (11 years in practice), Womans Hospital NICU; Andrea Normand (30+
years in practice), Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center Pediatric Emergency
Department; Leslie Robinson (4 years in practice), HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of
Baton Rouge, Charge Nurse; Maree Saltaformaggio (25 years in practice), Womans
Hospital Antepartal Unit; Tina Stallings (22 years in practice), Womans Hospital
Antepartal Unit; Sonyia Thigpen (22 years in practice), Our Lady of the Lake Regional
Medical Center, and Peggy Winters (21 years in practice), Womans Hospital Nursing
Supervisor. The Baton Rouge District Nurses Association Holds 15th Annual Celebrate Nursing Banquet Also recognized at this years banquet were the winners and nominees of the presti- gious 2004 Nightingale Awards from the Baton Rouge District. The Nightingale Awards
are the highest honor a nurse or facility can receive in the state for excellence in nursing.
The Nightingale Awards are presented each January by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation
and the Louisiana State Nurses Association. Recognized as winners were: 2004 Hall of
Fame Inductee, Barbara Coreil; 2004 Hospital of the Year, Baton Rouge General Medical
Center, and 2004 LSNA Volunteer of the Year, Melissa Stewart. Nominees who were rec-
ognized were: Hall of Fame: Sr. Marie Edana Corcoran, Our Lady of the Lake Regional
Medical Center; and Joyce Maynor, Southeastern Louisiana University; Nurse of the Year:
Neva Elliott-Carter, Womans Hospital; Christine Gatlin, Baton Rouge General Medical
Center; Ray Landreneau, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center; Deborah
Martin, St. Elizabeths; and Kristy Simmons, Womans Hospital; Clinical Practice Nurse
of the Year: Lucie Agosta, Womans Hospital; Advanced Practice Nurse of the Year:
Peggy Bourgeois, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; Nursing Administrator of the
Year: Monica Nijoka, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; Terrie Sterling, Our Lady of
the Lake Regional Medical Center; and Melissa Stewart, HealthSouth Rehabilitation
Hospital of Baton Rouge; Mentor of the Year: Janice Logsdon, Our Lady of the Lake
Regional Medical Center; Christy Mitchell, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; and
Staci Sullivan, Womans Hospital; Rookie of the Year: Jessica Bailey, Baton Rouge
General Medical Center; Jessica Frith, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center,
Melissa Lachney, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Baton Rouge; Annie Langlois,
Womans Hospital and James Maryman, Womans Hospital; Nursing School of the Year:
Our Lady of the Lake College; Nursing School Administrator of the Year: Constance
Hendricks, Southern University School of Nursing; Outstanding Community Service by a
Registered Nurse: Linda Horn-Thompson and Harriet Walters from Womans Hospital;
Nominees for Hospital of the Year: Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, and
Womans Hospital. The Edith Lobue Memorial Scholarship is presented to a registered nurse who is presently pursuing a graduate degree in nursing. The Lobue Memorial Scholarship was
established by the Baton Rouge District Nurses Association in memory of Edith Lobue, a
very active member of the District Association. This years recipient of the Edith Lobue
Memorial Scholarship is Ms. Jodi Scott. Ms. Scott is employed by Vascular Associates
and is attending Our Lady of the Lake College pursuing a bachelors degree in nursing
with plans to continue her education and become a certified registered nurse anesthetist.
Ms. Scott is a member of the Baton Rouge District Nurses Association. The Baton Rouge District Nurses Association would like to recognize the following Sponsors of the 15th Annual Celebrate Nursing Banquet: Womans Hospital, Baton
Rouge General Medical Center, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, and Four
Seasons Florists, owner Larry Fremin. Carol Backstedt, RN - Carol is employed at Southern University School of Nursing as
an Instructor. Carol has been prac-
ticing for 25 years. Carol was
nominated by Elaine Barham.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter submitted by
Elaine. C a rol is a great source of inspi - ration to her peers (faculty at Southern University School of
Nursing), former peers (faculty at
Baton Rouge General School of Nursing) and nursing students all over town! Carol encour -
ages the professional development of nurses by serving as a
role model with a positive and conscientious attitude. She has
s e rved as a mentor for nursing students at various education -
al levels practical nursing students to baccalaureate nurs -
ing students and she challenges them to become actively
involved in the profession. Carol has even shared with her stu -
dents and colleagues, her personal health challenges in an
e f f o rt to enhance their application of clinical knowledge and
develop a caring, competent attitude towards patient care . Baton Rouge District Nurses Association 2004 Celebrate Nursing Honorees C a rol is a devoted wife and mother of three and has gen - e rously shared her time with her church, the Girl Scouts, the
American Heart Association and currently serves as a CPR
I n s t ru c t o r. Carol has amazed all of us who work with her
because of her positive spirit and perseverance. Rhonda Bailey, RN - Rhonda is employed at Womans Hospital
as a charge nurse on the evening
shift on the GYN and Oncology
department for seven years. She
has been practicing for 13 years.
Rhonda was nominated by Mary
Ann Smith and Linda Horn-
Thompson. Below is a summa-
rization of the nomination letter
submitted for Rhonda. Rhonda has been a charg e nurse on the evening shift at
Womans Hospital in the GYN and Oncology departments for seven years. Prior to this she
worked as a nurse tech and staff nurse. As charge nurse
and leader, Rhonda knows her co-workers strengths and
weaknesses, their aspirations and fears. She mentors other staff members, helping them to reach their own potential.
She brings stability to nursing units and harmony between
co-workers. In situations that are chaotic, Rhonda main -
tains very professional conduct and gains control. She communicates well with other disciplines of the healthcare team. Rhonda adheres to the standards of nurs -
ing practice and demonstrates concern for the total family
unit. She is an advocate for patients, insisting that their
rights are protected. As charge nurse, Rhonda is involved
in teaching and evaluating new methods and skills in nurs -
ing, making certain that nurses are provided with the
knowledge necessary to improve patient care. She supports
the advancement of nursing culture by utilizing evidenced
based practice. She is certified in PICC line insertion. Rhonda is an active volunteer in community service, involved in the Womans Hospital Habitat for Humanity
project and in the religious community. Demonstrating her
concern for others, she has participated in two mission
trips to Reynosa, Mexico assisting in the construction of
missionary homes, teaching vacation bible school, and
providing health classes and materials. Honorees cont. on pg. 11 Bailey BRDNA 2004 Celebrate Nursing Honorees Backstedt Honorees cont. from pg. 10 Pearl Domma, RN - Pearl practiced nursing for 41 years
and spent many of those years in
Nursing Education. She is now
retired. Pearl was nominated by
Glenda Carlile. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination let-
ter submitted by Glenda Carlile. Most of this nominees nurs - ing was done years ago, before
B R D N A s t a rted these award s . Pearl graduated in 1937 from
O L O L Hospital School of Nursing and re t i red in 1978 after 41 years of nursing practice. During those 41 years,
she did bedside nursing and served 4 years in the Army
Nurse Corps, 22 months overseas with actual combat time.
She was promoted to First Lieutenant and was awarded the
European Theatre Medal with 4 battle stars, the Good
Conduct Medal, and the American Campaign Medal. After
the war, she did office nursing; then in 1961 she complet -
ed her BSN from USL. She became involved in nursing
education in 1962 when she was a clinical instructor for
NSU - Baton Rouge Campus. She received her Masters in
Nursing Education in 1965 from Emory University. Glenda Carlile, who submitted Pearls nomination, writes, In 1962, she was one of my first Adult Med-Surg
instructors and has always touched my life professionally
and as a friend ever since. Pearl stayed in nursing educa-
tion until 1978, when she retired from the Southeastern
Louisiana School of Nursing. Throughout her career she has promoted the profession- al development of nursing, such as when she encouraged
some of her classmates to join the Army Nurse Corps with
her, and encouraging others to continue their professional
development through additional formal education as she
did throughout her career. In the 60s, 70s and 80s, she was
an active member of ANA, LSNA, and BRDNA. During
those years she attended state and BRDNA meetings,
served a term as secretary for BRDNA, and participated in
various committees. Her nomination gives many more examples of her pos- itive influences on the nursing profession, but this edi-
tor has tried to keep the biographies to about 250 words. So
in closing, Pearl Domma has definitely represented the
nursing profession in her career as Army nurse, nursing
educator and her work in professional organizations, Meals
on Wheels, adult reading volunteer at St. Gabriel Womens
Prison, and the Salvation Army. Neva Elliott-Carter, RNC - Neva is employed at Womans
Hospital on the Mother/Baby
unit. She has been practicing for
27 years, 16 of those at
Womans. Neva was nominated
by Lynn Waite. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination let-
ter submitted by Lynn Waite. Neva received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the
University of Texas in 1976. She holds national certification in
Low-Risk Neonatal Nursing. During her 16 years at Wo m a n s Hospital as a Mother/Baby
nurse, she has exemplified the mission of Wo m a n s
Hospital: Improving the health of women and infants in our
c o m m u n i t y. Including the family in the care of their new -
born, her warm, caring bedside manner allows the family to
feel unique in this special moment. Her expertise and expe -
rience in caring for newborns transitioning to extrauterine
life assures a favorable outcome for babies who have diffi -
culty at birth. For this, Neva has received many commen -
dations from parents of these newborns. Neva encourages the professional development of nurs - es as a member of AWHONN. She recently was appointed
Chapter coordinator for Louisiana. Her duties include
conducting educational programs for developing nurse
leaders. She recently presented the educational offering,
Paint Cans, Paradigms, and Nursing at a recent Baton
Rouge AWHONN chapter meeting. She supports studies in nursing which contribute toward the i m p rovement of healthcare by her participation in Wo m a n s
Hospital Performance Improvement Council. She serves on
the multidisciplinary council as the mother/baby re p re s e n t a -
tive and disseminates information to the unit on enhancing
patient safety through performance improvement activities,
which continuously improves patient health outcomes and sup -
p o rts the mission and vision of Wo m a n s Hospital. Nevas professional, pleasant and empathetic behavior serves as a role model for others and promotes a positive
image of nursing. She serves a mentor to new employees
through participation as a preceptor to new nurses. Her
co-workers describe Neva as a team player and a pleasure
to work with. Neva is an asset to Womans Hospital and the
patients lives she touches. Rose Gravois, RN, BSN - Rose is employed by Heritage
Manor of Baton Rouge as the
Director of Nursing. She has been
practicing for 12+ years. She was
nominated by Karen Loden.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter sent in by Karen
Loden. Rose Gravois is the Director of Nursing at Heritage Manor. She
has seen the need for professional nurses in the nursing home set -
ting. To this end, she has encour - aged her LPN staff to continue their education and become
RNs. She encourages RNs to go back to school and get
their BSNs. She has sought out schools of nursing to use
Heritage Nursing as a clinical site since she believes that
care of the elderly is overlooked by many. Rose has even
encouraged her daughter to attend nursing school and she
currently is awaiting admission. Rose holds all staff accountable to standards of care and standards of practice. Ensuring that the nursing care
provided in a nursing home meets standards is no easy job.
The nursing staff knows her expectations, and she makes it
clear that each resident has a plan of care and that staff
members adhere to the plan of care. She holds other
healthcare providers accountable for patient care and will
assure that each resident will receive appropriate treat -
ment and care. When you speak to Rose it is evident that she is an advo - cate for her residents. She has demonstrated that she
knows being an advocate is more than talking about needs,
it is commitment to residents, utilizing professional behav -
iors and skills so that resident rights are clearly and con -
sistently in the forefront of activities. I believe that the
nursing profession as well as the nursing home residents of
our area are lucky that Rose Gravois, RN, has made a dif -
ference in care of the elderly in our community. Pollie Harris, RN - Pollie is employed on the Same Day
S u rgery unit at Wo m a n s Hospital. She has been practicing
for 18 years. Pollie was nominat-
ed by Johnetta McCray Russ.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter sent in by
Johnetta Russ. Pollie serves as a preceptor to new RN employees and encour -
ages them to be the best care - givers and patient advocates pos -
sible. She shares with them the mission, vision, and values of Womans Hospital, which
embody her personal beliefs: Excellence, commitment,
mutual respect, stewardship, sound judgment, and innova -
tion. Pollie is active in the professional organization
AORN and encourages other nurses to become active. Pollie is proud to be a nurse, which is evident to anyone who hears her speak about the profession or watches her
with her patients. Pollie receives numerous comments from
patients and families thanking her for her gentle caring
nature. One patient said, Pollie made me feel like I was
her mother she was caring for. Pollie is a team player
held in high esteem by her teammates. Pollie accepts the role of patient advocate and passion - ately believes that is why she is here. Pollie will dig her
heels in if she feels something is not in the best interest of
her patients. She also will sacrifice her own convenience if
the patient will benefit. Pollie is a nurses nurse... If I
were a patient, I would want Pollie as my nurse. Kellie Lewis, RN - Kellie is employed at Womans Hospital
on the Labor and Delivery Unit.
Kellie has been practicing for 13
years. She was nominated by
Sharon Odenwald and Diane
Berthelot. Below is a summation
of the nomination letter submit-
ted. Kelli has worked at Womans Hospital since her graduation in
1990. She has worked in the Mother/Baby Unit, Family Birthing Center, and now works in Labor and Delivery at Womans Hospital. Kelli serves as
a preceptor to new nurses in Labor and Delivery and
encourages these nurses to be the best they can be. She is
certified in Inpatient Obstetrics, and keeps abreast of new
information with any and all of the nurses around her. She has met the educational criteria and performance evaluation standards necessary to maintain her position in
the Career Ladder program. She is a member of the
Education Team in L&D and an active member of
AWHONN. Joanne Mancina, RN - Joanne is employed by Womans
Hospital in the NICU. She has
been practicing for 11 years.
Joanne was nominated by
Roxanne Butler, Darcy Gunn, and
Bridgett Mayo. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination let-
ter submitted. Joanne Mancina graduated f rom Our Lady of the Lake School
of Nursing in May of 1993. She s e rved as a member of the student
nurses association and part i c i p a t - ed in many of the community projects supported by this
o rganization. She became a member of the Wo m a n s Hospital
NICU staff after graduation and has been there 11 years. Joanne began orienting new staff nurses to the NICU eight years ago. She is patient, nurturing, and supportive
of her orientees and repeatedly receives positive feedback
in that role. Her preceptor role has grown to encompass an
orientation program for the Neonatal Care techs. Joanne has been instrumental in creating several docu - mentation tools for the NICU staff. She is a member of the
core committee for the Vermont Oxford Bubble CPAP
Research Trial. Professionally she is a member of the
Academy of Neonatal Nursing and has attended the orga -
nizations professional conference. Through Joannes dedication, enthusiasm, and profes - sionalism she exemplifies the role of nursing. Joanne con -
tinues to seek out new learning experiences, eagerly shares
new knowledge with staff, and enthusiastically embraces
changes in practice that contribute to the improved health -
care of infants and their families. Andrea Normand, RN, CEN - Andrea is employed in the
Pediatric Emergency Department
of Our Lady of the Lake Regional
Medical Center. She has been
practicing for over 30 years.
Andrea was nominated by
Melissa Wafer. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination sub-
mitted by Melissa Wafer. Andrea has been an icon in the OLOL ER since the late 1970s. She has practiced as a staff
nurse, educator, head nurse, ER director. Recently she has taken on the responsibility of
opening and directing the OLOL Pediatric ER. Domma Elliott-Carter Gravois Harris Lewis Mancina Normand Honorees cont. on pg. 12 Honorees cont. from pg. 11 Andrea demonstrates the true spirit of healing, which may be a marketing phrase for OLOL Hospital, but is at
the core of her practice. Andrea treats all patients with
respect and kindness and has held many hands and wiped
many tears. She taught me how to talk to distraught family
members and value/respect them in their times of need.
Whether a family member and patient visit the ER for a
trauma or an infected toenail, she treats all of them with
respect and kindness. Andrea is involved in education of ER nurses through - out the parish. She teaches adult and pediatric trauma
courses for the Emergency Nurses Association. She is
involved with critical care competency education at OLOL.
Andrea is always encouraging to younger nurses to con -
tinue education and professional certification. Most importantly, Andrea is a nurse to watch in action. Her hands are so skilled and voice so encouraging. She is
a patient advocate and will drag impertinent doctors by
their ears to get her patients the care they need. I cannot say enough positive things about her image as a nurse. Those who have precepted under her watchful eye
will agree that she is a great role model, mentor and
teacher, but hard to keep up with! Andrea is a team
worker. Even as an ER director she is quick to roll up her
sleeves and help with the trauma, irate mother, trouble -
some IV, difficult head injury, psychotic boyfriend, compli -
cated new machine, or crying baby. Leslie Robinson, RN - Leslie is employed as a charge nurse at
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Baton Rouge. She has
been practicing for 4 years. Leslie
was nominated by Melissa
Stewart and Donna Miller. Below
is a summarization of the nomina-
tion letter submitted by Melissa
Stewart and Donna Miller. Leslie Robinson, RN, has prac - ticed in a variety of clinical set -
tings from med-surg to oncology.
In every setting, Leslie has met the challenge of knowing and practicing standards of care
applicable to that setting. She continues to increase her
knowledge through certifications and courses. Her deci -
sion-making skills are described in this way: Leslie has a
talent for rising above pure chaos while maintaining a
calm demeanor of everythings okay! This is a comfort to
patients and staff. Leslie molds her staff through vigilant instruction and constant nurturing. She heads the staff education commit -
tee and is very involved in employee morale. Leslie often
buys gifts and trinkets to reward staff for a job well done
or just because Im thinking of you. Shes also well
known to the staff for the countless cakes she has baked for
various hospital activities. If Leslie is going to be there,
theres going to be cake! The compassion that Leslie shares with staff is only one example of the compassion she displays. One can honestly
say that patients lives are better when Leslie cares for
them. She receives continuous complements from patient
families about her nursing abilities. With the assistance of
Leslie and the Rehab South staff, we achieved the high
honor of being number one for nursing throughout the
HealthSouth Company. This would never have been possi -
ble if not for Leslies hard work and dedication over the
last year. Maree Saltaformaggio, RN - Maree is employed at Womans
Hospital on the Antepartal Unit.
She has been practicing for 25
years. Maree was nominated by
Sharon Odenwald and Diane
Berthelot. Below is a summariza-
tion of the nomination letter sub-
mitted by Sharon Odenwald and
Diane Berthelot. Maree became an RN in 1979 and has worked in Maternal
Child Health for her entire career.
She joined the staff of Womans Hospital in 1998 working as a staff nurse in L&D. She
became nurse manager of the antepartal unit in 2001 and
has been instrumental in enhancing the unit. She is an
excellent role model to her staff and creates an atmosphere
of professionalism and quality. Maree is a member of AWHONN and has served as leg - islative coordinator. She is currently serving as the secre -
tary-treasurer for the LA chapter of AWHONN. Maree shares information with her staff from hospital administration, the professional organization, and other
sources that impact nursing and healthcare in our commu -
nity. She encourages the professional development of her
staff and seeks opportunities to increase their knowledge
and skills. Maree is a great role model and demonstrates that nurs - ing care extends outside the actual job requirements into
the larger scope of community and national healthcare.
Thank you for considering her as the Outstanding Nurse
that we know her to be. Tina Stallings, RN - Tina is employed at Wo m a n s Hospital on
the Antepartal Unit. Tina has been
practicing for 22 years. Tina was
nominated by Maree Saltaformaggio.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter sent in by Maree
Saltaformaggio. After a 16 year sabbatical from formal nursing to raise her
c h i l d ren, Tina re - e n t e red the
workforce in the L & D depart - ment at Womans Hospital. She
has been a member of the Womans Hospital Antepartal team for three years. Her
nomination stresses her skill in working with nursing stu -
dents and her positive impact on these novice nurses. She
encourages others to join our profession she represented
her nursing department at Career Day. Her volunteerism and work ethic are apparent in her nomination. Tina re p resents her department on the
Relationships committee at Wo m a n s and also the
Hospitality committee. She is active on the local level for
AWHONN, the national organization devoted to promote
the health and well-being of women and children. She also
has worked to develop tools for employee education and
educational handouts for patients and family members.
Tina has worked to promote the education and care of
pregnant women by working with the March of Dimes pro -
gram as well as the Baby Grand program at Womans
Hospital. She was the departmental representative for the
United Way Campaign. Her nomination reads in closing: I think you can see from these comments that Tina is an outstanding nurse in
many ways. She does an excellent job of promoting a pos -
itive image of nursing in the many ways she volunteers for
the community, her church and her family. Her kind and
caring manner in everything she does lets one know that
not only is she an outstanding nurse, but an outstanding
person that I feel privileged to know. Sonyia Thigpen, RN - S o n y i a is employed by Our Lady of the
Lake Regional Medical Center as
a nurse manager. She has been
practicing for 22 years. Sonyia
was nominated by Cathy Guay.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination sent in by Cathy
G u a y. Sonyia is a hands-on clinical manager. She works side by side
with her staff as she coaches them in assessing, prioritizing patient
care, and viewing patient care holistically. Her excellent clinical skills allow her to teach
new nurses how to rapidly recognize subtle changes or
trends in a patients condition. She relies on nursing stan -
dards of care and practice to advance the practice of nurs -
ing. As part of her commitment to her staff, she arranges their schedules so that they can advance their formal edu -
cation, and, as well, attend workshops or seminars. She
recognizes the importance of having the bedside nurse par -
ticipate in making recommendations and decisions related
to patient care, and schedules nurses so that they can
actively participate in nursing division and hospital-wide
committees. She mentors new managers who join the nurs -
ing leadership team at OLOL. Sonyia is the chairperson of the Nurse Manager Council and the Organization of Nurse Managers for
OLOL. She has been an active participant in organizing
Nurse Week and nursing excellence awards at OLOL. She
is co-chair of the United Way campaign for this year and
chairperson for next years campaign. Her professional activities are well documented. Sonyia recently attended the Nurse Manger National Congress
and upon her return made a presentation to the entire
group of nurse managers on the benefits of becoming a
Magnet Hospital and the processes that must be in place in
order to achieve this prestigious accreditation. She and two
others developed and taught a Pain Management Seminar
for the OLOL nursing staff. Sonyia volunteered her nursing
unit to be the first to implement the Collaborative Care
Model for the Hospital. Peggy Winters, RN - Peggy is employed at Womans Hospital as
a Nursing Supervisor. She has
been practicing for 21 years. She
was nominated by Patricia
Johnson. Below is a summariza-
tion of the nomination sent in by
Patricia Johnson. Peggy Winters graduated from the Baton Rouge General School
of Nursing where she served as class president and was awarded
the Woman of A c h i e v e m e n t
Award and Scholarship. She has worked in chemical dependency, medical/surgical nursing,
postpartum, labor and delivery, and family birthing center.
During her career in postpartum, the family birthing cen -
ter, and as the administrative supervisor, she has worked as
a preceptor and resource to new nurses. She is a role model
for professionalism, and her clinical knowledge is an asset
to all those around her. As a certified inpatient obstetric nurse, she is deliberate about maintaining her personal nursing education by
attending educational workshops and conferences, as well
as reading publications and networking with others in the
healthcare community. In addition, Peggy is a heart dis -
ease survivor and is a proponent of the American Heart
Association through participation as a speaker on a panel
for community education of heart healthy women. Peggys warm and caring spirit makes her an outstand - ing nurse and a pleasure to work with. Almost 4 years ago
Peggy began mentoring a young patient on bed rest with
triplets she cared for. As the months passed and Peggy and
the patient bonded, she learned that the young mother was
dealing with the death of her own mother. Peggy and this
young woman have formed a relationship that will last a
lifetime. In Peggys words, Her children have become my
surrogate grandchildren. At Womans Hospital we are very proud of Peggy and believe she is an excellent candidate for recognition by the
BRDNA. Robinson Saltaformaggio Thigpen Winters Stallings The BRDNA started a new tradition for distributing door prizes at the 2003 Celebrate Nursing Banquet, and
it was another big hit at the banquet again this year. As
honorees and guests check in at the registration table, they
are given a blank index card. The attendees are asked to
write why they became a nurse or, if they are a friend or
loved one of a nurse, what is special about that person. The
cards are picked up throughout dinner and the program and
at the end of the program the cards are randomly drawn and
read aloud, then the person who signed the card is
announced and gets to select a door prize. The attendees
have really enjoyed this part of the program for the past
two years, and BRDNA plans to make this an annual event
due to the positive response to this very unique way of dis-
tributing door prizes. Below are a few of the quotes submitted from the 2004 Celebrate Nursing Banquet: Im a nurse because...it combines the worlds of science, philosophy, social sciences, ethics, spirituality, and the art of
caring! Mary Ann Smith Im a nurse because...I care and it just comes naturally to want to care for others! Charlotte Parker I love nursing because...I love taking care of Gods cre- ations. Johnetta Russ My mother is a nurse and...I love her because it takes a very special person to do what she does. Candace
Saltaformaggio Im a nurse because...I love caring for people and the challenges of nursing. Carol Backstedt, Southern University Im a nurse because...I like to work with people, especial- ly the elderly. Nancy Banks I love a nurse because...they are caring loving and help save lives and always helpful to the family and God Bless
Nurses! Brenda Williams I became a nurse because...I have been a nurse for 29 years I became a nurse because of the time I spent with my
younger brother who became a quadriplegic after a diving
accident. I was so touched by the nurses who cared for him
that I wanted to be able to help others Other than my fami-
ly it is one of the most important things Ive ever done. The
rewards have been much greater than the sacrifices. Marree
Saltaformaggio I am a nurse because... (1) I love abuse; (2) I look forward to fighting for my patients; (3) My high school chemistry
teacher said I never would be a nurse; (4) The Dean at my
School of Nursing said I would never make it; {both #3 and
#4 asked for me when they had surgery} (5) I wanted to make
a difference in the community I serveHome town very
important; (6) Last but not least, I had a brother who died after
open heart surgery at BRGMC when I was in the 4th grade.
Monica Nijoka BRDNAs Unique Way of Distributing Door Prizes at the 2004 Celebrate Nursing Banquet I became a nurse because...I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children and their families. I worked as a secre-
tary for several years, but always felt something was missing.
God blessed me with the opportunity to become a nurse and it
has been a very rewarding career. At the end of every shift in
the Pediatric ER, I always feel I have achieved my goal I
have made a difference. Alita Lanoux I am a nurse because...God gave me the gift to care for the ill in times of need. I feel like the profession of nursing is a
divine appointment in my life. Glennis Gray Im a nurse because...I did not want to be a teacher!! However, I discovered that I love people and the greatest sat-
isfaction I have is when I can do something to help someone
feel better. I also learned that in order to be a nurse, you must
also be a teacher. Bertha Howard, Instructor SUSON Im a nurse because...I have always wanted to help others (as a teenager-candy striper). Love for others and gift from
our Heavenly Father to help others. Latricia Greggs My mother is a nurse...and I love her because she is always there to help me and my friends. Olivia
Saltaformaggio I love nurses because...my sister is the best one in the world. Paula Saltaformaggio Im a nurse because...it was a calling from God for me. I love caring for and working with people who are in need.
Trudy Williams Im a nurse because...nursing is a ministry for me. I love people and being in service. I particularly enjoy my role as an
advocate for those who cant speak for themselves. Nursing
allows me to focus on the Jesus in me and in everyone else.
Gwen Livous Im a nurse because...As a young girl I was always inspired by my aunt who was a nurse. She began as a mother
of three taking night classes, graduated as an LPN and contin-
ued to work until she became an RN. She has always been my
hero. Toni Manogin Im a nurse because...I care about people. I still want to make a difference. Sissy Crapanzano I love a certain nurse because...she is always giving her ALL in an every day circumstance. She constantly fulfills
the needs of others before the needs of herself. I love a nurse
because she has truly earned her position! Gigi M. Gravois I became a nurse because...it was what I was meant to do; ever since the age of six, I knew it was my calling. Becoming
a part of our patients lives, even for a short time, is a bless-
ing. We have been given the power to impact others and that
is a precious gift. Tammy Lowery I became a nurse because...1st to help people, 2nd job security, 3rd bring humor to bedside patient care, 4th job secu-
rity, 5th job securityetc. Juliet Fundora Though Im not a nurse...Ive come to value the profes- sion through the many wonderful nurses who have touched
my life. It is an honor to work with so many each day.
Stephanie Manson Im a nurse because...nursing has afforded me many opportunities to make a difference in the live of others. Anita
Hansberry Im a nurse because...of Gods will! He blessed me with a great career the gift of opportunity to make a difference in
the life of another patient, family, physician, and communi-
ty. Nursing is a part of my genetic character a trait I will
carry with me until my last breath It is part of my identity.
Jenny Hussey Im a nurse because...it is a calling to serve others. Ive been blessed with the opportunity to care for those in need, to
touch others with compassion and caring has opened up a door
in my life for meaning and purpose. Sonyia Thigpen Im a nurse because...I enjoy the challenge and I learn something new every day. I wanted to make a difference in the
lives of others. Jody Scott Im a nurse because...people need lots of support and nur- turing when they are in crisis situations. Nursing allows me to
provide for the needs of others in meaningful ways. Vivian
Gettys Im a nurse because...I wanted to take care of infants every day and not have them grow up on me. Neva Elliott-
Carter Im a nurse because...I started home visiting when I was 12 with my aunt who was a public health nurse in Iberville
Parish. Karen Mills I love a nurse because...their hearts are in the right place; they truly care for their patients. Can you imagine what the
world would be like without them? I cant. Steven Winkler Im a nurse because...It has been so long ago I am not quite sure, but it has been a great profession and I am glad I
chose it. Pearl Domma Im a nurse because...after 40+ years its still the best opportunity to make a difference in helping people cope with
life. Cynthia Prestholdt Quotes cont. on pg. 14 Im a nurse because...I have always wanted to take care of people and after 14 years still love what I do. Kelli Lewis I love a nurse because...she is a wonderful wife & moth- er. Randy Lewis The best thing...about being married to a nurse is to have someone to take care of me in my old age. Dale Carter Why is she (Joanne Mancino) such a great nurse? To answer that, you have to know that we have been married for
28 years. This says a lot. She is just a great wife, a great moth-
er of our three children, a great daughter to her parents. These
are all the ingredients that are required to be a great nurse. A
few of many great assets caring, nurturing, smart, witty, lov-
ing, smart again! All these she has bestowed upon her family
for years and now she passes it on to her patients and their
families...a better nurse...hard to find. She is my wife and I
love her dearly. I am happy that I can share her with people
who hurt and have concerns. There is no better person.
George Mancino My mom...is a wonderful nurse because she always helps people. Melissa Stallings I became a nurse because...I wanted to show Gods love to others and to help people. I was always the caretaker in my
family and I loved that. After a bad car accident my senior
year in high school, that set my mind on nursing. Tina
Stallings The best part about my mom being a nurse...is she has great stories to tell about babies. Chris Carter Im a nurse because...life presented a window of opportu- nity 12 years ago. My husband became Mr. Mom while I
attended OLOL nursing school; without him I wouldnt be
practicing a job I love today. Joanne Mancino Whats most important about my sister being a nurse? Of course, the knowledge she has gained concerning medical
issues. But most importantly the heart that has grown with her
knowledge. Tammy Mayes Im proud of my daughterfor choosing nursing for a career. I have my own private nurse. I thank God for her shar-
ing her abilities unselfishly with students, my daughter Anita
Hansberry. Mrs. Helen Hollomon I became a nurse becauseto feed my family. Seriously, I became a nurse to help others. I know its a clich
Vol. 60 No. 2 Circulation 61,000 to all Registered & Licensed Practical Nurses in Louisiana Inside this issue.... LANPAC Exceeds Fundraising Goal ......3 Legislative Update ....................................4 Acadiana Celebrates Nursing 2004 Awards Ceremony ..................................................5 Baton Rouge District Nurses Association Celebrates Nursing..................................10 Shreveport District Nurses Association Honors Area Registered Nurses..............15 Alexandria District Celebrates 100 Ye a r s . . . .1 5 Nightingale Awards Nominations ..........17 Continuing Education Offerings ............19 NODNA Times........................................22 Speaking to a packed house of Louisiana State Nurses Association members, Governor Kathleen
Blanco told registered nurses that they were vital to the
health of Louisianas citizens. The Governor indicated
at a recent Health Care Summit that she was looking
for a spark to begin meaningful change. I cant get
change without registered nurses, she stated. The Louisiana State Nurses Associations annual political meeting was held on Tuesday, April 8, 2004.
More than 300 nurses attended the event representing
all areas of the state. Speaking at the event were state Senator Willie Mount, Democrat and candidate for the U.S. Congress,
and U. S. Senate candidates: Congressman David Vi t t e r, Republican; Congressman Chris John,
Democrat; and state Tr e a s u r e r, John Kennedy,
Democrat. Senator Willie Mount made an appearance at the program for the second consecutive year. Senator Mount expressed her concern for the working conditions of registered nurses and spoke
regarding mandatory overtime. She cited the work of the Nursing Supply and Demand
Commission and LSNA for shedding light on the issue in the state. Congressman Vitter quipped he was proud to be the Republican voice at the program. Vitter is especially concerned with the rising numbers of uninsured in Louisiana. Vitter
states that 831,000 Louisiana citizens have no health insurance. Congressman Vitter sup-
ports legislation that will increase accessibility of healthcare to small business employers. Governor Blanco Addresses LSNA 2004 Link to the Legislature Governor Kathleen Blanco, 2004 Link to the Legislature Melissa Stewart, LANPAC chair, with Governor Blanco LSNA Board of Directors. Sitting left to right: Patricia La Brosse, Governor Kathleen Blanco, Nita Green. Standing left to right: Evelyn Wills, Gail Tumulty, Gordon Natal, Maxine Johnson, Barbara Painter, Denise Danna, Janice Bonner Davis, Eddie Hebert. Congressman David Vitter addressing LSNA The Small Business Health Fairness Act would establish Associated Health Plans (AHPs).
AHPs would be groups of small businesses that have banded together to purchase health-
care insurance. Vitter also supports federal legislation to change rules regarding Medical Spending Accounts. Currently, if funds deposited into a MSA are not used within the year, the
employee forfeits them. Vitter favors legislation that would allow a carryover of $500 into
the next year. Congressman Chris John, Democrat, Louisiana 7th district, also addressed the unin- sured in the state. Like Vitter, he sees small business access to quality health insurance for
employees as a critical issue. John supports the Small Employers Health Benefits Program
(SEHBP). Similar to the Small Business Health Fairness Act, the SEHBP would allow small businesses to group together to buy health insurance. State Treasurer John Kennedy spoke warmly of his Louisiana roots and growing up in Zachary. He cited a
major cause of the states continuing health professional
shortages to be the outflow of our states professionals.
Kennedy stated that two of his brothers are physicians, one
a pulmonologist, the other a cardiologist. Both brothers
reside out of state. Kennedy said that early bills he would support as a U.S. Senator would be medicare reform and access to prescrip-
tion drugs. Kennedy favors importing medicines from
other countries, where they can be 30% to 50% cheaper. State Treasurer John
Kennedy speaking at
Link to the Legislature Louisiana State Nurses Association Board of Directors
President ..............................................................MARILYN SULLIVAN
President-Elect..................................................................NITA GREEN
Vice President ..................................................PATRICIA LA BROSSE
Secretary ........................................................RONDINE BOUDREAUX
Treasurer ......................................................................DENISE DANNA Chairs of Committees and Councils
Resolutions and Bylaws ..........................REBECCA HARRIS-SMITH
Health Policy ..........................................................MAXINE JOHNSON
Membership ..................................................JANICE BONNER-DAVIS
Workplace Advocacy ................................................GORDON NATAL
Clinical Practice Council ....................................BARBARA PAINTER
Education Council ........................................................GAIL TUMULTY
Leadership/Management Council ..............................EDDIE HEBERT
Research/Informatics Council ................EVELYN ERICKSON-WILLS
Immediate Past President ..............................................JAN CORDER District Presidents
Alexandria ................................................................ANN DESHOTELS
Baton Rouge ................................................................DARLA WEBRE
Northshore ....................................................................LAURA GARIN
Lafayette ........................................................JESSIE ELLIS-JAMISON
Lake Charles ............................................................GERALD BRYANT
Monroe ........................................................................LINDA DICKSON
New Orleans ....................................................................TONIA AIKEN
Ruston................................................................................NITA GREEN
Shreveport ....................................................................PATSY MCHAN
Tangipahoa ..........................................................BARBARA MOFFETT
Bayou ............................................................................EDDIE HEBERT
Feliciana ......................................................................BONNIE HURST Executive Director
TAWNA POUNDERS, 225-201-0993 LSNA Staff
CAROL CAIRO, PROGRAM, 225-201-0994, ccairo@lsna.org
KAREN LODEN, MEMBERSHIP, 225-201-0994, kloden@lsna.org
JUDI BAGWELL, OFFICE MANAGER, 225-201-0993
CONTINUING EDUCATION, 225-201-0995, continuinged@lsna.org
DARLA WEBRE, Associate Director, 225-201-0993,
dwebre@lsna.org
Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
225-201-0993
Fax 225-201-0971
lsna@lsna.org Acceptance of adv e rtising does not imply endorsement of approval by
the Louisiana State Nurses Association of the products adv e rt i s e d , t h e
a dv e rt i s e rs or the claims made. Rejection of an adv e rtisement does
not imply that a product offered for adv e rtising is without merit, or that
the manufacturer lacks integrity, or that this association disapprov e s
of the product or its use. LSNA and the Arthur L. D avis Publ i s h i n g
A ge n cy, I n c . shall not be held liable for any consequences resulting
f rom purchase or use of adv e rt i s e rs p ro d u c t s . A dv e rtisements will be
accepted on a firs t - c o m e, f i rs t - s e rved basis for preferred positions.
LSNA and publ i s h e rs reserve the right to reject any adv e rt i s i n g . Pelican News is the official publication of the Louisiana State Nurs e s
A s s o c i a t i o n . It is published quart e r ly. Subscription price of $8 ye a r ly is
i n cluded in annual dues for its members . Price is $20 for non-mem-
b e rs . Po s t m a s t e r : send ch a n ges of address and correspondence and
editorial and adv e rtising copy to 5800 One Perkins Place, Suite 2-B,
Baton Rouge, LA 70808.
FOR ALL ADV E RTISING RATES AND INFORMATION CONTACT T H E
A RTHUR L. DAVIS AG E N C Y, P. O. B OX 216, C E DAR FA L L S , I OWA 50613,
3 1 9 - 2 7 7 - 2 4 1 4 . THE LOUISIANA STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION AND
THE ARTHUR L. DAVIS AGENCY RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REJECT
A DV E RT I S I N G . Responsibility for erro rs in adv e rtising is limited to cor-
rections in the next issue or refund of price of adv e rt i s e m e n t . The Louisiana Nurses Political Action Committee exceeded their fundraising goal for the 2004 Link to the Legislature. The goal was to raise $5,000 for LANPAC, and the one-
day event raised approximately $6,200. GO, LANPAC MEMBERS! The LANPAC members at the annual fundraiser luncheon nominated and elected new officers. Melissa Stewart was affirmed as Chair of the committee. Donna Miller was nom-
inated for and elected to the position of Co-Chair. Genny Sheridan was nominated and elected as Treasurer. Three
m e m b e r s - a t - l a rge were nominated and elected:
Shelly Hebert from Shreveport, Sandy Macmurdo from Baton
Rouge, and Michelle Jewell
from Baton Rouge. Senator Willie Mount served as the keynote speak-
er for the PAC fundraising
luncheon. Senator Mount
praised the efforts of the
Louisiana Nurses Political
Action Committee. LANPAC Exceeds Fundraising Goal State Senator Willie Mount at LANPAC luncheon Nita Green, Senator Mount, Eddie Hebert at LANPAC luncheon Barbara Lowe (L) and Clara Earl work with the LANPAC booth at the 2004 Link to the Legislature The Louisiana State Nurses Association has been actively engaged at the legislature this spring. The session
closes the end of June. Following is a legislative action
update as of press time. The final legislative report from
the session will be posted on the Web at www.lsna.org.
Complete information on bills is available at the Louisiana
legislatures home page, www.legis.state.la.us. Prescriptive Authority
Several bills related to prescriptive authority for various healthcare providers were introduced during the session.
Nursing opened the door for non-physician prescribers in
1995 when advanced practice registered nurses were
defined and granted limited prescriptive authority. The
process for APRNs began with a controlled demonstration
study, then prescriptive authority approved by both the
boards of medicine and nursing, to the current sole over-
sight by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Advanced
practice registered nurses who wish to prescribe must have
a collaborative agreement with a physician. Groups seeking prescriptive authority this year were psychologists, physician assistants, and optometrists. HB 1426, granting prescriptive authority to psycholo- gists, was introduced early in the session by Representative
Salter and has been signed by the Governor as Act 11. Act
11 of the 2004 Legislature defines medical psychologist
as a psychologist who has undergone specialized training
in clinical psychopharmacology and has passed a national
proficiency exam. A medical psychologist may apply to the
State Board of Psychologists for a certificate of prescrip-
tive authority when he or she has met the following
requirements. The applying psychologist has: - a current Louisiana license to practice psychology with an applied clinical specialty, and - completed a post-doctoral masters degree in clini- cal psychopharmacology that includes instruction
in anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, neuro-
sciences, pharmacology, psychopharmacology,
p a t h o p h y s i o l o g y, and health, physical, and lab
assessments. HB 1426 was heard very early in the session and flew through both chambers. Dr. Don Hines, Bunkie, provided
lead on the Senate side. Opponents to the bill argued that psychologists, although holding doctoral degrees, are schooled in the
behavioral sciences and lack the foundation in biological
sciences to prescribe safely. It was also argued that there
was no need for psychologists to prescribe, as there is no
shortage of psychiatrists and other mental health providers.
Less than 20 psychologists currently hold the qualifica-
tions to apply for a certificate of prescriptive authority.
Only one other state has similar legislation. Particularly onerous to registered nurses, the original language of the bill contained language that would have
required registered nurses to execute the orders of a medical
psychologist. This presented a serious problem for the reg-
istered nurse in that it would have removed the ability of the
RN to deny implementation of an inappropriate medical
o r d e r. The Nurse Practice Act states that a component of
registered nursing is executing health care regimens pre-
scribed by authorized prescribers. LSNA was able to work
with the authors of the bill to amend the language. Psychologists have been seeking prescriptive authority in Louisiana since 1999. HB 1140, allowing physicians to delegate prescribing to physician assistants, was introduced by Representative
Durand with a companion bill by Senator Hines. The bill
passed the legislature and has become Act 10 of the 2004
Legislature. The act allows a physician assistant (PA) to prescribe drugs and devices to the extent delegated by a supervising
physician. The physician assistant must have completed a
minimum of one year of clinical during his or her training
and must have practiced for one year under a supervising
physician. The prescriptive authority of the physician assistant granted by Act 10 is significantly weaker than that granted
to an APRN. The APRN prescribes in collaboration with
a physician; the physician assistant prescribes only by del-
egation. HB 330, introduced by Representative Durand, would have expanded the prescriptive powers of optometrists.
The bill was killed in committee. Optometrists currently can prescribe topical solutions, sus- pensions, emulsions, or ointments other than narcotics that
assist in the diagnosis or treatment of the eye. HB 330 would
have allowed optometrists to prescribe any substance topical-
ly or orally for diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Louisiana Legislative Update A n e s t h e s i a
Several pieces of legislation were introduced regarding anesthesia. SB 387 was introduced on behalf of LSNA t o
assure the registered nurses role in the administration of
anesthetic agents. SB 607 and companion HB 1290 were
introduced on behalf of the Louisiana Association of Nurse
Anesthetists (LANA). SB 607 and HB 1290 said that only
certified registered nurses anesthetists (CRNAs), physicians,
and dentists could select and administer anesthetic agents. Also introduced on behalf of LANA was HB 1294, which prohibited a physician from delegating anesthesia
delivery to an anesthesia assistant, and SB 554 which
removed the requirement of physician supervision of the
CRNA. HB 1476 was introduced that established, recognized, and licensed anesthesia assistants in the state. SB 387, introduced by Senator McPherson on behalf of LSNA, assures that registered nurses can administer anes-
thetic agents in certain instances. The bill was introduced
with the concurrence of the Louisiana State Board of
Nursing who had been studying the issue of RN adminis-
tration of anesthetic agents for several months. The original bill amended the Nurse Practice Act and stated a registered nurse may administer analgesic doses of
an anesthetic agent when prescribed by an authorized pre-
scriberin accordance with rules of the Board of Nursing.
The Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists objected
to the language saying that only certified registered nurse
anesthetists (CRNAs) may administer anesthetics. LSNA brought SB 387 forward with the support of the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN). The LSBN had
studied, via a taskforce, three issues related to the adminis-
tration of anesthetics by registered nurses. The purpose of
the LSBN taskforce was to determine if the use of anes-
thetic agents by RNs is safe and appropriate. The taskforce
looked at three specific areas: registered nurse administra-
tion and monitoring of anesthetic agents - epidurally for pain control,
- in procedural sedation, and
- in the labor and delivery suite. Additionally, the LSBN taskforce investigated RN del- egation of intradermal lidocaine to a LPN. LSNAs collected information indicates that registered nurses in Louisiana do administer anesthetic agents, and
have been doing so for at least 10 years. Registered nurs-
es are most frequently involved with anesthetics in critical
care for sedation when a patient is intubated, during proce-
dural sedation, and for pain control. The Louisiana State Board of Nursing had issued sever- al declaratory statements regarding the authority of the RN
in administering and monitoring anesthetics. T h e
Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists voiced during
the taskforce meeting and during the legislative session
that RN administration of anesthetics was illegal due to the
wording of the Nurse Practice Act. The position that LSNA took, and holds, is that the administration of anesthetic agents by registered nurses is
safe, the practice has been in place for years, and the prac-
tice must be protected. LSNA and LANA met twice. The final form of SB 387 protects the RN practice of administering anesthetics when
a patient is intubated in a critical care setting and adminis-
tration of anesthetics epidurally for pain control. The original wording of SB 387 also addressed RN del- egation of intradermal lidocaine injection to a licensed
practical nurse (LPN) for the purpose of starting an intra-
venous line. The LPN board objected to this language say-
ing that LPN should not be in the RN practice act. An
amendment offered that would have changed LPN to
other licensed nursing personnel was also rejected. The
wording has been removed from the current bill. As of press time, SB 387 is awaiting final passage by the House. The Louisiana State Nurses Association contin-
ues to support SB 387. SB 607 and HB 1290, introduced by Chaisson and Townsend respectively, were introduced on behalf of the
Louisiana Association of Nurses Anesthetists (LANA) and
originally stated that only certified registered nurse anes-
thetists, physicians, and dentists could select and adminis-
ter anesthetic agents. The bill has passed the legislature and
is awaiting action by the Governor. LSNA opposed the original bill, as it was the opposite of SB 387. The bill was amended to state that certified
registered nurse anesthetists, physicians, dentists, perfu-
sionists, and other explicitly authorized providers may
select and administer anesthetic agents. Registered nurses
are other authorized providers. The intention of the bill, as stated by LANA, is to pro- hibit the administration of anesthetics by anesthesia assis-
tants. A large amended portion of the wording lauds certi-
fied registered nurse anesthetists and denigrates anesthesia
assistants. Amendments were defeated in both the House
and Senate to remove this particular portion of the bill. The
bill amends the Nurse Practice Act. HB 1290, currently on the Governors desk, will have no effect on the current practice of registered nurses.
LSNA does object to the section relating legislative intent
and history of certified registered nurse anesthetists and
anesthesia assistants. This type of wording is generally not
seen in professional practice acts. The final paragraph of the bill does protect RN admin- istration of anesthetic agents by SB 387. HB 1294 introduced on behalf of the Louisiana Association of Nurses Anesthetists amended the medical
practice act by stipulating to whom a physician could del-
egate anesthesia duties. The bill was voluntarily with-
drawn. A similar bill passed the legislature in 2002, but was vetoed by Governor Foster. At the time, Governor Foster
stated to the press that he did not feel a particular class of
workers (anesthesia assistants) should be summarily barred
from practicing in the state. SB 544 by Senator Chaisson and introduced on behalf of the Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists would
remove supervision of the certified registered nurse anes-
thetist by a physician. The bill did not move out of committee. HB 1476 by Representative Walsworth establishes and licenses anesthesia assistants in Louisiana. The bill passed
favorably out of the House Health and Welfare committee
by a vote of 9 to 8, the same count that moved HB 1290 out
of the same committee. HB 1476 and HB 1290 are at odds;
one (1476) establishes and regulates anesthesia assistants,
the other (1290) prohibits them. HB 1476 is on the subject to call calendar in the House of Representatives as of press time. The bill is eff e c t i v e l y
dead, as there is not time to pass the legislation through the
Senate prior to the legislatures close at the end of June. Miscellaneous
Several bills were filed this legislative session on issues affecting the State Board of Nursing, schools of nursing,
and registered nurses in general. HB 1494 by Representative Wright required that nurs- ing students completing their major prerequisites be
allowed into clinical courses the following semester. The
bill was deferred by the House Education committee the
end of May. The Louisiana State Nurses Association and the Louisiana Coalition of Administrators in Nursing
Education (LACANE) opposed the bill. Opposition to the
bill claimed that schools should have authority to deny pro-
gression through nursing programs. Opponents argued that
factors other than academics must be considered, i.e. avail-
ability of clinical sites and availability of faculty. LSNA was concerned that the State Board of Nursings authority to prohibit students from progressing into clinical
due to prior criminal conduct might be impeded. HB 1014 by Representative Flavin requires that health insurance issuers be notified of adverse actions against
health care professionals by licensing boards. The health
insurance issuer could then, based upon information
received, terminate their agreement with the healthcare
professional to provide services for enrollees. LSNA opposed HB 1014. The Louisiana State Board of Nursing currently makes available and freely disseminates
information regarding adverse actions. The bill was involuntarily deferred in the Health and Welfare committee. HCR 256 by M. Jackson directs all appropriate licens- ing boards, commissions, and associations to make avail-
able comprehensive Heptatitis C continuing education.
This concurrent resolution resulted from negotiation
regarding HB 1435. The Louisiana State Nurses Association opposed HB 1435 which required registered nurses to obtain mandatory
Hepatitis C continuing education. LSNA believes that reg-
istered nurses have the responsibility to determine for
themselves what type of continuing education would be
most suitable for their practice. HB 1435 was voluntarily deferred in the House Health and Welfare committee so that agreeable language could be
drafted. House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 256 requires that Hepatitis C continuing education be made available to regis-
tered nurses and other licensed professionals. It does not
mandate or require the education. LSNA supports HCR 256. The Lafayette District Nurses Association celebrated National Nurses Week by recognizing 25 registered nurses
at the Acadiana Celebrates Nursing (ACN) 2004 Awards
Ceremony. The event was held at the City Club, River
Ranch on May 8, 2004. P.K. Scheerle, RN, President/CEO
of American Nursing Service, was the keynote speaker. The 2004 Acadiana Celebrates Nursing award recipi- ents were nominated by family, friends, colleagues, and/or
patients. At the beginning of each year, the public is invit-
ed to submit names to nominate a nurse for this award.
Recipient selection occurs through a blind review panel of
LSNA members. A brief sketch of the 2004 ACN award recipients follows: Kevin Besse, RN, CCRN
Charity Hospital School of
Nursing, 1991, Diploma
Loyola, 1997, BSN
LSUHSC University Medical
Center
Nursing provides the rare opportunity to be involved with
people at crucial times in their
lives. To be witness to birth and
death and much in between...I consider it a privilege. A registered nurse for 16 years, K e v i n s nominator tells us he is known for his compassion, strong work ethic, and big heart.
One very special quality he shares with his patients and co-
workers is the capacity to illuminate the lighter side. He
brings joy and laughter to the workplace daily, which serves
to diffuse the tension of the high-stress ICU work environ-
ment. His nominator said that just seeing him walk into the
unit is a sure guarantee for all to have a good work day. He recently persevered through an illness with extraor- dinary strength and courage in order to return to a career
that allows him to do what he loves, care for people. His
nominator described Kevins persistent positive attitude as
integral to his return to health and as an inspiration to many. Kevin names among his heroes Margaret Sanger, who worked in advocacy for child labor laws and taught women
about reproductive health even though it was at great risk to
her safety at that time. Lillian Wald, founder of the Henry
Street Settlement, is another hero, for her pioneering work in
public health. He envisions the profession of nursing with an
active workforce who teaches the well to stay healthy, the ill
to regain optimal functions, and increasing involvement in
shaping public policy. For the renewal of his spirit Kevin
meditates, walks, prays and spends time with family. Pauline Breaux, RN, CCRN
Louisiana State University,
Eunice, 1981, AD
Loyola University, 2001, BSN
Certified Gerontology
Registered Nurse
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
I have been so fortunate in being able to obtain gifts of love,
caring and humilityI have
learned what true caring and unselfishness mean. Thro u g h
your touch youll realize what nursing truly means. Growing up in a large, loving family that included a grandmother who was a nurse, a mother who managed
every illness and injury with calm resolve, and a father
who worked with the handicapped, nursing was an easy
choice for Pauline Breaux. Pauline has dedicated her nurs-
ing career to the care of those in the post-acute care setting
and the geriatric population in Acadiana. Nationally certi-
fied in Geriatrics, she is known for her advocacy of
patients and models high quality, skilled care practices for
her staff in the long term care arena. As it was with
Florence Nightingales standard of care, Paulines long
term care patients receive exemplary personal hygiene
assistance which is extended beyond the person to the
environment for a holistic approach. Her nominator described the many hats she wears: bed- side nurse, charge nurse, case manager, clinical manger,
and expert in administrative regulatory statutes. She has
served as a liaison between the hospital and area nursing
homes and offers her expertise in CMS regulatory criteria
to anyone in need of guidance. Pauline enjoys traveling throughout the U.S. to attend soc- cer tournaments with her children. Other self-care activities
include playing with her grandchildren and trips to Disney
World every two years or so to honor the child within. Acadiana Celebrates Nursing 2004 Awards Ceremony Anne Broussard, RN, CNM,
DNS, FACCE
The Johns Hopkins Hospital
School of Nursing, 1967,
Diploma
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1972, BSN
University of Mississippi
Medical Center, 1983, MSN
LSU Medical Center School
of Nursing, 1995, DNS L a m a z e - C e r t i f i e d Childbirth Educator, Certified
Nurse-Midwife, Wo m a n s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Fellow of the American
College of Childbirth Educators College of Nursing and Allied Health Professions, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Being a nurse is an integral part of who I am. The experiences [clinical and teaching]have given me deep
satisfaction, and I know that care I have given has often
made a difference in peoples lives. Anne was inspired by many in her journey: a great-aunt, the first public health nurse in St. Martin parish, who trav-
eled by pirogue to reach remote areas; seeing the gentle
birth of a physicians wife, different from the other med-
icated births; and realization of the power of nurse as labor
coach to influence positive outcomes for every birth. A n n e s nominator wrote she is a gifted educator and described a unique service/learning clinical program which
brings nursing students and pregnant teens together to help
educate the teens while the students learn about this very
vulnerable population. She was one of 50 nurses worldwide
selected to be profiled on the Sigma Theta Tau International
Nursing Honor Societys web page project. An author,
r e s e a r c h e r, expert clinician, and educator who has poured
her heart and soul into her profession with intellect, grace
and aplomb, Anne epitomizes all of the characteristics that
make our profession strong, vital, and vibrant. Anne enjoys staying connected to her two daughters via long-distance phone conversations. She takes care of the
mind, body and spirit with regular Friday night sushi dates
with her husband Ken, reading, traveling, massage, and
Pilates. She studies languages, French and Spanish, and par-
ticipates in two womens spiritual study groups. In her nomi-
n a t o rs words, we are truly fortunate to have an individual of
such professional and personal caliber as Anne in nursing. Paula Broussard, RN, DNS
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1978, BSN
LSU Medical Center, 1983,
MN; 2001, DNS
Certified Infection Control
Nurse (ICN)
College of Nursing and
Allied Health Professions,
University of Louisiana at
Lafayette Being involved in peoples lives during the happiest and sad -
dest events is an honor and a very special gift. Nursing has given me the gift of perspective
and groundedness. It has taught me to take nothing for
granted in this life. Dedicated to nursing and a wonderful mentor is how Paula Broussards nominator described her; . . .she taught
me how to teach. Paula has taught critical care and med-
surg nursing skills and theory for over 21 years. Author of
14 publications, Paula is also respected for her presenta-
tions, locally as well as internationally. She recently creat-
ed a faculty workgroup to mentor others in research and
publishing to disseminate nursing knowledge to the world.
Her nominator describes her office as a refuge where
colleagues know that they can find compassionate wisdom
with the necessary dose of reality and mirth that comes
with years of experience. She lists among her heroes in nursing Mrs. Celina Haynie, who taught her how to be an advocate for patients;
faculty and colleagues; and students who never fail to
teach me something new and wonderful each and every
time I am with them. For renewal, Paula hangs out with precious daughters, Katie and Erin; An evening with those two makes every-
thing right with the world! Travel with her best pal [and
husband] Eddie and getting lost in murder mysteries are
also on her renewal agenda. Monica Chiasson, RN, MBA
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1972, BSN; 1985,
MBA
Our Lady of Lourdes Home
Health Agency
Nursing has given me won - derful co-workers who are smart
and admirable, a good living,
trips outside of Louisiana, an
ongoing education, and a sense of
accomplishment. A nurse for 32 years, Monica is now in the administrative role of Associate Vice President for Home Health Services. She
previously functioned as head nurse and neuroscience cli-
nician, where she was held in regard for her gentle profes-
sionalism and compassion, qualities valued in the home
care arena. Monica was inspired by a neighbor, a nurse-anesthetist who was always calm and in control and knew every-
thing. She names her neighbor, Margaret Philips, among
her heroes in nursing along with Harriet Daly, who was a
great trouble-shooter, and Jackie Espree, who was a won-
derful listener and a people person. Monica left a legacy for RNs at Lourdes when she developed standards of care for neurology and neurosurgi-
cal patients and a documentation system for use hospital-
wide. She has also served as editor and contributor to the
hospitals Patient Education Manual. Her nominator tells us that she has a unique ability to recognize the talents of others and possesses a great
sense of mission and values reflected in all of her deci-
sions. Monica takes care of herself by caring for antique
roses, reading and doing fun things with her husband and
children, ages 15 and 24 years. Besse Breaux Broussard Broussard Chiasson Acadiana cont. on pg. 6 Lois Domingue, RN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1968, BSN
Evangeline Oaks Guest
House
Nursing filled a void in my life after my husband died. I was
forced to help others and work
long hours to provide for my fam -
ily. It has also given me good
friends. I have so many good doc - tors that I worked with who I can
call on now for anything. The 13 nominators for Lois Domingue include her children, many co-workers (doctors,
nurses, administrators, aides, and orderlies) and grandchil-
dren. Widowed at age 40 with 11 children and a 12th child
on the way, Lois set a goal to attain a BSN and enrolled at
USL, completing her degree while working in the ER as an
LPN. Lois spent much of her career in the post-anesthesia
care unit (recovery room) where her skill and watchful-
ness were key to her success and her kindness and gen-
tleness supported the patients through difficult hours. Retirement at age 65 in 1985 did not last long. She accepted a position to help a nursing home regain its
accreditation. She is 84 years old and continues to serve as
assistant director of Evangeline Oaks Guest House.
Nominators comments include: always an atmosphere of
cheerfulness and optimism; a rare find; the most com-
plete nurse with the best bedside manner I have seen;
She has been a contributing factor to many of the health-
care providers of Acadiana personally, in the way of exam-
ple and motivation. A role model to many young nurses
even though at first we were intimidated by her.
Nominators comments on her administrative role: A great
knack for communication; always positive and encour-
aging; instituted programs that boosted the morale of
nursing home patrons; She is always helping someone;
always loved nursing; an amazing person. Lois attends
the Rosary and Mass each morning before work and loves
to spend time with her grandchildren. Julia Dupree, RN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1975, BSN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has given me the gift of coaching many young nurs -
esmany years of interaction
with patients, families, co-work -
ers and physicians. It has been a
rewarding career. J u l i a s nominator puts her at the top of the list of outstanding
nurses: She embodies all quali- ties that exemplify excellence as a nurse. Julia is known
for her passionate advocacy of patients and her supreme
technological skill blended with critical thinking. Julia
credits many who have inspired and taught her along the
way: her first head nurse, Dottie Gauthier; her supervisor,
Harriet Daly; and Dr. Gary Arnold who, in her words,
made all nurses feel invaluable, like we were his eyes and
ears in the absence of the physician. During her teenage
years, Julia was alone with her grandmother when she died
of a sudden heart attack. This was the pivotal event that
sparked Julias passion to acquire the skills necessary to be
able to help people in need. Her nominator tells us that as the first African-American nurse manager, she encountered many struggles but ulti-
mately earned the respect and admiration of patients, peers
and physicians. She is a role model and mentor for many
new nurses and nurse managers. Julia serves as the nurse
manager representative for LONE, Louisiana Organization
of Nurse Executives, where she advocates for the profes-
sion and patients. Julia is active in her church and enjoys
sports, music, and visiting with friends. Louise Frederick, RN,
CCRN, CNS
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1980, BSN
Northwestern State
University, 1993, MSN
Lafayette Heart Clinic
Nursing has been a tremen - dous spiritual journey. The sick
and the dying have taught me the
importance of my health, family,
and spiritual well being. It has made me extremely humble. Louise Frederick always knew she wanted to be a nurse. Today she is a Clinical Nurse
Specialist with prescriptive privileges in a busy cardiology
practice, known for her gift of helping others understand
complex concepts surrounding health and illness. As a clin-
ical instructor, Louise was an excellent role model.
Students recognized her blend of expertise and caring pres-
ence and often expressed intent to be that kind of nurse.
Both of her nominators wrote how impressed they were
with her commitment to quality patient care and personal
integrity. Recently, out of that commitment, Louise stepped
up to become the face of Acadiana Independent Nurses, a
group dedicated to improving patient care delivery and
nursing environments. She used her wisdom, experience
and excellent communication skills to channel energy and
emotions into positive action. One nominator described
this as more daring [a move] than I would choose. Louise acknowledges the bedside nurse among her heroes and sees the need for new and innovative approach-
es in the workplace to keep nurses at the bedside rather
than focusing on mass production. Tennis, biking, exercis-
ing and digging in her yard provide renewal for Louise. Sheryl Gonsoulin, RN, MSN,
CNS
N o rthwestern State University,
1971, BSN
Louisiana State University,
1975, MSN
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions,
University of Louisiana
at Lafayette
Nursing has given me many wonderful life experiences.... I wake up in the mornings wanting
to go to work. To truly love ones work is indeed a very special gift. An expert acute care nurse, Sheryl has spent much of her career in both practice and education. As head of the
Emergency Medicine Dept. at UL Lafayette she secured
the accreditation of the Emergency Medical Technician
(EMT) program, a program she directed until its transition
to the technical college system. She has published exten-
sively in peer-reviewed journals and wrote a textbook on
pre-hospital drug therapy, now in its second edition. She
has provided leadership to Sigma Theta Tau as a past pres-
ident of the Delta Eta chapter and to the American Heart
Association in teaching ACLS and PALS courses; was
appointed to the Governors Advisory Council for
Emergency Medical Services for Children, and served on
the states EMS Education Subcommittee. She also partic-
ipates in mission trips to Mexico. As an educator, Sheryls nominator tells us that she models a gentle, smart, compassionate nurse. Students say
she is a great teacher, a wonderful inspiration with a
big heart, and they aspire to be like her. She is well-loved
and respected by colleagues and students alike. For renew-
al, Sheryl enjoys family, church, reading, and tennis. Ann Guillotte, RN, PALS,
NALS
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1998, BSN
LSU-HSC, University Medical
Center
Nursing has presented me with the gifts of love, joy, compas -
sion, and self-knowledge. God did
not intend everyone to be a nurse,
but how blessed are we that are. It was through reflection, prayer and discernment that Ann
Guillotte came to find nursing after 15 years in business. Anns standard of care model
comes from Mother Theresa who did small things with
great love. Anns nominator recognized this standard in
calling Ann an angelwith qualities of compassion and
dedication that come from strong spiritual beliefs. She
communicates understanding to patients and families with
endless patience and even a hug. In addition to her love
of children and work in Pediatrics, she volunteers with
Hospice and the Alzheimers Support Group. Anns vision for the future of nursing: a future with adequate staffing which would afford a nurse the time to
care for the patient in mind, body and spirita culture
where the patient receives the best possible outcome and
nurses receive the satisfaction of making a difference. As for self-care for Ann, Next to squeezing my grand- daughter and going on spiritual retreats, I would have to
say quilting with my friends is the best medicine to renew
my spirit. Warren Hebert, RN
Charity Hospital School of
Nursing, 1979, Diploma
CEO, Home Care
Association of Louisiana
Nursing has given me the gift of recognizing the value in all life.
F rom the illiterate, impoverished
patients at Charity Hospital to the
most wealthy home care patients...each person has some - thing to teach us as nurses. Warren Heberts nominator described him as the most valu- able example of stewardship and leadership to nurses in the
home care arenaduring a time of tumultuous change.
He set the pace of advocating for home care nursing by
his participation in local, state and national committees and
educational forums in advocacy of home care nurses and
patients. Acadiana cont. from pg. 5 Frederick Acadiana cont. on pg. 7 Gonsoulin Guillotte Domingue Dupree Herbert Acadiana cont. from pg. 6 Although he is in an administrative role, his nominator notes that he has never forgotten his home care roots. Warren Hebert was recently appointed to the Board of Directors for the National Home Care Association. He sits
on the Advisory Board of the Home Health Care Nurse
Journal. Among his heroes in nursing: Melinda Granger Oberleitner, DNS, RN, who encouraged him to write his
first article; and Louise Charpentier of Franklin, who
worked her way up from an aide to LPN to RN, graduated
at age 62, and was selected as National Home Care Nurse
of the Year in 1992. Warren sees a future of home care nursing with an increase in the use of tele-health technology and promoting
wellness within our communities and in our own profes-
sion. For self-care Warren started running 18 months ago
and completed his first marathon in February. He reads a
lot and enjoys family time. Amelie Hollier, RN, MSN,
FNP
USL, 1985 BS Microbiology,
Chemistry
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1988, BSN
McNeese State University,
1995, MSN-Adult Health
University of Louisiana at
Lafayette, 1997, FNP
Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
Nursing has given me three wonderful and tre a s u red gifts. First, the gift of hope, hope in people in general and
mankind in general. Second, nursing has made me appre -
ciate and understand how fragile life is and how lucky we
are to wake up to a new day. Finally, nursing has made me
realize that one person can make a difference in the world.
Nurses do it every day. The following phrases were used by Amelies nomina- tor to describe her: Caring, intelligent advanced practice
nurse (APN); scholar of the highest level; outstanding
practitioner, excellent role model, expert educator, suc-
cessful entrepreneur, writer, publisher, and a wonderful
human being. Amelie is a family nurse practitioner (FNP)
at the Lourdes Employee Clinic. Upon completion of her
post-Masters FNP, she wanted to prepare for the board
exam, yet there was no text to guide her, so she wrote the
text for test preparation with her NP graduate colleagues.
She stays current on the cutting edge advances in pharma-
ceuticals and provides continuing education programs for
APNs across the U.S., which are always well-attended, as
she is known for her teaching talent and attention to detail. She believes a degree in nursing is a great foundation for success.... If you have a dream, a degree in nursing and
a lot of hard work can take you there. Im living proof.
Travel, exercise and spending time with family are how
Amelie relaxes and renews her spirit. Glenn LeBlanc, RN, CCRN,
CEN, TNCC, ACLS/I
Charity Hospital School of
Nursing, 1980, Diploma
N o rthwestern State University,
1995, BSN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1977 BS,
Chemistry
Doctors Hospital, Opelousas
Nursing has provided the ability to make a difference in patient care and the opportunity
to work with exceptional people constantly dedicated to improving patient care. Glenn LeBlanc is a well-respected director of the ICU and ER who steps in to provide bedside care when needed.
His credentials relevant to ICU/ER nursing speak to his
achievements: certified as a Critical Care RN, Certified
Emergency Nurse, Trauma Nursing Certification, Provider
and Instructor for Advanced Cardiac Life Support and
Basic Cardiac Life Support, Neonatal Life Support
Provider, and a Certified Crisis Prevention Instructor. But
the credentials tell only part of the story; the other part is
about leadership and advocacy. Glenn sees nursing as an
integral force in health care reform that will help to secure
a workable system that holds the patients needs as priori-
ty. Education does not end when you get the degree; all
nurses have an obligation to continue to learn and be
accountable to those entrusted to our care. Among his heroes in nursing Glenn lists the dedicated, compassionate ICU/ER staff and his devoted wife, also a
registered nurse. His nominator told us that he is highly
regarded by nursing and medical staff and strives to attain
the best possible care for critically ill patients and support
for his staff. Described as compassionate, dedicated,
always there, and super-intelligent by his staff, Glenn
finds renewal in outdoors, reading and sports events. Richard LeBlanc, RNC, MN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1981, BSN
Louisiana State University,
1989, MN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has provided me with a career that allows me to
assist people from the beginning
of life to the end of life... a won - derful sense of fulfillment when
you help patients and their fami -
lies through the good and difficult times in their lives. Certified in cardiovascular nursing, Richard LeBlanc has work experience as a head nurse, a nursing supervisor
and a Clinical Nurse Specialist caring for critical care,
emergency department and cardiac patients. He also dedi-
cates considerable time and energy to keeping up-to-date
with the new patient care information and sharing his
expertise with others as a frequent presenter of continuing
education programs. This comment, from a nurse who has
attended such programs, attests to his talent as an educator.
He is an excellent clinician who is dedicated to nursing
practice and expected patient outcomes through best prac-
tice guidelines. He is an active member of several work-
groups that strive to assure that the best practices identified
through research for heart patients are known and imple-
mented at his facility. He regularly evaluates the outcomes
and updates the nurses to improve the care practices and
outcomes for all cardiac patients. He serves as an officer for the local Critical Care Nurses Association and on the LSNA Continuing Education
Review Committee. He is a member of the National
Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. Richards self-
care best practices include exercise, reading and working
with computers. Glory Diane Lott, RN
West Louisiana Vocational-
Technical School, 1978, LPN
Regents College, 2000,
Associate Degree
LCS Correction Services,
Inc.
Nursing is a very rewarding c a reer: There are many ro l e s . . . c a regivers, advocates, educators, confidantes and so much more. Nurses truly make a
difference in the lives of others. Correctional nursing requires balance between the demands of medical needs and institu-
tional requirements to secure the safety and security of inmates
and employees alike. Diane Lott, a pioneer in correctional
nursing, has trained numerous nurses to perform successfully
in this unique environment. A leader in her field, Diane is the
Medical Administrator for LCS Correction Services, where
she oversees the nursing care in several institutions in
Louisiana and Texas. Dianes continued drive to enhance pro-
fessionalism in corrections nursing was fostered by earning her
RN while working full-time and caring for her family. Described as well respected by the inmates (no small feat!), fellow nurses, physicians, administrators everyone
with whom she comes in contact, Diane has created a cli-
mate that fosters teamwork and a family-like atmosphere. Her nominator, mentored by Diane in the corrections role,
told us that her quiet demeanor and steady guidance made
the difference for me and countless other LPNs. Diane
models the highest standard of nursing in all situations. Diane believes that being a nurse has made her a better person. Diane is also known for arranging get-togethers
with her staff to further develop relationships among the
healthcare team. For renewal, she enjoys reading, camping,
spending time with family and friends. Darlene Lovas, RN,
BCLS/Instructor-Trainer
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1972, BSN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has provided the o p p o rtunity to work with many
healthcare professionals, and I
have made lifelong friendships. I
t ruly value the gift of these friend - ships. A registered nurse of 34 years, Darlene Lovas has worn many hats in healthcare: bedside nurse, nursery nurse, PACU
nurse, instructor, C.E. developer; and most recently, she
has focused her talents in the community. As community
services nurse, Darlene works with the Lafayette
Community Health Care Clinic (for the working poor) and
St. Bernadettes Clinic (for at risk and homeless per-
sons). Darlene provides continuity through careful moni-
toring of patient activity. She has been integral in facilitat-
ing dental services to address a great need among the at
risk population by grant writing and enlisting the services
of 8 area dentists. She collaborates with many pharmaceu-
tical companies to maintain a stock of the most frequently
prescribed medications in an effort to see that no one goes
without the medicine they need. Another grant has gar-
nered funding for womens mammograms. Darlene joyfully shares the credit, I have the privilege of working with people who generously give of their time,
talents and resources to help others in need. Her nominator summed up, Darlenes foresightedness has led to easier access to healthcare, prompt intervention,
relief from painful conditions, reduced anxiety and con-
venient health/dental care for the underserved. Hollier LeBlanc LeBlanc Lott Lovas Acadiana cont. on pg. 8 Acadiana cont. from pg. 7 Dani Marine, RN, CNOR University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1982, BA,
Criminal Justice
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1994, BSN
Lafayette General Medical
Center
Nursing has given me the gifts of love, caring and a positive
outlook on life. I tell my employ - ees if we have to be here for 8
hours a day, then lets have some
fun. Encouraged by her sister Dru (a nurse anesthetist), Dani Marine completed a very rigorous Accelerated Option
Program at USL to obtain her BSN. After working as a
floor nurse, she navigated to the operating theater where
she is now the Director of Peri-Operative Services at
Lafayette General. Both nominators described several
examples of her giving nature, even in the face of personal
family challenges: She gives her heart and soul to anyone
in need; she works many hours to assure that patients
receive great care; she greets each day with a smile, a
pleasure to work with. She volunteers at charitable events, school activities, and organizes a golf tournament for the Association of
Operating Room Nurses (AORN). Her passion is caring for
others, and she seems to have the boundless energy to do it
with palpable commitment and compassion. Dani remembers her graduation as one of her most mem- orable events, realizing a great sense of accomplishment for
the many hours of hard work and determination. For renew-
al, Dani loves spending time with her family which includes
her three children, sisters, Mom and brother. MeJ Matte, RN, NMCC
Louisiana State University -
Eunice, 1984, Associate
Degree
Certification in Managed
Care
LSU-HSC University
Medical Center
The gifts that nursing has given me: Joy of caring and help -
ing others. Love and Respect for myself as well as my co-workers.
A foundation for a lifetime of
commitment, loyalty and integri - ty. A wonderful professional family. Faith in Gods healing
powers and to know that there is truly a divine plan for liv -
ing and dying. MeJ Mattes true inspiration and hero in nursing is her mother, a retired nurse who stood proud of the profession
and encouraged her to do the same. As Associate Director
of Nursing for Outpatient and Surgical Services at UMC,
MeJ is responsible for 11 head nurses in various settings
where 11,000 patients are seen on a monthly basis. Her
nominators tells us that She is an inspiration to all and
has contributed a sense of respect and loyalty among her
staff; one of the most dedicated and caring nurses I have
ever known; an excellent resource person; goes above
and beyond the call of duty; she is a patient advocate as
well as an advocate for nurses. Recently MeJ led the bio-terrorism preparedness pro- gram at UMC, writing the policies, seeking grant funds for
decontamination equipment, and providing training for the
staff. She is described as unselfish, wise and innovative
in her leadership style, with an open door policy encourag-
ing free speech among her head nurses in order to problem-
solve issues for the best outcomes. In MeJs words, caring
for patients became my life. Patricia Miller, RN, MN
Northwestern State
University 1971, BSN
Louisiana State University
1987, MN
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions, University
of Louisiana at Lafayette
Nursing gave me the ability to support myself and child as an
independent woman....there are so many events that have brought me
g reat joy deeply satisfying
moments... [including] my daugh - ter has become a nurse. Pat Millers vision of replicating the Great 100 cele- bration in New Orleans inspired the first Acadiana
Celebrates Nursing event in 2000. Pat now applies her
nursing creativity as an educator. As facilitator of the
bridge course that helps RNs return to school for a BSN,
Pat recently celebrated her students u n i v e r s i t y - w i d e
Service Learning Award for obtaining 21 wheelchairs for
UMC. She also directs the Continuing Education
Department, responsible for planning and implementing
C.E. programs for RNs throughout Louisiana. While serv-
ing as faculty in the studies abroad program at UL
Lafayette, Pat envisioned this opportunity for RNs. She
developed a program, now in its fourth year, to guide RNs
in C.E. modules as they travel Europe to study and observe
health care practices abroad. Leadership and advocacy are common threads in her career. Pat played a significant role in developing rehabili-
tation nursing services in 1980 when she spearheaded the
drive to develop the first physical musculoskeletal rehabil-
itation unit in Louisiana. Prior to 1980, Louisiana residents
in need of rehab traveled to one of five centers in the U.S.
for this care. She has served in many leadership roles: Sigma Theta Tau, LSNA District IV, and the Baton Rouge District, on
the Board of Directors for Hospice of New Orleans, and
the Louisiana Association of Rehabilitation Nurses. She
volunteers at the Lafayette Community Health Care Clinic
and continues to practice bedside nursing. Linda Morris, RNC
Oncology Certified Nurse
Louisiana State University -
Eunice, 1986, ADN
Loyola University -
New Orleans. 2001, BSN
Our Lady of Lourdes
Regional Medical Center
Nursing has given me the opportunity to give of myself in a
profession that I truly love. My cancer patients have inspired me
with their courage in the face of a
life-threatening disease. I thank God for every day of life knowing that it is a treasure. Assisting a friend after multiple surgeries (the result of polio) in elementary school provided the inspiration that
brought Linda Morris to nursing. Her nominator described
Lindas dedication to not only providing proficient, com-
passionate care but to educating each of her patients to
empower them in their illness journey. She speaks of
Lindas leadership as Director of Oncology Services at
Lourdes and credits her for the patient satisfaction scores
measured in the 97th percentile nationwide and a low
turnover rate of staff. Lindas heroes in nursing include two nurses who she worked with in the 1980s: Cheryl Roy, her head nurse on
the oncology unit at Lourdes, who taught her to put the
patient first in all decisions and supported her growth
throughout her career; and the CNS on the unit, Melinda
Granger Oberleitner, who cultivated a genuine love for
oncology nursing through her wonderful example. Linda
also credits Selina Guidry for nurturing her management
abilities when she accepted the head nurse position. Lindas self care includes yard therapy and grandchil- dren Amelia and Lucas, who have made her life come full
circle. Seeing the world through their innocent eyes is
refreshing to the mind and soul. Susan Randol, RN, MSN
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1977, BSN;
1993, MSN
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions, University
of Louisiana at Lafayette
Nursing is a rich career with many facets; extreme highs and
lows, hardships and humoro u s
experiences. I cant single out one
event, but there have been many moments, when a family mem -
ber touches your hand, someone thanks you, or you hold someones hand as they die. The
moments count! At a very young age Susan Randols desire to care for a sister who was ill and soothe her crying when she had to be
hospitalized defined her career path. Susan started her
nursing career in ICU and later helped to develop the nurs-
ing staffs expertise in neurology as a Neuroscience
Clinician. Now she concentrates her expertise as an educa-
tor. Her nominator tells us that she is the lifeline for stu-
dents entering the clinical setting in her role as
Freshman/Sophomore Nursing Coordinator at UL
Lafayette College of Nursing where she stimulates stu-
dents to critically think about patient care situations and
appropriate nursing management. Susan possesses the
unique ability to recognize the talents of others and encour-
age professional growth. While in the hospital setting in
clinical, she serves as a mentor to staff nurses to foster pro-
fessional growth in others. Susan is described as having a wonderful wealth of knowledge and never too busy to assist anyone in need.
She has co-authored a book chapter and maintains member-
ship in Sigma Theta Tau, National League for Nursing, and
Phi Kappa Phi. A wife, mother of three girls, and active in her
church parish, Susan finds renewal by reading and plans to
return to her artistic interests of drawing and painting soon. Matte Miller Morris Randol Acadiana cont. on pg. 9 Marine Acadiana cont. from pg. 8 Helen Sloan, RNC, DNS, GNP
N o rthwestern State University,
1970, BSN; 1970, MSN
1990, Gerontological Nurse
Practitioner Post Masters
Louisiana State University,
1997, DNS
College of Nursing and Allied
Health Professions, University
of Louisiana at Lafayette
Nursing has given me a love of aging persons, [the opportunity to conduct] research and write
about nursing. A leader in the care of the older adult, the following quotes from Helen Sloans nominators describe some of
her accomplishments: outstanding teacher of community
health and patient education; outstanding record of
research, publications and presentations; an athlete, a
nurse, a wife and mother and friend to all who know her;
truly a people-centered nurse; and greatly admired by
and respected by the faculty, students and alumni. Helen
Sloan is a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, the only
nurse to have achieved this professional designation in
Acadiana. She teaches undergraduate and graduate nursing
students at UL Lafayette and foot care to family practice
residents at UMC. An expert in care of the insensitive foot,
she initiated the Insensitive Foot Clinic at UMC and col-
laborates with several agencies to deliver expert foot care
to patients in need. She has garnered grant funds in excess
of $100,000, published over 30 articles, and spearheaded a
partnership with the Hartford Foundation to implement
Hartfords Best Practices for Gerontological Nursing in
both undergraduate and graduate course content. Helens interest in nursing began early in life when she was a canary (similar to a candy striper). Among her heroes
in nursing she names Judy Davis; Joy Regaldo (nurse edu-
cator); Melinda Oberleitner, whose talent helps faculty be
all they can be; and Betty Landreneau, who practices
what she teaches. Helens self-care includes meditation,
reading, gardening and avid tennis playing, which she
plans to return to as soon as possible. Ardith (Ardie) Sudduth, RN,
PhD, FNP
Bryan Memorial Hospital
School of Nursing, Diploma
Nebraska Wesleyan, BS;
University of Michigan, MS
University of Nebraska, PhD
University of Tennessee,
Nurse Practitioner
C e rt i f i c a t e
College of Nursing and
Allied Health Professions, University of Louisiana at
Lafayette I have been blessed with being able to work in multiple a reas of nursing which has given breadth and depth to my
nursing skills... surrounded by outstanding, caring, com -
passionate people And I am grateful that I have always
been employed in a field of work that I enjoy very much. Ardie Sudduth is an educator, a researcher, and a nurse practitioner and volunteers her time as a FNP provider at the
Lafayette Community Health Care Clinic (LCHCC). She
teaches full-time in the undergraduate and graduate nursing
programs at UL Lafayette. Her nominator wrote that she
likes to work with Ardie because of her no- nonsense, get-
it-done attitude. Ardie was described as very generous
with her time when being consulted about educational, pro-
fessional and personal issues. She has recently been
involved in talks to develop a nurse practitioner clinic to
bring primary care to women and children in a local shelter. Ardie listed among her heroes in nursing staff nurses t o d a y... highly educated and skilled in a workplace that
demands a high level of expertise and decision making who
are providing excellent care despite the stressful conditions. Her self-care is volunteering at church and LCHCC, quilting, and sharing her quilted creations as gifts to special
people or organizations in her life. Grandchildren bring a
special joy as well. Jerry White, RN, MS, PhD
Louisiana State University,
1970, BSN
Texas Womans University,
MS, PhD
Associate Professor,
Community/Mental
Health/Psychiatric
College of Nursing and
Allied Health Professions,
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Gifts from nursing: O p p o rtunities to be cre a t i v e , share in the lives of hundreds of patients and families, trav -
el and meet nurses in other countries, make projects and
program happen, develop skills in so many areas teach -
ing, leadership, writing, and speaking. Jerry White, a community health nurse/educator is a champion of the underserved and underprivileged in our
community. She has provided students with unique and
meaningful service-learning experiences that help to
broaden their view of nursing. Her nominator wrote that
she is an accomplished researcher, a spirited, innova-
tive educator, and told us how Jerrys vision and tenaci-
ty created Wellness Wednesdays, a health promotion/dis-
ease prevention initiative for faculty and staff; a multidis-
ciplinary International Health course that includes a mis-
sion trip to Mexico; and a global health course largely con-
ducted on the internet. In 2000 she was selected as a Fellow
in the Fuld Institute for Rural Health Nursing. She has pre-
sented her research and clinical initiatives to audiences
nationwide and was a guest lecturer at the Yanji School of
Hygiene in the Peoples Republic of China. She is a com-
passionate, spiritual provider of nursing care in settings
that most of us cant comprehend. Jerry, a mother of two, enjoys walks with the dog, work in the yard, visits with family, and involvement with her
church for rest and renewal. She also reads and writes cre-
atively in between semesters. White Sudduth Monika Williamson, RN,
BSN, OCN
Long Beach City College,
1977, Associate Degree
University of Southwestern
Louisiana, 1989, BSN
Lafayette General Medical
Center; Southwest Oncology
Associates
Nursing has allowed me to give back to the community, reach out to others prepare my family
for everyday issues. M o n i k a s nominators described her work in a variety of settings in the last 27 years: acute
care, clinics and patient support arenas where she embodies
the true spirit of nursing. She has focused on oncology for
the past 10 years, an area she was drawn to when her moth-
er became ill with cancer and found that it embraced holis-
tic nursing more than any other acute care specialty. S h e
chooses oncology nursing today, in memory of her mother. Monika has extensive experience in biofeedback and teaches relaxation and guided imagery techniques to patients
and friends. She also teaches skin care and encourages skin
cancer prevention, encouraging the regular use of sunscreen. Monika volunteers for the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and the Miles Perret Center,
where she volunteers to help the patients get through the
difficult issues of dealing with cancer with dignity. She is
an active member of the Oncology Nursing Society, cur-
rently serving as president, and has achieved a level IV, the
highest level of the clinical ladder that recognizes expert
nursing practice. Monika has published on the use of guid-
ed imagery in oncology nursing literature. For renewal she spoils her grandchildren, enjoys belly dancing, promotes healthy skin, and practices relaxation,
biofeedback and guided imagery. She sees life changing all
the time and looks forward to more to come. Williamson Sloan The Baton Rouge District Nurses Association held its fifteenth annual Celebrate Nursing Banquet, the oldest continually running district event celebrating Nurses Week.
This years event was held on the evening of May 12 at Boudreauxs on Government
Street in Baton Rouge. The BRDNA holds this event annually during National Nurses
Week in honor of the many registered nurses in our area. The BRDNA represents regis-
tered nurses from the following parishes: Pointe Coupee, Iberville, West Baton Rouge,
East Baton Rouge, Ascension, and Livingston. Each year, the district recognizes Registered Nurses for their outstanding service to the profession, the community, and their patients. This year fourteen nurses from different
employers and specialties were recognized as honorees. The honorees were: Carol
Backstedt (25 years in practice), Southern University School of Nursing; Rhonda Bailey
(13 years in practice), Womans Hospital; Pearl Domma (41 years in practice), Retired;
Neva Elliott-Carter (27 years in practice) Womans Hospital; Rose Gravois (12+ years in
practice), Heritage Manor of Baton Rouge; Pollie Harris (18 years in practice), Womans
Hospital Same Day Surgery; Kelli Lewis (13 years in practice), Womans Hospital;
Joanne Mancina (11 years in practice), Womans Hospital NICU; Andrea Normand (30+
years in practice), Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center Pediatric Emergency
Department; Leslie Robinson (4 years in practice), HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of
Baton Rouge, Charge Nurse; Maree Saltaformaggio (25 years in practice), Womans
Hospital Antepartal Unit; Tina Stallings (22 years in practice), Womans Hospital
Antepartal Unit; Sonyia Thigpen (22 years in practice), Our Lady of the Lake Regional
Medical Center, and Peggy Winters (21 years in practice), Womans Hospital Nursing
Supervisor. The Baton Rouge District Nurses Association Holds 15th Annual Celebrate Nursing Banquet Also recognized at this years banquet were the winners and nominees of the presti- gious 2004 Nightingale Awards from the Baton Rouge District. The Nightingale Awards
are the highest honor a nurse or facility can receive in the state for excellence in nursing.
The Nightingale Awards are presented each January by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation
and the Louisiana State Nurses Association. Recognized as winners were: 2004 Hall of
Fame Inductee, Barbara Coreil; 2004 Hospital of the Year, Baton Rouge General Medical
Center, and 2004 LSNA Volunteer of the Year, Melissa Stewart. Nominees who were rec-
ognized were: Hall of Fame: Sr. Marie Edana Corcoran, Our Lady of the Lake Regional
Medical Center; and Joyce Maynor, Southeastern Louisiana University; Nurse of the Year:
Neva Elliott-Carter, Womans Hospital; Christine Gatlin, Baton Rouge General Medical
Center; Ray Landreneau, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center; Deborah
Martin, St. Elizabeths; and Kristy Simmons, Womans Hospital; Clinical Practice Nurse
of the Year: Lucie Agosta, Womans Hospital; Advanced Practice Nurse of the Year:
Peggy Bourgeois, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; Nursing Administrator of the
Year: Monica Nijoka, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; Terrie Sterling, Our Lady of
the Lake Regional Medical Center; and Melissa Stewart, HealthSouth Rehabilitation
Hospital of Baton Rouge; Mentor of the Year: Janice Logsdon, Our Lady of the Lake
Regional Medical Center; Christy Mitchell, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; and
Staci Sullivan, Womans Hospital; Rookie of the Year: Jessica Bailey, Baton Rouge
General Medical Center; Jessica Frith, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center,
Melissa Lachney, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Baton Rouge; Annie Langlois,
Womans Hospital and James Maryman, Womans Hospital; Nursing School of the Year:
Our Lady of the Lake College; Nursing School Administrator of the Year: Constance
Hendricks, Southern University School of Nursing; Outstanding Community Service by a
Registered Nurse: Linda Horn-Thompson and Harriet Walters from Womans Hospital;
Nominees for Hospital of the Year: Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, and
Womans Hospital. The Edith Lobue Memorial Scholarship is presented to a registered nurse who is presently pursuing a graduate degree in nursing. The Lobue Memorial Scholarship was
established by the Baton Rouge District Nurses Association in memory of Edith Lobue, a
very active member of the District Association. This years recipient of the Edith Lobue
Memorial Scholarship is Ms. Jodi Scott. Ms. Scott is employed by Vascular Associates
and is attending Our Lady of the Lake College pursuing a bachelors degree in nursing
with plans to continue her education and become a certified registered nurse anesthetist.
Ms. Scott is a member of the Baton Rouge District Nurses Association. The Baton Rouge District Nurses Association would like to recognize the following Sponsors of the 15th Annual Celebrate Nursing Banquet: Womans Hospital, Baton
Rouge General Medical Center, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, and Four
Seasons Florists, owner Larry Fremin. Carol Backstedt, RN - Carol is employed at Southern University School of Nursing as
an Instructor. Carol has been prac-
ticing for 25 years. Carol was
nominated by Elaine Barham.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter submitted by
Elaine. C a rol is a great source of inspi - ration to her peers (faculty at Southern University School of
Nursing), former peers (faculty at
Baton Rouge General School of Nursing) and nursing students all over town! Carol encour -
ages the professional development of nurses by serving as a
role model with a positive and conscientious attitude. She has
s e rved as a mentor for nursing students at various education -
al levels practical nursing students to baccalaureate nurs -
ing students and she challenges them to become actively
involved in the profession. Carol has even shared with her stu -
dents and colleagues, her personal health challenges in an
e f f o rt to enhance their application of clinical knowledge and
develop a caring, competent attitude towards patient care . Baton Rouge District Nurses Association 2004 Celebrate Nursing Honorees C a rol is a devoted wife and mother of three and has gen - e rously shared her time with her church, the Girl Scouts, the
American Heart Association and currently serves as a CPR
I n s t ru c t o r. Carol has amazed all of us who work with her
because of her positive spirit and perseverance. Rhonda Bailey, RN - Rhonda is employed at Womans Hospital
as a charge nurse on the evening
shift on the GYN and Oncology
department for seven years. She
has been practicing for 13 years.
Rhonda was nominated by Mary
Ann Smith and Linda Horn-
Thompson. Below is a summa-
rization of the nomination letter
submitted for Rhonda. Rhonda has been a charg e nurse on the evening shift at
Womans Hospital in the GYN and Oncology departments for seven years. Prior to this she
worked as a nurse tech and staff nurse. As charge nurse
and leader, Rhonda knows her co-workers strengths and
weaknesses, their aspirations and fears. She mentors other staff members, helping them to reach their own potential.
She brings stability to nursing units and harmony between
co-workers. In situations that are chaotic, Rhonda main -
tains very professional conduct and gains control. She communicates well with other disciplines of the healthcare team. Rhonda adheres to the standards of nurs -
ing practice and demonstrates concern for the total family
unit. She is an advocate for patients, insisting that their
rights are protected. As charge nurse, Rhonda is involved
in teaching and evaluating new methods and skills in nurs -
ing, making certain that nurses are provided with the
knowledge necessary to improve patient care. She supports
the advancement of nursing culture by utilizing evidenced
based practice. She is certified in PICC line insertion. Rhonda is an active volunteer in community service, involved in the Womans Hospital Habitat for Humanity
project and in the religious community. Demonstrating her
concern for others, she has participated in two mission
trips to Reynosa, Mexico assisting in the construction of
missionary homes, teaching vacation bible school, and
providing health classes and materials. Honorees cont. on pg. 11 Bailey BRDNA 2004 Celebrate Nursing Honorees Backstedt Honorees cont. from pg. 10 Pearl Domma, RN - Pearl practiced nursing for 41 years
and spent many of those years in
Nursing Education. She is now
retired. Pearl was nominated by
Glenda Carlile. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination let-
ter submitted by Glenda Carlile. Most of this nominees nurs - ing was done years ago, before
B R D N A s t a rted these award s . Pearl graduated in 1937 from
O L O L Hospital School of Nursing and re t i red in 1978 after 41 years of nursing practice. During those 41 years,
she did bedside nursing and served 4 years in the Army
Nurse Corps, 22 months overseas with actual combat time.
She was promoted to First Lieutenant and was awarded the
European Theatre Medal with 4 battle stars, the Good
Conduct Medal, and the American Campaign Medal. After
the war, she did office nursing; then in 1961 she complet -
ed her BSN from USL. She became involved in nursing
education in 1962 when she was a clinical instructor for
NSU - Baton Rouge Campus. She received her Masters in
Nursing Education in 1965 from Emory University. Glenda Carlile, who submitted Pearls nomination, writes, In 1962, she was one of my first Adult Med-Surg
instructors and has always touched my life professionally
and as a friend ever since. Pearl stayed in nursing educa-
tion until 1978, when she retired from the Southeastern
Louisiana School of Nursing. Throughout her career she has promoted the profession- al development of nursing, such as when she encouraged
some of her classmates to join the Army Nurse Corps with
her, and encouraging others to continue their professional
development through additional formal education as she
did throughout her career. In the 60s, 70s and 80s, she was
an active member of ANA, LSNA, and BRDNA. During
those years she attended state and BRDNA meetings,
served a term as secretary for BRDNA, and participated in
various committees. Her nomination gives many more examples of her pos- itive influences on the nursing profession, but this edi-
tor has tried to keep the biographies to about 250 words. So
in closing, Pearl Domma has definitely represented the
nursing profession in her career as Army nurse, nursing
educator and her work in professional organizations, Meals
on Wheels, adult reading volunteer at St. Gabriel Womens
Prison, and the Salvation Army. Neva Elliott-Carter, RNC - Neva is employed at Womans
Hospital on the Mother/Baby
unit. She has been practicing for
27 years, 16 of those at
Womans. Neva was nominated
by Lynn Waite. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination let-
ter submitted by Lynn Waite. Neva received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the
University of Texas in 1976. She holds national certification in
Low-Risk Neonatal Nursing. During her 16 years at Wo m a n s Hospital as a Mother/Baby
nurse, she has exemplified the mission of Wo m a n s
Hospital: Improving the health of women and infants in our
c o m m u n i t y. Including the family in the care of their new -
born, her warm, caring bedside manner allows the family to
feel unique in this special moment. Her expertise and expe -
rience in caring for newborns transitioning to extrauterine
life assures a favorable outcome for babies who have diffi -
culty at birth. For this, Neva has received many commen -
dations from parents of these newborns. Neva encourages the professional development of nurs - es as a member of AWHONN. She recently was appointed
Chapter coordinator for Louisiana. Her duties include
conducting educational programs for developing nurse
leaders. She recently presented the educational offering,
Paint Cans, Paradigms, and Nursing at a recent Baton
Rouge AWHONN chapter meeting. She supports studies in nursing which contribute toward the i m p rovement of healthcare by her participation in Wo m a n s
Hospital Performance Improvement Council. She serves on
the multidisciplinary council as the mother/baby re p re s e n t a -
tive and disseminates information to the unit on enhancing
patient safety through performance improvement activities,
which continuously improves patient health outcomes and sup -
p o rts the mission and vision of Wo m a n s Hospital. Nevas professional, pleasant and empathetic behavior serves as a role model for others and promotes a positive
image of nursing. She serves a mentor to new employees
through participation as a preceptor to new nurses. Her
co-workers describe Neva as a team player and a pleasure
to work with. Neva is an asset to Womans Hospital and the
patients lives she touches. Rose Gravois, RN, BSN - Rose is employed by Heritage
Manor of Baton Rouge as the
Director of Nursing. She has been
practicing for 12+ years. She was
nominated by Karen Loden.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter sent in by Karen
Loden. Rose Gravois is the Director of Nursing at Heritage Manor. She
has seen the need for professional nurses in the nursing home set -
ting. To this end, she has encour - aged her LPN staff to continue their education and become
RNs. She encourages RNs to go back to school and get
their BSNs. She has sought out schools of nursing to use
Heritage Nursing as a clinical site since she believes that
care of the elderly is overlooked by many. Rose has even
encouraged her daughter to attend nursing school and she
currently is awaiting admission. Rose holds all staff accountable to standards of care and standards of practice. Ensuring that the nursing care
provided in a nursing home meets standards is no easy job.
The nursing staff knows her expectations, and she makes it
clear that each resident has a plan of care and that staff
members adhere to the plan of care. She holds other
healthcare providers accountable for patient care and will
assure that each resident will receive appropriate treat -
ment and care. When you speak to Rose it is evident that she is an advo - cate for her residents. She has demonstrated that she
knows being an advocate is more than talking about needs,
it is commitment to residents, utilizing professional behav -
iors and skills so that resident rights are clearly and con -
sistently in the forefront of activities. I believe that the
nursing profession as well as the nursing home residents of
our area are lucky that Rose Gravois, RN, has made a dif -
ference in care of the elderly in our community. Pollie Harris, RN - Pollie is employed on the Same Day
S u rgery unit at Wo m a n s Hospital. She has been practicing
for 18 years. Pollie was nominat-
ed by Johnetta McCray Russ.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter sent in by
Johnetta Russ. Pollie serves as a preceptor to new RN employees and encour -
ages them to be the best care - givers and patient advocates pos -
sible. She shares with them the mission, vision, and values of Womans Hospital, which
embody her personal beliefs: Excellence, commitment,
mutual respect, stewardship, sound judgment, and innova -
tion. Pollie is active in the professional organization
AORN and encourages other nurses to become active. Pollie is proud to be a nurse, which is evident to anyone who hears her speak about the profession or watches her
with her patients. Pollie receives numerous comments from
patients and families thanking her for her gentle caring
nature. One patient said, Pollie made me feel like I was
her mother she was caring for. Pollie is a team player
held in high esteem by her teammates. Pollie accepts the role of patient advocate and passion - ately believes that is why she is here. Pollie will dig her
heels in if she feels something is not in the best interest of
her patients. She also will sacrifice her own convenience if
the patient will benefit. Pollie is a nurses nurse... If I
were a patient, I would want Pollie as my nurse. Kellie Lewis, RN - Kellie is employed at Womans Hospital
on the Labor and Delivery Unit.
Kellie has been practicing for 13
years. She was nominated by
Sharon Odenwald and Diane
Berthelot. Below is a summation
of the nomination letter submit-
ted. Kelli has worked at Womans Hospital since her graduation in
1990. She has worked in the Mother/Baby Unit, Family Birthing Center, and now works in Labor and Delivery at Womans Hospital. Kelli serves as
a preceptor to new nurses in Labor and Delivery and
encourages these nurses to be the best they can be. She is
certified in Inpatient Obstetrics, and keeps abreast of new
information with any and all of the nurses around her. She has met the educational criteria and performance evaluation standards necessary to maintain her position in
the Career Ladder program. She is a member of the
Education Team in L&D and an active member of
AWHONN. Joanne Mancina, RN - Joanne is employed by Womans
Hospital in the NICU. She has
been practicing for 11 years.
Joanne was nominated by
Roxanne Butler, Darcy Gunn, and
Bridgett Mayo. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination let-
ter submitted. Joanne Mancina graduated f rom Our Lady of the Lake School
of Nursing in May of 1993. She s e rved as a member of the student
nurses association and part i c i p a t - ed in many of the community projects supported by this
o rganization. She became a member of the Wo m a n s Hospital
NICU staff after graduation and has been there 11 years. Joanne began orienting new staff nurses to the NICU eight years ago. She is patient, nurturing, and supportive
of her orientees and repeatedly receives positive feedback
in that role. Her preceptor role has grown to encompass an
orientation program for the Neonatal Care techs. Joanne has been instrumental in creating several docu - mentation tools for the NICU staff. She is a member of the
core committee for the Vermont Oxford Bubble CPAP
Research Trial. Professionally she is a member of the
Academy of Neonatal Nursing and has attended the orga -
nizations professional conference. Through Joannes dedication, enthusiasm, and profes - sionalism she exemplifies the role of nursing. Joanne con -
tinues to seek out new learning experiences, eagerly shares
new knowledge with staff, and enthusiastically embraces
changes in practice that contribute to the improved health -
care of infants and their families. Andrea Normand, RN, CEN - Andrea is employed in the
Pediatric Emergency Department
of Our Lady of the Lake Regional
Medical Center. She has been
practicing for over 30 years.
Andrea was nominated by
Melissa Wafer. Below is a sum-
marization of the nomination sub-
mitted by Melissa Wafer. Andrea has been an icon in the OLOL ER since the late 1970s. She has practiced as a staff
nurse, educator, head nurse, ER director. Recently she has taken on the responsibility of
opening and directing the OLOL Pediatric ER. Domma Elliott-Carter Gravois Harris Lewis Mancina Normand Honorees cont. on pg. 12 Honorees cont. from pg. 11 Andrea demonstrates the true spirit of healing, which may be a marketing phrase for OLOL Hospital, but is at
the core of her practice. Andrea treats all patients with
respect and kindness and has held many hands and wiped
many tears. She taught me how to talk to distraught family
members and value/respect them in their times of need.
Whether a family member and patient visit the ER for a
trauma or an infected toenail, she treats all of them with
respect and kindness. Andrea is involved in education of ER nurses through - out the parish. She teaches adult and pediatric trauma
courses for the Emergency Nurses Association. She is
involved with critical care competency education at OLOL.
Andrea is always encouraging to younger nurses to con -
tinue education and professional certification. Most importantly, Andrea is a nurse to watch in action. Her hands are so skilled and voice so encouraging. She is
a patient advocate and will drag impertinent doctors by
their ears to get her patients the care they need. I cannot say enough positive things about her image as a nurse. Those who have precepted under her watchful eye
will agree that she is a great role model, mentor and
teacher, but hard to keep up with! Andrea is a team
worker. Even as an ER director she is quick to roll up her
sleeves and help with the trauma, irate mother, trouble -
some IV, difficult head injury, psychotic boyfriend, compli -
cated new machine, or crying baby. Leslie Robinson, RN - Leslie is employed as a charge nurse at
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Baton Rouge. She has
been practicing for 4 years. Leslie
was nominated by Melissa
Stewart and Donna Miller. Below
is a summarization of the nomina-
tion letter submitted by Melissa
Stewart and Donna Miller. Leslie Robinson, RN, has prac - ticed in a variety of clinical set -
tings from med-surg to oncology.
In every setting, Leslie has met the challenge of knowing and practicing standards of care
applicable to that setting. She continues to increase her
knowledge through certifications and courses. Her deci -
sion-making skills are described in this way: Leslie has a
talent for rising above pure chaos while maintaining a
calm demeanor of everythings okay! This is a comfort to
patients and staff. Leslie molds her staff through vigilant instruction and constant nurturing. She heads the staff education commit -
tee and is very involved in employee morale. Leslie often
buys gifts and trinkets to reward staff for a job well done
or just because Im thinking of you. Shes also well
known to the staff for the countless cakes she has baked for
various hospital activities. If Leslie is going to be there,
theres going to be cake! The compassion that Leslie shares with staff is only one example of the compassion she displays. One can honestly
say that patients lives are better when Leslie cares for
them. She receives continuous complements from patient
families about her nursing abilities. With the assistance of
Leslie and the Rehab South staff, we achieved the high
honor of being number one for nursing throughout the
HealthSouth Company. This would never have been possi -
ble if not for Leslies hard work and dedication over the
last year. Maree Saltaformaggio, RN - Maree is employed at Womans
Hospital on the Antepartal Unit.
She has been practicing for 25
years. Maree was nominated by
Sharon Odenwald and Diane
Berthelot. Below is a summariza-
tion of the nomination letter sub-
mitted by Sharon Odenwald and
Diane Berthelot. Maree became an RN in 1979 and has worked in Maternal
Child Health for her entire career.
She joined the staff of Womans Hospital in 1998 working as a staff nurse in L&D. She
became nurse manager of the antepartal unit in 2001 and
has been instrumental in enhancing the unit. She is an
excellent role model to her staff and creates an atmosphere
of professionalism and quality. Maree is a member of AWHONN and has served as leg - islative coordinator. She is currently serving as the secre -
tary-treasurer for the LA chapter of AWHONN. Maree shares information with her staff from hospital administration, the professional organization, and other
sources that impact nursing and healthcare in our commu -
nity. She encourages the professional development of her
staff and seeks opportunities to increase their knowledge
and skills. Maree is a great role model and demonstrates that nurs - ing care extends outside the actual job requirements into
the larger scope of community and national healthcare.
Thank you for considering her as the Outstanding Nurse
that we know her to be. Tina Stallings, RN - Tina is employed at Wo m a n s Hospital on
the Antepartal Unit. Tina has been
practicing for 22 years. Tina was
nominated by Maree Saltaformaggio.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination letter sent in by Maree
Saltaformaggio. After a 16 year sabbatical from formal nursing to raise her
c h i l d ren, Tina re - e n t e red the
workforce in the L & D depart - ment at Womans Hospital. She
has been a member of the Womans Hospital Antepartal team for three years. Her
nomination stresses her skill in working with nursing stu -
dents and her positive impact on these novice nurses. She
encourages others to join our profession she represented
her nursing department at Career Day. Her volunteerism and work ethic are apparent in her nomination. Tina re p resents her department on the
Relationships committee at Wo m a n s and also the
Hospitality committee. She is active on the local level for
AWHONN, the national organization devoted to promote
the health and well-being of women and children. She also
has worked to develop tools for employee education and
educational handouts for patients and family members.
Tina has worked to promote the education and care of
pregnant women by working with the March of Dimes pro -
gram as well as the Baby Grand program at Womans
Hospital. She was the departmental representative for the
United Way Campaign. Her nomination reads in closing: I think you can see from these comments that Tina is an outstanding nurse in
many ways. She does an excellent job of promoting a pos -
itive image of nursing in the many ways she volunteers for
the community, her church and her family. Her kind and
caring manner in everything she does lets one know that
not only is she an outstanding nurse, but an outstanding
person that I feel privileged to know. Sonyia Thigpen, RN - S o n y i a is employed by Our Lady of the
Lake Regional Medical Center as
a nurse manager. She has been
practicing for 22 years. Sonyia
was nominated by Cathy Guay.
Below is a summarization of the
nomination sent in by Cathy
G u a y. Sonyia is a hands-on clinical manager. She works side by side
with her staff as she coaches them in assessing, prioritizing patient
care, and viewing patient care holistically. Her excellent clinical skills allow her to teach
new nurses how to rapidly recognize subtle changes or
trends in a patients condition. She relies on nursing stan -
dards of care and practice to advance the practice of nurs -
ing. As part of her commitment to her staff, she arranges their schedules so that they can advance their formal edu -
cation, and, as well, attend workshops or seminars. She
recognizes the importance of having the bedside nurse par -
ticipate in making recommendations and decisions related
to patient care, and schedules nurses so that they can
actively participate in nursing division and hospital-wide
committees. She mentors new managers who join the nurs -
ing leadership team at OLOL. Sonyia is the chairperson of the Nurse Manager Council and the Organization of Nurse Managers for
OLOL. She has been an active participant in organizing
Nurse Week and nursing excellence awards at OLOL. She
is co-chair of the United Way campaign for this year and
chairperson for next years campaign. Her professional activities are well documented. Sonyia recently attended the Nurse Manger National Congress
and upon her return made a presentation to the entire
group of nurse managers on the benefits of becoming a
Magnet Hospital and the processes that must be in place in
order to achieve this prestigious accreditation. She and two
others developed and taught a Pain Management Seminar
for the OLOL nursing staff. Sonyia volunteered her nursing
unit to be the first to implement the Collaborative Care
Model for the Hospital. Peggy Winters, RN - Peggy is employed at Womans Hospital as
a Nursing Supervisor. She has
been practicing for 21 years. She
was nominated by Patricia
Johnson. Below is a summariza-
tion of the nomination sent in by
Patricia Johnson. Peggy Winters graduated from the Baton Rouge General School
of Nursing where she served as class president and was awarded
the Woman of A c h i e v e m e n t
Award and Scholarship. She has worked in chemical dependency, medical/surgical nursing,
postpartum, labor and delivery, and family birthing center.
During her career in postpartum, the family birthing cen -
ter, and as the administrative supervisor, she has worked as
a preceptor and resource to new nurses. She is a role model
for professionalism, and her clinical knowledge is an asset
to all those around her. As a certified inpatient obstetric nurse, she is deliberate about maintaining her personal nursing education by
attending educational workshops and conferences, as well
as reading publications and networking with others in the
healthcare community. In addition, Peggy is a heart dis -
ease survivor and is a proponent of the American Heart
Association through participation as a speaker on a panel
for community education of heart healthy women. Peggys warm and caring spirit makes her an outstand - ing nurse and a pleasure to work with. Almost 4 years ago
Peggy began mentoring a young patient on bed rest with
triplets she cared for. As the months passed and Peggy and
the patient bonded, she learned that the young mother was
dealing with the death of her own mother. Peggy and this
young woman have formed a relationship that will last a
lifetime. In Peggys words, Her children have become my
surrogate grandchildren. At Womans Hospital we are very proud of Peggy and believe she is an excellent candidate for recognition by the
BRDNA. Robinson Saltaformaggio Thigpen Winters Stallings The BRDNA started a new tradition for distributing door prizes at the 2003 Celebrate Nursing Banquet, and
it was another big hit at the banquet again this year. As
honorees and guests check in at the registration table, they
are given a blank index card. The attendees are asked to
write why they became a nurse or, if they are a friend or
loved one of a nurse, what is special about that person. The
cards are picked up throughout dinner and the program and
at the end of the program the cards are randomly drawn and
read aloud, then the person who signed the card is
announced and gets to select a door prize. The attendees
have really enjoyed this part of the program for the past
two years, and BRDNA plans to make this an annual event
due to the positive response to this very unique way of dis-
tributing door prizes. Below are a few of the quotes submitted from the 2004 Celebrate Nursing Banquet: Im a nurse because...it combines the worlds of science, philosophy, social sciences, ethics, spirituality, and the art of
caring! Mary Ann Smith Im a nurse because...I care and it just comes naturally to want to care for others! Charlotte Parker I love nursing because...I love taking care of Gods cre- ations. Johnetta Russ My mother is a nurse and...I love her because it takes a very special person to do what she does. Candace
Saltaformaggio Im a nurse because...I love caring for people and the challenges of nursing. Carol Backstedt, Southern University Im a nurse because...I like to work with people, especial- ly the elderly. Nancy Banks I love a nurse because...they are caring loving and help save lives and always helpful to the family and God Bless
Nurses! Brenda Williams I became a nurse because...I have been a nurse for 29 years I became a nurse because of the time I spent with my
younger brother who became a quadriplegic after a diving
accident. I was so touched by the nurses who cared for him
that I wanted to be able to help others Other than my fami-
ly it is one of the most important things Ive ever done. The
rewards have been much greater than the sacrifices. Marree
Saltaformaggio I am a nurse because... (1) I love abuse; (2) I look forward to fighting for my patients; (3) My high school chemistry
teacher said I never would be a nurse; (4) The Dean at my
School of Nursing said I would never make it; {both #3 and
#4 asked for me when they had surgery} (5) I wanted to make
a difference in the community I serveHome town very
important; (6) Last but not least, I had a brother who died after
open heart surgery at BRGMC when I was in the 4th grade.
Monica Nijoka BRDNAs Unique Way of Distributing Door Prizes at the 2004 Celebrate Nursing Banquet I became a nurse because...I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children and their families. I worked as a secre-
tary for several years, but always felt something was missing.
God blessed me with the opportunity to become a nurse and it
has been a very rewarding career. At the end of every shift in
the Pediatric ER, I always feel I have achieved my goal I
have made a difference. Alita Lanoux I am a nurse because...God gave me the gift to care for the ill in times of need. I feel like the profession of nursing is a
divine appointment in my life. Glennis Gray Im a nurse because...I did not want to be a teacher!! However, I discovered that I love people and the greatest sat-
isfaction I have is when I can do something to help someone
feel better. I also learned that in order to be a nurse, you must
also be a teacher. Bertha Howard, Instructor SUSON Im a nurse because...I have always wanted to help others (as a teenager-candy striper). Love for others and gift from
our Heavenly Father to help others. Latricia Greggs My mother is a nurse...and I love her because she is always there to help me and my friends. Olivia
Saltaformaggio I love nurses because...my sister is the best one in the world. Paula Saltaformaggio Im a nurse because...it was a calling from God for me. I love caring for and working with people who are in need.
Trudy Williams Im a nurse because...nursing is a ministry for me. I love people and being in service. I particularly enjoy my role as an
advocate for those who cant speak for themselves. Nursing
allows me to focus on the Jesus in me and in everyone else.
Gwen Livous Im a nurse because...As a young girl I was always inspired by my aunt who was a nurse. She began as a mother
of three taking night classes, graduated as an LPN and contin-
ued to work until she became an RN. She has always been my
hero. Toni Manogin Im a nurse because...I care about people. I still want to make a difference. Sissy Crapanzano I love a certain nurse because...she is always giving her ALL in an every day circumstance. She constantly fulfills
the needs of others before the needs of herself. I love a nurse
because she has truly earned her position! Gigi M. Gravois I became a nurse because...it was what I was meant to do; ever since the age of six, I knew it was my calling. Becoming
a part of our patients lives, even for a short time, is a bless-
ing. We have been given the power to impact others and that
is a precious gift. Tammy Lowery I became a nurse because...1st to help people, 2nd job security, 3rd bring humor to bedside patient care, 4th job secu-
rity, 5th job securityetc. Juliet Fundora Though Im not a nurse...Ive come to value the profes- sion through the many wonderful nurses who have touched
my life. It is an honor to work with so many each day.
Stephanie Manson Im a nurse because...nursing has afforded me many opportunities to make a difference in the live of others. Anita
Hansberry Im a nurse because...of Gods will! He blessed me with a great career the gift of opportunity to make a difference in
the life of another patient, family, physician, and communi-
ty. Nursing is a part of my genetic character a trait I will
carry with me until my last breath It is part of my identity.
Jenny Hussey Im a nurse because...it is a calling to serve others. Ive been blessed with the opportunity to care for those in need, to
touch others with compassion and caring has opened up a door
in my life for meaning and purpose. Sonyia Thigpen Im a nurse because...I enjoy the challenge and I learn something new every day. I wanted to make a difference in the
lives of others. Jody Scott Im a nurse because...people need lots of support and nur- turing when they are in crisis situations. Nursing allows me to
provide for the needs of others in meaningful ways. Vivian
Gettys Im a nurse because...I wanted to take care of infants every day and not have them grow up on me. Neva Elliott-
Carter Im a nurse because...I started home visiting when I was 12 with my aunt who was a public health nurse in Iberville
Parish. Karen Mills I love a nurse because...their hearts are in the right place; they truly care for their patients. Can you imagine what the
world would be like without them? I cant. Steven Winkler Im a nurse because...It has been so long ago I am not quite sure, but it has been a great profession and I am glad I
chose it. Pearl Domma Im a nurse because...after 40+ years its still the best opportunity to make a difference in helping people cope with
life. Cynthia Prestholdt Quotes cont. on pg. 14 Im a nurse because...I have always wanted to take care of people and after 14 years still love what I do. Kelli Lewis I love a nurse because...she is a wonderful wife & moth- er. Randy Lewis The best thing...about being married to a nurse is to have someone to take care of me in my old age. Dale Carter Why is she (Joanne Mancino) such a great nurse? To answer that, you have to know that we have been married for
28 years. This says a lot. She is just a great wife, a great moth-
er of our three children, a great daughter to her parents. These
are all the ingredients that are required to be a great nurse. A
few of many great assets caring, nurturing, smart, witty, lov-
ing, smart again! All these she has bestowed upon her family
for years and now she passes it on to her patients and their
families...a better nurse...hard to find. She is my wife and I
love her dearly. I am happy that I can share her with people
who hurt and have concerns. There is no better person.
George Mancino My mom...is a wonderful nurse because she always helps people. Melissa Stallings I became a nurse because...I wanted to show Gods love to others and to help people. I was always the caretaker in my
family and I loved that. After a bad car accident my senior
year in high school, that set my mind on nursing. Tina
Stallings The best part about my mom being a nurse...is she has great stories to tell about babies. Chris Carter Im a nurse because...life presented a window of opportu- nity 12 years ago. My husband became Mr. Mom while I
attended OLOL nursing school; without him I wouldnt be
practicing a job I love today. Joanne Mancino Whats most important about my sister being a nurse? Of course, the knowledge she has gained concerning medical
issues. But most importantly the heart that has grown with her
knowledge. Tammy Mayes Im proud of my daughterfor choosing nursing for a career. I have my own private nurse. I thank God for her shar-
ing her abilities unselfishly with students, my daughter Anita
Hansberry. Mrs. Helen Hollomon I became a nurse becauseto feed my family. Seriously, I became a nurse to help others. I know its a clich
