Nurse Profile: Rosemary Waitkus, RN, BSN, MS

2010-01-29T18:56:20Z

When Rosemary Waitkus, RN, BSN, MS, retired after an impressive 41-year nursing career, she was still a nurse to the core. Determined to have an active and fulfilling retirement, Waitkus set out to give back to the profession that had given her so much.

Between spending time with her children and grandchildren, Waitkus is a volunteer nurse at the Will Grundy Free Clinic and a volunteer nurse in Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center’s Retired Nurses Volunteer Program. The Provena program is open to retired nurses who have maintained their state licenses. Volunteer nurses in the program assist staff nurses on the medical unit and have direct contact with patients.

Waitkus had always planned to do volunteer nursing once she retired. “I wanted to get back to the bedside. That was always my goal,” says Waitkus. “When I retired I was going to do the things that I felt were inherent and basic in me and what I enjoyed doing. So that’s what I’m doing.”

As a volunteer nurse at Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center, Waitkus is doing basic nursing care. While volunteers cannot start IVs or administer medication, they can perform other technical skills such as checking a patient’s blood pressure, temperature, pulse and respiratory rate.

One of the most important roles that Waitkus serves is as a companion for the patients. “If there are lonely patients who haven’t had any visitors we can sit with them for a while and chat. If they need to make phone calls to their family, we can help them,” says Waitkus. “We work on the medical unit so many of the people we see are geriatric patients who appreciate the attention.”

While the unit benefits from having an extra set of hands, eyes and ears, Waitkus has enjoyed learning about the changes and advancements in medical technology. “One of the best parts of this program is it helps you get comfortable again in a medical unit,” says Waitkus. “Technology has changed dramatically since I worked in a unit…But basic care, communication and people remain the same.”

The biggest reward for Waitkus, however, stems from knowing that she is making a difference on the unit with the patients and the staff. “When I come on the unit now, I get a big smile and everyone is happy that I am there,” she says. “That makes me feel good. I wanted to make a difference on that unit as best I could. I didn’t want to be a liability to them, and I didn’t want to make their work harder.”

Retired nurses have proven to be valuable resources in today’s healthcare climate. “There is an untapped resource out there,” she notes. “There are nurses who want to maintain some professionalism, but don’t want the responsibilities of what they did as a working nurse.”

For Waitkus, volunteer nursing has helped her achieve a fulfilling retirement. “Nursing has always been a part of my life and it has been very good to me,” she says. “It was time that I gave back to it.”

Nursing Scholarship Established in Memorial of CDH Board Chair

2010-01-27T19:03:39Z

Central DuPage Hospital (CDH), through the CDH Foundation, and Lincolnshire-based Hewitt Associates have joined forces to establish The Judy Whinfrey Scholarship Fund for Nursing Education. The organizations, along with Judy’s husband, Pete Whinfrey, have created this scholarship to recognize and support her remarkable gift for inspiring others to learn and grow. A resident of Geneva since 1990, Whinfrey, 60, died Sunday, Jan. 17, in her home after a brief illness.

After graduating from the University of Illinois with a degree in mathematics, Whinfrey joined Hewitt Associates, a global human resources consulting and outsourcing company, where she spent more than 30 years as a principal and managing consultant. As one of the first women to become an account executive in the mid-1970s, she was a role model to employees and the face of Hewitt to many clients. She also co-founded Hewitt’s Women in Leadership initiative, served on the Hewitt Executive Committee and was a past member of the company’s Board of Directors.

Judy also held a position on the Board of Directors at Benedictine University in Lisle. Whinfrey served on the Board of Directors of Central DuPage Hospital for more than 15 years, acting as Chair from 2004 to 2008. According to CDH’s CEO, Luke McGuinness, “As Chair, she led CDH’s renaissance from a community hospital to a very successful regional medical destination. She had a keen interest in the welfare of the employees and physicians. And, she was dedicated to making sure the needs of the community were addressed.”

During her tenure on the Board, including her two years as Chair, CDH attained national recognition including being named a Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospital for three consecutive years.

“Judy generously gave of her time and experience, contributing her wisdom and insights to the Board, the hospital and the community,” acknowledges McGuinness. “We are pleased to establish this scholarship in her name to keep her spirit of teaching and giving alive.”

Gifts to this fund will be matched by CDH, up to $200,000

Chicago Cubs Caravan Visits Northwestern Memorial Hospital Oncology Patients

2010-01-22T21:13:28Z

Baseball season came early this year for a few of the Chicago Cubs’ most devoted fans. As part of their annual caravan tour, Cubs members visited Northwestern Memorial Hospital oncology patients and their families on Wednesday, January 13. Patients were able to meet players including Welington Castillo, Koyie Hill, Micah Hoffpauir and Brett Jackson, as well as Coach Lou Piniella and Cubs broadcaster Bob Brenly. Hospital staff hosted a reception for the Cubs members and patients, and then players broke up into groups to visit individual rooms and sign autographs.

Pat Murphy, RN, MSN, MBA, director of oncology nursing at Northwestern, has participated in the Cubs Caravan event for five years. She noted this year in particular more patients were physically able to come out of their rooms to attend the reception and meet the entire group of Cubs players. “The patients were grinning from ear to ear; they enjoyed every single minute of it,” says Murphy. “For a few minutes that day it took their minds away from what they are here for.”

Murphy added that seeing Cubs players interact with patients was a gratifying experience for the entire staff. “The fact they could take time out of their busy schedules to do this on behalf of our patients was amazing,” says Murphy.

Silver Cross Donates Items for Haitian Refugees

2010-01-22T21:02:58Z

With 175 Haitian refugees arriving in Chicago this week, Silver Cross Hospital was one of many Chicagoland hospitals to lend a much-needed hand. Silver Cross and other area hospitals were asked to donate items that will be transported to O’Hare Airport for the refugees’ arrival. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), along with the City of Chicago Emergency Management Agency (EMA) will be assessing and treating the refugees, and placing them in temporary housing on the Southside of Chicago. Silver Cross Hospital provides over $24 million in charity care and community benefit annually.

Pictured here: Dave Maurer, Director of Will/Grundy EMS System at Silver Cross Hospital, gives Eric Paniak, Monee Fire District Paramedic/Firefighter, several hundred gloves and respiratory masks to assist the 175 Haitian refugees arriving at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport this week.

Bolingbrook Nurses Dedicated to Excellence

2010-01-19T16:55:57Z

Two nurses at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital have been recognized for nursing excellence at the hospital’s second annual “High-Performing Nurse” gala. The black tie-optional gala, was held on Dec. 16^th at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. The gala was designed to recognize nurses who go above and beyond the call of duty to provide excellent care to patients on a daily basis.

“These nurses are committed to quality, safety and teamwork,” says Kathy Mitchell, vice president/chief nursing officer at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital. “They also consistently strive to provide an unsurpassed patient experience and to serve our physicians in any way they can. Our nurses are truly a credit to the nursing profession.”

Two nurses were singled out for exceeding expectations. Susan Memmel, RN, an emergency room auditor, received the Nursing Legacy award. The Nursing Legacy award is bestowed upon nurses with an extensive history with Adventist Health System who demonstrate compassion and personal values that inspire other nurses.

The award is designed to honor nurses of passion and conviction who have overcome significant personal adversity or whose body of work will follow them throughout their career.

A resident of Bolingbrook for more than 30 years, Memmel joined Adventist Bolingbrook Medical Center in 1983 when it was a free-standing emergency department, working the night shift in order to take care of her young children during the day.

Seeing their mother working hard in a career she loved had a positive impact on her children. Two of her four children—daughters Jennifer Raddatz and Sara Matlock— also work as nurses. Matlock works at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital, while Raddatz works at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital.

“My mom always told me nursing was the best profession for mothers,” says Raddatz. “She was so proud of nursing and she’s always loved her job, so it was an easy decision for me to go into that field.”

Memmel loves working with her co-workers, who “take care of each other” and stand beside her through the ups and downs of life. “I’ve always been very proud of Adventist Bolingbrook,” she says. “I would bring my family to the ER before I would consider taking them anywhere else. And I have! We’ve gone through a lot of emergency visits though the years.”

Brenda Lumpkin, clinical nurse manager for the Intensive Care Unit, received the Nursing Leadership award. This award is bestowed upon nurses who demonstrate extraordinary service in the execution of balanced performance and embrace a philosophy of excellence in the areas of staff development, clinical quality, patient satisfaction, physician relations and stewardship of hospital resources.

“I never have felt like I need any recognition because when everything is said and done, it’s really all about the patient,” says Lumpkin. “We face challenges in the ICU, but we face them as a team. I couldn’t ask for a better place to work.”

Lumpkin credits Mitchell with her success as a leader and said has learned much from working with a team of outstanding leaders.

“Kathy has mentored me in every area of my life, both professionally and personally,” says Lumpkin. “When I’m not sure how to handle things, there are so many remarkable leaders at my fingertips that I can turn to for support.”

Additionally, a group of nurses that serves on the hospital’s Quality Improvement Team received the Nurse Quality award. The Quality award is bestowed upon nurses who demonstrate the delivery of exceptional patient care as reflected through compliant quality documentation and support for principles of continuous quality improvement to achieve measurable improvement. Nurses Christina Karkari-Adejong, Charleen Dillman, Margarita Lopez, Kristina Salcedo, Peggy Korzenecki and Stefannie Carr received this honor.

La Rabida Children’s Hospital’s New Director of Education and Inpatient Nursing Services

2010-01-12T20:34:01Z

Sylvia Williams, RN, MSN, has been named the new Director of Education and Inpatient Nursing Services at La Rabida Children’s Hospital. In this newly created position, Williams will oversee the inpatient nurse staffing and quality of care on the 49-bed inpatient unit. Her duties have been expanded to include directing the ongoing evaluation and compliance with federal and state standards for the care of children with chronic illness and disabilities.

La Rabida’s former education coordinator, Williams’ ongoing duties include planning, coordinating, implementing and evaluating the continued education activities for the patient care division through collaboration with other disciplines and hospital departments.

Williams’ nursing career spans 20 years, 15 of which have been spent at La Rabida. Her experience encompasses both school- and hospital-based nursing, management and teaching roles, including an ongoing position as an adjunct clinical instructor at West Suburban College of Nursing.

Williams has her MSN from Governor’s State University and her BSN from Rush University. In addition, she is certified as a CPR instructor and Pediatric Advance Life Support.

The American Cancer Society Wig Boutique at Central DuPage Hospital

2010-01-08T20:30:00Z

To help patients deal with the affects of cancer treatment Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have joined forces to open the American Cancer Society Wig Boutique at CDH. This collaboration offers cancer patients in the community a convenient and supportive place to cope with hair loss, a common side effect of many cancer drugs.

The Wig Boutique, which is supported by the patient-services program of the DuPage County Region of American Cancer Society, came to be when the hospital and ACS discussed the ability for ACS to make contributions to the community through the hospital. “Since we have an area that is dedicated to image renewal to help patients and families, we thought about how we could put our efforts together to reach out to the community and provide a stronger, more comprehensive service,” says Corinne Haviley, RN, MS, Associate Chief Nursing Officer at CDH.

Nurses at CDH were heavily involved in bringing the Wig Boutique to life. Advanced practice nurses from the hospital’s breast center and the cancer center brought feedback from patients. Meanwhile, the ACS Wig Boutique further enhances the hospital’s holistic approach to cancer care.”Now that patients are living with cancer for much longer than they used to and because we are diagnosing patients earlier in lives, their well-being and perceptions of themselves is extremely important,” says Haviley.

The Wig Boutique will initially be by appointment-only and will expand hours as demand increases. Cancer patients will be personally fit and will take home a new wig, along with information about the other ACS resources available at no charge. “As an organization we continue to look for ways to reach out to reach out to our patient population to make it a better experience for them while they are undergoing treatment,” says Haviley. “In our community, we have not had anything similar to this. We’re really excited about offering something that is very unique and very supportive.”

Also at CDH, the ACS hosts a free class entitled “Look Good…Feel Better,” which helps patients coping with appearance-related side effects of chemotherapy and radiation by offering them step-by-step care for the hair and skin. Patients even get a chance to try out a new look with cosmetologists and stylists.

“There is an element of support that isn’t just about physical being but also your spiritual and emotional being—how you feel about what you are going through and how you are coping,” says Haviley. “Patients can come in from group perspective and then get individualized care. It is a very good way of bringing the mind, heart and spirit together.”

Both the ACS Wig Boutique and the “Look Good…Feel Better” classes are open to both patients at CDH and patients receiving care at a different facility.

Silver Cross Hospital needs emergency room RNs

2010-01-08T16:41:18Z

Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet is in need of a full-time and part-time emergency room RNs.

Current state licensure, and previous ER experience is required. Required certifications include ACLS, PALS/ENPC, TNS/TNCC, and ECRN.

For more information, or to apply, visit http://www.silvercross.org/db/HR/search/JobSearchDetailReport?idnumber=159&s_cat=Nursing.

St. James Hospital needs recovery RNs

2010-01-07T22:54:36Z

St. James Hospital seeks RNs with recovery experience for full and part time positions in the recovery department.

The recovery RN coordinates total nursing care for patients, participates in patient and family teaching, and provides leadership by working cooperatively with ancillary nursing and other patient team personnel in maintaining standards for professional nursing practice in the clinical setting. PACU/Recovery experience is required. Successful candidate will be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing and hold a current license as an RN, and must be ACLS certified.

For more information, or to apply, visit https://workforce.ssfhs.org/psc/eRecruit/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL.

Memorial Medical seeks charge resource nurse

2010-01-06T20:24:38Z

Memorial Medical seeks part-time charge resource nurse for its surgery department.

The charge resource nurse, in conjunction with the educational coordinator, the specialty resource nurse, and the nurse manager, is responsible for assigning appropriate, competent nursing personnel to provide the direct patient care and ancillary support required in the operating room for elective- and emergency-surgical patients; maintaining the physical plant, equipment, and supplies; scheduling and implementing the daily caseload; working closely with the Anesthesia, Outpatient Discharge, and Recovery departments and the surgeons. The charge resource person helps to create a work environment that encourages staff to share in patient-care responsibilities, seek opportunities for improvement and to accomplish mutually set goals according to the philosophy, policies, and procedures of the hospital and the Perioperative Services Department.

A diploma or degree from an approved school of nursing, and current state licensure is required. Successful candidate will have a minimum of three years of current clinical experience in perioperative nursing. Six contact hours specialty inservice or management-approved inservices within last 12 months; four contact hours of general continuing education within last 12 months (does not include JCAHO-mandatory inservices) are also required. Certification as an operating-room nurse is preferred.

For more information, or to apply, visit http://www.choosememorial.org/Careers/Affiliates/MMC.aspx

Provena United Samaritans Medical Center seeks RN

2010-01-05T19:12:53Z

Provena United Samaritans Medical Center is looking for an RN in Occupational Medicine.

The RN provides direct care to employees of clients with work related injuries, illnesses, and pre-employment needs in accordance with ministry policy and Occupational Health nursing standards of care. Care activities include hearing and vision screening, assistance with administering physicals, employee medical surveillance, substance abuse testing (urine, hair, and blood collections), breath alcohol testing, pulmonary function testing, EKGs, immunization administration and management.

This RN works 3 8-hour shifts per week. Must be willing to be flexible in shift start/stop times, and willing pick up additional hours to support staffing with PTO, etc. This part time, benefited position offers a highly competitive salary.

Knowledge of nursing practice and theory at a level acquired by completion of a two-year training program at an accredited school of nursing required. A BSN is preferred.A minimum of three years nursing experience is required. Occupational nursing experience and work experience related to safety and OSHA compliance is preferred.

For more information, or to apply, visit http://provena.jobscience.com/JsrApp/index.cfm?cmd=showPositionDetail&nextEvent=doSearchPositions&cobrandId=9000&masterId=Provena0001&accountId=E7D036DA-F95D-4052-AA97DB147853E7E8&positionId=534067&urlArgList=c2VhcmNoVHlwZT1xdWljayZzdGFydD0xJmNvdW50PTUwJmZhY2lsaXR5SWQ9JmNjXzI4MD0zMDM5&bid=1166

La Rabida Children’s Hospital’s New Director Focuses on Quality

2010-01-04T22:21:27Z

La Rabida Children’s Hospital recently promoted Patricia DiFiglio, RN to the Director of Quality Risk Management, Corporate Compliance and Clinical Support. In this newly created directorship position, she will be responsible for the development and execution of programs and initiatives that ensure continued hospital-wide compliance with federal, state and industry standards and regulations.

DiFiglio was formerly La Rabida’s manager of quality/risk management. She oversees the ongoing development and management of a hospital-wide program that allows staff to develop quality tools and initiatives. In addition, she directs the ongoing development and review of systems to identify and prevent risks.

DiFiglio’s expanded duties include executing a corporate compliance program that will interface with all hospital levels to ensure that industry and regulatory guidelines are met, including those issues by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Joint Commission Accreditation. She has worked extensively in the area of compliance and her track record reflects training with agencies and programs such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Omnibus Guidelines for Quality Improvement (OBRA), Medicaid and Medicare. She will also oversee the Lab and Radiology departments at the hospital.

With more than 20 years of healthcare experience, DiFiglio has held positions in consulting, recruitment, education and as an expert witness. She has held supervisory and management positions.

DiFiglio has her BSN from St. Xavier University and is a certified IDPH Train the Trainer’s assistant and a Certified Nursing Assistant Clinical Instructor. She holds certifications in Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Rehabilitation, Quality and Legal Nursing Consulting. She is a Director at Large and Past President of the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants.

Resurrection Nursing seeks RN

2010-01-04T18:35:57Z

Resurrection Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Park Ridge is looking for a certified nurse to work a night shift.

The RN assists professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas. This part-time shift is for the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. hours.

Candidate for this position must be a high school graduate or equivalent, and must have completed a nursing assistant program. One to two years experience, as well as state licensure and CPR certification, is required.

For more information, or to apply, visit http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm.

New Year’s Baby

2010-01-01T15:53:37Z

At 12 a.m. and 10 seconds on Jan. 1, 2010, doctors and nurses of Saint Joseph Hospital’s The Family Birthplace celebrated the arrival of Baby Miya, the first baby born at the hospital in 2010. She weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces. Her parents, Linda and Azin Tanni, reside in Chicago’s West Rogers Park neighborhood.

The first thing mom and dad said to baby Miya was, “Happy Birthday.” Also welcoming Miya into the world was Linda’s sister Melinda Hamilton, and the Saint Joseph team that included Juan Vargas, MD; Neil Ipem, MD; Kelsey Long, RN; Barbara Flowers, RN; and Carissa Elgar.

Saint Joseph’s Family Birthplace offers labor-delivery-recovery-post-partum (LDRP) suites, an anesthesiologist and neonatologist around-the-clock, a dedicated maternal/child educator, lactation specialists, gestational diabetes education and support and an array of community health and education classes for parents and parents-to-be. Saint Joseph Hospital has a Level II advanced care nursery.

Pictured here from left to right: Carissa Elgar; Juan Vargas, M.D.; Azin Tanni, father; Linda Tanni, mother; baby Miya Tanni; Melinda Hamilton, sister of the mother; Neil Ipem, MD; Kelsey Long, RN; Barbara Flowers, RN.

CNAs in demand at Kindred Chicago Lakeshore

2009-12-31T17:17:54Z

Kindred Chicago Lakeshore is looking for certified nursing assistants to work full-time 12-hour shifts days & nights.

The CNA assists nursing staff with patients' personal care, emotional support, and activities of daily living, and performs more complex duties under supervision of professional nursing personnel.

Candidates for the position must have completed an accredited certified nursing assistant course, be currently active and in good standing on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry, hold BCLS certification, and have a minimum of six months' experience in an acute-care or LTC facility. Additional experience preferred, specifically critical care.

For more information, or to apply, visit https://kindred.taleo.net/careersection/e/jobdetail.ftl.

Loyola seeks RN for burn unit

2009-12-30T17:02:30Z

The Loyola University Health System is looking for a full-time registered nurse to work evenings and nights in its burn unit.

The RN focuses on the needs of the patient and exemplifies the service excellence goals of care, concern, respect and cooperation; develops and provides a comprehensive plan of care for assigned patients; and consistently applies knowledge of Loyola's 14 "Magnet Forces."

The successful candidate must have an associate's degree, current RN licensure for Illinois, and CPR certification. 1-2 years of previous job-related experience preferred.

The RN clarifies and implements orders from physicians, physician assistants and/or advance practice nurses by administering medications and performing treatments and testing as prescribed; obtains information from patient and/or family to develop an appropriate patient educational plan; performs required documentation and communicates in a competent and effective manner to meet patient and/or family needs and regulatory requirements; reviews and evaluates discharge plans with the multidisciplinary teams, the patient, and family to promote timely and appropriate discharge; utilizes time and resources effectively to promote quality and cost outcomes; and demonstrates accountability for professional growth and job performance by seeking opportunities to enhance job skills and knowledge.

For more information about the position, or to apply, visit https://www.healthcaresource.com/loyola/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.jobDetails&template=dsp_job_details.cfm&cJobId=447972.

Northwestern Memorial Clinical Nurse Specialist Making Headlines

2009-12-29T20:24:40Z

Linda L. Morris, Ph.D. APN, CCNS, a clinical nurse specialist in the respiratory care unit at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, is being inducted into the Academy of Critical Care Medicine as a fellow. Morris is the tracheostomy specialist at NMH. She is a clinical nurse specialist for the Respiratory Care and an assistant professor of clinical anesthesiology at Northwestern University.

Morris recently edited a book entitled Tracheostomies: The Complete Guide, which will be coming out in the next month or two. The book is a practical guide for healthcare professionals including physicians and nurses who work with tracheostomy patients. The book publisher describes that book as, “a comprehensive reference to enable management of the multitude of issues that arise with trachesostomy patients from the surgical procedure, the perioperative period during intensive care, to recovery and rehabilitation.”

Some of the subjects covered in the book include:

· The tracheotomy procedure

· Types of tracheostomy tubes and related appliances

· Care of tracheostomy patients

· Special considerations for the child with tracheostomy

· Complications and emergency procedures

Skokie needs staff nurse for vascular access team

2009-12-29T17:08:29Z

Skokie Hospital is seeking a Staff Nurse to join its Vascular Access Team. This is a part-time, 24 hrs/week position with a rotating Day/Night shift and rotating weekends.

The Staff Nurse independently provides safe, effective, and compassionate nursing care for all patient populations on a specific unit; utilizes the nursing process in planning, implementing, and evaluating the patient plan of care; includes patient and family in the plan of care as appropriate; maintains regulatory compliance in individual practice; assumes the responsibility, accountability, and authority for outcomes of nursing care and to make decisions based on their therapeutic relationship with the patient; guides and directs assigned nursing personnel in delivering interdisciplinary patient care; and communicates and collaborates with nurses, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team to ensure optimal patient outcomes and continuity of care.

Qualifications for the position, which is eligible for benefits, include graduation from an NLN-accredited school of nursing (bachelor's degree preferred), current professional Nursing Licensure in the State of Illinois, CPR certification, and strong computer skills. RN experience in a hospital setting, specifically in a Med/Surg Tele unit, is preferred.

For more information about this position, or to apply, visit https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL.

Holy Cross Hospital seeks registered nurse

2009-12-28T15:35:21Z

Holy Cross Hospital is currently seeking a registered nurse for its Emergency Department.

This is full-time registry position for the night shift.

Current Illinois licensure as a professional nurse with CPR and ACLS certification is required. One-year previous nursing experience, in an ER setting is preferred.

For more information or to apply for this job, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm

Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center seeks nurse-manager

2009-12-24T18:05:23Z

Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center is looking for a nurse-manager for its adult psychiatric unit.

The position is a full-time day shift, from 7-3:30 usually.

The nursing manager supervises clinical and patient care delivery and has 24-hour accountability, authority, and responsibility over the operations of assigned units. Duties include management of human, fiscal, and material resources and implementation of policies, procedures, standards and regulations.

Requirements for the position include a bachelor's degree in nursing, current Illinois RN licensure and BLS certification, customer service skills, and a minimum of 3-5 years of supervisory experience.

For more information or to apply for this job, visit http://smemc.reshealth.org/sub_smemc/findajob/career_search.cfm.

New ER Manager at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital

2009-12-23T20:43:38Z

When Noreen Connelly, RN, TNS, ECRN, BSN, was in the eighth grade and lost her father to cancer she vowed to become a nurse to help see others through their health challenges. Connelly reached the height of her goal in August when she became the emergency department manager at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital. She previously had served two short stints as the interim manager – in 2008 and 2009 – where she improved key patient throughput measures and patient satisfaction.

“I’ve always had this desire to help people and I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to do it,” Connelly says.

Before coming to Adventist Hinsdale Hospital, Connelly, a nurse since 1986, worked in several positions at Mercy Hospital in Chicago. She was a labor and delivery room nurse, a charge nurse and a staff nurse.

Connelly was an Adventist Hinsdale Hospital staff nurse before moving to the emergency department in 1995. In 2007, she became an RN leader. Connelly’s goal as emergency department manager is to improve upon the hospital’s ability to make a positive difference in lives of its patients.

“Noreen has gained the confidence and respect of her colleagues, including nursing and medical staff, since leading the emergency department team,” says Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer Shawn Tyrrell.

Dr. Brian Kern, emergency department director, adds: “I could not be more pleased to have Noreen at the helm.”

St. Joe's needs RN for maternity unit

2009-12-23T16:59:49Z

St. Joseph Hospital is hiring a registered nurse to work the night shift in its Single Room Maternity Care Unit.

The RN will assess, plan, implement, and evaluate, care for the ante/intra/post partum mother and her newborn.

The RN must be a graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing and have current Illinois RN licensure and CPR certification, plus a minimum of 2 years' experience within the specialty.

For more information, or to apply, visit http://wh.reshealth.org/sub_wh/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Holy Family seeks staff nurse

2009-12-23T16:46:58Z

Holy Family Medical Center is looking for a full-time staff nurse to work a 12-hour day shift three times a week in its ICU department.

Requirements include an associate's degree, minimum one year's recent experience in hospital ICU/SICU/CCU environment, Illinois RN license, and ACLS card. CCRN a plus.

Benefits include tuition reimbursement, a full range of insurances, free parking, and concierge service.

For more information, or to apply, visit http://wh.reshealth.org/sub_wh/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Saint Anthony Hospital’s School at Work Program

2009-12-18T20:44:36Z

Last year, Saint Anthony Hospital committed itself to workforce development with its own employees with its School at Work Program (SAW). The program is designed for entry-level workers who wanted to go back to school for a career in healthcare, but didn’t know where to start. The SAW program was 32 weeks of intensive training to help the employees prepare for a certificate or degree program in the many different healthcare fields.

“If you can invest in your employees and they see the value of what you have done for them, it is win-win,” says Pamela Jones, MS, ED, human resources manager of workforce development. “Your employees tend to stay longer because they are invested. And, you tend to have a solid workforce. Investing in your workers is key.”

With the first SAW class graduating a few months ago, the second SAW class is gearing up to begin in January. The first class had 18 graduates, with eight of those graduates planning to pursue a career in nursing. Students in the program took classes that taught them medical terminology and anatomy and brushed them up on math and English.

The mentorship aspect of SAW was critical to the program’s success. The hospital recruited mid- to senior-level managers to mentor each of the SAW students and meet with them once a month. “It was not a supervisory role, it was a supportive role,” explains Jones. “They had to be there for their mentee and encourage them…We had the hospital really involved with this project. It was the buzzword here.”

The relationships between the mentors and mentees took on lives of their own. “It got to a point where sometimes they were meeting twice a week for lunch,” says Jones. “The relationships were building, the trust between the two was becoming solid and [the students’] confidence was getting better.”

In addition to education and professional support, the program was designed to support the students on a personal level, as well. “I understand workforce development and the level that our employees are at and the needs they have. Most people at that level have housing issues,” says Jones. So, Jones partnered with the Eleanor Foundation to help four or five of the students obtain subsidized housing.

Jones also asked the Hartland Alliance to come in to teach financial literacy classes to the SAW students to help them clean up their credit scores and get more educated on managing their finances. Further, Jones helped different students navigate through public assistance programs as needed.

When the students took the college entrance exam in July, the entire group needed more math training. So, Jones partnered with Wright College to begin college-level math classes immediately after graduation from the program. “On the day of graduation I had the enrollment forms on the spot. So when they graduated from School at Work they were already enrolled in college,” says Jones.

Establishing a well-rounded program that tackled the students’ educational, professional and personal needs was the key to SAW’s success. “It was intense. But I didn’t leave any room for gaps because that is where people fall through the cracks,” says Jones.

Upon graduation from SAW, each of the students received a bonus, and the hospital’s tuition reimbursement program will help them as they pursue their chosen degree or certification programs. In return, the SAW participants signed a one-year commitment to stay with Saint Anthony.

“They are hungry to stay,” says Jones. “Their attitudes and personalities have changed. The employees are happier and they feel like they are moving somewhere in the world. And, they are in a field that is having a critical shortage anyway, so it is perfect.”

Photo by: Robert Knapp, www.robertknapp.com

Children’s Memorial seeks part-time RN

2009-12-21T15:31:53Z

Children’s Memorial Hospital is currently seeking an experienced part-time registered nurse for its day hospital.

The successful candidate will work a day shift schedule and be able to safely immobilize children if necessary, and have the ability to move equipment and patients, as well as assess and respond quickly to patient care situations.

Job requirements include current state licensure as a registered nurse; CPR certification required; and a minimum of two years of RN work experience in a Hematology/Oncology setting. CPON and pediatric experience is strongly preferred.

To learn more about this position or to apply, visit https://secure.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=4308

Skokie seeks support RN

2009-12-18T15:23:48Z

Skokie Hospital is seeking an experienced registered nurse for its support center.

The successful candidate will work a full-time position.

Responsibilities for this job include employing the nursing process in the delivery of patient care; phone triaging; and utilizing “Epic,” which is the hospital’s electronic medical records system for day to day work flow.

Two years nursing experience as well as experience in phone triage or office nursing is highly preferred. Bachelor’s degree in nursing preferred. Computer Proficiency is required.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL

Adventist Hinsdale Hospital's Holiday Gifts

2009-12-17T22:35:39Z

To celebrate the holiday season, all babies born in December at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital are receiving white fleece blankets with matching caps embroidered with the hospital’s logo depicted in red and green. This is the second year that the women and children’s services department is presenting the holiday gifts to newborns. The blankets are wrapped with a holiday ribbon.

Pictured here with a newborn baby girl are (from left) Rina Durman, CNA, massage therapist; Winnie Villas, CNA; Sue Eminger, RN; Sue Tyrolt, RN; Sharon Bowers, RN; Barb Smith, RN; and Sue Kolar, RN, holding the baby.

Glenbrook looking to hire staff nurse

2009-12-17T15:58:41Z

Glenbrook Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced staff nurse for its resource center.

Job duties include employing the NorthShore Nursing Process in the delivery of patient care; developing patient/family teaching plans; utilizing “Epic”, the hospital’s electronic medical records system to document patient care; and serving as a guide for assigned nursing personnel.

Computer proficiency, telemetry experience, a minimum of one year of current hospital clinical experience in medical surgical nursing, and current CPR Certification is required. Bachelor’s degree in nursing is preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psp/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_CE.GBL?FolderPath=PORTAL_ROOT_OBJECT.HC_HRS_CE_GBL2&IsFolder=false&IgnoreParamTempl=FolderPath%2cIsFolder.

Chicago Lakeshore to hire RN

2009-12-16T17:52:43Z

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital is looking to hire registered nurse for its Intensive Treatment Unit (ITU).

This is a full-time night shift position.

The successful candidate will work an 11pm through 7am shift.

The ITU registered nurse will provide clinical expertise for the nursing inpatient.

BI-LINGUAL IN SPANISH / ENGLISH IS HIGHLY DESIRABLE. Previous experience in an in-patient psychiatric setting is preferred.

Interested candidates should fax cover letter and resume to 773-769-1821 or contact:

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital, Attn: Human Resources, 4840 North Marine Dr., Chicago, IL 60640.

Or, visit http://www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com/careers/opportunities.php.

Rush-Copley Names New Director of Women’s Health Institute

2009-12-15T16:45:21Z

Rush-Copley recently announced that Jennifer Toerpe, APN, MSN, NNP-BC, CNML, will be the new Director of the Women’s Health Institute. Jennifer has worked at Rush-Copley since 2003 as the clinical nurse manager of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

As a clinical nurse manager at Rush-Copley, Toerpe had many accomplishments including establishing a Level III NICU, implementing a Neonatal Surgical Program and receiving the coveted first in nation Disease Specific Care for Maternal/Child and High-Risk Neonatal Care awarded by The Joint Commission.

Toerpe has 18 years of experience as a registered nurse. She recently received her certification from the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) as a Nursing Leader. She received her MSN degree from Rush University and her BSN from Northern Illinois University.

Children’s Memorial seeks ER registered nurse

2009-12-15T14:33:35Z

Children’s Memorial is looking to fill a vacancy in its emergency room department.

The hospital is currently looking for an experienced registered nurse to work a full-time evening shift.

Clinician behaviors include assessment of documents; plan care and document goals appropriate for child and family; maintain a safe environment; take direct and appropriate action to urgent situations: preserve patient rights; reflect recognition of child’s development level; document patient discharge; and evaluate patient and family response to plan of care

Teacher behaviors include identifying patient and family learning needs and abilities.

Research behaviors include reading research articles related to patient/family care topics or assisting with collection of data.

While adhering to communication, customer service and professional image standards, this position actively works to build team member skills, and identify resources available to assist in professional development.

To be considered for this job, the successful candidate must have graduated from an accredited school of nursing, hold state licensure and have the ability to communicate effectively.

For more information, visit https://secure.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=4315.

Skokie seeks staff nurse

2009-12-14T17:19:38Z

Skokie Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced staff nurse for its surgical telemetry unit.

This position is full-time.

The staff nurse independently provides safe, effective, and compassionate nursing care for all patient populations on a specific unit, as well as utilizes the nursing process in planning, implementing, and evaluating the patient plan of care.

Other duties include keeping patient and family in the plan of care as appropriate; maintain regulatory compliance in individual practice; assume the responsibility, accountability, and authority for outcome of nursing care making decisions based on their therapeutic relationship with the patient; and guide and direct assigned nursing personnel in delivering interdisciplinary patient care.

Bachelor’s degree in nursing is preferred. Degree from an NLN accredited school of nursing, current professional nursing licensure, and CPR certification are required

For more information about this job, visit https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL

A Healthy Holiday Treat

2009-12-11T21:12:12Z

In response to employee preferences and to encourage healthy eating habits, Adventist Midwest Health provided fruit boxes to employees, medical staff members and volunteers to celebrate the holiday season. The boxes, which contain apples, oranges, pears and kiwi, were distributed this week to more than 5,000 people at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital, Adventist GlenOaks Hospital, Adventist Hinsdale Hospital and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital.

The fruit has been a big hit among employees, who overwhelmingly indicated their preference for it as a Christmas gift during a survey commissioned by the human resources department earlier this year. Years ago, Adventist Midwest Health distributed fruit baskets to employees for the holidays; more recently the previous three years, each employee received a gift box containing chocolate, mixed nuts and chocolate-and-toffee-covered treats.

“We were pleasantly surprised at the large number of employees who said they favor fruit over chocolate,” says Don Russell, regional vice president for human resources. “We were delighted to bring back the fruit boxes not only to make our employees happy but also because fruit is a more healthful alternative to sugary snacks and supports our commitment to keeping our employees well.”

Adventist Midwest Health spent about $90,000 on the fruit box gifts, which were comparable in price to the candy and nut boxes.

Chicago Lakeshore seeks Intake RN

2009-12-11T15:31:27Z

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its intake unit.

This position is full time and shifts may vary.

The candidate will be responsible for the management of inquiry and crisis calls, clinical assessment, admission and referral of all those seeking treatment.

The successful candidate will also coordinate the admission process with all appropriate units and departments while providing accurate patient information to hospital staff, provide clinical information to physicians and managed care companies, as well as complete the medical screening of all patients presenting for admissions.

The intake nurse is also responsible for coordinating the transfers of patients into and out of our hospital.

Successful candidate will have a Master’s Degree in related field. State licensure is required.

To learn more about this job, contact Chicago Lakeshore Hospital, Attn: Human Resources, 4840 North Marine Dr., Chicago, IL 60640, fax 773.769.1821.

Or visit http://www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com/careers/opportunities.php.

Children’s Memorial seeks RN

2009-12-10T22:39:06Z

Children’s Memorial Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its cardiology department.

This position is full time with a day shift schedule.

The purpose of the cardiology RN is to assist providers in delivering patient care in an office/clinic setting by performing patient assessments and documenting medical histories and vital signs.

This role utilizes the nursing process and performs responsibilities in five areas of nursing practice: clinician, clinical inquiry, teacher, professional development and leadership.

Responsibilities also include patient/family education and instruction during visits, performing telephone triage, understands and integrates into the delivery of patient care the needs of neonatal, pediatrics, adolescent and adult patients in regard to their growth and development process.

Successful candidate will be a graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing and hold current licensure as a registered nurse. Ability to effectively communicate with patient/families, physicians and hospital staff, CPR certification, and basic computer skills required.

For more inofrmation, visit https://secure.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=4279.

Provena St. Joseph seeks staff nurse

2009-12-09T17:08:51Z

Provena St. Joseph Hospital is looking for a staff registered nurse to work part-time 12-hour night shifts in its intensive care unit.

Weekend and/or holiday rotation may be required.

Requirements for the position include Illinois RN license, CPR and ACLS certification, and at least 2 years of previous ICU experience.

For more information, contact Kevin Silvestre at Kevin.Silvestre@Provena.org or visit joblink.

Wood-Prince Family Gives Northwestern Memorial Endowment Gift

2009-12-09T16:30:15Z

Northwestern Memorial Hospital received a commitment of almost $5 million from the F.H. Prince 1932 Trust that was established by colorful Boston Capitalist, Fredrick Henry Prince (1859-1953), as directed by descendants of his well-known and personally selected successor, the late Mr. William Wood Prince. Mr. Wood Prince is the former chairman and chief executive of Chicago meatpacking giant, Armour & Co and former Chairman of F. H. Prince & Co., a private investment company. The generous gift was earmarked by the Wood-Prince family and supports three specific program areas including nursing leadership, cardiovascular outcomes and leading-edge research studies and novel patient care projects being conducted at Northwestern.

“We are grateful for the longstanding commitment to Northwestern Memorial by one of Chicago’s most charitable families,” says Dean M. Harrison, President and CEO of Northwestern Memorial HealthCare.

For more than 25 years, the late Mr. Wood Prince was a trustee of Passavant Memorial Hospital, one of Northwestern Memorial’s founding institutions. “It’s been among our greatest honors to have his support continue through his sons and their wives and children, several of whom sit on The Woman’s Board of Northwestern Memorial today,” says Harrison.

Wendy Wood-Prince Sherman says, “As the children and grandchildren of William Wood Prince, we consider it an honor and a privilege to be able to support Northwestern Memorial Hospital in this way. On behalf of the Wood-Prince family, we are pleased to direct this donation from The Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund.”

The gift will endow the existing Eleanor Wood Prince Grants Initiative; a Project of The Woman’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital which was named in honor of Mr. Wood Prince’s late wife Eleanor, the beloved matriarch of the Wood-Prince family and a dedicated member of The Woman’s Board for more than 60 years. Established in 2001, the Eleanor Wood Prince Grants Initiative is a unique, competitive grants process that helps fund vital medical, nursing and management projects at Northwestern Memorial. To date, nearly $900,000 has been awarded to more than 35 grant recipients, all of whom are united in their quest to improve patient care. With this gift the Eleanor Wood Prince Grants initiative will now last in perpetuity.

The gift also establishes the Outcomes Management Program within Northwestern Memorial’s Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute and names the Wood-Prince Family Chief Nurse Executive position in recognition of a new nursing endowment which will support nursing initiatives for patient care leadership training and education. The Wood-Prince Family Chief Nurse Executive position is the hospital’s first and only endowed executive seat, which joins the ranks of a limited few of its kind nationally. Northwestern Memorial Senior Vice President Michelle Janney, RN, PhD, NEA-BC will be Northwestern Memorial’s first chief nursing executive to hold the endowed seat.

“A gift of this stature lends additional honor and prestige to our nursing program,” says Janney. “The Wood-Prince family’s generosity will go a long way in enabling Northwestern Memorial to continue to innovate, advance patient care, patient safety and outstanding quality outcomes for patients.”

Northwestern Memorial’s nursing program is a leader in nurse training and education and has achieved Magnet Status. “Our nurses appreciate being recognized in this way,” says Janney.

Ingalls seeks oncology RN

2009-12-09T16:50:22Z

Ingalls Memorial Hospital is looking for a registered nurse for its oncology department.

This is a full-time, third-shift position.

With the leadership of the manager, the registered nurse is responsible for coordinating and performing direct nursing care for patients, utilizing concepts of the nursing process. The RN serves as resource, preceptor, mentor, and leader for physicians, professional peers and other fellow employees.

The RN must have excellent interpersonal skills in dealing with patients, families, and co-workers.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current Illinois RN licensure, current BLS (Healthcare Provider recognition) required, and a minimum of one year acute care nursing experience. Previous oncology experience a plus.

For more information or to apply, visit https://www.ingalls.apply2jobs.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=mExternal.showJob&RID=1254&CurrentPage=1.

Holy Cross looking for registered nurse

2009-12-07T15:59:35Z

Holy Cross Hospital is looking for a registered nurse for its 4th-floor med-surg department.

The position is full-time with day and night shifts and 2-3 weekend shifts per 4-week schedule.

The successful candidate must have current Illinois licensure as a professional nurse, CPR certification, and one year of previous nursing experience, preferably in a healthcare environment.

For more information or to apply, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/career.html.

Swedish Covenant Hospital’s Annual Gala

2009-12-05T17:33:54Z

More than 100 nursing alumnae from across the country attended the “Angels Among Us” Swedish Covenant Hospital Foundation 2009 Annual Benefit Gala this year. At the gala more than $575,000 was raised toward the Nursing Education Endowment Fund and the Pursuit of Magnet Recognition at Swedish Covenant Hospital. Renowned Chicago newsman Bill Kurtis was the emcee for the gala, which took place at the Palmer House in Chicago.

In keeping with the focus on nursing, the SCH Nursing Alumnae Association was awarded the Spirit of Compassion award at the gala this year. This award recognizes those who have given selflessly to improve the human condition of others both within and beyond the hospital’s walls. The nursing alumnae—who attended SCH’s nursing school through 1969 before the program moved to the hospital’s sister organization, North Park University—have led compassionate nursing careers at SCH and in hospitals and clinics across the globe.

Pictured here: Swedish Covenant nursing alumnae, standing (left to right): Donna Clark (1968), Anna Boemig (1968), Susan Tanner (1968), Faith Hamilton (1968); sitting (left to right): Judy Cruz (1968), Mary Hollebeek (1968), Marilyn Johnson (1968)

Nurses and Healthcare Reform

2009-12-05T17:13:26Z

With healthcare reform at the top of mind for Americans today, nurses are getting more involved in the issues that specifically affect patient care and nursing practice. Chicago Nursing Today spoke with nurses throughout Chicagoland about how nurses can get involved in healthcare reform and why it is critical for nurses to speak up.

In Part 1 of this series, Chicago Nursing Today spoke with Lori Beyer, RN, BSN, manager of the Family Birth Center at Advocate South Suburban Hospital, about how important it is for nurses to stay abreast of state legislation that affects the nursing field as a whole. Beyer is a member of Advocate’s Nurse Advisory Council (NAC), which works to influence legislation that relates to the healthcare industry by providing elected officials with vital information on real care-giving issues.

Lori Beyer, RN, BSN, was very interested in giving nurses a voice and being an advocate for nurses in a legislative arena. So, three years ago, when her Chief Nursing Executive offered her a chance to be part of Advocate’s Nurse Advisory Council (NAC) she jumped at the chance. Beyer represents Advocate South Suburban on this corporate council, which is comprised of nurses from each Advocate hospital. “We try to become familiar with legislation that is out there that affects nursing,” explains Beyer. “It is not partisan or political. It is looking at issues that are coming before the legislature that are going to make a difference in how nurses practice and what nurses do.”

The council reaches out to legislators to offer a nursing point of view and influence change. “In general, the legislators seem to really respect nurses and really want to do the right thing for nurses,” says Beyer. “But, depending on who is bending their ear, they may be misled a little bit. Oftentimes there are unintended consequences of things they try to do. It behooves us all in nursing to give them the inside scoop on what it is like to be a nurse so they can make informed decisions when they are doing their legislation.”

Every year, the council hosts a forum that brings together nurses and legislators to discuss the issues. “The legislators are pretty open [to what we have to say],” says Beyer. “They seem to really have a need for knowledge of what is going on with us.”

Beyer encourages nurses to stay on top of issues that affect the field and then speak up to make sure their voices are heard. “If we don’t speak for ourselves, someone else will—and it’s not going to be a nurse,” she says. “Nurses are the best suited people to know what is best for nursing.”

One area where the NAC has been quite successful has been in the issue of staffing ratios. “One issue that rears its head every single year is staffing ratio vs. staffing acuity,” says Beyer. “We were able to really actively lobby our legislators to let them know our thoughts on that. We were able to get that acuity bill passed. That is one of the biggest hurrahs we’ve done so far.”

While the ratio bill arises every year, Beyer notes that nurses have been vigilant about staying on top of the progress. “It is important for nurse to stay on top of that because this stuff can creep up,” she says. “We already have a bill that has now become a law that we are trying to implement. It is important for us to have a chance to get this going.”

The general trust and respect that the public and legislators have for nurses helps nurses gain traction with legislators. “Nurses are good at cutting to the chase, getting the true story and keeping what’s real in the forefront,” Beyer says. “Nurses are trusted, and that puts us in a good role to get our word out there.”

Pictured here: Senator Maggie Crotty (center) at Advocate Health Care’s Nurse Advocacy Day with (left to right) Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center nurses Linda Maxwell, Alberto Trinidad, Kimberlee Bermont, and Advocate South Suburban Hospital nurses Tamara Jones, Rita Westrom, Kerensa Vinson, Lori Beyer, and Janice Wilson.

St. Anthony seeks sonographer

2009-12-04T17:11:12Z

St. Anthony Hospital is looking for a lead sonographer for its cardiology department to work a full-time day shift.

The lead sonographer will assist the manager with the daily coordination and supervision of the daily operations of the echocardiography laboratory.

Requirements for the position include previous leadership experience in an echocardiography laboratory, ARDMS registration,an associate's degree in cardiac technology or health science-related field, and CPR certification.

For more information or to apply, visit https://www.healthcaresource.com/stanthony/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.jobDetails&template=dsp_job_details.cfm&cJobId=746161.

Norwegian seeks CNA

2009-11-30T16:03:28Z

Norwegian American Hospital is currently seeking an experienced certified nursing assistant for its intensive care unit.

This position is a full-time night shift.

The certified nursing assistant will provide support to the intensive care nursing staff.

Qualifications include state licensure and CNA & CPR certification. Prior ICU experience is preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.nahospital.org/employment.htm.

AACN Launches Free Web-Based Assessment Tool

2009-12-02T22:55:20Z

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) recently introduced a free web-based tool to help nurse managers and leaders align hospital unit performance with the AACN Standards for Establishing and Sustaining a Healthy Work Environment (HWE).

AACN’s Healthy Work Environment Team Assessment—developed with VitalSmarts, a provider of corporate training and organizational performance products and services based in Provo, Utah—aligns the performance of any clinical environment, from single hospital units to entire healthcare organizations, with the following six HWE standards:

Skilled Communication – equal proficiency in communication and clinical skills.

True Collaboration – relentless pursuit and fostering of true collaboration.

Effective Decision Making – valued and committed partners in making policy, directing and evaluating clinical care and leading organizational operations.

Appropriate Staffing – ensure there’s an effective match between patient needs and nurse competencies.

Meaningful Recognition – for the value of work brought to the organization by oneself and others.

Authentic Leadership – fully embrace the HWE imperative and engage others to achieve it.

AACN’s Healthy Work Environment Team Assessment reflects data from “Silence Kills,” a 2005 VitalSmarts-AACN study that explored avoidable errors and chronic workplace problems. The study prompted healthcare organizations to survey staff, compare performance and develop step-by-step strategies to improve poor performance, patient safety, staff recruitment and retention and healthy workplace cultures.

Using AACN’s Healthy Work Environment Team Assessment team members rate online the health of their work environment. The nurse manager or leader receives aggregate scores with recommended actions and resources to improve workplace health and tracking tools to measure progress.

Connie Barden, RN, MSN, CCRN, CCNS, a clinical nurse specialist at Miami’s Baptist Health South Florida and the Executive Editor of the AACN Standards for Establishing and Sustaining a Healthy Work Environment, expects the HWE tool to help health professionals identify and curb conditions that cause unhealthy work environments. Barden calls workplace health crucial to patient safety and staff morale.

“Compelling evidence shows the domino effect that a toxic work environment can have on patients and staff,” she explains. “Now, an evidence-based screening tool is available to help nurses make their units and hospitals healthier and safer for patients and staff.”

To access the AACN Healthy Work Environment Team Assessment, visit www.hweteamtool.org.

Resurrection looking to hire CNA

2009-12-01T16:16:17Z

Resurrection Life Center is looking to hire a qualified certified nursing assistant for its nursing department.

The successful candidate will work a part-time day shift.

This position assists professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

Requirements include state certification, high school diploma or equivalent, CPR certification, and completion of a nursing assistant program.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Ingalls seeks ER assistant patient care manager

2009-12-01T17:55:03Z

Ingalls Health Systems is currently seeking an experienced assistant patient care manager for its emergency department.

The successful candidate will provide leadership assistance for the 3^rd Shift (7pm-7am) and perform clinical practice responsibilities, which may include 24-hour accountability.

Other duties involve supporting the coordination of care and communication to meet patient needs.

To be considered for this job applicant must meet the following criteria:

Current Illinois RN licensure

TNCC, ECRN and PALS or ENPC certification

Minimum 3-5 years experience in ED or MED/SURG environment

1 year experience in Charge/Supervisory role

BLS and ACLS required

BSN preferred

To learn more about this job or to apply visit http://www.IngallsHealthSystem.org.

Ingalls looking to hire assistant patient care manager for critical care/stepdown

2009-12-01T17:44:53Z

Ingalls Health Care System is currently looking to hire an assistant patient care manager for its critical care/step down unit.

This position is full-time.

The successful candidate will provide leadership assistance on the 2^nd shift (3-11pm), while assuming clinical practice responsibilities in the progressive 25-bed critical care environment and 24-bed step down unit.

Duties include serving as public relations rep for patients and families and may require 24-hour accountability.

Requirements include current Illinois nursing license (BSN preferred), a minimum of 3 years of critical care experience, with at least 1 year in a charge/supervisory role, and BLS + ACLS.

For more information about this job, contact http://www.ingallshealthsystem.org.

Mount Sinai to hire LPN

2009-11-27T18:27:03Z

Mount Sinai Hospital is looking to fill two licensed practical nurse positions.

Both positions are full-time with day and evening shift rotations.

The successful candidate will work a 12-hour shift.

This position is responsible for participation in the implementation of nursing care for patients as assigned, under the direction of a professional registered nurse, and is accountable for the performance of nursing care according to Mt. Sinai Hospital's core values of customer service.

Qualifications include graduation from an accredited school of practical nursing (including theory and clinical practicum on the administration of medication), current Illinois LPN license, pharmacology certificate, current CPR certification, and previous pediatric experience.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.sinai.org/careers/career_detail.asp?job_id=56.

MacNeal looking to fill nurse vacancies

2009-11-27T18:17:57Z

MacNeal Hospital is currently looking to fill four charge nurse vacancies in their emergency department.

All positions are full-time with night and day rotation.

The Emergency Department Charge Nurse provides clinical and administrative leadership in the care of patients on a clinical unit for the time defined by the Department Director.

This position is responsible for patient care, staff management, development, and the environment of the unit for the defined time period.

The charge nurse assumes daily accountability, interacts closely with the department coordinator, and serves as a role model for professional practice.

Requirements include a bachelor's degree in nursing, current state nursing licensure, and a minimum of one-two years' clinical experience.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.macneal.com/About/careers/jobOpenings.aspx.

Weiss seeks clinical staff nurse

2009-11-25T14:41:16Z

Weiss Memorial Hospital is currently seeking a clinical staff nurse for its physician’s clinic department.

This successful candidate will work a full-time day shift.

The clinical staff nurse effectively delivers patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation.

Qualifications include current practical or registered nurse state licensure and CPR certification. BSN and one year experience in ambulatory setting or primary care is preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.weisshospital.com/for-professionals/employment/job-search.aspx.

MacNeal looking to hire charge nurse

2009-11-24T16:52:54Z

MacNeal Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced charge nurse for its emergency room department.

The position is full-time and candidate will be required to work a night shift.

The charge nurse provides for the clinical and administrative leadership in the care of patients on a clinical unit for the time defined by the Department Director, is responsible for patient care, staff management and development, and the environment of the unit for the defined time period, as well as assumes daily accountability and interacts closely with the department coordinator.

Qualifications include current state licensure, and a minimum of one to two years' clinical experience. Bachelor's degree in Nursing is preferred

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.macneal.com/About/careers/jobOpenings.aspx.

Holy Cross seeks ER nurse

2009-11-23T16:06:19Z

Holy Cross Hospital is currently seeking an experienced registered nurse for its emergency room department.

The successful candidate will work a full-time night shift.

Current Illinois licensure as a Professional Nurse with CPR and ACLS certification required, as well as one-year previous nursing experience, preferably in ER setting.

The registered nurse is responsible for implementing the practice of nursing through the use of the nursing process in conjunction with other health care professionals. The registered nurse will work as advocates for the patient, using the nursing process to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care of the sick and injured.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/career.html.

La Grange Memorial Hospital seeks RN

2009-11-20T17:18:04Z

La Grange Memorial Hospital is currently looking to hire a staff registered nurse for its intensive care unit.

This position is part-time with a 12 hour shift.

The successful candidate will provide, coordinate, supervise and responsibly direct the activities of various levels of assigned nurses and ancillary personnel in the provision of patient care utilizing both professional and supervisory discretion and independent judgment.

Candidate must be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing, have good organizational skills, be able to prioritize, be computer literate, and have problem solving/critical thinking skills. Current state licensure and CPR certification are also required.

To learn more about this position or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Specialty Spotlight: Nurse Management

2009-11-20T15:38:52Z

Chicago Nursing Today’s next Specialty Spotlight series is focusing on Nurse Management. We’ll be spotlighting nurse managers from different units and organizations to find out the ups and downs of nurse management and find out what it takes to be a great nurse manager.

First up: Lydia Alicea, RN, the clinical nurse manager at Seton Family Health Center, part of Saint Joseph Hospital in Chicago.

When Lydia Alicea, RN, first started out in nursing school she was surprised to learn that nursing was about so much more than just taking blood pressure and giving injections. “It was 180 degrees from what I thought I nursing really was,” remembers Alicea. “I was really excited about the depths of nursing and how much more there was to nursing.”

After graduating from nursing school in 1994, Alicea spent time working on a medical-surgical unit, in same-day surgery and did some agency nursing before accepting a supervisory nursing position at a clinic in California where she lived at the time. “I was hired without any supervisory experience, but the medical director and the director of human resources made it their mission to train me,” says Alicea. “That is where I found my passion in nursing.”

Working in a clinic allowed Alicea to get to know patients on a deeper level, and she enjoyed being involved in every aspect of patients’ care. “We could be a part of their lives and see the results of the care we gave,” says Alicea. “In the clinic setting we see patients and intervene. “

After moving back to Chicago with her family, Alicea continued her passion for clinic nursing as the clinical supervisor at Seton Family Health Center, which is part of Saint Joseph Hospital. She has been at the clinic for eight and a half years and has spent the last four years as the clinical nurse manager.

As the clinical nurse manager for the Seton Family Health Center, Alicea is part of Saint Joseph’s nursing leadership committee and the Magnet steering committee. She prides herself on building up her team to work with shared governance and empowering her staff with autonomy to carry out their duties and deliver excellent patient care.

One of her goals as a nurse leader is to assure her staff that she is there to help them through any challenges. “I have the option of wearing regular clothes or scrubs, and 75 percent of the time I wear scrubs so my team knows that I am available,” she says.

As a manager, Alicea encourages other nurses to be the best that they can be. “Nursing has a reputation for eating its young, but that does not happen here,” she says. “We are education oriented and everyone is open to teaching and learning. My management style is to get in there and see what’s going on.”

In fact, diving right in and solving any issues that arise is one of Alicea’s favorite parts of nurse management. “I like being part of working it out; that process is really exciting,” she says.

To do this, Alicea notes that it is quite helpful to know all aspects of nursing before taking on a management role. “The most important thing is to actually get into the trenches first and have experience as a staff nurse before going into management,” she notes. “If you do that, your staff knows you are able to do their job. They respect that and you respect them. If you have that mutual respect you develop a strong team.”

Hinsdale to hire part-time RN

2009-11-19T15:21:36Z

Hinsdale Hospital is looking to hire a part-time registered nurse for its pediatrics/pediatric intensive care unit.

The successful candidate will work a 2nd shift along with a weekend rotation.

Applicant must have an associates degree, required certification andlicensure, 1-2 years experience, computer experience, customer service skills, and recent experience in the specialty area.

The pediatrics registered nurse provides, coordinates, supervises and responsibly directs the activities of various levels of assigned nurses and ancillary personnel in the provision of patient care utilizing both professional and supervisory discretion and independent judgment.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Adventist looking to hire CNA

2009-11-18T21:47:38Z

Adventist Midwest Health is currently looking to hire an experienced certified nursing assistant to work as a at-home health care nurse.

The position is part-time with a weekend rotation.

The at-home CNA provides technical and patient care support for the nursing staff by accomplishing tasks that are necessary for the efficient and orderly care of patients but do not require professional licensure, as well as assists patients with activities of daily living and, under the direct supervision of a licensed practical and/or registered nurse, will share in providing direct patient care and performance of selected procedures.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicant must be a graduate of an accredited Certified Nursing Assistant program or be currently enrolled in a professional nursing program and have completed a course in the fundamentals of nursing or a satisfactory equivalent.

Current CPR certification preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Nurse Leader Honored for Dedication to Superior Patient Care

2009-11-18T20:34:11Z

Whether the goal is infection control or swiftly moving patients into effective treatment, it’s all about outcomes for Sue Cascino, RN, MSN, regional director of quality management for Adventist Midwest Health.

Based at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital, Cascino directs the work of the quality management teams at all sites. “The function of quality management is to assure that services are the best they can possibly be,” says Cascino. “I work hand-in-hand with the clinical teams to make sure that patient care is of the highest quality. We work with nurses, physicians, therapists—anyone who touches the patient. The delivery of quality care is a collaborative effort, a team accomplishment.”

For this commitment to her staff and to Adventist Midwest Health’s mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ, Cascino was one of five leaders to receive the organization’s pillar award at Adventist Midwest Health’s leadership development institute.

“Sue is a crucial part of our excellent quality management program,” says Chief Medical Officer Dr. Richard Carroll. “She has a passion for providing superior patient care that is an inspiration to everyone who works with her.”

According to Cascino, the goals of the quality management program are to implement best practices in all aspects of the hospital’s operation, and ensure compliance with the standards established by regulatory agencies such as the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“For example, we worked very hard on getting patients who had heart attacks to the cardiac catheterization lab in a timely fashion,” Cascino says. “It’s important that they get this treatment very quickly.”

Cascino has worked in quality management at Adventist Midwest Health for seven years, and has been in her current position for four years. Cascino worked in medical surgical nursing as a staff nurse and as a nursing director before moving into case management and quality management.

Pillar award nominations were solicited from Adventist Midwest Health’s senior leadership team. To be eligible for an award, leaders must demonstrate their commitment to the organization’s standards of behavior: sense, help, acknowledge, respect and explain. They must also demonstrate measurable results on the quarterly goals set for their departments. These goals are organized under the seven categories, or pillars, of spiritual life, people, clinical, service, community, growth, and stewardship.

One pillar award winner is chosen from each of the organization’s four suburban hospitals and a fifth winner is chosen from among the organization’s non-hospital programs and shared services support departments. Pillar awards will be presented at the organization’s quarterly leadership development institutes, held in January, April, July and October.

Delnor Hospital seeks emergency room staff nurse

2009-11-17T19:00:55Z

Delnor Hospital in Geneva is currently seeking a night shift staff nurse for its emergency room.

In collaboration with the patient care coordinator nurse, the professional registered nurse has the responsibility, authority and accountability to facilitate and deliver patient care. The nurse assesses, plans, implements, supervises and evaluates the nursing care for assigned patients. Nursing care is delivered according to established standards and practices of Delnor Hospital.

Candidate must have the ability to communicate effectively and be able to operate the computer and printer. Additional requirements include a degree from an accredited school of nursing and current state licensure. Current certifications must include CPR, ACLS, TNS, PALS or ENPC, ECRN, and TNCC.

Participation in department meetings and any in-services to enhance job performance is expected. Position may rotate to other shifts and departments as needed and for which has received appropriate training.

Applicant must have an annual plan for 16 hours of continued education in clinical and leadership practice or continued work towards certification or Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing or health related field.

For more information about this job or to apply, contact https://delnor.ats.hrsmart.com/cgi-bin/a/searchjobs_quick.cgi.

Children’s Memorial seeks CNA

2009-11-16T15:14:21Z

Chicago’s Children’s Memorial Hospital is currently seeking a certified nursing assistant for its Cardiology/Telemetry/Pediatric Surgery-5W Unit.

This position is full-time with a night shift rotation.

Under the direction of a registered nurse this position cares for patients from infancy to adolescence and for young adults with chronic medical conditions.

This position works in the following areas: direct patient care, stocking and maintenance, clerical, cleaning and other duties as assigned.

Requirements include a high school diploma/GED, state certification as a nursing assistant, or current enrollment in a nursing program with completion of a nursing fundamentals course.

The ideal candidate must be able to safely immobilize children if necessary, be able to move equipment and patients, and respond quickly to patient care situations. Must be able to effectively communicate with patients/families, physicians, and patient care staff, and meet professional image and communication standards. Bilingual ability is preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, contact https://secure.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=4261

Northwestern Memorial Hospital Nurse Gets Published as Lead Author

2009-11-13T21:03:50Z

Northwestern Memorial Hospital nurse Julie Garrett, BSN, RN, CCRN was the lead author on an article published in the September issue of the Journal of Nursing Administration entitled: “Implementing an “Always Practice” to Redefine Skin Care Management.” The article addressed press ulcers and how the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) developed quality strategies “to drive increased efficiency in care delivery and improved patient outcomes.”

One of the article’s conclusions was that while nursing has historically been responsible for skin assessment, pressure ulcer prevention and pressure ulcer treatment, this treatment should not be a collaborative effort involving all hospital personnel to achieve best practices.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Joan Vrba, RN, of Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital

2009-11-13T20:37:45Z

Joan Vrba, RN, received the Nursing Legacy award from Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital. Vrba works in the pain management department. She was hired in 1983, two years after the opening of Adventist Bolingbrook Medical Center, the hospital’s predecessor. She worked with state officials to develop the rules and regulations that led to the medical center being certified as the first freestanding emergency center in Illinois.

The Nursing Legacy award is bestowed upon nurses with an extensive history with Adventist Health System who demonstrate compassion and personal values that inspire other nurses. The award is designed to honor nurses of passion and conviction who have overcome significant personal adversity or whose body of work will follow them throughout their career.

Lakeshore looking to hire intake nurse

2009-11-13T17:20:59Z

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital is looking to hire an intake nurse for a full-time evening shift and every other weekend rotation.

The successful candidate will be responsible for management of inquiry/crisis calls, clinical and medical assessment and legally/clinically appropriate admissions for the hospital, as well as coordinate the admission process with all units/departments and provide accurate patient information to hospital staff.

The candidate will also need to coordinate transfers to and from other facilities, oversee the provision of social service intervention, coordination, assessment and referral to patients and families and participate in referral activities and staff training as directed.

All qualified RN's should submit cover letters and resumes to fax 773-769-1821 or email to keana.washington@chicagolakeshorehospital.com.

For additional information, contact Chicago Lakeshore Hospital, attn: Human Resources, 4840 North Marine Dr, Chicago, IL 60640, fax 773.769.1821

Bolingbrook seeks experienced RN

2009-11-12T19:20:06Z

Bolingbrook Hospital is currently seeking an experienced registered nurse to fill a vacancy in its intensive care unit.

The successful candidate will work a varied in house registry 12 hour shift.

This position provides, coordinates, supervises and responsibly directs the activities of various levels of assigned nurses and ancillary personnel in the provision of patient care utilizing both professional and supervisory discretion and independent judgment.

Qualifications include an associates degree, current state nursing licensure, required certification, as well as computer and customer service experience

To learn more about this job or apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Adventist Hinsdale to hire RN

2009-11-11T15:45:49Z

Adventist Hinsdale Hospital is looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its operating room.

The successful candidate will work an in-house registry schedule revolving around a day shift rotation.

Qualifications include an associates degree and certification.

Candidate must be a registered nurse with current state licensure. Additional requirements include computer experience, customer service skills, and recent experience in this specialty area.

This position provides, coordinates, supervises and responsibly directs the activities of various levels of assigned nurses and ancillary personnel in the provision of patient care utilizing both professional and supervisory discretion and independent judgment while working under general supervision.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital’s MVPs

2009-11-11T15:24:24Z

Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital recently named three of its finest nurses as its third quarter MVPs. The hospital describes an MVP as a person who exemplifies Good Samaritan Hospital’s core values, goes above and beyond the call of duty and strives to provide a holistic approach to healthcare. Each quarter the hospital recognizes five MVPs that embody the hospital’s mission, values and philosophy, which are compassion, equality, excellence, partnership and stewardship.

MVPs are nominated and a committee of peers reviews the nominations and chooses the winners. All of the nominees, along with their managers and directors, are invited to a quarterly luncheon where they are served by the MVP committee members. Hospital President David Fox attends the luncheon and congratulates the quarterly nominees and winners, who are announced at the luncheon. When possible, nominators are also asked to attend the luncheon and read their submission for the MVP winners. The three MVP nurses for the third quarter are as follows:

Lisa Bralich, RN, received the MVP for Excellence

An unresponsive man with a severe yet puzzling medical presentation was brought into the Critical Care Unit under the care of Lisa Bralich, RN. After discussing the situation with other CCU members, Bralich ordered new lab tests, which revealed toxic alcohol ingestion (ethylene glycol—antifreeze) was the underlying cause of the patient’s life-threatening symptoms.

Days later, Bralich received the following note from the patient: “You may not remember me. I know saving lives is part of your job, but I know you made some very special efforts on my behalf, which saved my life. I have a long road ahead of me, but without your efforts I would not have this second chance. My family and I thank you.”

Nancy Cuzman, RN, CDE, received the MVP for Partnership

For 10 years, Nancy Cuzman, RN, a certified diabetes educator at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital has partnered with the American Diabetes Association by volunteering her time to be part of the medical staff at the annual Teen Adventure Camp.

Medical volunteers, like Cuzman, provide around-the-clock medical supervision, coupled with nutrition activities, blood glucose monitoring and insulin administration during the week-long camp. The number of teens accepted into the camp each year is determined by the number of medical personnel who volunteer.

A recent letter from the camp medical director, attending physician and program director recommended that Cuzman be commended for her commitment to providing and invaluable experience to these camp goers.

Tracey Stills, RN, received the MVP for Compassion

Tracey Stills, RN, has been dubbed the “Angel in Pink” by a family who she met by chance in a mall parking lot. Approached by the strangers because of her lavish pink garments, including a pink leather jacket, a pink designer purse, pink shoes and a pink hat, Stills proudly confirmed that she is a breast cancer survivor when queried.

Although never patients of Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, the family asked for her assistance as they did not have medical insurance and their sister’s health was rapidly declining after a recent diagnosis of breast cancer. Stills provided the family with resources for care and support, which the family was immediately able to utilize.

More than a dozen subsequent calls seeking advice were made to Stills, including when the family needed to move their sister from her home into another family member’s home. Stills arranged for movers to come free of charge. When the sister needed durable medical equipment, Stills again assisted the family by putting them in contact with a service that provided the equipment free of charge.

When the sister ultimately passed away, Stills was there to help the family write her obituary on a Saturday afternoon. She provided a wig for the family that matched the deceased sister’s hair before she lost it to chemotherapy, and Stills attended the funeral service.

After the funeral, Stills visited the gravesite on what would have been the sister’s birthday and left a single pink flower with the message, “Angels watching over me –T.S.”

The family wrote: “We knew it couldn’t be anyone else. If you can, you should clone her because Advocate is truly blessed to have such a person in their midst.”

Adventist GlenOaks seeks charge nurse

2009-11-10T17:02:51Z

Adventist GlenOaks Hospital is currently seeking a charge nurse for its institute for behavioral health.

The position is full-time with an evening shift schedule.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the coordination of delivery of patient care and monitoring plan of care, specific personnel management functions for an assigned unit as delegated by manager and will work under general supervision.

Qualifications include a degree from an accredited school of nursing with continuing education in management/leadership. Current state licensure and a minimum of 4 full-time equivalent years in acute care nursing is required.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Norwegian looking to hire CNA

2009-11-09T19:57:30Z

Norwegian American Hospital is looking to hire a certified nursing assistant for its ICU department. The successful candidate will work a full-time night shift.

The ideal candidate for this position will have CNA certification and will provide support to Nursing Staff.

The CNA provides a basic nursing service under the supervision of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or a Registered Nurse (RN). Duties include observing residents, reporting any health issues to the supervising nurse, taking care of a resident’s personal hygiene, monitoring vital signs, setting up meal trays and documenting food/fluid intake, feeding residents, serving nutritional supplements, making beds, keeping the resident's space clean and tidy, and bringing the resident to the therapy area.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.nahospital.org/employment.htm.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Karen Hook, RN, BSN, TNS, of Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital

2009-11-06T20:53:25Z

When a 64-year-old patient entered Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital’s emergency room complaining of chest pain, ER nurse Karen Hook, RN, BSN, TNS, knew something wasn't quite right. An electrocardiogram (EKG) was performed, and the man was found to be in stable condition. As he was about to be transferred to the cardiology unit, Hook ordered another EKG.

That EKG showed a subtle change from the first test. A third EKG was performed, showing that the patient was having a massive heart attack. The ER team administered medicine to stabilize him before rushing him to the cardiac catheterization laboratory for treatment. He’s expected to make a full recovery.

“If not for Karen’s gut responsiveness and great teamwork, this outcome could have been very different,” says Nancy Burke, RN, director of the hospital’s emergency/ambulatory care services.

CDH Nurse Achieves Advanced Certification

2009-11-06T20:25:10Z

Megan McDowell, RN, BSN, RN-BC, recently earned advanced certification in Cardiac Vascular Nursing by the American Nursing Credentialing Center. Currently, McDowell is a critical care resource nurse at Central DuPage Hospital (CDH). She is also a member of CDH’s rapid response team. This team of experts can be accessed 24 hours a day when a patient is exhibiting early signs of distress and provides timely intervention at the bedside.

Cardiac vascular nurses provide comprehensive nursing care to individuals diagnosed with cardiac vascular disease and identified as at risk for cardiac vascular events. In general, they are responsible for the development, coordination and evaluation of a plan of care that uses a multi-disciplinary and case management approach. While concentrating on cardiac vascular health, the practice considers all influences on health status and related social and behavioral problems. The theoretical basis for this nursing practice incorporates physiological and psychosocial concepts of health as they affect cardiac/vascular wellness in adult patients.

Weiss seeks staff nurse

2009-11-06T14:57:06Z

Weiss Memorial Hospital is currently looking to hire a clinical staff nurse for its physician’s clinic.

The position is full-time with a day shift rotation.

The clinical staff nurse effectively delivers patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation.

Qualifications include current state licensure as a practical or registered nurse and CPR certification. BSN and one year experience in ambulatory setting or primary care are preferred.

Candidate should have demonstrated organization and time management skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks. Excellent interpersonaland customer service delivery skills are necessary.

For more information about this job or to apply visit: http://www.weisshospital.com/recruitment/default.cfm.

MacNeal to hire charge nurse

2009-11-05T22:48:58Z

MacNeal Hospital is looking to hire a full-time charge nurse to fill a vacancy in its emergency department.

The successful candidate will work a night shift. The charge nurse provides for the clinical and administrative leadership in the care of patients on a clinical unit for the time defined by the deptartment director.

The charge nurse is responsible for patient care, staff management and development, and the environment of the unit for the defined time period. This position is also responsible for assuming daily accountability and interacts closely with the department coordinator.

Qualifications include a current licensure as a professional nurse in Illinois and a minimum of one to two years' clinical experience. Bachelor's degree in nursing is preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.macneal.com/About/careers/jobOpenings.aspx.

Loretto looking to hire RNs

2009-11-04T15:36:52Z

Loretto Hospital is looking to fill multiple registered nurse vacancies in the following departments: Behavioral Health, Med/Surg, In-House Registry, CCU and Telemetry.

These positions range from full- to part-time, flex and temporary -- with all shifts required, including weekends.

Duties include providing professional nursing care to adult patients (age 15 and older) through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation and evaluation; and effectively interacting with patients, guests and other health team members, while maintaining standards of professional nursing.

The successful candidate will be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing, have one year experience in the pertinent clinical specialty, and hold current state nurse licensure and CPR certification.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.lorettohospital.org/employ.htm#Registered%20Nurse.

Central DuPage Hospital Recognized for Nursing Care

2009-11-03T22:16:41Z

U.S. News & World Report recently announced online that Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) has been listed as one of its top 17 hospitals in the nation for both nursing care and patient satisfaction.

To determine the top hospitals nationwide, U.S. News evaluates the quality of care in nearly 5,000 U.S. hospitals. The resulting list of 174 America’s Best Hospitals were named by U.S. News earlier this year. The publication then ranked the top 10 percent of the finalist hospitals by evaluating patient survey results. Both lists are posted online at www.usnews.com. CDH is the only Chicago-area hospital to be ranked on both lists.

CDH has been named to U.S. News’ America’s Best Hospitals in orthopaedics since 2007 and has also been recognized nationally as a Thomson-Reuters 100 Top Hospital for the past three years.

“We honestly don’t strive to win awards,” says CDH President and CEO Luke McGuinness. “We commit ourselves to excellent patient care and the awards follow.”

Chief Nursing Officer Deb O’Donnell, RN, shares CDH’s formula for success: “We committed to focus on creating a distinctive patient experience as an organization several years ago. With healthcare reform politics dominating the news, we must not forget the most important factor – the relationship between a patient and a caregiver. That’s why this recognition is a great tribute to each employee’s commitment and dedication—because the award is coming directly from our patients.”

In the survey CDH was among the top of America’s Best Hospitals in the percentage of patients who felt nurses were “always courteous, listened carefully and gave clear explanations.” Similarly, CDH was among the top percent of patients who rated their overall care a 9 or 10 (10=highest, 0=lowest).

This is the first year that U.S. News has combined the ranking of clinical performance and advanced services that characterizes its Best Hospitals list with patient satisfaction as measured by the HCAHPS survey sponsored by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. The HCAHPS survey contains patient perspectives on care and ratings on eight key topics: communication with doctors, communication with nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, communication about medicines, discharge information, cleanliness of the hospital environment and quietness of the hospital environment.

Holy Cross seeks RN

2009-11-03T15:52:38Z

Holy Cross Hospital is looking to fill a registered nurse vacancy in its mobile team department.

The successful candidate will work varying registry shifts with nights and weekends.

Requirements include current Illinois licensure as a professional nurse with 1 year nursing experience in hospital or rehab center, CPR certification, and 1-2 years in an acute care hospital setting as surgical RN. Previous work as a surgical tech is an asset.

For more information or to apply, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

Chicago Kindred seeks CNA

2009-11-02T22:50:06Z

Chicago Central Hospital is currently seeking a certified nursing assistant for a day-shift opening.

The successful candidate will assist nursing staff with patients' personal care, emotional support, and activities of daily living.

More complex duties performed under supervision of professional nursing personnel may be assigned at anytime.

Qualifications include completion of an accredited CNA course and a minimum of six months' experience in an acute-care or LTC facility. BCLS certification and CNA are preferred

To learn more about this job or to apply visit: https://kindred.taleo.net/careersection/e/jobdetail.ftl.

Skokie looking to hire CNA

2009-10-30T15:06:56Z

Skokie Hospital is looking to hire a certified nursing assistant for its surgical telemetry unit.

This position is part-time and reports directly to the registered nurse (RN).

The Patient Care Technician (PCT) works under the supervision of the registered nurse to deliver direct patient care, assists with the implementation of the patient-specific plan of care, and performs other duties essential to unit functioning.

Qualifications include high school diploma or equivalent, completion of an approved certified nursing assistant training program, current CPR certification, and good standing on the IDPH Nurse Aide Registry. PCT/CNA experience within a hospital setting is preferred.

For more information or to apply, visit http://www.northshore.org/careers/default.aspx?id=391.

Holy Cross seeks RN

2009-10-29T22:15:57Z

Holy Cross Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its emergency department.

The successful candidate will work a full-time night shift registry.

Requirements for this job include current Illinois licensure as a professional nurse, CPR and ACLS certification, and one year of previous nursing experience, preferably in ER setting.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Metoda Posega, RN, of Family Home Health Services, Inc.

2009-10-28T15:41:07Z

Metoda Posega, RN, Hospice/Admissions,inspires her colleagues each and every day with her knowledge, commitment and compassion. Family Home Health Services describes Posega as the epitome of a great employee and a superb hospice nurse. Her attention to detail is unmatched as is her ownership of her work and focus on doing the right thing for the patient and family.

Over $800,000 Raised for the Northwestern Brain Tumor Institute

2009-10-28T14:55:17Z

Last month, a sold out crowd of 600 supporters, clinicians, research scientists and those personally affected by brain cancer gathered to celebrate the official launch of the Northwestern Brain Tumor Institute. Bonnie Hunt, a former oncology nurse turned actress and talk show host emceed the fundraiser, which raised over $800,000. Palmer House provided a beautiful setting for the celebration and the hotel generously underwrote the event, which was co-chaired by Mary C. Dempsey and George McCarthy. The evening honored individuals touched by brain and spinal tumors and highlighted the capabilities of the new Institute.

“We are extremely appreciative of the support we’ve received from the Chicagoland community, and the event exceeded our expectations,” commented James Chandler, MD, surgical director of neuro-oncology, co-director of the Brain Tumor Institute and associate professor of neurological surgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

The funds raised will be used to support basic research programs and clinical research initiatives such as underfunded clinical trials, among other programs to expand and enhance patient care.

“The event brings attention to the great need that exists to further advance the research and treatment options available to patients,” said Jeffrey Raizer, MD, director of medical neuro-oncology, co-director of the Brain Tumor Institute and associate professor of neurology at the Feinberg School of Medicine.

The crowd was entertained throughout the evening by music from Chicago band the Gentlemen of Leisure. In addition, Emmy-nominated producer and director Joanna Rudnick of Kartemquin Films debuted a short documentary featuring the Institute’s clinical strengths, and profiled several patients who are courageously battling brain cancer. Bidders also competed for top-tier prizes in the live auction, which included packages such as skyboxes for the Chicago Cubs, Blackhawks and White Sox games, dinner for six cooked by chef Art Smith and a trip to Los Angeles for a taping of the “Bonnie Hunt Show.”

Lakeshore looking for RN

2009-10-28T00:12:45Z

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital is currently looking to hire an experienced registered nurse.

The successful candidate will be responsible for management of inquiry/crisis calls, clinical and medical assessment, and legally/clinically appropriate admissions for the hospital.

The RN will coordinate the admission process with all units/departments and provide accurate patient information to hospital staff, as well as coordinate transfers to and from other facilities. The RN will also oversee the provision of social service intervention, coordination, assessment and referral to patients and families, as well as participate in referral activities and staff training as directed.

This position is a full-time evening shift with weekend rotations.

All qualified RNs should fax cover letters and resumes to 773-769-1821, or email to keana.washington@chicagolakeshorehospital.com.

For more information about this position or to apply, visit http://www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com/careers/opportunities.php.

Children’s Memorial seeks experienced RN

2009-10-28T19:43:53Z

Children’s Memorial Hospital is seeking an experienced registered nurse for its neurology and endocrinology department.

The successful candidate will work a full-time night shift.

This position requires the candidate to perform responsibilities in five areas of nursing practice: clinician, teacher, researcher, leadership and professional development. He/she will understand and integrate into the delivery of patient care the needs of neonatal, pediatric and adolescent patients in regards to their growth and development process.

The position actively supports the hospital’s and department’s continuous quality improvement and customer service goals, individually and as an effective team member.

Clinician duties include assessment of documents, planning care, and documenting goals appropriate for child and family.

Requirements for this position include graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing, current licensure as a registered nurse in the State of Illinois, and CPR certification.

For more information about this job, visit https://secure.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=4216.

Skokie seeks ambulatory surgery RN

2009-10-26T20:46:39Z

Skokie Hospital is seeking a Staff Nurse to join their Ambulatory Surgery department.

This part-time position involves providing safe, effective, and compassionate nursing care for all patients on a specific unit. The RN will plan, implement, and evaluate the patient plan of care including the patient's family as appropriate.

The RN assumes responsibility, accountability, and authority for outcomes of nursing care, making decisions based on their therapeutic relationship with the patient.

Rn also communicates and collaborates with nurses, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team to ensure optimal patient outcomes and continuity of care.

Candidates must be graduates of a NLN accredited school of nursing, and have current professional Nursing Licensure in the State of Illinois, and current CPR certification. Strong computer skills and RN experience in critical care or ASU unit is highly preferred. ACLS certification and bachelors in Nursing is also preferred.

To learn more or apply, contact: Human Resources, 9600 Gross Point Road, Skokie, IL 60076. Telephone: Human Resources 847.933.6075. Or visit http://www.northshore.org/careers/nursing/.

Specialty Spotlight: Emergency Nursing

2009-10-23T19:10:51Z

Cheryl Vinikoor, RN, BSN, CEN, the immediate past president of the Illinois Emergency Nurses Association, has spent almost 10 years actively involved with the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA). In Part 2 of our interview with Vinikoor, she offers a look at what the ENA is doing to advance emergency nursing.

Chicago Nursing Today: What are some of the initiatives that the Illinois ENA is focusing on now?

CV: In Illinois one of the biggest things we need to be doing is providing emergency nurses with continuing education. Also, trauma, pediatric care and injury prevention are always very high priorities.

CNT: What are some things the Illinois ENA does to offer continuing education for emergency nurses?

CV: We meet quarterly, and at each meeting we have a one-hour education program. We provide continuing education credit for that hour so they can always get four hours [a year] that way. We have had wonderful lectures.

We do a lot of licensure needed through the state. We probably have more competencies expected in a short period of time then a lot of other types of nursing. There is huge body of knowledge [required in emergency nursing]. It takes a couple years to be experienced.

CNT: What is the relationships between the national ENA and the Illinois ENA?

CV: [The Illinois ENA] helps the flow of information down from the national organization. We certainly need to be supporting the initiatives on the national level. We get a lot of guidance from the national level. The national level decision making comes from a general assembly that meets annually. We meet and vote on proposals and discuss different things that we want to be working on. We have representatives from each state representing their membership to the national organization in the general assembly. Whether it is psych care, trauma services, helmet laws and all kinds of things like that, it starts at the national level and then trickle down to the states.

CNT: How does the national ENA help nurses stay up-to-date on issues affecting emergency nursing?

CV: The national organization has a watchdog group that sends us emails immediately and says this is a hot topic. For instance, if there are budget cuts that could affect the poison center in the state of Illinois, [the watchdog group] provides the link so we can contact our congressman or governor. It helps keep us in the know. That way we know what the agendas are today, so we can have a voice.

ENA is hoping to have 40,000 emergency nurses by next year, which is the 40^th anniversary of the Emergency Nurses Association. We are close to that number. That is a huge number of nurses in this country, but it is kind of a drop in the bucket with the number of nurses out there. But at 40,000 strong we should be able to make a difference.

Saint Joseph Hospital Hosts Fourth Annual Nursing Research Day

2009-10-23T19:00:57Z

This fall, Saint Joseph Hospital hosted the fourth annual Resurrection Health Care System Nursing Research Day, “Riding the Wave of Excellence.”

More than 100 nurses from across Resurrection Health Care came together to share research and quality improvement proposals, network and explore resources available throughout the System. Thirty-nine abstracts displayed in cycles on three screens in the hospital’s Boikan Conference Center. Topics ranged from falls prevention to pressure ulcers to safe medication administration.

Nurses presented the following projects to the group:

“Cost and Infant Health Outcomes Associated with Mandatory MRSA Screening in a Special Care Nursery” by Michelle Djonlich, RNC, and Cathy Jang, RNC, Saint Joseph Hospital
“A Case Controlled Study of Continuous Nerve Block Therapy Post Total Knee Arthroplasty and Open Shoulder Surgical Procedures” by Karenirene Thomas, RN, CPAN, and Barbara Barrett, RN, BSN, CMSRN, Saint Francis Hospital
“Determining Staff Nurse Readiness for Shared Governance Using the Index of Professional Nursing Governance (IPNG)” by Frank Schneider, RN, MSN, CCRN, NE, Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center
“Nurses Go Miles for Patient Care” by Ingar James, MSN, RN, and Linda Heffernan, JD, MSN, RN, West Suburban Medical Center
“Rounding Protocols to Increase Anticipation of Patient Needs and Improve Staff Responsiveness” by Arlene R. Caselli, RN, BSN, Our of the Resurrection Medical Center

“The event generated excitement and inspired nurses to pursue research and quality improvement projects in a whole new light, knowing they could make a difference in how nursing care is delivered,” says Adriana Rumoro, RN, magnet and nursing quality coordinator. “Nursing Research Day is an example of how Resurrection nurses are changing clinical practice in order to improve patient care and outcomes.”

Roseland looking to hire RNs

2009-10-23T15:00:15Z

Roseland Community Hospital is looking to fill multiple registered nurse vacancies in the following departments: Emergency, Telemetry, ICU and Medical Stabilization.

Candidates for the positions must have an RN license, 2-5 years' clinical experience, and the ability to communicate and collaborate with other disciplines and physicians.

All positions vary from full- to part-time.

To apply for this job, send a resume to: Roseland Community Hospital, Human Resources, 45 West 111th Street, Chicago, IL 60628-4294. Fax to 773-995-7413. To access the hospital’s website, visit http://www.roselandhospital.org.

Rehab Institute seeks RN

2009-10-22T22:10:55Z

The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago is currently seeking a full-time registered nurse.

This position will perform individualized and age-specific nursing assessment of assigned patients, using advanced assessment skills and other medical data to formulate nursing diagnoses, as well as develop individualized care plans and coordinate comprehensive nursing care.

The RN instructs patients and significant others in care provided, disease and/or illness, expected outcomes and home care.

The RN also reviews, evaluates and makes recommendations regarding Institute policies and procedures related to patient care; and participates in other professional activities such as in-services and continuing education programs.

Candidates for this position must be graduates of an approved program of professional nursing, hold current state licensure, and have current CPR certification.

To learn more or apply, contact: Human Resources, 345 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Telephone: 312-238-6290. Fax: 312-238-1263. TDD# 312-238-4677. Or visit http://www.ric.org/jobs/details.aspx?JobID=791.

Mount Sinai seeks staff nurse

2009-10-21T15:55:34Z

Mount Sinai Hospital is currently seeking an experienced staff nurse for its critical care unit.

The position is full-time with a night shift schedule.

According to the hospital, nursing care is individualized to meet a particular patient’s unique needs and situation, with special consideration of the patient’s culture, ethnicity, age and abilities. The nurse acts in a professional manner as outlined by Mount Sinai Hospital’s core values of customer service, thereby being respectful of the patient’s and family’s goals and preferences in developing and implementing a plan of care.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current licensure as a registered professional nurse in the state of Illinois, and current CPR and ACLS certification. Minimum one year of nursing experience in critical care strongly preferred

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.sinai.org/careers/career_detail.asp?job_id=6.

Applications for the Dunham Nursing Scholarship Program Now Available

2009-10-21T15:30:12Z

The Dunham Nursing Scholarship Program is now accepting applications. The scholarships are made possible with several community healthcare and education partners as the result of a $750,000 grant from The Dunham Fund.

The grant represents an innovative project effort of community partners that include: Alden of Waterford, Aurora University, Dreyer Medical Clinic, Kane County Health Department, Provena Mercy Medical Center, Rush-Copley Foundation, Rush-Copley Medical Center, VNA of Fox Valley and Waubonsee Community College.

Over the next two years, 121 merit-based scholarships will be awarded to highly motivated students and nurses whose primary residence or place of employment is in the greater Aurora area to pursue and achieve their academic and professional goals in healthcare. The Dunham Nursing Scholarship Program provides two-year scholarships to qualified individuals pursuing an associate degree in nursing, a baccalaureate in nursing or a graduate degree in nursing at Waubonsee Community College or Aurora University.

Some of the eligibility requirements for applicants include:
* Must be a resident of Aurora as defined by The Dunham Fund for at least one year prior to application, and be a citizen or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States; or employed at an Aurora area employer as defined by the Dunham Fund for a period of one year prior to the scholarship application in a full-time or part-time position.
* Must be enrolled in, accepted, or eligible for admission to either the nursing program at Aurora University or Waubonsee Community College.
* Willing to participate in a Dunham Scholars volunteer healthcare project that benefits the greater Aurora area community during the two-year scholarship program.

Applicants must submit a completed, signed and dated application form postmarked by November 20, 2009.

Waubonsee Community College and Aurora University each have a predetermined number of scholarships that will be awarded for an associate degree in nursing, a baccalaureate degree in nursing and a graduate degree in nursing. Distribution of the Dunham Nursing Scholarship Program Awards for the 2009–2010 Academic Year will be as follows:
* 20 Dunham Nursing Scholarships will be awarded to eligible students seeking an associate degree in nursing from Waubonsee Community College.
* 11 Dunham Nursing Scholarships will be awarded to eligible students seeking a baccalaureate degree in nursing from Aurora University.
* 20 Dunham Nursing Scholarships will be awarded to eligible Registered Nurses seeking a baccalaureate degree in nursing from Aurora University.
* 11 Dunham Nursing Scholarships will be awarded to eligible students seeking a graduate degree in nursing from Aurora University.

For additional information about The Dunham Nursing Scholarship Program or an application, visit rushcopley.com/dunhamfund.

MacNeal to hire RN

2009-10-21T15:36:42Z

MacNeal Hospital is looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its diagnostic cardiology department.

The successful candidate will work a part-time day shift.

The Cardiovascular RN works collaboratively with the nursing staff, patients, family members and physicians to attain the highest quality and best possible outcomes for inpatient and outpatient care in a cost-effective manner.

This position requires a BSN and MSN. Cardiology, Telemetry or Critical Care experience is required, as is clinical experience in program development and education in this specialty of care.

Current licensure in the State of Illinois as a Registered Nurse is also required. Spanish speaking and cardiovascular nurse certification are highly preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.macneal.com/About/careers/jobOpenings.aspx.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Mila Rolle, RN, MSN, CCRN, of Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center

2009-10-20T15:22:59Z

Mila Rolle, RN, MSN, CCRN, says she “welcomes the challenges” associated with advancing the nursing profession. As a critical care certified (CCRN) nurse manager of two medical-surgical/orthopaedic/oncology units at Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, Rolle not only is responsible for her units’ patient care but she also oversees the hospital’s Nursing Levels of Practice Program aimed at transforming novice nurses to experts.

As a mentor, teacher and coach, Rolle has a passion to advance nurses’ clinical competencies and the leadership skills that ultimately lead to patients receiving enhanced quality of care.

Weiss seeks staff nurse

2009-10-19T20:26:22Z

Weiss Memorial Hospital is currently seeking a clinical staff nurse for its physicians clinic.

The position is full-time with a day shift.

The successful candidate will effectively deliver patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation.

Candidate must be a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse with current Illinois license and CPR certification and have demonstrated organization and time management skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks. BSN and one year of experience in ambulatory setting or primary care preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.weisshospital.com/.

Glenbrook looking to hire staff nurse

2009-10-16T16:17:44Z

Glenbrook Hospital is looking to hire an experienced staff nurse for its nursing resource team.

This position requires a work commitment of three or more days per week for $44.00 per hour, plus shift differential. This is a non-benefited position.

Successful candidate will be required to work a Friday night shift, as well as different days of the week and on weekends.

The staff nurse will employ the “NorthShore Nursing Process” in the delivery of patient care, develop patient/family teaching plans, utilize Epic (Glenbrook’s electronic medical records system) to document patient care, and serve as a guide for assigned nursing personnel.

Requirements include a minimum of 1 year of current experience in the clinical division of choice and urrent CPR certification. Bachelor's degree in nursing and computer proficient telemetry experience preferred

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.northshore.org/aboutus/default.aspx?id=4594.

Specialty Spotlight: Emergency Nursing

2009-10-16T14:58:31Z

The fourth installment of our Specialty Spotlight on emergency department nursing shines on Cheryl Vinikoor, RN, BSN, CEN, a clinical educator in Highland Park Hospital's emergency department and the immediate past president of the Illinois Emergency Nurses Association (ENA).

After earning a degree in animal science, with plans to become a veterinarian, a twist of fate propelled Cheryl Vinikoor, RN, BSN, CEN, in a new direction. At age 21, Vinikoor was hospitalized and can still remember the nurse who sat with her during a most vulnerable time. After that, something clicked—and she headed back to nursing school a short time later.

Vinikoor started her career in pediatrics and oncology and then moved into a supervisory position in an acute care hospital. During that time, she was often called down to the emergency room to lend a hand. “I became a huge ER wannabe,” remembers Vinikoor. “That was 25 years ago, and still for many years after that, there was no way you were going to get into the ER or any specialty area without experience. I knew it was going to be difficult, but I was down there saying, ‘Show me, let me do whatever.’”

When her supervisory position got eliminated, Vinikoor jumped at the chance to fill an opening in the emergency department. That was 25 years ago, and she has never looked back since.

Nurses in the emergency department enjoy a unique combination of collaboration and autonomy. “The ER is such a collaborative practice that if you don’t initiate things you are holding things up; a nurse cannot wait,” says Vinikoor.

The patient interaction in the emergency department is a big draw for many nurses. They are able to make strong connections in such a short period of time when patients are in the most need. “I love the feeling that I get in the five minutes of talking to someone, putting in their line, pulling up the blanket and making the call,” said Vinikoor. “They feel pretty comfortable, they trust us and they feel better. In the ER you can make people feel better pretty quickly. That is a wonderful thing.”

Of course, like any area of nursing, there are plenty of challenges facing emergency nursing today. One such challenge is that hospitals are busier and more crowded, which often affects the emergency department. “They talk about ED overcrowding, but it is really hospital crowding,” says Vinikoor. “We don’t have anywhere to put the patients once they get here, so that jams up the ED.”

Additionally, with many hospitals facing hiring freezes, emergency department are feeling the stress. “A lot of hospitals have closed and a lot of ERs have closed or are threatening to close. That all puts a stress on staff in the hospital,” says Vinikoor.

Vinikoor believes that more assertive nurses often thrive in this kind of fast-paced, often stressful environment. “You have to be able to multitask, and you need a lot of on-your-feet energy,” she says. “You also need to be willing to really study and keep up on things. There is a lot of education required of emergency nurses.”

Check back next week for a follow-up Q&A with Vinikoor discussing the ENA’s goals and initiatives to continue to boost emergency nursing.

St. Joseph seeks staff nurse

2009-10-15T20:09:44Z

Saint Joseph Hospital is looking to hire an experienced staff nurse to fill a vacancy in their Diamond Headache Unit.

This position requires a registry schedule with a day and evening shift.

The staff nurse is a registered professional who integrates theoretical knowledge of highly complex patients, facilitates patient care activities (including revision of direct patient care), and collaborates with multidisciplinary team members to achieve quality patient-driven outcomes.

Qualifications include graduation from a School of Nursing, current licensure by the Illinois State Board of Nursing, and CPR certification. Certification in clinical specialty and 1-2 years' experience preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://smemc.reshealth.org/sub_smemc/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Andrea Guzman, RN, of Provena Home Care

2009-10-15T15:32:25Z

Andrea Guzman, RN, has been a home care nurse for eight years. In addition to her strong clinical, teaching and assessment skills, she understands cultural perspectives and accurately identifies problems.

Specifically, when patients have language barriers, communication can be challenging. Often, patients withhold important information because they do not feel confident that they will be understood. Guzman takes the initiative to link communication gaps with physicians and other team members to reach successful outcomes. With her contagious smile and empathetic nature, patients know she is on their side—her secret to powerful healing.

St. Andrew seeks LPN

2009-10-14T23:10:25Z

Saint Andrew Life Center is seeking a licensed practical nurse for a full-time position.

The successful candidate will work a rotating shift.

The licensed professional nurse (LPN) practices within the scope of the Illinois Nurse Practice Act to ensure the delivery of comprehensive, high quality, individualized nursing care, based upon knowledge and experience of the nursing process and leadership skills. The LPN coordinates family involvement in the treatment and continuing care of the patient, and ensures completion of patient care tasks by appropriate caregivers

Requirements include an associate's degree or equivalent, current Illinois Licensed Practical Nurse license, and CPR certification.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://sjh.reshealth.org/sub_sjh/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Hinsdale looking to hire RN

2009-10-13T21:40:29Z

Adventist Hinsdale Hospital is looking to hire a registered nurse for its interventional radiology department.

The position is full-time, with an on-call weekend rotation.

Qualifications for this job include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current Illinois RN license, 2–4 years’ clinical nurse experience required, and CPR certification. ACLS/PALS certification required in specialty care units. Organizational skills and ability to prioritize, as well as computer illiterate and supervisory skills, are preferred.

For more information about this job to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Adventist seeks charge nurse

2009-10-13T16:47:50Z

Adventist Midwest Health is seeking a full-time charge nurse for its Institute for Behavioral Medicine facility.

The successful candidate will work an evening shift.

According to the hospital, this position coordinates delivery of patient care, monitors plan of care, and performs specific personnel management functions for an assigned unit as delegated by manager, as well as working under general supervision.

Qualifications include graduation from an accredited school of nursing (with continuing education in management/leadership preferred), current Illinois RN licensure, and a minimum of 4 full-time equivalent years in nursing in an acute care setting (inclusive of 1 year in specialty field). One year of leadership experience is preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Alexian seeks CNA

2009-10-09T15:42:32Z

Alexian Brothers Medical Center is currently seeking an experienced certified nursing assistant for its telemetry department.

The position is part-time.

The successful candidate must be a certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technician, or nursing student who has completed one semester of medical/surgical nursing.

Other requirements include good communication and interpersonal skills, flexibility in meeting staffing requirements, and the ability to perform the essential functions of the job and to meet its functional and environmental requirements.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.alexianbrothershealth.org/jobs/index.aspx.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Magan Schwartz, RN, BSN, of Central DuPage Hospital

2009-10-09T14:33:54Z

Magan Schwartz, BSN is a compassionate and clinically excellent medical oncology nurse. Her critical thinking skills are exceptional allowing her to advocate for the patient while building a strong partnership with the physician.

She is a leader for multiple house-wide committees and has been instrumental in helping the staff on her unit learn and use evidence based practice. Schwartz is never too busy to listen to and support a patient, a family member or a colleague, and her patients always feel they are her most important.

Schwartz is also both a preceptor and mentor for new and tenured staff, guiding her peers through difficult situations with compassion and humor. She sets high standards for herself and works tirelessly to achieve her goals. She has participated in Relay for Life for many years and often has captained the team. Her manager feels lucky to have a nurse her caliber working at Central DuPage Hospital.

Adventist Bolingbrook’s Annual Motorcycle Run

2009-10-09T14:08:31Z

More than $2,400 was raised for the Bolingbrook Hospital Foundation’s nursing scholarship during the annual “Nurses for Tomorrow” Bike Run sponsored by Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital on September 27^th. This was the third annual bike run, which brought together hospital employees, nurses and community members.

The annual bike run was started by Adventist Bolingbrook’s chief nursing officer, Kathy Mitchell, who is a motorcycle enthusiast. She, along with other nurses and hospital employees, enjoy riding, so Mitchell thought it would be a fun fundraiser for the nursing scholarship. This year’s 45-mile ride departed from the hospital, and ended at Fat Daddy’z in Seneca. Forty-four people rode 35 bikes.

The foundation’s nursing scholarship is awarded to high school seniors in the community who are headed to nursing school. The applicants are reviewed by the Bolingbrook Hospital Foundation, and scholarships are awarded based on scholastic achievement, community involvement and a personal essay.

Derek Cazeau, executive director of the Bolingbrook Hospital Foundation, expressed his appreciation to the bike run participants, saying, “Future nurses will benefit from the generosity demonstrated by our community through this event.”

Abraham Lincoln to hire experienced RN

2009-10-08T21:58:32Z

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital is looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its anesthesia department.

The position is per diem with a flexible shift.

The hours are every other week: Friday, take call for Saturday and Sunday and work the following Monday. An additional 10 weeks of full-time hours are available during the year.

Requirements for this position include an active Illinois license and experience in regional anesthesia, central lines, and arterial lines with OB anesthesia.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit https://www.memorialmedical.com/CareerCenter/.

Resurrection Life seeks CNA

2009-10-07T15:58:53Z

Resurrection Life Center is looking to hire an experienced certified nursing assistant for its nursing department.

The position is part-time with a day/evening rotation.

The successful candidate will be asked to assist professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

In order to be considered for this job, applicant must possess a high school diploma, have graduated from a certified nursing program, and hold CPR certification.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Silver Cross Hospital Employees Awarded Scholarships

2009-10-07T15:06:33Z

The Silver Cross Foundation recently awarded six scholarships to hospital employees to help further their education. “Silver Cross is pleased to provide assistance to our motivated employees for continuing their education,” says Paul Pawlak, President/CEO of Silver Cross Hospital. The scholarships and recipients are as follows:

Frances M. Thomas Nursing Scholarship
Christine (Chrissy) Arambasich is the recipient of a $1,000 Frances M. Thomas Nursing Scholarship. In memoriam, the Silver Cross Emergency Department started a scholarship in 1991 to assist those entering the nursing profession. The scholarship is named for former Silver Cross Emergency Department Registered Nurse Frances Thomas and is awarded to assist with tuition and expenses.

Arambasich has been with Silver Cross for five years and currently serves as a unit clerk/CNA/OB tech in the obstetrics department. She is currently pursuing her degree to become an RN.

Dorris Hubbs RN Silver Cross School of Nursing Alumnae Association Scholarship
The Dorris Hubbs scholarship was awarded to Nicole Banda. She has been with Silver Cross for nine years as a technician/SNA in the sterile processing/endoscopy department. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Nursing Degree from Joliet Junior College.

As the hospital’s newest scholarship, this $1,000 scholarship was created in 2003 by the Silver Cross Nursing Alumnae Association to commemorate its centennial anniversary and support individuals interested in a career in nursing. The scholarship is awarded annually to a Silver Cross employee accepted to or currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate registered nursing program or nursing certificate program.

Physician’s Legacy Scholarship
LuAnn Nurczyk, RN, Kathleen Young, RN, and Kathleen McCarthy, are the 2009 recipients of $600 Physician’s Legacy Scholarships. This scholarship has deep roots intertwined through the history of the organization. The Physician Legacy Grant transitioned from the previously known Medical Staff Grant with the wakening death of a former loved physician, Dr. Mushaq Khan. The name “Physician Legacy Scholarship” was named due to the Medical Executive Board’s desire to acknowledge the physician’s legacy of service and commitment to Silver Cross.

Nurczyk has been with Silver Cross for 20 years and is the manager of respiratory care. Young has been with Silver Cross for 23 years and is the shift coordinator/RN for the obstetrics unit. McCarthy has been with Silver Cross for 20 years serving as a unit assistant /CADC in the behavioral health department.

Keyton H. Nixon Scholarship
Karen Feigl is the 2009 recipient of the $1,000 Keyton H. Nixon Scholarship. This scholarship, named after former Silver Cross President Keyton Nixon, is awarded annually to a Silver Cross employee who is pursuing graduate studies in healthcare.

Feigl has been with Silver Cross for 19 years serving as a data abstractor for business intelligence. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Xavier University and has begun pursuing a Masters Degree in Health Infomatics from the University of Illinois Chicago.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Jan Dragland, RN, of Saint Joseph Hospital

2009-10-07T14:29:53Z

Jan Dragland, RN, coordinator of quality improvement, is truly passionate about improving patient outcomes. She is the “face” of quality at the hospital, yet, she accomplishes all of this behind the scenes.

She is always asking how and why, and inspires others to make positive changes. There is nothing Dragland will not do to ensure that quality initiatives are addressed. Recently, she helped lead the charge for the hospital in the system’s process to achieve accreditation as a chest pain center.

Maryhaven seeks CNA

2009-10-06T14:45:59Z

Maryhaven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is currently seeking an experienced certified nursing assistant to work a part-time evening shift.

The successful candidate will be asked to assist professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

Requirements include high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a certified nursing program, and CPR and state certification.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Sinai seeks staff nurse

2009-10-05T22:21:35Z

Mount Sinai Hospital is currently seeking a full-time staff nurse to work evenings in its surgery department.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current licensure as a registered professional nurse in the state of Illinois, and current CPR and ACLS certification. Previous experience in surgical nurse work is strongly preferred.

For more information about this job, send an e-mail to dacm@sinai.org or visit http://www.sinai.org/careers/career_detail.asp?job_id=141.

Silver Cross looking to hire RN

2009-10-02T15:42:08Z

Silver Cross Hospital is looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its medical/oncology department.

This is a part-time position only, with an 11pm-7am schedule.

The successful candidate must be able to build and maintain good communications and working relationships with patients, families, physicians and staff.

The RN will be responsible for performing physical assessments to determine symptoms, collaborating with an Advance Practice Nurse, aproviding direct bedside care, and implementing care. Other duties may be performed per assignment.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit http://www.silvercross.org/db/HR/search.

Saint Joseph seeks RN

2009-10-01T20:42:54Z

Saint Joseph Medical Center is seeking a registered nurse (RN) for its SICU department.

The position is full-time, with a 7am-7pm shift.

Current Illinois Registered Nurse license and CPR certification are required. Previous ICU experience is preferred.

This is a zero-hour registry position, working as needed in the department.

The RN will be responsible for performing physical assessments to determine symptoms, collaborating with an Advance Practice Nurse, providing direct bedside care, and implementing care, medication regimens and care plans in every setting.

For more information about this job, visit http://provena.jobscience.com/JsrApp/index.cfm?prodApp=cc153c84-af0b-4f17-a32a-75aec3b65159.

Our Lady to hire CNA

2009-09-30T19:43:32Z

Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center is looking to hire an experienced certified nursing assistant (CNA) for its registry.

The successful candidate will work an evening rotation with at least 4 shifts per month, including at least 2 weekend shifts per month.

Working under the direction and supervision of a professional nurse, the CNA will perform various duties to assist the nursing staff in meeting patient treatment and care requirements. All duties are carried out in accordance with the established policies and procedures.

Requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, certification in Illinois as a Nursing Assistant, and BLS and CPR certification.

For more information about this job, visit http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/default.cfm.

ANA Awarded Funding to Boost Immunization Rates for Nurses and Public

2009-09-30T15:50:24Z

The American Nurses Association (ANA) has been awarded a two-year cooperative agreement with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to encourage nurses to be fully vaccinated and to help educate the public and promote the merits of immunization for the health of the entire nation.

This CDC funding is part of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and will support ANA’s commitment to increasing the knowledge and competency of nurses regarding immunization. Through print and electronic communications, ANA will deliver timely messages on the importance of immunization through its broad network of members, state nursing associations, affiliated specialty nursing organizations and healthcare partners.

The need for healthcare workers and the general public to get vaccinated is especially critical this fall because of the potential of a widespread pandemic outbreak of the 2009 novel H1N1 virus. This ANA national initiative will rally registered nurses to become “immunization champions” to improve vaccination rates (routine, seasonal and pandemic) in the general population. Healthcare workers can spread illness to their patients, especially influenza. They can also acquire illnesses as a consequence of their work in healthcare settings.

“Registered nurses can be leaders nationwide in setting the example for healthcare providers to get vaccinated and in alerting their patients and the general public about the importance of protecting themselves and their broader community from vaccine-preventable disease,” says ANA President Rebecca M. Patton, MSN, RN, CNOR.

“One of the RNs’ core responsibilities is to educate patients and communities about health risks and benefits,” Patton adds. “This CDC cooperative agreement will help us do that.”

Rush seeks LPN

2009-09-29T20:46:26Z

Rush University Medical Center is looking to hire an experienced geriatrics licensed practical nurse (LPN) for its Institute for Healthy Aging clinic.

The successful candidate will work 72-80 hours per week.

Duties include performing structured clinical evaluations, performing uniform neurological and physical examinations and other performance tests in participants' homes, obtaining and storing biological specimens, and
processing clinical tests.

The candidate must be a licensed practical nurse with a background in public health or home health. Previous experience in the conduct of structured evaluations and phlebotomy skills are also desired. This position requires valid and current CPR certification.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.jobsatrush.com/.

Advocate South Suburban Hospital Hosts Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Training

2009-09-29T19:47:39Z

Advocate South Suburban Hospital, in partnership with Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, is hosting a five-day training session for sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE). The training will take place at the hospital from Monday, November 9, to Friday, November 13, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

The SANE training is designed to educate registered nurses and physicians performing forensic medical examinations on victims of sexual assault. Proper evidence collection from a medical examination is key in prosecuting perpetrators in sexual assault cases. Healthcare providers who have contact with sexual assault victims are encouraged to attend. The training is also open to sexual assault service providers, law enforcement officers and prosecutors. Topics covered will include: the role of the SANE nurse; sexual assault examination; testimony techniques; crime victims compensation; Illinois State Police evidence collection kit; criminal trial procedures; Illinois sexual assault laws; Illinois State Police crime lab—DNA analysis; and sexual assault response team—the multidisciplinary approach.

Nurses with the SANE certification provide advantages to the sexual assault victim because one caregiver can provide care, gather forensic evidence, counsel and testify in court. The SANE certification is recognized by the Emergency Nurses Association, the American College of Emergency Physicians, the American Nurses Association, the International Association of Forensic Nurses and the United States Department of Justice.

Advocate South Suburban Hospital’s emergency department has SANE nurses available 24-hours a day. At Advocate South Suburban Hospital, sexual assault victims are immediately brought to a private room, away from the main emergency department.“How a victim is treated in the initial period following the assault can make a huge difference,” explains Nancy Healy, coordinator of the sexual assault treatment program at Advocate South Suburban Hospital. “It begins their healing process from that day forward. Not only is it emotionally more comforting for the patient, but it also saves evidence from being lost while he or she waits.”

For more information on the training, interested parties should call 866-376-7215. The registration form is accessible online at http://www.ag.state.il.us/victims/sane.html. To register, submit the form to Eileen Baumstark-Pratt, by email (SpecialEvents@atg.state.il.us) or fax (312-814-8344). Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. Participants should register by Wednesday, October 14. Registered nurses must complete a post-didactic clinical component independently prior to practicing as a SANE nurse.

Mt. Sinai seeks pediatrics nurse

2009-09-29T20:34:58Z

Mt. Sinai Hospital is currently seeking a staff nurse for its pediatric department.

The position is full-time with a 7am-7pm shift.

Requirements for this job include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current licensure as a registered professional nurse in the state of Illinois, current CPR and PALS certification, a minimum one year of PICU experience for the PICU unit and one year of RN experience for the Pediatrics unit.

To apply, email dacm@sinai.org or visit http://www.sinai.org/careers/careers.asp.

Nurse Profile: Mary Shilkaitis, RN, MS

2009-09-25T19:36:27Z

Chicago Nursing Today Editor Diana Mirel spoke with Mary Shilkaitis, RN, MS, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Rush-Copley Medical Center, to discuss her leadership vision and her outlook for nursing today.

Being promoted from within makes transitioning into a fast-paced, high-profile position a little less daunting. Just look at Mary Shilkaitis, RN, MS, the new Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Rush-Copley Medical Center. After serving as the Vice President of Clinical Services at Rush-Copley Medical for seven years, Shilkaitis didn’t skip a beat after being promoted to the top nursing position at the medical center. “I am very much in the know about the organization’s goals and the goals the board of directors has for our organization,” says Shilkaitis. “In keeping with that overriding strategy, I pull in the component for the patient care team.”

Here, in Part 1 of our interview Shilkaitis shares her goals and vision for her new role. Check back for Part 2 of the interview, where Shilkaitis discusses her views of nursing today.

Chicago Nursing Today: What are some of your goals as the new Chief Nursing Officer at Rush-Copley Medical Center?

Mary Shilkaitis: We have a very low turnover rate, which is a thing CNOs would like to brag about. Our vacancy rate is very low now; that is somewhat a reflection of the economic environment that we are living in right now. But, more than that, it is a result of the strong and rich culture that here. So my goals around that are to continue to elevate the level of practice for nursing. I want to elevate and improve the work environment so it sustains that strong employee engagement that we already have.

CNT: What is your nursing philosophy?

MS: As nurses we are the individuals that coordinate the patient’s experience. Our role as nurses and our commitment as nurses is to help individuals or populations of patients through the healthcare experience and journey. We do it with our knowledge base and training, and we do it with compassion. The medical model is kind of a curative approach, while the nursing model is a supportive approach.

CNT: What are some ways that you stay connected to the bedside?

MS: First and foremost is rounding. The Chief Medical Officer and I show up together in some respects as a united front. We’re there to help, and we’re there to interact with the staff and the patients. We make ourselves accessible and visible to the frontline. By doing that I also get my joy and passion filled by having some involvement in some of the patient care situations. That is a real pleasure.

CNT: What is your leadership style?

MS: I am a highly energetic leader. I want to bring out the voice of the staff. I think that is very critical. I am also open door. I don’t expect that I am going to know it all. I look to individuals who are closest to that expertise to bring forward their ideas and to help nurture and support them in their growth.

CNT: What advice do you have for other nurses looking to get into nursing leadership?

MS: If you love leadership and you love a fast-paced environment where new things happen every day, a Chief Nursing Officer role is the place for you. It allows you to be strategic and allows you to use your clinical skills because you have to stay current on the latest standards. It is a privilege to serve and know you are affecting both a broader base of both patients and staff to support them in their health journeys.

New CEO Takes Helm at Saint Joseph Hospital

2009-09-25T14:37:05Z

Roberta Luskin-Hawk, MD, is the new CEO of Saint Joseph Hospital. She also is one of only four female physicians to serve as a hospital CEO in Chicago and Illinois.

“Dr. Luskin-Hawk brings an excellent blend of business acumen and clinical knowledge to the table,” says Ronald E. Struxness, CEO of Saint Joseph Hospital for the last eight years, who left the hospital to take on additional responsibilities at the System level and will continue to serve as group vice president of Saint Francis Hospital, Saint Joseph Hospital, Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center, Westlake Hospital and West Suburban Medical Center. “She is passionate about the continued success of Saint Joseph and has a keen understanding of the healthcare environment, particularly as it relates to quality, service, finance and impending health care reform.”

Dr. Luskin-Hawk says, “I am looking forward to taking on the CEO role at Saint Joseph Hospital. While there are numerous challenges, my professional experience and clinical and business background have prepared me for the road ahead. Thanks to the strengths of a seasoned management team, dedicated medical staff and committed group of healthcare workers, I am confident we will take Saint Joseph to even higher levels of growth, service and clinical distinction.”

Dr. Luskin-Hawk founded Lakeshore Infectious Disease Associates, and has operated the practice and worked closely with patients for 24 years while serving on the hospital’s medical staff since 1985. During her tenure, she has served as chief, Section of Infectious Diseases; director, Graduate Medical Education; and chairperson, Department of Medicine. She led System initiatives that included co-chairing the 2008 Strategic Planning Steering Committee, and serving as physician leader for several Information Systems initiatives.

Dr. Luskin-Hawk co-founded one of Chicago’s first inpatient HIV Units at Saint Joseph in 1987, which has served thousands of patients from Chicago and its suburbs. As an AIDS/HIV advocate, she established in 1989 an independent, not-for-profit clinical research consortium in Chicago—AIDS Research Alliance Chicago (ARAC)—for which she served as principal investigator for 15 years. She secured more than $20 million from 1989–2009 in funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for an HIV clinical research program that provided underrepresented populations, such as women and African-Americans, with access to life-saving HIV drugs through clinical trials. She also developed a team of specialists at the hospital who provide patient-centered, state of the art care to patients with HIV infection.

She has been recognized for her commitment to the community by Howard Brown Health Center and the AIDS Alternative Health Project. In 1993, she was named to the NIH State of the Art Committee on Antiretroviral Therapy in Adults with HIV Infection. She also was recognized as one of the Castle Connolly Top Doctors, Chicago Metro Area.

Dr. Luskin-Hawk earned her bachelor of science in biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her doctor of medicine from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. She completed her Internal Medicine Residency, where she served as chief resident, at Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center, and completed her Infectious Disease Fellowship at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Loretto looking to fill RN vacancy

2009-09-25T14:26:10Z

Loretto Hospital is looking to fill a registered nurse vacancy in its Behavioral Health department.

The position ranges from part-time to full-time with weekend rotations.

The RN is responsible for providing professional nursing care to adult patients (age 15 and older) through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation and evaluation, as well as effectively interacting with patients, guests and other health team members, while maintaining standards of professional nursing.

The successful candidate will be a graduate from an accredited school of nursing with a minimum of one year's experience in pertinent clinical specialty.

Current Registered Nurse licensure in the State of Illinois and current certification in CPR are required.

For more information about this job, visit: http://www.lorettohospital.org/employ.htm.

Holy Cross looking for experienced RN

2009-09-24T17:58:49Z

Holy Cross Hospital is looking for an experienced registered nurse for its emergency room department.

The position is full-time and varies from night- to day-shift rotation.

Qualifications for this position include current Illinois licensure, CPR and ACLS certification, and one year of previous nursing experience, preferably in an ER setting.

The RN will be responsible for performing physical assessments to determine symptoms, collaborating with an Advance Practice Nurse, providing direct bedside care, and implementing care, medication regimens and care plans in every setting.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/career.html.

Northwestern Memorial HealthCare and Lake Forest Hospital Sign Affiliation Agreement

2009-09-23T19:36:40Z

Lake Forest Hospital and Northwestern Memorial HealthCare announced this week that they have signed an affiliation agreement to form an integrated healthcare system. Lake Forest Hospital will become a subsidiary of Northwestern Memorial HealthCare, the corporate parent of Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

“The pairing of our academic medical center with such a respected community hospital will greatly benefit our patients at both campuses.” says Dean M. Harrison, President and Chief Executive Officer, Northwestern Memorial HealthCare. “The affiliation between Northwestern Memorial and Lake Forest Hospital will enable better access to care, clinical trials, new and expanded services and the latest technologies for patients in Lake and Cook Counties and the surrounding regions.”

Northwestern Memorial, along with the Feinberg School of Medicine, also looks forward to the participation and engagement of the medical staff at Lake Forest Hospital as it create this new health system. “We value the community physicians at Lake Forest and recognize the important role they play in their respective communities,” adds Harrison.

“Once affiliated, Northwestern Memorial and Lake Forest Hospital will offer patients integrated primary, secondary and advanced tertiary services that are currently not broadly available,” says Thomas J. McAfee, Lake Forest Hospital’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited about the possibilities this affiliation will provide our area residents, employees and physicians.”

Northwestern Memorial and Lake Forest Hospital expect to close the affiliation following receipt of the necessary federal and state approvals. This process could take several months.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Rosa Navarro, RN-BC, BSN, of MacNeal Hospital

2009-09-23T19:24:46Z

Rosa Navarro, RN-BC, BSN, is a clinical coordinator at MacNeal Hospital who demonstrates dedication to the nursing profession. She performs leadership by modeling exceptional behaviors. She walks the talk.

Navarro regularly participates in community health promotions for MacNeal Hospital. She provides cholesterol screening, diabetic screening and education to the community as a volunteer nurse. She is bilingual and makes a significant impact in the care of the Hispanic population.

As the clinical coordinator for a pediatric-adult medical surgical unit, she still performs direct patient care. Rosa is committed to communicating the voice of today’s bedside nurse when representing her department. She shows leadership both at the bedside and in her administration role. She is a role model to the nursing profession.

Evanston looking to hire RN

2009-09-23T14:43:53Z

Evanston Hospital is looking to hire a registered nurse for its allergy office.

The successful candidate will work a part-time schedule.

Responsibilities include employing the NorthShore Nursing Process in the delivery of patient care, phone triaging, skin allergy testing, administering allergy shots and breathing tests, utilizing Epic (the hospital’s electronic medical records system) for day-to-day work flow, and serving as a guide for assigned medical assistant personnel.

The successful candidate must be able to build and maintain good communications and working relationships with patients, families, physicians and staff.

2-3 years' previous experience is required for this position. Bachelor's degree in nursing and allergy office and phone triage experience are preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.northshore.org/careers/default.aspx?id=391.

Adventist GlenOaks seeks charge nurse

2009-09-22T17:45:08Z

Adventist GlenOaks Hospital is seeking a charge nurse for its Institute for Behavioral Medicine department.

The position is full-time with an evening shift assignment.

The successful candidate will work under general supervision and be responsible for coordinating delivery of patient care and monitoring plan of care, and for specific personnel management functions for an assigned unit as delegated by the manager.

Qualifications include graduation from an accredited school of nursing with continuing education in management/leadership, current Illinois RN and CPR licensure, and 3-5 years work experience.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Centegra looking for RN

2009-09-21T15:32:15Z

Centegra Hospital is looking for an experienced registered nurse (RN) for its endoscopy department.

This position is a variable full-time schedule.

The RN II is a registered nurse who independently plans and implements routine nursing care in predictable situations using established standards. The RN II needs minimal supervision and is beginning to demonstrate leadership behaviors.

The successful candidate will also prescribe, delegate, and coordinate all nursing care for patients on assigned unit utilizing the nursing process, as well as seeks guidance during the planning and implementation phases when delivering care to the complex patient.

Requirements for the job include current Illinois license in good standing, ability to perform 95 percent of unit-specific skills and provide instruction to others on 80-90 percent of those skills, Willingness to work in a team environment, physical ability to perform functional requirements as detailed, and analytical skills necessary to gather and interpret routine data, maintain patient records, organize workflow, and prioritize patient needs.

The successful applicant must have completed 1000 hours of recent hospital experience in specialty or unit areas within the last 12 months or be able to demonstrate required competence.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit http://centegra.org/OPage.asp?PageID=OTH000228.

Edward Announces New Neurosciences Institute

2009-09-18T16:36:42Z

Edward Hospital recently announced that it has established the Edward Neurosciences Institute in affiliation with the Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation to bring the highest level of stroke care in the world to the west and southwest suburbs of Chicago.

The new Edward Neurosciences Institute will feature the most advanced drug therapies and interventional neurosurgery techniques to treat strokes, the third leading cause of death in the U.S., along with other neurological disorders.

To meet the needs of the patients who’ll be treated by the Neurosciences Institute, Edward has constructed a state-of-the-art neurointerventional suite featuring a biplane angiography system that provides dramatic image quality for physicians and, for patients, reduces their procedure time, radiation exposure and time under anesthesia.

“In the new biplane lab we can stop a stroke in its tracks and even reverse its effects,” says Jeffrey Miller, MD, Medical Director of the Edward Neurosciences Institute, member of the Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation and one of only 300 neurointerventionalists in the U.S. “In one minimally invasive procedure, we can maneuver a tiny catheter from an artery in the patient’s leg, past the heart and into the blood vessels in the far reaches of the brain, grab the clot and then remove it. We’ll also be able to effectively treat a wide variety of other neurological disorders including aneurysms and brain tumors.”

“Our Heart Hospital and stroke capabilities have always been superb,” says Pam Davis, Edward Hospital President and CEO. “This partnership builds on our expertise and means that patients in this region can get world class treatment close to home, close to their family and friends.”

The Joint Commission has designated Edward as a Stroke Center of Excellence and one of 17 Primary Stroke Centers in the Chicago area. In addition, Edward has been recognized by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s Get With the Guidelines^SMprogram for achievement in cardiac and stroke patient care.

Physicians of the Edward Neurosciences Institute will also treat the full range of neurological diseases, including aneurysms, brain tumors, intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD), arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and vascular trauma of the brain, neck and spine.

The bottom line, according to Dr. Miller: “There’s no neurological condition we can’t manage.”

“Edward has well established and well respected cardiovascular and neurology programs,” says H. Hunt Batjer, MD, FACS, a world-renowned neurosurgeon, now Program Director of the Edward Neurosciences Institute as well as Chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the Michael J. Marchese Professor of Neurosurgery and Chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He is also past President of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, Society of University Neurosurgeons and past Chair of the American Board of Neurological Surgery. He is currently Vice President of the Neurosurgical Society of America.

Dr. Batjer adds, “This collaboration has created a new Institute which will move quickly toward the highest level of care across the clinical neurosciences and with a focus in cerebrovascular disease that will advance Edward toward comprehensive stroke center status.”

Edward already offers stroke treatments, such as the clot-busting drug tPA, that have been shown to be effective up to seven hours after the start of symptoms. At the Edward Neurosciences Institute, physicians will be able to utilize the biplane technology to extend the treatment window up to eight hours in order to stop a stroke and reverse its effects.

Used in conjunction with the imaging benefits of the biplane system, the Merci Retrieval and Penumbra devices are two state-of-the-art, minimally invasive options available to physicians to treat ischemic strokes, the most common of all strokes, that cause a disruption of blood flow to the brain.

As part of its new affiliation agreement with Edward, the Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation will provide the Edward Neurosciences Institute full-time neurointerventionalists, medical director leadership and 24/7 on-call coverage in concert with other independent neurosurgeons on Edward’s medical staff.

Abraham Lincoln Memorial seeks RN

2009-09-18T15:31:55Z

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital is seeking an experienced registered nurse (RN) for its obstetrics department.

The position is a full-time with a night-shift rotation.

The RN is responsible for the care of a designated group of patients in a structured setting through the appropriate utilization of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Requirements for this position include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current Illinois licensure,and CPR certification (to be obtained within the first three months of employment).

For more information about this job or to apply, visit https://www.memorialmedical.com/CareerCenter/.

Loyola Earns Highest Honor for Nursing Excellence

2009-09-17T20:37:23Z

Loyola University Health System (LUHS) announced yesterday that it earned Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), an affiliate of the American Nurses Association. LUHS is now among the five percent of healthcare organizations with this elite designation.

“The Magnet distinction is a testament to the quality care our nurses provide to our patients every day,” says Paula Hindle, MSN, MBA, RN, vice president and chief nurse executive. “Loyola is honored to accept this designation and grateful for our nurses who represent the best in the profession.”

LUHS was notified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center on Sept. 16 after an application process that spanned more than two years.

“Our road to Magnet was a true team effort involving extensive preparation,” says Deborah Jasovsky, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, associate chief nurse executive and Magnet program director. “Nurses from all areas of the health system rolled up their sleeves to showcase Loyola’s quality nursing program and bring this award to our organization.”

The Magnet Recognition Program™ provides consumers with a benchmark to measure the quality of care that they can expect to receive at an organization. The program is based on quality factors and standards of nursing practice. These factors are known as the 14 Forces of Magnetism, and they are evaluated by ANCC to determine if a hospital is deserving of Magnet Recognition. The forces collectively represent a professional environment guided by a strong visionary nurse leader who supports advancement and excellence in nursing practice.

“Loyola possesses all of these characteristics, which affords our patients the highest level of care,” says Jasovsky. “This care is grounded in sound scientific research, professionalism and strong leadership.”

LUHS will next seek re-designation for Magnet in 2012.

Holy Family looking to hire CNA

2009-09-17T20:17:25Z

Holy Family Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is looking to hire an experienced CNA.

The successful candidate will work a day-shift casual schedule.

The CNA will assist professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

Requirements include a high school degree or equivalent, completion of a nursing assistant program, state and CPR certification, and 1-2 years' CNA experience.

For more information or to apply, visit http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/default.cfm.

Rush looking for experienced advanced nurse

2009-09-16T16:49:56Z

Rush University Medical Center is looking for an experienced advanced practice nurse for its medical-surgical department.

The successful candidate will coordinate clinical quality, educational and staff development activities for two surgical units (as well as patient populations including liver, kidney, pancreas transplant patients), and general surgical and gyne/onc patients.

Requirements include RN and APN licenses (Clinical Nurse Specialist or Nurse Practitioner) and knowledge of medical/surgical nursing, particularly in the areas of transplant and oncology. Certifications in medical/surgical or oncology nursing and ACLS preferred.

For more information or to apply, visit http://www.jobsatrush.com.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Katie Doyle, RN, of Northwestern Memorial Hospital

2009-09-16T14:53:10Z

As a labor and delivery staff nurse and unit educator, Katie Doyle, RN, has been instrumental in the development of a state-mandated post-partum hemorrhagic protocol and training curriculum for more than 200 care providers, which has resulted in a more than 50 percent reduction of mothers receiving major blood transfusions during obstetrical hemorrhages.

A major proponent of evidence-based practice and nursing research, Doyle fosters a creative approach to sharing resources with her peers and promoting employee learning and professional development. Her passion for excellence creates excitement and enthusiasm to embrace projects and initiate research, and thus cultivates the talents and development of new nursing leaders within her unit.

Silver Cross Employees Participate in Operation Backpack

2009-09-16T14:48:23Z

In addition to providing physicals to more than 3,000 area children at the Catholic Charities Daybreak Center’s Back to School Fair this August, Silver Cross Hospital employees wanted to ensure their fellow coworkers’ children were also prepared to start the school year.

Silver Cross Hospital’s Employee Assistance Fund Committee sponsored a program called Operation Backpack to assist employees who have a financial need to prepare their children for the new school year with back-to-school supplies. In order to qualify, employees had to show proof of need or had been approved for Employee Assistance through the Committee.

More than 60 students throughout Joliet elementary and high schools, as well as some Minooka, Frankfort and Laraway schools, received a backpack filled with school supplies. Many hospital departments “adopted” a student and purchased the needed supplies from the list submitted by employees. The items that were purchased ranged from book bags, pencils, pens, scissors, folders, writing tablets, crayons, rulers, glue sticks, calculators and gym shoes.

“Throughout the year, the employees at Silver Cross continuously give of their time and money to various organizations throughout our community,” says Carol Zier, Coordinator for Silver Cross’ Employee Assistance Fund. “With this in mind, we felt it was important to provide some assistance to our employees who so generously give of themselves throughout the year.”

Central DuPage Hospital Nurse Presents at National Conference

2009-09-15T19:33:27Z

Rita Brennan, DNP, RNC-NIC, APN/CNS, of Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) was selected to present at The 4th International Conference on Patient- and Family-Centered Care: Partnerships for Safety and Quality last month in Philadelphia. The three-day conference was hosted by the Institute for Family-Centered Care, with leadership support from The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Health System.

Brennan presented an interactive poster presentation entitled: “Assessing Family Centered Pediatric Care in a Community Hospital Setting,” highlighting best practices in patient- and family-centered care. About 90 concurrent sessions and 60 interactive poster presentations were offered.

The conference showcased innovative programs and emerging best practices that advance the practice of patient- and family-centered care and improve quality and safety in healthcare. There were examples of excellence and innovation relevant to a variety of healthcare settings

Participants from across the United States and other countries such as Canada, Australia, Japan, Ireland, Germany, China and Qatar came to learn patient- and family-centered strategies that deliver safe and quality healthcare, and create partnerships with patients and families on every level. At this conference, healthcare leaders provided strategies for redesigning healthcare, changing culture, implementing tried-and-true clinical processes and partnering with patients and families to yield improved outcomes.

A resident of Lombard, Brennan earned a B.A. from Elmhurst College and a MS in Parent-Child Nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University Medical School. Brennan currently is the outcomes manager, Women & Children’s Services at CDH.

Mt. Sinai looking to hire LPN

2009-09-15T18:57:12Z

Mt. Sinai Hospital is looking to hire a licensed practical nurse (LPN) for its Pioneer House.

The position is temporary with a various shift schedule.

Pioneer House is designed to be a community-based alternative to input psychiatric care.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of practical nursing (including theory and clinical practicum on the administration of medication), current Illinois LPN license, pharmacology certificate, and current CPR certification. Previous detox and mental health experience preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, email dacm@sinai.org.

Specialty Spotlight: Emergency Nursing

2009-09-14T15:13:37Z

The third installment of our Specialty Spotlight on Emergency Department nursing features Marianna Woosley, RN, BSN, ECRN an emergency department nurse at Westlake Hospital in Melrose Park.

Starting out as a CNA in a work study program at age 15, Marianna Woosley, RN, BSN, ECRN, always loved helping people. After spending 23 years as an LPN working in everything from home care to pediatrics to med-surg, Woosley earned her RN. When she got called down to the emergency room, she knew she had found her niche. Now, nine years later, she still loves the patient interaction in the emergency department at Westlake Hospital. “Patients in the emergency room are very emotional and vulnerable; we comfort them and educate them,” says Woosley. “You really are that first line buffer, and I like being that person.”

While the emergency department is extremely fast-paced, Woosley notes the importance of maintaining a personal connection to the patients. “When someone comes after a traumatic experience, it is so easy for people to do the hustle bustle, but you need to have that personal part,” says Woosley. “I like being that person who makes the difference to them. I try to think, if this was my family what would I want?” As an active member of the community, Woosley often recognizes many of the people coming through the emergency room, allowing her to offer another level of personalized care.

With so many different types of patients facing a wide range of medical—and personal—situations, emergency nurses need to approach their patients with open minds. “There is no room for bias or prejudice in emergency nursing,” says Woosley. “You see a lot of substance abuse and domestic violence. [If you cannot handle that], this is not the place for you. You have to be open-hearted and open-minded. You have to accept patients with whatever is going on.”

Emergency nurses often enjoy plenty of autonomy in this area of expertise. Thus, confidence and efficiency in your skills is crucial to success in this specialty. “You can’t be afraid to stand alone, and you need a lot of confidence in yourself,” says Woosley. “I would tell any nurse to get one year of floor experience or critical care experience just to get a comfort level. I don’t want to say that you never second guess yourself, but with that experience you’ll have more confidence in your skills and you can do a better job of critical thinking.”

In addition to the independence, Woosley also loves the collaboration with the different disciplines and the new knowledge she gains every day in the emergency department. “You have to be willing to be wrong and be able to take criticism and guidance,” says Woosley. “You have to be willing to learn, and you need to constantly advance your knowledge.”

Weiss seeks experienced clinical nurse

2009-09-14T14:08:32Z

Weiss Memorial Hospital is seeking an experienced clinical staff nurse for its vascular department.

The position is full-time with a day shift schedule.

The successful candidate will effectively deliver patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation.

Job Qualifications include current Illinois licensure, CPR certification, one year's experience in ambulatory or primary care, and computer and interpersonal skills.

For more information about this job or to apply visit: http://www.weisshospital.com/recruitment/default.cfm.

Loretto to hire RNs

2009-09-11T14:01:36Z

Loretto Hospital is looking to hire multiple registered nurses for its telemetry department.

The positions range from part-time to full-time, with weekends and rotations.

RNs will be responsible for providing professional nursing care to adult patients (age 15 and older) through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation and evaluation, as well as effectively interacting with patients, guests and other health team members, while maintaining standards of professional nursing.

Qualifications include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, one year's experience in telemetry nurse care, current Illinois nurse licensure, and CPR certification.

For more information about this job, e-mail Human.Resources@lorettohospital.org or visit http://www.lorettohospital.org/employ.htm#Registered%20Nurse.

Mt. Sinai seeks staff nurse

2009-09-10T22:53:05Z

Mt. Sinai Hospital is currently seeking a staff nurse for its endoscopy department.

The position is full-time with a rotating shift.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current Illinois nurse licensure, and current CPR and ACLS certification. Endoscopy experience preferred.

For more information about this job, email: Dacm@sinai.org. Or visit: http://www.sinai.org/careers/careers.asp.

Grand Opening Celebration for Silver Cross Health Center in New Lenox

2009-09-10T16:07:29Z

A community Grand Opening Celebration for the new Silver Cross Health Center in New Lenox will be held Saturday, September 26, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The new medical building is located at 1870 Silver Cross Blvd. (formerly Clinton Rd.) – just southwest of the I-355 exit and Route 6.

This is the first medical office building to open on the Silver Cross Replacement Hospital campus and is the new home to the Children’s Memorial Outpatient Center, Hinsdale Orthopaedics Associates, Partners in Obstetrics and Women’s Health, Advanced Eye Care and Spectrum Eye Institute. The Silver Cross Center for Women’s Health offering digital mammography and other services for women will open mid-October on the first floor of the Health Center.

“Silver Cross is building on its commitment to the community with this remarkable new medical facility,” says Paul Pawlak, President and CEO of Silver Cross Hospital. “Families no longer need to travel out of Will County for specialized care. They can now see a Children’s Memorial pediatric specialist and other top-notch physicians close to home.”

To showcase, the impressive, two-story, 50,000-square-foot facility built by H.S.A. Commercial Real Estate, tours will be offered. Residents will have an opportunity to meet many of the physicians who are already seeing patients in the Silver Cross Health Center.

The free Grand Opening event will also be filled with many fun, family activities including a raffle to win a Flat Screen TV and other prizes and free health screenings, including blood pressures by Partners in Obstetrics & Women’s Health; cataract screenings by Spectrum Eye Institute; glaucoma screenings by Advanced Eye Care; height and weight by Children’s Memorial Medical Group; and sports injuries by Hinsdale Orthopaedics Associates. The day will also include free refreshments including Pizza Mia pizza and Creamery Ice Cream; a STAR 96.7 Live Radio Broadcast; “Jammer” and “Sponge Bob”; tours of a New Lenox Fire Truck and Kurtz Ambulance; child Identification and fingerprinting by the New Lenox Police Department; kid’s crafts with the Will County Forest Preserve; temporary tattoos, a Bounce House, face painting and other kid’s activities.

Holy Cross seeks RN

2009-09-09T14:35:25Z

Holy Cross Hospital is seeking an experienced wound care registered nurse for its nursing support center.

The successful candidate will work a part-time day shift with weekend rotations.

Requirements include current Illinois nurse licensure, CPR and ACLS certification, and OCN certification in wound ostomy care.

For more information or to apply, visit: http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

MacNeal to hire charge nurse

2009-09-08T20:31:46Z

MacNeal Hospital is looking to hire an experienced charge nurse for its emergency department.

The successful candidate will work a full-time night shift.

Duties include providing clinical and administrative leadership in the care of patients on a clinical unit for the time defined by the department director; being responsible for patient care, staff management and development, and the environment of the unit for the defined time period; assuming daily accountability and interacting closely with the department coordinator; and serving as a role model for professional practice.

Candidate must have knowledge, practical experience and licensure/registration, a bachelor’s degree in nursing, current state nursing licensure, and a minimum of one to two years' clinical experience.

For more information about this job or to apply: http://www.macneal.com/About/careers/jobOpenings.aspx.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Cora Palmer, BSN, RN-C, of Northwestern Memorial Hospital

2009-09-08T15:11:12Z

Seeking a forum for continuing education, sharing best practices and community outreach for medical-surgical nurses, Cora Palmer, BSN, RN-C, spearheaded the launch of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN) Chicago chapter at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. A member of AMSN for six years, Cora has helped recruit more than 65 members, and the chapter has led to an increase in professional organization membership and certifications among nursing staff.

Palmer commits up to 30 hours outside of work promoting membership to local hospitals and clinics and helping to plan AMSN’s annual convention in Washington, DC. Her passion for supporting the medical-surgical nursing specialty is bolstered through community service projects such as outreach to nursing schools and serving the homeless.

Highland Park seeks RN

2009-09-04T17:14:04Z

Highland Park Hospital is seeking a registered nurse (RN) for its anesthesia department.

The successful candidate will work a minimum of 4 shifts a month as a recovery room nurse.

The position is Monday thru Friday, with varying start and end times.

Qualifications include a minimum 1 year of relevant nursing experience, current CPR certification, and current Illinois nurse licensure.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.northshore.org/aboutus/default.aspx?id=4594.

Provena Health Among Top 50 Systems in the Nation

2009-09-03T15:38:33Z

Provena Health has been named one of the top 50 U.S. health systems based on hospital clinical quality and efficiency, according to a new study released by Thomson Reuters. Using inpatient quality of care data from Medicare Provider Analysis (MedPAR) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, the study evaluated 252 health systems with a total of 1,720 hospitals.

In an in-depth exploration of five quality indicators composed of risk-adjusted mortality, complications, patient safety, Joint Commission Core Measures performance and average length of stay, the report found that the best systems deploy key strategies to drive high quality care at the bedside. Those include a system-wide committee that coordinates and studies quality, significant involvement from front-line caregivers and systematic use of leading-edge technology such as an electronic health record.

“This very prestigious designation is a direct reflection of just how deeply our dedicated employees and physicians support our belief that an outcomes-driven and standardized approach to quality is not only efficient, but clearly best for our patients and residents,” says Margaret Gavigan, System Senior Vice President, Chief Clinical Officer. “We are extremely proud of the women and men across Provena Health who bring this award-winning and compassionate care each and every day to the communities we serve.”

This is the first time Thomson Reuters, a highly regarded healthcare information company, assessed the quality and efficiency of care health systems as single entities. Researchers from Thomson Reuters’ 100 Top Hospitals program have analyzed and reported on the performance of individual hospitals since 1993.

Chicago Lakeshore seeks RN

2009-09-03T14:40:54Z

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital is seeking an intake registered nurse (RN).

The successful candidate will be responsible for management of inquiry/crisis calls, clinical and medical assessment, and legally/clinically appropriate admissions for the hospital, as well as coordinating the admission process with all units/departments and providing accurate patient information to hospital staff.

The RN will oversee the provision of social service intervention, coordination, assessment, and referral to patients and families, along with participating in referral activities and staff training as directed.

The position is full-time on the evening shift and every other weekend.

To be considered for this job, fax cover letter and resume to 773-769-1821 or email to keana.washington@chicagolakeshorehospital.com.

To view this job online, visit: http://www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com/careers/opportunities.php.

Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center’s Physicians vs. Nurses Softball Game

2009-09-02T15:40:25Z

This year’s softball challenge hosted by Leeza’s Place at Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center will feature a special twist. Due to popular demand the Saturday, September 12^th event will be a double header. Following the annual Physicians vs. Attorneys game will be a new event: a Physicians vs. Nurses game. The fundraising event benefits Leeza’s Place, a community-based resource for individuals and families dealing with memory loss and other chronic disorders that was co-founded by Dr. James Huysman and Hollywood personality Leeza Gibbons–both of whom will be on-hand at the event.

“We’re very excited about expanding our event this year to include a double header!” says Kathy Miller, Leeza’s Place Caregiver Advocate. “It’s a great opportunity for the community to become involved, have fun and make a difference for caregivers and anyone diagnosed with any type of memory or chronic disorder. Come see Leeza Gibbons and cheer for your team!”

The first pitch of the Physicians vs. Attorneys game will take place at 2 p.m. followed by the Physicians vs. Nurses game at 3:30 p.m. at the Joliet Park District softball fields at 3000 West Jefferson Street in Joliet. Face painting and other activities for children will also be available that day.

Tickets are $5 each and will be available at the field or in advance at the following locations:

The Dove’s Nest Gift Shop
Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center - 333 N. Madison St.

Leeza’s Place at Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center

113 Republic Ave., Suite 105 – (815) 741-0077

Dystrup, Hoster & Jarot, P.C. Attorneys at Law

822 Infantry Drive, Suite 104 – (815) 744-6550

The Softball Challenge will follow a caregiver symposium held that morning in the Medical Center’s conference center at 10 a.m. The symposium, “Take Your Oxygen First,” will feature a keynote address by Leeza Gibbons and guest speakers James Huysman, PsyD, LCSW and Rosemary Laird, MD, co-authors of a recent book by the same title.

Another guest speaker, Richard Zalar, MD, will offer remarks based on his book Day Is Ending. The morning will also include a presentation of the Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center’s Caregiver Awards, as well as the Gentle Touch Awards, presented by Dr. Zalar and the Gertrude P. Zalar Alzheimer Care Foundation. There will be a book signing after the symposium.

Proceeds from the sale of Take Your Oxygen First will benefit Leeza’s Place at Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center

CDH Nurse Presents at National Conference

2009-09-02T15:27:54Z

Cynthia Hinojosa, MS, APN, ANP-BC, CCRN of Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) was selected to present at the American Association of Heart Failure Nurses’ Annual Meeting (AAHFN) in Minneapolis. Hinojosa presented an interactive poster presentation entitled: Heart Failure Core Measures - A Multidisciplinary Approach.

“By working with a structured heart failure committee and a multidisciplinary team, we have improved the care for patients with heart failure,” concluded Hinojosa, who is an advanced practice nurse in heart and vascular care at CDH.

The AAHFN Annual Meeting is planned to meet the needs of nurses and a broad range of health care professionals like cardiac/heart failure administrators, clinical directors, physician assistants and dieticians. A variety of educational offerings are planned that will encourage the exchange of new scientific and clinical information and support the interchange of opinions regarding care and management issues relevant to heart failure.

Hinojosa received her Bachelor of Science in nursing and Bachelor of Science in psychology at Elmhurst College and her Master of Science in adult nurse practitioner at Northern Illinois University. An active volunteer with Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy, she is currently involved in the “Reading with Rover” library program that provides children in grades 2-5 with the opportunity to practice their reading skills by reading aloud to a specially trained therapy dog.

Abraham Lincoln Memorial seeks nurse anesthetist

2009-09-02T14:24:49Z

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital is seeking a qualified registered nurse (RN) for its anesthesia department.

The schedule is per diem, with a part-time rotation as needed.

The RN will administer anesthesia, employing a variety of techniques to render persons insensible to pain during various surgical, dental, obstetric, and diagnostic procedures; evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and assist in identification of alternative strategies; demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span, neonate through geriatrics; assess and interpret data reflective of the patient’s status and provide care relative to their age-specific needs in accordance with the department’s policies, procedures, and standards of care; and collaborate with other health care professionals to improve value by increasing quality and controlling cost.

The successful candidate will be licensed as a Registered Nurse and Advanced Practice Nurse and have completed an AANA-approved course in anesthesia. Candidate must also be a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist or new graduate eligible for certification. BLS certification required. Master's degree and ACLS preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit: https://www.memorialmedical.com/CareerCenter/.

Evanston looking to hire RN

2009-09-01T14:26:42Z

Evanston Hospital is looking to hire a full-time registered nurse (RN) to fill a vacancy in its Palliative Care/Hospice Unit.

This is a full-time, 40-hour-a-week position, with rotating weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities include employing the NorthShore University Health System Nursing Process in the delivery of patient care, developing patient/family teaching plans, utilizing Epic, and serving as a guide for assigned nursing personnel.

Qualifications include a minimum of one year nursing experience, skills and knowledge of palliative care, current Illinois RN licensure, current CPR certification, and computer proficiency. Bachelor's degree in nursing and oncology or palliative care/hospice experience preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.northshore.org/aboutus/default.aspx?id=4594.

Rush seeks surgical nurse

2009-08-31T15:18:37Z

Rush University Medical Center is seeking a full-time advanced practice surgical nurse.

The position requires the candidate to coordinate clinical quality and educational and staff development activities for two surgical units -- along with patient populations including liver, kidney, and pancreas transplant patients, as well as general surgical and gyne/onc patients.

The successful candidate will have current RN and APN licensure, as well as advanced knowledge of medical/surgical nursing, particularly in the areas of transplant and oncology.

Certifications in medical/surgical or oncology nursing and ACLS preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.jobsatrush.com/.

Specialty Spotlight: Emergency Nursing

2009-08-28T20:46:28Z

The second installment of our Specialty Spotlight on Emergency Department nursing features Molly Stelle-Betman, RN, BSN, an emergency department nurse at MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn.

When Molly Stelle-Betman, RN, BSN, was a child, she set up a M.A.S.H. unit in her neighborhood while the neighborhood boys played “war.” “I would say I got into nursing when I was 7-8 years old,” she remembers. “I have always been a nurse.” Coming from a multigenerational nursing family (her mother was a nurse) and having a critically ill sibling growing up further groomed Stelle-Betman for a career as a caregiver.

Stelle-Betman started in the operating room, but quickly realized that being a new graduate in the operating room did not give her much patient contact, which she worried would limit her down the road. She then decided to take a position in the recovery room at Children’s Memorial Hospital. At the time, recovery room nurses at Children’s were asked to cross-train in the emergency room, and with that Stelle-Betman was hooked. “I loved the ER,” she says. “In the ER you are thinking and moving at the same time. It is a rare job where you are using your hands and you’re thinking and you’re moving the whole time. It is definitely for someone who can walk and chew gum at the same time!”

Today, as an emergency nurse at MacNeal Hospital, Stelle-Betman’s wide range of nursing experiences have made her a valuable member of the emergency department. “I have done nursery, recovery room and critical care, and I do contract work for RML,” she says. “All of these things really make for a quite a blend of skills that I use every day. I can use some aspect of something I used before every day here with the variety of ages and conditions coming through the ER. It is a chance to experience every aspect of nursing any given day, which is very unique.”

The instant gratification that comes in the emergency room is one of the biggest rewards for the nurses. “You see a lot more recovery and you see people respond quicker to serious illness,” says Stelle-Betman. “You can see someone go from not breathing at all to maybe going home two hours later.”

An emergency nurse often has a natural curiosity and a passion for education. “Most emergency room nurses like to know why: Why is this person sick? Why does the lab work like this it does?” says Stelle-Betman. “The beauty of being an ER nurse is that you see results. It is the only area of nursing where you see someone from beginning to end, with a new problem solved or a diagnosis made. It really validates your work.”

Loretto seeks RNs

2009-08-28T15:13:06Z

Loretto Hospital is looking to fill ten registered nurse (RN) vacancies in its Behavioral Health, Med/Surg, In-House Registry, CCU and Telemetry departments.

All shifts are covered with weekend rotations required.

Duties include providing professional nursing care to adult patients (age 15 and older) through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation and evaluation; and effectively interacting with patients, guests and other health team members, while maintaining standards of professional nursing.

The successful candidate will be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing. The hospital prefers a minimum of one year's experience in pertinent clinical specialty. Current registered nurse licensure in the State of Illinois and current CPR certification are required.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.lorettohospital.org/employ.htm#Registered%20Nurse.

Loyola Neonatal Nurse Honored for Excellence in Care

2009-08-27T20:00:12Z

Nurses who care for the smallest and most vulnerable patients at Loyola University Health System (LUHS) have much to be proud of this year. One of their own was awarded the Robyn Main Excellence in Clinical Practice Award for the third year in a row. Barbara Hering, RNC, MSN, CCNS, received this honor from the National Association of Neonatal Nurses. The annual award is given to a neonatal nurse who serves as a role model and best demonstrates excellence in patient care.

“I am humbled by this award and proud to accept it on behalf of one of the best neonatal intensive care units in the state,” Hering says. “I feel fortunate to be honored for something I love to do, particularly when so many of our other NICU nurses are deserving of this recognition.”

When she is not caring for patients, Hering spends countless hours on her days off researching and developing staff in-services, competencies, quality improvement projects and unit policies. She introduced the concept of evidence-based practice to her unit and has become her coworkers’ go-to resource for difficult patient cases.

“Barb represents the best in the profession,” says Elaine Trulis, RN, manager of the LUHS neonatal intensive care unit. “She has devoted her career to improving patient care and the profession of nursing. Our patients are fortunate to have such a driven and dedicated nurse at their bedside.”

Hering will receive the award at the National Association of Neonatal Nurses 25th Annual Educational Conference, which takes place Sept. 23-26, 2009, in Austin, Texas. She joins her Loyola colleagues Lisa Festle, RNC-NIC, MSN, CCNS; Jeanette Cronin, BSN, RNC; and Joan Townsend, BSN, RNC, as award winners in 2008, 2007 and 2000 respectively.

This award is given in honor of Robyn Main, MSN, RNC. Main was a staff developmental specialist and perinatal clinical nurse specialist at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Fla. Main’s dedication to patients, families and neonatal nursing in spite of her own battle with terminal cancer was a source of inspiration to her colleagues.

Award recipients are chosen through a blind review process of nominees from throughout the United States. The winner must possess knowledge of current clinical practices, demonstrate excellent communication skills and focus on family-centered care using an interdisciplinary approach. The winner also must be viewed as a leader by coworkers and management.

“Barb never ceases to amaze with her commitment to learning and teaching,” says Trulis. “Whether she is caring for our tiniest patients or educating parents and fellow nurses, her contributions are invaluable.”

Hering is a member of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) and the Academy of Neonatal Nurses (ANN). She also is an active board member to the local chapter of NANN where she coordinates educational programs for Chicago-area nurses. Hering received her bachelor’s of science in nursing from Northern Illinois University and her master’s of science in nursing from Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. She has worked as a neonatal unit nurse at LUHS since 1979.

Holy Cross seeks experienced RN

2009-08-27T15:08:50Z

Holy Cross Hospital is seeking an experienced registered nurse (RN) for its wound care center.

The position is part-time, 48 hours per week, with a day shift and weekends rotating schedule.

The successful candidate will have current Illinois licensure as a professional nurse, CPR and ACLS certification, and OCN certification in wound and ostomy care.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

Skokie seeks staff nurse

2009-08-26T15:46:45Z

Skokie Hospital is seeking a full-time angiography staff nurse for its Radiology/Special Procedures department.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assessing, implementing treatment for, and evaluating the patient and providing quality nursing care utilizing the nursing process. The candidate will also be asked to demonstrate consistent excellence in applying specialized knowledge through teaching, consultation, and guidance in the Radiology Department. The nurse also assists in coordinating the daily schedule of the lab, when/if functioning in the scheduling nurse role.

Qualifications include graduation from an NLN-accredited school of nursing, current professional nursing licensure in the State of Illinois, CPR and ACLS certification, a minimum of 2 years of critical care experience within the last 5 years, and strong communication, interpersonal, and computer skills. Bachelor's degree in nursing preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit:

https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL.

Evanston to hire staff nurse

2009-08-25T15:32:42Z

Evanston Hospital is looking to hire a part-time staff nurse for its Comprehensive Cardiac Care department.

The staff nurse employs the Northshore Nursing Process in the delivery of patient care; develops patient/family teaching plans; serves as a guide for assigned nursing personnel; and utilizes Epic, the hospital’s electronic medical records system, to document patient care.

The position is part-time, 36 hours per week, with rotating day (7 am - 7:30pm) and night (7 pm - 7:30am) shifts. Position requires rotation into every other weekend.

RN experience is required, along with experience working in telemetry. Bachelor’s degree preferred

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit:

https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Lori Chatten, RN, BSN, of Central DuPage Hospital

2009-08-25T15:03:16Z

Lori Chatten, RN, BSN, is a four-time cancer survivor. During her procedures, therapies and surgeries, Chatten taught her team about cancer. Throughout it all she believes work is her gift and that the best way to go through life’s journey is with a smile and determination. Chatten teaches cancer prevention and counsels patients on their cancer journey.

She is known as a clinical expert who is actively involved in facilitating an evidenced based research project within the outpatient facilities and she organizes a nurse initiated audit for all sites ensuring compliance.

Off the clock, Chatten is continues to be compassionate about people. She is involved in Relay for Life, a local homeless shelter, local food drives, church youth activities and she participates annually on a pilgrimage to a disaster area to bring aid. Many of the CDH physicians have called her the “best nurse I have ever worked with.”

Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital Gives Back to the Community

2009-08-25T14:56:50Z

Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital employees recently collected and delivered 274 school supply-filled backpacks to local schoolchildren. Most of the backpacks were dropped off at John R. Tibbott Elementary School in Bolingbrook, where they will be distributed to students in the Valley View Public School District 365U.

The hospital also donated 20 backpacks and an extra box of supplies to Good Shepherd Church in Romeoville. In addition to the contributions from hospital employees and the community, supplies also were provided by Office Depot, Office Max, Bolingbrook Seventh-Day Adventist Church and the Living Water Church of Bolingbrook.

Last year, hospital officials dropped off more than 100 supply-filled school backpacks. This is the fourth year hospital employees spearheaded the community effort.

“The recent economic downturn means there’s an even greater need in our community this year,” says Kathy Mitchell, vice president/chief nursing officer at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital. “We’re proud that our employees reached out to our community in this special way. It demonstrates their commitment to our mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ.”

Highland Park seeks RN

2009-08-24T15:55:36Z

Highland Park Hospital is seeking a full-time registered nurse (RN) for its wound healing center.

The successful candidate will employ the nursing process in the delivery of patient care, develop patient/family teaching plans, and utilize Epic, the hospital’s electronic medical records system, to document patient care and cross training to Hyberbaric Safety Director role and Patient Support Associate position.

Qualifications include RN state licensure and previous med/surg, home health, or wound care experience. Bachelor’s degree in nursing and Wound healing center experience preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit:

https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL.

MacNeal seeking home health nurse

2009-08-21T15:43:33Z

MacNeal Hospital is seeking a home health nurse to work a full-time day shift.

The home health nurse reports to the Clinical Manager and plans, coordinates, supervises and/or provides nursing care for patients in the home in order to prevent or postpone institutionalization.

Qualifications include completion of a minimum of two years of college-level education in nursing, minimum of one year of nursing experience (in home care preferred), current Illinois RN licensure, current Illinois driver's license and auto liability insurance, and CPR certification.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.macneal.com/about-careers-jobOpenings.aspx.

Westlake looking to hire staff nurse

2009-08-20T15:32:41Z

Westlake Hospital is looking to hire an experienced staff nurse for its nursing administration department.

The successful candidate will work registry with a day and night rotation.

The staff nurse is a registered professional who integrates theoretical knowledge of highly complex patients, facilitates patient care activities, and collaborates with multidisciplinary team members to achieve quality patient-driven outcomes.

The successful candidate must have graduated from an accredited school of nursing, hold current state board licensure as a nurse, and hold CPR certification. Certification in clinical specialty preferred.

For more information, visit: http://wh.reshealth.org/sub_wh/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Good Samaritans from Adventist Midwest Health Save the Life of Stranger

2009-08-20T15:31:55Z

Thanks to two Good Samaritans and team of experienced medical professionals, 51-year-old Larry Larson is alive today. The heating and air conditioning worker was driving from a Bolingbrook job site in late March when he had a massive heart attack behind the wheel of his van on Remington Boulevard.

Julie Simunjak, a collector for Adventist Midwest Health in Bolingbrook, spotted Larson slumped over his steering wheel. She pulled over, dialed 911, and opened Larson’s door and put the vehicle in park. Another Good Samaritan, nurse Charlene Sheehan, also pulled over.

“I told the 911 dispatcher he wasn’t breathing well,” says Sheehan, who works at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital’s Wound Care Center and was in Bolingbrook to lead a computer training class. “I had a pulse, but then I lost it.”

Both Simunjak and Sheehan pulled Larson out of the truck. Sheehan began CPR as Simunjak held his head to ensure his airway would remain open, and then flagged down the ambulance as it neared. Emergency responders used a defibrillator to administer an electric shock through Larson’s chest wall to his heart to restore normal heart rhythm.

Larson was taken to the emergency room at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital less than a mile away. There Dr. Dominick Stella, director of the cardiac catheterization laboratory/vascular laboratory, performed an emergent cardiac catheterization, which determined that Larson actually had suffered sudden cardiac death due to severe blockages in multiple blood vessels in his heart. He placed a stent—a small metal mesh tube used to hold open a vessel—into Larson’s right iliac artery and also inserted an intraaortic balloon pump to improve blood flow to Larson’s heart and prevent another episode of ventricular fibrillation.

He was then transported by ambulance to Adventist Hinsdale Hospital, where Dr. Frank Lutrin, medical director of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, performed a six-vessel bypass surgery.

Larson spent more than a week in the hospital recovering. Since his discharge, he has visited lung and heart specialists regularly and will soon begin physical therapy. It will be several months before he can return to work. Stella told him he “won the cardiac lottery” because neither his heart nor brain were damaged.

“I feel lucky to be alive,” Larson says. “Very lucky.”

Stella praised Simunjak and Sheehan, paramedics and fellow members of Larson’s care teams at both hospitals for their roles in providing a seamless process to transfer him from Adventist Bolingbrook to Adventist Hinsdale Hospital.

“This poor guy literally died on the road, but because of great teamwork, Mr. Larson will see his 52^nd birthday,” Stella says.

Larson praised his nurses from Adventist Hinsdale Hospital’s cardiovascular intensive care unit. At an emotional reunion in Bolingbrook weeks after his discharge, Larson thanked Simunjak for her help.

“I was just one piece of the puzzle,” she says.

Sheehan, a Batavia resident with 29 years of nursing experience, was relieved to hear of Larson’s recovery. Stopping to assist Simunjak, she says, “was the right thing to do.”

Nursing Accomplishments at Loyola University Health System

2009-08-19T18:49:44Z

Many nurses at Loyola University Health System (LUHS) have taken the initiative to advance the field of nursing through many recent accomplishments.

LUHS nurses Donna Murphy, APN, CDE, and Terese Bertucci, NP, CDE, recently published an article in the April 2009 issue of the Journal of Quality Improvement titled, “Reducing Hyperglycemia Hospitalwide: The Basal-Bolus Concept.” The article described a health system-wide experience with insulin protocols over five years.

Meanwhile, Lauri Beechler, MSN, RN, CEN, NREMT-B, a nurse and paramedic educator in the Department of Emergency Medical Services at LUHS, will be the lead author on the upcoming article titled, “Sowing the Seeds - Part 2,” a follow-up article that evaluates recruitment and retention of EMS professionals. The article will be published in the November/December issue of EMS Magazine.

And finally, Theresa Pavone, a cardiac telemetry unit nurse at LUHS, was invited to present at the annual meeting for the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) in San Antonio, Texas. Her talk was titled, “Focus Time – Nurses Take Time to Treat Their Team.”

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Cathy DuBois, RNC, BSN, of Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center

2009-08-19T18:37:53Z

Cathy DuBois, RNC, BSN, works in the Family Birthing Suites at Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center, in the role of staff nurse and Chair of the Unit Based Council for her unit. DuBois has led her team to make significant quality improvements for clinical practice and employee satisfaction. The physicians and her coworkers hold her in high regard for her knowledge and experience, recently asking her to present education on “Physical therapy after traumatic delivery.”

She also presented a poster on “The care of the newborn after circumcision” at a national state conference and organized a monthly poster presentation for the nursing staff on topics of interest identified in the Family Birthing Suites.

University of Chicago seeks nurse anesthetist

2009-08-19T15:39:08Z

The University of Chicago Medical Center is seeking a qualified nurse anesthetist for a full-time position.

The successful candidate will provide patient care and support throughout the perioperative period. This can include perioperative assessment and sedation, administration and management of anesthetic, and discontinuation of the anesthetic and postoperative management.

Qualifications include current Illinois RN and APN licensure, graduatiion from an AANA-approved nurse anesthesia program, AANA certification (or certification-eligibility), and maintenance of certification through continuing education.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

https://www4.recruitingcenter.net/Clients/UCHospitals/PublicJobs/controller.cfm?jbaction=JobProfile&Job_Id=20638&esid=az.

Swedish Covenant looking for experienced staff nurse

2009-08-18T16:05:09Z

Swedish Covenant Hospital is looking to hire an experienced staff nurse for its psychiatric unit.

The staff nurse assesses, plans, implements, and evaluates the delivery of nursing care to patients and their significant others; attains knowledge and competency reflective of current standards of practice; interacts with and contributes to the professional development of peers and colleagues; integrates ethical provisions into all areas of nursing practice; integrates research findings into nursing practice; and systematically enhances the quality and effectiveness of nursing practice.

The successful candidate will have graduated from an accredited school of nursing, hold current state licensure, be CPR certified, and have at least one year of experience.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.swedishcovenant.org.

St. Anthony seeks ICU nurse

2009-08-17T18:57:42Z

St. Anthony Hospital is seeking a full-time nurse for its intensive care unit (ICU).

The successful candidate will work a 7AM-7PM rotating shift.

The position is responsible for providing and coordinating patient care through assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation of care.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing, an associate's degree in nursing (bachelor's preferred), current Illinois RN licensure, and ACLS and CPR.

For more information about this job or to apply visit:

http://www.saintanthonyhospital.org/Careers/ViewAllJobs/tabid/85/Default.aspx.

Back to School

2009-08-12T16:32:24Z

Going back to school can be a daunting prospect for many nurses. But entering an advanced degree program with like-minded colleagues can make the experience much less intimidating. Just ask any one of the seven Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) nurses who recently earned their Master’s degrees together at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). The nurses, all from different departments at CDH, earned their advanced degrees in administrative nursing leadership at the end of the spring term this year.

The nurses entered the program as a cohort through CDH to complete their certifications for administrative nursing leadership. At the end of the certification, they each had the option to continue on for their Master’s degrees and all seven decided to continue. The seven nurses included: Barbara A. Nepil, MS, RN, Project Manager, Strategic Planning and Project Coordinator for Magnet; Beverly George, MS, RN, CRNI, an Infusion Nurse; Robin Schmidt, MS, RN, CNRN, Patient Care Manager in Neurosciences; Libby Zamis, MS, RNC, Professional Development Consultant for Obstetrics; Melissa Burdi, MS, RN, Professional Development Consultant; Lea Ann Arnold, MS, RN, Manager of Care Coordination; and Karen Hjertstedt, MS, RN, Manager of Perioperative Services.

“I think it is very important for nurses to take charge of our profession, and it is important for us to display and demonstrate our professionalism,” says Burdi. “That is enhanced by continuing the education process and supporting ongoing education in terms of having nurses that are able to translate research into practice, and that happens through advanced degrees.”

Zamis saw the opportunity as a way for her to continue her own professional evolution as nursing continues to focus on research. “Nursing is a profession where you use critical thinking, build the foundational skills and then build on that based on research,” says Zamis. “So we had to start looking at how nurses impacted the outcomes of patients and what kind of nursing impact that our own interventions had on patient outcomes.”

With all seven of the nurses juggling work, family and school, they leaned on each other for support and collaboration throughout the almost three-year program. With diverse backgrounds, the nurses capitalized on each other’s individual strengths and experiences to form a cohesive and supportive group dynamic. “We embraced one another almost like family,” says Burdi. “There was not just one leader, it was a shared responsibility and we had a common goal. We all looked out for each other so we could push each other through. And we did.”

Going through an online program with a group of colleagues also established that sense of classroom interaction that is missing in online education. The group met every weekend to do their class work and discuss their studies. “We had face-to-face interaction on our own to keep each other on track and help each other understand,” says Zamis. “Getting together and supporting each other was vital to [our] success.”

In addition to the educational and professional support, the nurses formed strong personal bonds. During the program the nurses faced challenges including a cancer diagnosis, death in the family and a pregnancy. “We all had some really huge struggles that we went through, so we not only supported each other with school work, but we supported each other personally too,” says Zamis. “Nurses have that personality to help support and care for people in general, and that was an important part of the relationships we built with each other.”

Although the CDH nurses recognize that not every nurse has the opportunity to enter a program as a cohort, they encourage other nurses to go back to school. “You gain so much going through a master’s program,” says Zamis. “It helps get your brain to think in a different way about the profession. It makes you appreciate your profession even more when you are around a bunch of nurses getting excited about advancing knowledge and giving back in to the profession. It is a pretty awesome experience.”

Burdi agrees: “I would encourage everyone to go on and be the best you can be for yourself and your practice. Going through in a cohort was a benefit. But I would have pursued it regardless. So if you don’t find a cohort, don’t let that stop you. Don’t let that stand in your way.”

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Lynn Nadrowski, RN, BSN, CPAN, at Our Lady of the Resurrection

2009-08-14T20:24:19Z

Lynn Nadrowski, RN, BSN, CPAN, is a change agent whose motto is “fostering quality improvement for patient safety.” As Charge Nurse of the Post Anesthesia Care Unit at Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, Lynn plays a critical role in implementing national Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP) process of care measures for positive patient outcomes.

As a self-named “troubleshooter,” Nadrowski says she “takes care of problems before they arise” by diligently enforcing SCIP standards of care to prevent infections and blood clots. Certified in post anesthesia nursing (CPAN), she finds her work rewarding as she remains focused on delivering exceptional clinical care to the surgical patient.

Chicago Hotels Salute Nurses as Everyday Heroes

2009-08-14T20:10:28Z

Nursing someone back to help, risking your life and educating today’s youth, are some of the most important and selfless professions out there. Yet nurses, law enforcement and military officers and teachers often receive the least recognition for their hard work. Until now! Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers and The Westin Chicago River North are honoring our nation’s most commendable occupations with the Everyday Heroes promotion. Those guests in the aforementioned fields will receive a special nightly rate starting at $129 (up to 30 percent savings) and 50 percent discount on food and beverage outlets. Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers guests can enjoy savings at Chi Bar, Chicago Burger Company, Java Bar, LB’s Bistro & Pâtisserie and the Link by Sheraton Café while The Westin Chicago River North visitors can dine at Ember Grille and Hana Lounge.

For those with friends and family in tow, a second room is available for only $99 a night (over 50 percent off). The Everyday Heroes offer is valid through September 12, 2009.

For Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers reservations please visit www.sheraton.com/ChicagoHeroes and enter booking code HEROES or call 1-800-233-4100 and mention Everyday Heroes and your profession when booking. For The Westin Chicago River North visit www.westin.com/chicagoheroes or call 1-888-625-5144 and mention HEROES and your profession when booking. Proof of occupation must be presented with valid ID upon arrival.

Holy Family seeks CNA

2009-08-14T15:50:13Z

Holy Family Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is looking to fill a part-time certified nursing assistant’s vacancy.

Upon hire, the CNA will assist professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

The successful candidate will work a 3pm-11pm evening shift.

Requirements include a high school degree or equivalent, completion of a nursing assistant program certified by the State, current CPR certification, and a minimum of 1-2 years' experience

To apply for this job contact: Christina Costouros, 100 N River Road, Des Plaines IL 60016. To apply online, visit: http://hfmc.reshealth.org/sub_hfmc/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Saint Anthony looking to hire LPN

2009-08-13T14:38:05Z

Saint Anthony Hospital is looking to hire a licensed practical nurse for its psychiatric department.

The successful candidate will work rotating shifts in registry.

Requirements include current Illinois LPN licensure, CPR certification, team orientation, customer service skills, proper telephone etiquette, and computer, interpersonal and organizational skills. IV certification and one year's experience in healthcare preferred.

The registry LPN will provide quality patient care, utilizing the nursing process under the direct supervision of a registered nurse and/or licensed physician.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.saintanthonyhospital.org/Careers/ViewAllJobs/tabid/85/Default.aspx.

Rush University seeking experienced RN clinical coordinator

2009-08-12T16:06:03Z

Rush University Medical Center is seeking an experienced registered nurse clinical coordinator for its cardiology department.

The RN Clinical Coordinator is an Illinois licensed registered nurse who actively provides supervised patient care in an ambulatory care setting. The nurse works in a collaborative relationship with other members of the health care team to provide leadership and to coordinate the care of patients. The individual who holds this position exemplifies the Rush mission, vision, and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures, including complying with all Rush University Medical Group Customer Service Standards.

The successful candidate will work a Type I (72-80) shift.

Requirements include current RN licensure in the State of Illinois, current CPR Certification, basic computer skills, good communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to organize and be self-motivated. 1-2 years' nursing experience preferred.

To apply for this job, visit: http://www.jobsatrush.com/.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Linda Flemm and Theresa Pavone of Loyola University Health System

2009-08-12T14:36:25Z

Nurses at Loyola University Health System (LUHS) consistently go above and beyond their call to care. So when an LUHS employee survey revealed that staff nurses were interested in receiving more communications from their organization, nurses Linda Flemm and Theresa Pavone rolled up their sleeves and got to work.

Flemm and Pavone recognized the value in ensuring their colleagues were aware of the latest information in nursing at LUHS and beyond. As a result, the duo took it upon themselves to launch Nurse Link, a newsletter strictly geared toward LUHS nurses. After two years of publication, Nurse Link continues to serve as a positive voice for Loyola nurses.

Community Liaison Nurses Attend Conference to Educate Each Other

2009-08-11T15:11:47Z

Dawn Clark, RN, BS, CHPN; Karen Bex, RN, BSN; and Rhonda L. Jones, RN, BSN, CHPN of CNS Home Health & Hospice, an affiliate of Central DuPage Hospital (CDH), recently attended an ELNEC-Core training course in Oklahoma City, Okla. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the City of Hope (COH) received a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to develop and implement the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC-Core).

Clark, Bex and Jones were three of 92 nurses from across the United States to attend this training program. The principal goal of the training program is to provide nursing continuing education providers with information on end-of-life and palliative care and resources to integrate end-of-life and palliative care content into their in-service programs or courses.

The ELNEC core curriculum has been developed to prepare qualified nurse educators to provide end-of-life education for nursing students and practicing nurses, and to provide resources to facilitate that instruction. These educators in turn will use the curriculum to integrate end-of-life content for students in undergraduate nursing programs, and offer staff development/continuing education programs for clinical nurses who provide end-of-life care.

“It was very important to me as a Community Liaison Nurse with hospice experience to receive this training and be in the position to bring back to my colleagues the latest thinking and best practice in the area of end of life care,” says Clark.

Clark received an associate degree in nursing from William Rainey Harper College and a BS in health arts at University of St. Francis, where she is presently pursuing her master’s degree. She is a member of Hospice and Palliative Nursing Association and of the American Holistic Nursing Association.

Bex received a BSN from Valparaiso University. She is active in the Elgin Senior Provider Network, Kane County Senior Providers, Association of Senior Service Providers and SR Alliance in Wheaton.

Jones received an associate degree in nursing from College of DuPage, a BSN from Lewis University and is currently pursuing a health administration Master’s Degree from University of St. Francis.

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s National Memory Screening Day

2009-08-11T14:31:15Z

As research continues to mount about the effectiveness of memory screenings and the benefits of early detection, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) will hold its annual National Memory Screening Day on November 17.

The event offers free, confidential memory screenings and educational materials about memory concerns, successful aging and local resources in communities nationwide. AFA expects tens of thousands of individuals who are concerned about memory loss and others who simply want a point of comparison for the future to participate.

Qualified healthcare professionals will conduct the face-to-face screenings at myriad venues nationwide, such as senior centers, pharmacies, assisted living facilities and doctor’s offices. Among the screening tools utilized are the GPCOG, Mini-Cog and Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), all of which take about five minutes to administer and consist of a series of questions and/or tasks.

Supporting the event this year are nearly 20 major professional and trade groups, including nursing organizations such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the National Black Nurses Association and the National Gerontological Nursing Association.

Eric J. Hall, AFA’s president and chief executive officer, is encouraging healthcare professionals to get involved as screeners in their communities. “It’s our responsibility to break through the enormous stigma, denial and lack of recognition about memory problems that still exist today,” Hall says. “Memory screenings and open dialogue between healthcare professionals and their patients can lead to answers and appropriate interventions. This knowledge helps, rather than hurts.”

In a report, “Memory Matters,” released last December, AFA underscores the value of memory screenings, noting that current research supports screening as a “safe, cost-efficient intervention that can reassure the healthy individual, promote successful aging and, when indicated, direct individuals to appropriate clinical resources.”

“It is irresponsible to leave [Alzheimer’s] disease undetected to the extent it is now when there are safe tools available to increase earlier detection,” the report said.

Among other new research, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on July 16 found that individuals who learned through genetic testing that they possess a gene that heightens their risk for Alzheimer’s disease do not suffer any psychological harm as a result of this knowledge.

Participation in National Memory Screening Day has been growing each year since AFA introduced the event in 2002. Last year, more than 50,000 Americans were screened at about 2,500 sites coast to coast.

The test results do not represent a diagnosis, and screeners encourage individuals with below-normal scores as well as those who still have concerns to pursue a full medical exam.

Memory problems could be caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other medical conditions. Some memory problems can be readily treated, such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems. Other problems might result from causes that are not currently reversible, such as Alzheimer's disease.

Surveys of participants in National Memory Screening Day have shown that a large percentage of people had memory concerns but had not expressed them to healthcare professionals despite recent visits.

It is estimated that as many as 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, which causes loss of memory and other intellectual functions. With age the greatest known risk factor, the incidence of the disease doubles every five years between 65 and 95.

Warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease include forgetting people’s names and events, asking repetitive questions, loss of verbal or written skills and confusion over daily routines.

For information about AFA’s National Memory Screening Day, including how to sign up as a screening site, visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org or call 866-AFA-8484.

Rehab Institute looking to hire RN

2009-08-11T14:12:40Z

The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago is looking to hire a full-time registered nurse for its nursing flex staff.

The RN performs individualized and age-specific nursing assessment of assigned patients, using advanced assessment skills and other medical data to formulate nursing diagnoses; develops individualized care plans and provides and coordinates comprehensive nursing care; and instructs patients and significant others in care provided, disease and/or illness, expected outcomes and home care.

Qualifications include a current Illinois license to practice as a registered nurse, graduation from an approved program of professional nursing, and current CPR certification.

The RN must have substantial interpersonal skills in order to instruct patients, initiate and conduct patient conferences, and work cooperatively with other health care team members. The RN must also have a relatively high level of analytical ability in exercising professional judgment to prepare nursing care plans, implement effective nursing care, and develop solutions to difficult problems concerning patients' mental or physical wellbeing.

To apply for this job, contact: Human Resources, 345 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Telephone: 312-238-6290. Fax: 312-238-1263. TDD: 312-238-4677.

To apply online visit: http://www.ric.org/jobs/details.aspx?JobID=660.

Sinai seeks staff nurse

2009-08-10T14:54:51Z

Mount Sinai Hospital is seeking to fill a staff nurse vacancy for its LDR department.

The position is full-time, with 12-hour shifts revolving around days and nights.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current Illinois RN licensure, current CPR certification, and a minimum of one year of LDR experience.

To apply for this job, send an e-mail to: dacm@sinai.org. Or check the Website at http://www.sinai.org/careers/career_detail.asp?job_id=8.

Adventist GlenOaks Hospital's Pillar Award Winner

2009-08-07T18:25:34Z

Director of Surgical Services Cris Yulo works hard to make sure that Adventist GlenOaks Hospital’s patients, staff and physicians are able to experience a comfortable environment at the hospital. Patients continuously compliment the loving environment she has created. In addition, the surgeons she assists frequently praise the positive change that she has brought to the hospital since her start a year and a half ago.

“I believe it’s my job to make sure every patient at our hospital receives exceptional care,” says Yulo. “But I also feel it’s important to have a close relationship with the physicians I work with and the staff I manage. Making them feel happy and comfortable puts a smile on my face.”

For this commitment to her staff, Yulo was one of five leaders to receive the organization’s inaugural pillar award July 21 at Adventist Midwest Health’s leadership development institute, held at the Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn.

“Cris has created a loving environment for her patients and staff,” says Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer Jackie Conrad. “She has an unbelievable ability to care for her staff’s opinions and facilitate their growth.”

Since Yulo joined the Adventist GlenOaks Hospital team, she has taken on many roles at the hospital. She manages 23 employees and her responsibilities include budgeting for her department, mediating physician and employee engagement, conducting employee evaluations, educating staff members, meeting with vendors and organizing surgical equipment for physicians. Through it all, her staff remains highly engaged with employee engagement scores in the 90^th percentile.

Yulo earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing and psychology from Elmhurst College. She plans to return to Elmhurst College to receive her master’s degree in nursing in the near future. She currently lives with her husband and two children.

“Cris incorporates our mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ to patients and her staff,” says Conrad. “She demonstrates excellent leadership every day and truly cares about people. We are lucky to have her at Adventist GlenOaks Hospital.”

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Stacy Matthias, RN, of MacNeal Hospital

2009-08-07T17:33:54Z

Stacy Matthias, RN, has been unanimously recognized by her peers at MacNeal Hospital in the Home Health department for the outstanding service she gives to patients and fellow caregivers. Matthias’ professional contributions to patients, families, nurses and colleagues serve as an inspiration to all.

As an admission nurse, Matthias is the first clinician in the home. She creates an individualized plan of care and sets realistic goals designed to maximize outcomes for her patients. She starts the process with a comprehensive assessment that includes the family perspective. Matthias also successfully advocates for patients when additional home health visits are warranted.

She demonstrates equal enthusiasm for new staff and students by assisting with the orientation process. Her personable communication style makes her easy to approach and a natural teacher. Her work is a fine example of the MacNeal's mission, vision and values. She is viewed as a true mentor by students and employees as they look to her for guidance.

Resurrection Health seeks CNA

2009-08-07T15:15:25Z

Resurrection Life Center is seeking a certified nursing assistant (CNA) for a part-time shift.

The successful candidate will work an evening/night rotation.

The CNA will assist professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

Requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a state-certified nursing assistant program, and CPR certification.

For more information about this job, contact: Christina Costouros, 100 N. River Road, Des Plaines IL 60016.

To apply online visit: http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Riverside looking to hire RN

2009-08-06T14:01:10Z

Riverside Medical Center is looking to hire an office registered nurse for its neurology department.

The successful candidate will work a part-time schedule with a day, weekend and holiday rotation.

Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30-5pm.

The office registered nurse will Utilize the nursing process to meet the needs of the clinic patients, observe established standards of nursing, promote teamwork among co-workers, and aspire to patient satisfaction.

Job requirements include a current license to practice as a registered professional nurse in the State of Illinois and the ability to work in an automated environment. Previous office experience preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.riversidehealthcare.org/employment/open-positions.html.

First Patient Treated at Silver Cross Free-Standing Emergency Care Center

2009-08-05T17:15:18Z

After touring more than 1,000 area residents through the new Silver Cross Free-Standing Emergency Care Center Friday, July 31, the facility opened up at 7 a.m. the next morning to treat patients. Orland Park resident Robert Faltin was the first to walk in just a few minutes after the doors opened to have his injured hand checked out.

“I hurt my finger playing baseball at a family outing earlier in the week. But by Saturday, it hadn’t gotten better,” says Faltin. “I had read about the new Silver Cross Emergency Center opening and thought I would stop by before heading to a picnic to have the ER doctors look at it to make sure it wasn’t broken.” Faltin who lives just 10 minutes away from the new Emergency Care Center said that the staff was very friendly and he didn’t have to wait at all.

The development of Free-Standing Emergency Care Centers throughout the country were in response to consumers who want more convenient ways to care for injuries and illnesses that are too serious to wait for a doctor’s appointment. “We want to give patients options in how they access our services,” says Theresa Quinn, Director of Ambulatory Care at Silver Cross. “We are excited to be one of the first in the State of Illinois to provide more access to medical care through our Free-Standing Emergency Care Center.”

“Silver Cross is committed to bringing more of its “Top 100” services to the community with the opening of this facility,” says David Mikolajczak, DO, Medical Director of Emergency Services at Silver Cross. “Now residents don’t have to travel far to seek emergency care to treat a variety of illnesses and problems, such as extreme fevers, broken bones and serious cuts. We are prepared to take care of anything at the Free-Standing Emergency Care Center.”

The Silver Cross Free-Standing Emergency Care Center is located at 143^rd St. and Bell Rd in Homer Glen. The Center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and staffed by Silver Cross Hospital’s board certified emergency medicine physicians and nurses.

The Silver Cross Health Center also provides laboratory services and diagnostic imaging services including: MRI, CT, X-ray, Ultrasound and EKGs. And there are several physician offices including a pediatrician, podiatrist, spine and colorectal surgeons, rheumatologist and family practice physicians.

More than 1,000 area residents attended the Grand Opening Celebration for the new Emergency Care Center on July 31. The event started with a formal ribbon cutting ceremony that included a Lockport High School ROTC’s Color Guard, comments from Silver Cross President and CEO Paul Pawlak, President and CEO for Silver Cross Hospital; Will County Executive Larry Walsh; Homer Glen Mayor Jim Daley, Chairman-Elect for Silver Cross Hospital Board of Directors James Roolf.

“From the very beginning, it was our hope to bring 24/7 emergency services to the residents of Homer Glen and nearby communities. We wanted to create an alternative to a hospital emergency room that would provide convenient accessible care during all hours of the day for patients of all ages with any type of illness or injury,” Pawlak said to guests.

After cutting the ceremonial ribbon, guests and the community were invited in to tour the emergency care center, talk with the physicians and staff and partake in health screenings and an array of fun family activities. Kids met Jammer, a Backyardigan and were entertained by a magician and stilt walker. Guests were also treated to Chesdan’s pizza and ice cream from the Creamery. Silver Cross also gave away a flat screen TV and Wii bundle and other prizes.

Adventist La Grange Nurse Leader Recognized

2009-08-05T15:19:08Z

As a manager of the GI lab/endoscopy at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital, Candice Washilewski, RN, BSN, has not only touched the lives of the patients that she treats, but also the community as a whole.

For her commitment to Adventist Midwest Health’s mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ, she was one of five Adventist Midwest Health leaders to receive the organization’s inaugural pillar award July 21 at Adventist Midwest Health’s leadership development institute, held at the Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn.

Under her leadership Washilewski has reduced turnover, helped increase volume by 12.5 percent and improved productivity to 100 percent. She worked with the business development team to write a pro forma to support opening a third endoscopy suite, which became operational in June. Washilewski also organized a colorectal cancer fundraiser that brought in $30,000 for the Colon Cancer Coalition.

“Candice works closely with the physicians to deliver quality care and an excellent patient experience,” says Mary Murphy, RN, MSN, vice president/chief nursing officer at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital. “Whether it’s planning a social event to raise awareness, or giving her time to a patient, she is always willing to lend a helping hand.”

After earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, Washilewski spent 13 years as an endoscopy supervisor. In 2007 she joined Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital.

Pillar award nominations were solicited from Adventist Midwest Health’s senior leadership team. To be eligible for a pillar award, leaders must demonstrate their commitment to the organization’s standards of behavior: sense, help, acknowledge, respect and explain. They must also demonstrate measurable results on the quarterly goals set for their departments. These goals are organized under the seven categories, or pillars, of spiritual life, people, clinical, service, community, growth and stewardship.

Palos seeks charge nurse

2009-08-05T14:02:40Z

Palos Community Hospital is seeking a charge nurse for its psychiatric department.

The position is full-time with an evening rotation.

The Charge Nurse assumes accountability and responsibility in the primary function of a professional nurse leader in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating patient care on her/his assigned shift.

The Charge Nurse serves as a teacher, clinician, resource person, and quality control agent.

Job requirements include current nurse licensure in the state of Illinois and experience in nursing and psychology.

For more information, visit:

http://www.paloshospital.org/body_work.cfm?xyzpdqabc=0&id=136&action=detail&ref=228.

Adventist Health Care seeks experienced CNA

2009-08-04T15:58:21Z

Adventist Midwest Health Care is seeking an experienced certified nursing assistant (CNA) for its home health care department.

The successful candidate will provide technical and patient care support for the nursing staff by accomplishing tasks that are necessary for the efficient and orderly care of patients but do not require professional licensure, as well as assist patients with activities of daily living under the direct supervision of a licensed practical and/or registered nurse.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and graduation from an accredited Certified Nursing Assistant program. Current CPR certification preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Lake Forest seeks RN

2009-08-03T16:47:20Z

Lake Forest Hospital is seeking an experienced registered nurse for its acute care department.

The position is part-time with an evening shift.

Job requirements include current Illinois RN licensure and a minimum of two years' Med/Surg experience. Previous inpatient oncology preferred.

The successful candidate will be required to work 15 – 23 per week.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.lfh.org/search_current_opportunities.

Rush-Copley's New Chief Nursing Officer

2009-08-03T16:14:29Z

Mary Shilkaitis, RN, MS, has been appointed as the new Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Rush-Copley Medical Center.

Prior to her appointment as Chief Nursing Officer, Shilkaitis served on the executive team since 2002 as the Vice President of Clinical Services and most recently had the responsibilities of Patient Safety Officer. Shilkaitis has over 20 years of healthcare experience with responsibilities for a variety of functions including operations, evaluations and strategy to care delivery, business development, fiscal management, mentoring and clinical leadership.

“We are extremely pleased to have Mary Shilkaitis as our new CNO,” says Rush-Copley President and CEO Barry C. Finn. “Her experience and commitment to excellence make her a natural leader for the nursing team at Rush-Copley."

As CNO, Shilkaitis is responsible for the hospital’s Professional Nursing Practice and enhancing patient care quality. She has direct administrative responsibility for Inpatient Nursing, Women's Health Services, Cancer Care Services, Perioperative Services, Rehabilitation and Medical Imaging.

Shilkaitis received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and her Master of Science degree in management from National Louis University She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the National Patient Safety Foundation. She is currently pursuing her Masters of Nursing degree from Lewis University.

Holy Family to fill CNA vacancy

2009-07-31T14:41:02Z

Holy Family Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is seeking an experienced certified nurse’s assistant (CNA).

The successful candidate will work a part-time night shift.

Job requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a nursing assistant program, and state and CPR certification.

For more information or to apply, contact: Christina Costouros, 100 N River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016.

To apply online, visit: http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Sandra Watkins, MS, RN, of West Suburban Medical Center

2009-07-30T23:07:48Z

In college, Sandra Watkins, MS, RN, thought she wanted to be an engineer, but followed her heart and shifted gears to a career where she could help people: nursing. For Watkins, it was a move that has been most rewarding.

Watkins is the director of Emergency Services at West Suburban Medical Center, where she manages about 90 emergency department (ED) staff. She joined the hospital in 2001. With a new ED opening in winter 2009, Watkins has been involved in planning each step of the way—making decisions ranging from infrastructure to patient safety to financial issues.

James M. Renneker Joins Weiss Memorial as COO, CNO

2009-07-30T23:00:50Z

James M. Renneker, RN, MSN, FACHE, recently joined Weiss Memorial Hospital as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer. Renneker brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, with a background as a nurse manager, executive director and most recently as Vice President of Nursing at NorthShore University HealthSystem, Highland Park Hospital.

“Jim will be a strong advocate for nursing, and his experience in hospital operations will be a great asset for us as we continue to meet the needs of our patients and develop Weiss into an industry leader,” says Frank Molinaro, Chief Executive Officer at Weiss. “He will be an active, visible, supportive and enthusiastic member of our leadership team.”

As COO and CNO, Renneker will oversee operations and nursing responsibilities at Weiss. That dual opportunity to work with operations and nursing attracted him to the position, along with an interest in encouraging a results-oriented, people-focused environment.

“I’m a firm believer in the power of shared decision-making, teamwork and creating alliances,” says Renneker, who plans to spend his early weeks talking with and listening to hospital staff. “I’m committed to establishing a culture of trust, as well as striving for excellence.”

Renneker began his career as a staff nurse at the Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. His expansive career also includes time at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans as Executive Director; Riveredge Hospital in Forest Park, Ill., as Vice President for Patient Care Services; West Suburban Hospital in Oak Park, Ill., as Vice President of Clinical Services and Interim Provost for the College of Nursing; and Loyola University Health System as System Executive Director. Since 2002, he has helped to improve quality outcomes and patient service levels, as well as significantly reduced nursing vacancy rates.

With a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati, as well as bachelor’s degrees in nursing and psychology, Renneker is a Nurse Executive–Board Certified and a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Photo by Jon Hillenbrand, Courtesy Weiss Memorial

Central DuPage Hospital Nurses Achieve Advanced Certification

2009-07-30T22:53:12Z

Jennifer Krall, RN, CSMRN, and Daphne Werner, RN, CMSRN, recently earned Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) status by the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN). Both Krall and Werner are employed by Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) as surgical nurses.

The AMSN supports certification to establish a commitment to provide safe, current and holistic care and to encourage nurses to dedicate themselves to identifying ongoing opportunities for learning and skill development that will meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.

Krall received her bachelor’s degree in biology from Benedictine University, an associate’s degree in nursing from William Rainey Harper College and is currently working on a BSN at Aurora University. She volunteers with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk.

Werner received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northern Illinois University and an associate’s degree in nursing from the College of DuPage. She and her husband Paul, have two children, Ashley and Joshua.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Medical Explorers

2009-07-30T22:45:49Z

Meenaz Merchant, RN, BSN, knew she wanted to go into healthcare when she was in high school. She just figured she would major in pre-med in college, go to medical school and become a doctor. Of course, that was before she learned about nursing.

During her senior year of high school Merchant joined Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Medical Explorers program, which introduces high school students to careers in healthcare. The program has had particular success encouraging students to become nurses, according to the hospital.

Medical Explorers is a community service initiative that works with Chicago-area high school students to introduce them to healthcare careers. The program emphasizes not only career opportunities, but also life skills, service learning, character education and leadership experience that will help students mature and be more prepared as they enter college and the workforce. Students attend sessions on a weekly basis throughout the school year and are also eligible to apply for internships to gain hands-on clinical experience. More than 750 students have benefitted from the program since it began in 1996.

During Merchant’s first Medical Explorers internship she worked with the technologists in the hospital’s nuclear medicine department and rotated through the department each week. In one of her last rotations she worked with an advanced practice nurse who opened her eyes to nursing. “The advanced practice nurse had a great impact on me,” says Merchant. “She talked to me about the differences between the philosophy behind medicine and the philosophy behind nursing. She told me how nursing is about looking at all aspects of the person’s health not just their physical health.”

Merchant was also drawn to the different opportunities that nursing offered. “I realized that there was more that I could do in the future with nursing,” she recalls. “I could graduate, work for a couple years and then go back to school. Whereas being pre-med you don’t have an option; there is one track where you go to school for 8-10 years.”

After her first semester at University of Illinois at Champaign, Merchant declared her nursing major, and she continued to work with the Medical Explorers program throughout her entire college career. During this time she completed three summer internships at Northwestern Memorial through the program. After two summers in nuclear medicine and one working in the hospital’s post-anesthesia care unit, Merchant applied for and received a nursing externship at Northwestern Memorial’s Prentice Women’s Hospital, which she finished before starting her final year of school. During breaks from school her senior year, Merchant returned to Prentice to work as a patient care technician.

Medical Explorers allowed Merchant to see firsthand the impact that nurses can have on patients. “My externship made me really see what a difference you can make in a person’s life with just really small actions [as a nurse],” she says.

After graduating this year, Merchant is now looking forward to launching her nursing career in women’s health and possibly going back to school for an advanced nursing degree.

Roseland seeks RNs

2009-07-30T15:24:45Z

Roseland Community Hospital is seeking to fill multiple registered nurse vacancies.

The positions vary from full- to part-time.

Departments vacancies include: Telemetry, Emergency, ICU, and Medical Stabilization.

The successful candidate must have RN licensure with 2-5 years' clinical experience.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.roselandhospital.org/careers.aspx.

Norwegian American seeks CNA

2009-07-29T15:51:02Z

Norwegian American Hospital seeks a certified nurse’s assistant (CNA) for its telemetry department.

The position is both full- and part-time, with an evening shift emphasis.

The successful candidate will have CNA certification and will provide support to the nursing staff.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit: http://www.nahospital.org/employment.htm.

NIU, College of DuPage Partner to Offer BSN

2009-07-29T12:39:19Z

Registered nurses in the DuPage County area can complete their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees at the College of DuPage Glen Ellyn campus, thanks to a new agreement with Northern Illinois University.

Taught by NIU School of Nursing and Health Studies professors, as well as members of the C.O.D. nursing faculty, the program is tailored to meet the employment- and family-related needs of working nurses who want to enhance their knowledge and advance in their profession.

“This agreement is an excellent example of two-year and four-year schools working together to provide an educational program designed to meet the needs of today’s students,” says Joseph Collins, executive dean of Academic Affairs at C.O.D. “Working nurses and C.O.D. nursing students will both have a tremendous opportunity to continue their education, resulting in increased career opportunities for them.”

The program will enroll a cohort of up to 35 students for the fall of 2009. Two courses are provided each semester, held back-to-back one evening each week from 4 to 10 p.m. Graduation is expected in the spring of 2011. A second cohort will begin that fall.

“This is the fifth area community college at which we will offer our RN-BS degree completion program,” says Anne Kaplan, vice president for Administration and University Outreach at NIU. “Given the number of healthcare facilities in the College of DuPage district, we’re delighted to now be able to begin to respond to this need.”

Qualified current and former College of DuPage students are given enrollment preference for half of the cohort capacity. This preference is suspended two weeks prior to the start of classes.

Nurses admitted to NIU will receive 32 semester hours of credit for their previous nursing coursework. Students can choose to maintain dual admission and obtain the related benefits.

NIU will provide 24 semester hours toward degree completion; students can complete the remaining coursework required for the baccalaureate degree with approved transfer credit from C.O.D. or another Illinois community college. All non-nursing coursework can be completed at any time and is not considered a prerequisite for the upper division nursing courses provided by NIU.

NIU will supply academic advisers and will help students arrange their community health/leadership clinical course assignments within the C.O.D. community. Several scholarships, as well as other financial aid sources, are available through NIU.

“This arrangement will make it possible for nurses in the area to get their degree with minimal interruption with their current work schedule. Due to the shortage in nurses, this will provide a great benefit to the community as well as the students involved,” Collins says. “This agreement is also a great benefit for our students, who will be able to take up to 96 hours at C.O.D. and transfer these on to NIU, thereby saving significantly in tuition.”

Brigid Lusk, chair of the NIU School of Nursing and Health Studies, says the new partnership centralizes something that has been offered at several hospitals.

“Our school has been running several off-campus degree programs, mainly at hospital sites,” Lusk says. “But we have to look very carefully at our resources, and the best way to give the higher education that NIU can offer is going through community colleges. We’re now starting to limit our offerings to community colleges.

“College of DuPage is one of the largest premiere community colleges in a high-density area. We are just delighted to be able to support their program with the optimal availability to our programs,” Lusk adds. “The education that comes with a bachelor’s degree is known to support excellence in patient care in varied situations.”

Meanwhile, the partnership could help to ease the critical nursing shortage by preparing nurses to pursue necessary graduate degrees. It also permits NIU to employ and deploy its nursing professors as efficiently as possible.

“We need nursing faculty. That’s a key issue in the nursing shortage,” Lusk says. “You can’t find new nursing faculty if nurses don’t have the appropriate degrees that allow them to earn graduate degrees.”

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Marlene Balik, RN, BSN, CWCN, of Saint Joseph Hospital

2009-07-29T12:30:05Z

Marlene Balik, RN, BSN, CWCN, wound and skin care nurse, leads the hospital’s Wound and Skin Care Committee, also known as SMART (Skin Management & Assessment Resource Team). In the last three years, she has spearheaded the committee’s transformation into a dynamic, multidisciplinary resource for caregivers.

She has placed the spotlight on the importance of nursing, not only to the issue of wound care and skin care but to the overall care of the patient. And her enthusiasm has inspired others. When confronted with tough decisions related to wound care, her liaisons ask, “What would Marlene do?” and they then try to replicate that.

Adventist Hinsdale Nurse Honored

2009-07-28T19:36:03Z

Adventist Hinsdale Hospital Director of Patient Services Kim Wolfe’s employees know they can depend on her 24 hours a day, seven days a week. According to her staff, she is always there to help with anything from answering a quick question to solving a detailed problem.

“Spending time with my staff and the patients is the most rewarding part of my job. I enjoy rounding with my employees,” says Wolfe. “It’s extremely important for me to have a close relationship with my staff. I want them to know that if they ever need anything, I’m here to help them even if it’s in the middle of the night.”

For this commitment to her staff and to Adventist Midwest Health’s mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ, Wolfe was one of five leaders to receive the organization’s inaugural pillar award July 21 at Adventist Midwest Health’s leadership development institute, held at the Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn.

“People gravitate toward Kim,” says Shawn Tyrrell, Adventist Hinsdale Hospital’s vice president/chief nursing officer. “She has an unbelievable ability to care for her staff’s opinions and facilitate their growth.”

Wolfe joined Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital in 1991 as a patient care technician and has worked in various roles including clinical coordinator, manager of the telemetry floor and house director. She has flourished in each position and in 2005 she began working at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital. Wolfe became the director of patient services in 2008 and now manages nearly 400 employees.

“Kim has been a role model to me,” says Noreen Connelly, manager of the emergency department. “She continues to inspire her leaders with her strong enthusiasm and commitment to excellence.”

Wolfe attended Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music, Morton College, and is currently continuing her education at St. Francis University in Joliet. She lives with her husband and four children.

“Throughout my time working with Kim, I have found that she is an intuitive leader who balances her staff’s opinions with results. She has embraced organizational goals and achieves 100 percent productivity in her departments,” saiys Sue Fowler, RN, BSN, MBA, an Adventist Hinsdale Hospital consultant who has worked with Wolfe since 2008.

MacNeal hiring home health nurses

2009-07-28T14:09:18Z

MacNeal Hospital is looking to fill multiple vacancies in its home health nursing department.

The day shift positions range from full-time to registry.

Job duties include reporting to the Clinical Manager and planning, coordinating, supervising and/or providing nursing care for patients in the home in order to prevent or postpone institutionalization.

Completion of a minimum of two years of college-level education in nursing and a minimum of one year of nursing experience are required, plus current Ilinois RN licensure, driver's license, auto liability insurance, and CPR card.

To learn more or to apply, visit: http://www.macneal.com/about-careers-jobOpenings.aspx.

Weiss seeks clinical nurse

2009-07-27T15:44:37Z

Weiss Memorial Hospital is seeking a full-time clinical nurse to fill a vacancy in its vascular clinic.

The successful candidate will effectively deliver patient care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation.

Applicant must be a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse with current Illinois license (BSN preferred) and have CPR certification. One year experience in ambulatory setting or primary care preferred.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.weisshospital.com/for-professionals/employment/job-search.aspx.

Mount Sinai looking to fill staff nurse vacancy

2009-07-24T14:39:41Z

Mount Sinai Hospital is looking to fill a staff nurse vacancy in its surgery department.

The successful candidate will work a full-time day shift, 7am–3:30pm, plus on-call.

A $2,500 sign-on bonus is available upon receipt of employment contract.

Requirements include graduation from an accredited school of nursing, current licensure as a registered professional nurse in the state of Illinois, and current CPR and ACLS certification. Experience is strongly preferred.

For more information, e-mail: dacm@sinai.org.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital Nurses Put Their Hearts into Cardiac Patient Education

2009-07-23T20:23:59Z

Gina Ferguson, RN, MJ, and Elizabeth Schupbach, RN, both heart transplant coordinators at Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, were recognized with Excellence in Patient Education Awards. The award honors their work to educate patients about heart transplantation, from pre-screening tests to post-surgical recovery.

Heart transplantation is a complicated process, Ferguson notes. “We spend a pretty significant amount of time with patients, describing all the tests, medications, dietary changes and other things they need to know. Education goes a long way toward relieving some of the anxiety they may have.”

Ferguson and Schupbach keep extensive documentation of each patient’s education, make themselves available for questions and work closely with other caregivers such as dieticians, pharmacists and social workers to keep patients fully informed along the way.

“A lot of patients come here thinking that they’re too sick to recover and that palliative care is their only option,” Schupbach says. “It’s so rewarding to be able to tell them that heart transplantation and other surgical options are available.”

The Excellence in Patient Education Awards are sponsored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Nursing Patient Family Education Committee and the Patient Education department.

In addition to their dedication excellence in patient education, Ferguson and Schupback are also involved in research in their area of expertise. The duo recently helped author and present two abstracts accepted at the International Society of Heart & Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) conference in Paris, France earlier this year. The abstracts were about the “Impact of Virtual Crossmatch on Outcomes in Heart Transplantation” and the “Development of Metabolic Syndrome During the First Year after Heart Transplantation is Associated with Transplant Vasculopathy.”

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Judi Howell, RN, of Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center

2009-07-23T19:00:23Z

Judi Howell, RN, is known for her compassion and support for not only the patients but also her peers. Whether she is providing a special gift to cheer up her patient (Howell is known to bring candy, balloons and stuffed animals to those hospitalized on a holiday); staying after her shift to listen to/hold the hand of a patient; or giving one of her famous hugs, Howell is always there.

She also volunteers her time at the local Hospice House and she has personal subscriptions that she delivers to the unit for the enjoyment of our families. Howell is the first one to send flowers and cards when someone is ill. In fact, she sends holiday greetings and a treat to each department in the facility on the holidays.

One of her recent acts of selflessness was to create photo displays on the multiple disciplines that touch patients to celebrate our team spirit and diversity. Although a recent flood had impacted Howell’s house, she drove to the Medical Center to set up her displays in the midst of her clean-up efforts, so that peers could continue with the planned celebration.

Central DuPage Hospital Nurse Manager Achieves Advanced Certification

2009-07-23T18:54:00Z

Maureen Romeo, RN, MSN, NE-BC, of Westmont, recently was granted Nurse Executive-Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Currently, Romeo is the patient care services manager at Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) in Winfield.

The term “Nurse Executive” does not refer to a job title or position, but to the body of knowledge suitable for an executive decision maker. According to ANCC, both the Nurse Executive and Advanced Nurse Executive certifications are appropriate for a broad range of nursing roles, including all types of supervisors, managers, consultants, chief nursing officers (CNOs), faculty, deans and other healthcare leaders.

CDH encourages nursing staff to pursue specialty certifications in an effort to promote both clinical excellence and professional satisfaction.

“Maureen is a role model for other nurse managers in the hospital,” says her supervisor Associate Chief Nurse Janet Davis. “She works hard to support her staff. It’s easy to see that she loves what she does, and it reflects in her management style.”

To apply for Nurse Executive-Board Certified, a nurse must hold an administrative position and have provided consultative services or have been engaged in the education and supervision of students for at least 1,000 hours during the five years immediately preceding the application.

Romeo holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing and a Bachelor of Science in health education from Northern Illinois University. She earned her Master of Science in community education in nursing at Lewis University in Romeoville.

Loyola seeks experienced RN

2009-07-23T14:25:05Z

Loyola University Medical Center is seeking a qualified registered nurse for its Oakbrook Terrace Medical Center. The position is part-time with a varied shift schedule.

The successful candidate will Utilize current nursing practices to provide patient care while focusing on the needs of the patient and exemplifying the service excellence goals of care, concern, respect and cooperation; function in the role of patient advocate by being in the position of initial contact for patient-related issues; and recognize and consistently apply knowledge of Loyola's 14 Forces of Magnetism.

Requirements include a bachelor's degree,less than one year of previous job-related experience, 1-2 years' previous experience, CPR certification, and current Illinois registered nurse licensure.

For more information or to apply, visit:

https://www.healthcaresource.com/loyola/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.categoryList&template=dsp_job_categories.cfm&CFID=17817621&CFTOKEN=637ea7d2e089d265-B3F1EC78-5056-BA19-169B2D57B73C4534&jsessionid=c830762a4097797e6f51.

Holy cross to hire rehab nurse

2009-07-22T15:03:06Z

Holy Cross Hospital is looking to hire an experienced registered nurse for its rehabilitation unit.

The successful candidate will work a 24-hour part-time schedule consisting of nights and 3-4 weekends per 4-week schedule.

Qualifications include current Illinois licensure as a Professional Nurse, 1-year nursing experience in hospital or rehab center, and CPR certification. New graduates welcome.

To apply visit: http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

Skokie seeks staff nurse

2009-07-21T15:39:30Z

Skokie Hospital is seeking a full-time staff nurse for its operating room.

The Perioperative Registered nurse provides direct patient care to pediatric, adult, and geriatric patient populations during the perioperative period, using specialized knowledge and skills to achieve desired patient outcomes.

Qualifications include a bachelor's degree in nursing (preferred), graduation from a state-approved school of nursing, Illinois RN license, and CPR certification. A minimum of 1 year of nursing experience in an Operating Room or Critical Care experience is preferred, as is Open Heart experience.

For more information or to apply, visit: http://www.northshore.org/careers/default.aspx?id=391.

Rehab Institute seeks nurse manager

2009-07-20T14:40:07Z

The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago is seeking an experienced nurse manager for its nursing flex staff department.

The position is both full- and part-time, reporting directly to the Administrative Director. The position oversees the safe, humane, and individualized delivery of quality care to patients from admission to discharge and is responsible for the direction, supervision, and evaluation of nursing activities on the nursing unit twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week.

Qualifications include: professional knowledge of practice and supervision, a level generally acquired through bachelor's degree from an approved school of nursing (master's preferred); current Illinois license to practice as a registered nurse; and at least 2 years' progressively responsible related clinical work experience (rehab experience preferred), including supervisory experience, with demonstrated ability to organize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

For more information about this job or to apply, contact: Human Resources, 345 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Phone: (312)238-6290. Fax: (312)238-1263. TDD: (312)238-4677.

Or apply online at http://www.ric.org/jobs/details.aspx?JobID=383.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Megan Powers, RN, of Elmhurst Memorial Hospital

2009-07-19T15:00:01Z

Megan Powers, RN, a nurse in the progressive care unit, was recently honored with the Spirit of Excellence award from Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare’s (EMHC). The caring relationship that she develops with each of her patients was exemplified when a patient was hospitalized for several months and Powers visited the patient daily to provide personal attention and encouragement regardless of where the patient was transferred within the hospital for treatment.

For another patient, Powers gathered coworkers at the bedside for a prayer because no family was available. Her composure and compassion shows her patients that they can trust in the care that they receive at EMHC.

Specialty Spotlight: Emergency Nursing

2009-07-16T20:38:08Z

Chicago Nursing Today’s second Specialty Spotlight series is focusing on Emergency Nursing. We’ll be spotlighting different nurses in this fast-paced area of expertise to discuss the ins and outs of the Emergency Department.

For the next couple of weeks we’ll be profiling emergency nurses throughout Chicagoland. We’ll find out what it is that lures nurses to this area of expertise and what it takes to succeed in the Emergency Department.

First up: Veronica Downing, RN, an emergency department nurse at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield.

As an emergency department nurse for 15 years, Veronica Downing, RN, is constantly on the move and on her toes. “When I went into nursing, I knew I wanted to be an ER nurse,” she says. “I found it very exciting and I thought I’d never have a dull moment—and I really have not.”

Emergency nursing is a fast-paced specialty where nurses are exposed to an incredibly diverse patient population. “We get such a wide range of patients whether it is trauma, adult, pediatric,” says Downing. “You get such a wide scope of knowledge here.”

Therefore, staying up-to-date with the latest treatments and patient complexities is a must for any emergency nurse. Dedicated nurses who are life-long learners tend to thrive in this specialty. “It is one of the areas that you constantly have to study and make sure you continue your education,” says Downing.

Downing notes that emergency nurses at Central DuPage Hospital (CDH) need a trauma nurse specialty or take core course training in trauma nursing in addition to have their PALS and ACLS certifications. “We also do continual competencies every year. We have to make sure we are competent in different skills that we need to perform on whatever variety and type of patients,” says Downing.

Having good assessment skills, particularly under pressure, is a must for an emergency nurse. “We are constantly assessing whether we are doing the right thing for the patients,” says Downing. “We constantly are evaluating if we are getting things done as quickly as possible and that the best medicine that is out there is given to them.”

To help improve patient flow in the emergency department CDH has care guidelines that allow nurses to initiate care while a patient is waiting to be seen by a doctor. “Depending on what type of illness the patient has, our doctors have approved us starting lab work, if they need a pain medicine, IV fluids or an EKG right away,” explains Downing. “We get that done even before the doctor sees the patient.”

Today’s troubled economy has affected hospital emergency departments significantly with many hospitals seeing an increase in the sheer volume of patients and patients without insurance. Those patients are also coming in sicker because they are not getting the general care they need through primary doctors. As a result, nurses in the emergency department are doing more education to help care for the community and help patients who do not have primary care doctors.

With these changes, this area of expertise can be challenging. “You don’t know what is going to come through the doors,” says Downing. “We have an on-call system, which helps, and we have the ability to pull from different areas. But it can be a stressful environment where one minute everything is kind of calm, then within 15-20 minutes you get 10 ambulances in. That can be challenging.”

Despite the challenges, though, emergency nurses thoroughly enjoy the quick pace, constant learning and patient interaction in this specialty. “When you know you are doing something good for your patients, it makes you want to come back,” says Downing.

Streamwood seeks Infection Control Practitioner and IC nurse

2009-07-17T16:58:49Z

Streamwood Hospital is currently seeking an Infection Control Practitioner and an experienced intensive care (IC) nurse for its Streamwood location.

According to the hospital, both positions will be responsible for coordinating the activities of the infection control program by assuming direct responsibility for infection control surveillance, infection control reporting, and provision of infection control technical support and education for all inpatient and residential staff.

Requirements for the Infection Control Practitioner include a bachelor’s degree in related field; 3-5 years' experience in infection control or epidemiology; certification in Infection Control (CIC); and specialized education and/or experience in areas of patient care practices, microbiology, infectious diseases, communication, program administration and epidemiology.

Requirements for the IC Nurse include current Illinois RN licensure and graduation from an accredited nursing school.

To apply for this job, send resume and cover letter to: Streamwood Behavioral Health Center, Attn Human Resources, 1400 E. Irving Park Road, Streamwood, IL 60107. Fax: 630-540-4290

Or email: streamwoodhr@psysolutions.com.

To apply online, visit: http://careers.hodes.com/psi/job_detail.asp?JobID=1602657&user_id=

Highland Park seeks registered nurse

2009-07-16T12:59:38Z

Highland Park Hospital is seeking a registered nurse (RN) for its Outpatient Treatment Center.

This position is a full-time day shift, Monday thru Friday.

Job requirements include: employing the ENH Nursing Process in the delivery of patient care; developing patient/family teaching plans; and utilizing Epic, the electronic medical records system, to document patient care.

Successful candidates will possess a bachelor’s degree in Nursing, have RN experience in caring for pre- and post-surgical patients, and be computer proficient. Experience in same-day surgery or PACU preferred.

For more information about this job, visit: http://www.northshore.org/careers/default.aspx?id=391.

Evanston looking to hire neurology RN

2009-07-15T14:35:10Z

Evanston Hospital is looking to fill a registered nurse vacancy in its neurology department.

According to the hospital, this position will provide support in the clinics and phone triage for the physicians in the Sleep Practice. The RN may also engage in public speaking presentations, health fairs, and support groups for the program.

The position is full time with an 8:30am-5pm shift.

Requirements for this job include a minimum of two years of current RN experience, BSN, and computer proficiency. Two years of previous med-surg experience preferred. Neurology experience highly preferred.

For more information about this job, please mail inquiries to: Neurology Sleep Center, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL.

Or visit the web site at: http://www.northshore.org/careers/default.aspx?id=391

Nurse Brings Technical Expertise to Adventist GlenOaks Hospital

2009-07-14T19:58:49Z

With new technology changing and evolving every day, clinical informatics has become an attractive area of expertise for nurses. Just ask Colleen Jones, RN. Jones, who has been a nurse for 16 years, has spent the past five years of her career acting as a bridge between clinical nursing and information technology. Jones is now bringing her expertise to the informatics team at Adventist GlenOaks Hospital as a nursing information systems coordinator.

In this role, Jones works one day a week in the emergency department and spends the rest of her time at the hospital focusing on clinical informatics. Her responsibilities consist of implementing new electronic record systems in hospitals and improving information system work flow and process improvements.

“Keeping electronic records has become a popular aspect of clinical nursing,” says Jones. “I find working in informatics interesting and extremely helpful to those who do not have a lot of technological experience.”

According to Jones, the biggest challenge of her job is not being a programmer. At times it is difficult to expand on the ideas to make the electronic records better because she is not fully aware of her limitations. However, her eagerness to learn, teach and improve the working environment of everyone around her greatly impacts the people she works with every day.

“We are very excited to welcome Colleen to our hospital,” says Jackie Conrad, chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services. “She has already started to make a positive impact on Adventist GlenOaks Hospital.”

Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center Honors Nurses

2009-07-14T19:38:43Z

Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center recently honored several of its nurses for their exceptional accomplishments. The honorees are as follows:

* Arlene Caselli, RN, received the Nursing Clinical Excellence Award for excellence in nursing care.

* Katherine Pratola, LPN, received the Mission Effectiveness Award for superior performance in meeting the mission, core values and strategic goals of Resurrection Health Care.

* Linda Ramirez, RN, received the Nursing Leadership Award, which recognizes excellence in mentorship and leadership.

* Mila Rolle, RN, received the medical center’s Caring Leader Award, which recognizes her leadership qualities, including her developing patient care-centered teams, developing nursing educational programs and implementing new ways to enhance quality care and patient satisfaction.

Trinity seeks ICU registered nurse

2009-07-14T14:55:28Z

Trinity Hospital is looking to hire a full-time registered nurse for its Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The successful candidate will work an all-shift rotation scheduled around an 80-hour work week.

Qualifications include current Illinois RN license,current APRN (CNS, NP, or CNM) license, CPR certification,3-plus years' recent experience in clinical specialty, graduation from an accredited school of nursing, and master's preparation (MSN, MS, etc.).

The hospital will consider BSN Registered Nurses with 3-plus years' recent ICU experience who are currently enrolled in a masters nursing program.

According to the hospital, the successful candidate must be able to recognize the needs and behaviors of a variety of age groups of patients, understand normal patterns of adult behavior, and look for signs of normal aging. Prior experience with various age groups is preferred

For more information or to apply visit: http://careers.advocatehealth.com/ADV_Home.aspx.

Adventist Midwest seeks CNA

2009-07-13T16:29:55Z

Adventist Midwest is seeking an at-home health care CNA for various locations in and around the Chicago area.

The position is part-time with a first-shift and weekend rotation.

According to the hospital, the successful candidate will provide technical and patient care support for the nursing staff by accomplishing tasks that are necessary for the efficient and orderly care of patients but do not require professional licensure; assist patient with activities of daily living and, under the direct supervision of a licensed practical and/or registered nurse, coordinate the availability and ordering of routine supplies and equipment; carry out specific aspects of personal care and selected treatments for an assigned group of patients; assist in the maintenance of a safe and clean environment under the guidance of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse; and assist in the clinical and non-clinical tasks essential to nursing care.

Qualifications include high school diploma or equivalent, graduation from an accredited CNA program, CPR certification, computer experience, and 1-2 years CNA experience.

For more information about this job or to apply, go to: http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

NFL Player Ryan Diem Visits Central DuPage Hospital

2009-07-10T17:01:52Z

Indiana Colts star Ryan Diem recently stopped by Central DuPage Hospital to visit with pediatric patients and sign autographs. During his visit some of the pediatric inpatient staff took a quick break to visit with the NFL star. Diem’s Super Bowl ring was a huge hit!

Pictured here from left to right: Cindi Smagacz, Kelly Meagher, PA, Sue Vandemerkt, RN, Van Thai, Jean Whitt, RN, Michelle Stratton, RN, Laura Avellana-Champer, RD, Evelyn Sanchez, Naser Zahran, MD, Tammy Cuiriz.

Silver Cross seeks cardiac RN

2009-07-10T15:17:18Z

Silver Cross Hospital is seeking a full-time cardiac cath/special procedures registered nurse for its cath lab.

The position is on call, with a schedule of 7am to 3:30pm.

The RN will prescribe, coordinate, and deliver care throughout the nursing process; maintain the standards of professional nursing; and supervise other health care workers as assigned.

Applicants for the position must have a current Illinois nursing license, prior cath lab/special procedures experience, BLS and ACLS, and cardiac monitoring experience.

The on-call candidate must live within a 30-minute drive to the hospital.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:

http://www.silvercross.org/db/HR/search/JobSearchDetailReport?idnumber=92&s_cat=Nursing

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Betsy Winters of MacNeal Hospital

2009-07-09T19:12:59Z

Betsy Winters, RN-C, BSN, serves as a valuable member of the Birth Center at MacNeal Hospital. Winters continues to expand her clinical expertise in the areas of mother/baby nursing, and level I / level II neonatal nursing.

She is a true advocate for patients and families. Dignity, respect and kindness are key principals of her direct bedside care skills. She is driven by the caring moments that she has with patients.

New mothers love Winters, and she is frequently mentioned in the hospital’s customer satisfaction survey. In addition, Winters serves as a productive member of the Hospital-wide Nursing Quality Council. Furthermore, her honesty and trust were some of the main reasons her peers selected her as a contributor for nursing peer review.

Winters also continues to promote the advancement of nursing by achieving personal accomplishments and acting as a true role model for her peers. She has obtained national certification in her specialty, and graduated in May with her BSN.

Programs and Departments at Edward Hospital Receive $140,000

2009-07-09T17:54:56Z

Edward Foundation, through the financial gifts of its donors, recently awarded $140,000 in grants and scholarships to programs and departments at Edward Hospital in Naperville, including:

* Pediatric-sized X-ray chairs, which are important for proper imaging of children, for the radiology department.

* Funding for two sessions of Edward Cancer Center’s Camp Hope, a summer day camp for children whose parent or family member has cancer.

* A Vasopneumatic pump and related equipment for outpatient rehabilitation to help reduce dangerous swelling in the arms and legs.

* Easy I/O needles for 50 ambulances in the Edward Emergency Medical System. These special needles allow for rapid intravenous access by paramedics in the field.

* Upgraded technology at Linden Oaks at Edward, including an LCDTV with a DVD player and Wii system to provide presentations to patients and their families.

* Funding for Volunteer Services to continue to provide surgical patients with pillows.

* Funding for the SHARE program which provides education, resources and support for families that have experienced the loss of a baby.

* Funding for the Breast Rehab Program, which provides information, materials and emotional support for women facing breast cancer.

* A grant for the Healing Arts program to fund an expansion of the hours and locations at which musicians play in Edward Hospital and Edward Cancer Center.

Pictured here: Candi Olander (center), coordinator of the Healing Arts program at Edward Hospital, accepts an Edward Foundation grant of $15,000 from (left to right) Kevin Gensler, Foundation Board chairperson; Dennis Burke, Foundation Board vice chairperson; Ron Nyberg, Foundation Board member and Meghan Moreno, executive director, Edward Foundation.

St. James seeks RN

2009-07-09T15:36:29Z

St. James Hospital is looking to hire a registered nurse for a full time (40-hr) day shift in its wound/skin/ostomy department.

The RN will deliver wound, skin, and enterostomal therapy and ostomy nursing care to patients; participate in patient and family teaching; and provide leadership and training related to specialty, working cooperatively and collegially with the nursing division and other hospital team members in maintaining standards for professional nursing practice in the clinical setting.

According to the hospital, this is a clinical nursing position with office hours, but will require flexibility in scheduling across all shifts when the need arises for education or patient accommodation.

Requirements for the position include a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred), current CPR certification and valid nursing license, and a minimum of 3-5 years' medical/surgical experience. WOCN certification and Wound/Skin/Ostomy/Continence experience preferred.

For more information visit: http://www.stjameshospital.org/aboutus/careeropportunities.asp.

Provena Health seeks RNs and LPNs

2009-07-08T14:48:55Z

Provena Health is seeking a full-time registered nurse/licensed practical nurse for its Rockford location.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the provision and supervision of nursing care for Cor Mariae residents pursuant to resident care plans and physician orders; supervise nursing assistants and health service aides; and manage his/her assigned unit in compliance with nursing standards, federal/state nursing regulations, and the policies and procedures of Provena Cor Mariae.

Qualifications include a current license as LPN in the state of Illinois in good standing with the Department of Professional Regulations, the ability to work with limited supervision and to provide supervision when needed, and CPR certification.

For more information about this job, visit:

http://provena.jobscience.com/JsrApp/index.cfm?prodApp=cc153c84-af0b-4f17-a32a-75aec3b65159

West Suburban Presents Three Nursing Excellence Awards

2009-07-07T18:44:22Z

West Suburban Medical Center recently recognized three staff nurses—Nicole Mittendorf, Ginger Attia-Rodriguez and Tamika Berkley—with excellence awards during the hospital’s annual awards luncheon.

The nurses were nominated by their peers for the awards. West Suburban’s 2009 professional development council selected the winners, which were honored during National Nurses Week.

“These three individuals demonstrate each and every day the qualities of an outstanding nurse—giving more than 100 percent to our patients,” says Deborah Davisson, vice president, patient care services. “We are proud to have them on staff at West Suburban.”

The 2009 nursing excellence award winners include:

* Muehrcke Award for Nursing Excellence: This award is given to a nurse who demonstrates outstanding clinical competence. The recipient provides the highest quality of care while exhibiting professionalism and embodying Resurrection Health Care values. The award is named in honor of Robert Muehrcke, MD, who retired from West Suburban.

Winner: Nicole Mittendorf, RN, a staff nurse in the Intensive Care Unit.

“Nicole has always been a tremendous nurse and professional. She is dedicated to delivering the best possible care to all of her patients. She strives to improve patient care on a daily basis. Nicole is enthusiastic and a great motivator,” according to her nomination form.

* Mentorship in Nursing Award: This award is presented to an individual who has contributed to the nursing profession by serving as a resource for others. This person offers new ideas and a refreshing perspective to coworkers.

Winner: Ginger Rodriguez-Attia, RN, chairs the Progressive Care Unit (PCU) at the hospital. She has implemented several strategies for improving patient satisfaction scores in areas of pain management.

“Through her extensive research in pain, she understood that pain is subjective and patient care should be individualized. She serves as a preceptor and mentor to new graduate nurses. She is a good clinician, recognizes any subtle changes in patient condition and intervenes appropriately,” according to her nomination form.

* Student in Nursing Award: The student award honors a nurse who is currently working in the profession and studying. The winner of this award balances work and a school schedule. The award recognized a student who is taking the nursing profession forward.

Winner: Tamika Berkley, RN, works in the Emergency Department (ED) and is enrolled at Northern Illinois University. Berkley serves on the hospital’s nursing infection control council.

“This nurse has grown into her role as a nurse. She has gone from an ED tech to RN (registered nurse) to BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) and is presently in school to attain her MS (master of science in nursing) in NP (nurse practitioner) at Northern Illinois University. She is smart, has great analytical skills and is utilizing her advanced knowledge. She also maintains a high GPA, while being a mother and caring for a young daughter,” according to her nomination form.

Saint Francis looking for multiple CNAs

2009-07-07T15:27:21Z

Saint Francis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is looking to hire multiple certified nursing assistants for its Evanston and Northlake locations.

The positions vary from full-time day to shifts, weekends, and nights.

CNAs will assist professional nursing personnel in providing patient care in assigned areas.

Candidates for the positions must have a high school degree or equivalent, have completed a nursing assistant program, and be state-certified and CPR-certified.

For more information, contact:

Christina Costouros
100 N River Road
Des Plaines, IL 60016

Or apply at http://www.reshealth.org/findajob/career_search.cfm

Rush University seeks clinical nurse

2009-07-06T14:13:40Z

Rush University Medical Center is seeking a clinical nurse for an operating room vacancy.

The position is full time with a 4th-schedule rotation.

According to the hospital, the Clinical Nurse Coordinator directs intraoperative clinical nursing activities and manages a highly skilled team of registered nurses and surgical technologists, while monitoring the plan, delivery, and outcome of care for patients. This position is for the Orthopedic Service line.

The successful candidate must be a licensed registered nurse with a BSN and a minimum of 4 years of Operating Room experience.

For more information about this job or to apply, visit:
https://Rush.iGreentree.com/CSS_External/CSSPage_Referred.ASP?ReqKey=D0BCBB0F-16EF-455B-8F4F-747B098E92A8&AppKey=&;

Northwestern Memorial Nurse Leaders

2009-07-06T13:29:52Z

Two Northwestern Memorial Hospital nurses have assumed leadership positions in the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN).

Denise T. Wong, RN, BSN, CNOR has been installed as President-elect of the Chicago chapter of AORN, and David Reinhart, RN, MBA, CNOR, has been installed on the chapter’s board of directors.

Holy Cross looking to hire rehab nurse

2009-07-03T14:35:14Z

Holy Cross Hospital is seeking an experienced rehabilitation nurse to work all shifts and schedules.

The successful candidate will work primarily nights with some weekend rotation, as well as a split rotation between rehab and med surg.

Candidate will hold current Illinois licensure as a professional nurse, with an additional 1-2 years' experience in a hospital or rehabilitation center.

Graduation from an accredited school of nursing, along with CPR certification, is required.

The hospital welcomes all new graduates to apply for this position.

For more information or to apply, visit: http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

Specialty Spotlight: Critical Care

2009-07-02T15:28:55Z

While critical care may be an intimidating area, those nurses that take the plunge rarely look back. This is a specialty that most nurses seldom ever leave, according to Elaina Schnoebelen, MSN, CCRN, president-elect of the AACN Greater Chicago Area chapter.

In critical care, nurses provide primary care for patients at a two to one ratio, typically. “You have fewer patients, but you do everything for your patients,” says Schnoebelen, who is also a nurse manager at Our Lady of the Resurrection.

Nurses who are incredibly organized and detail oriented often thrive in this specialty and are best prepared to treat the complex critical care patient population. Critical care nurses also need to be able to anticipate what is happening with the patient and then intervene before it becomes an issue. “Instead of just looking at the tasks that are needed, you need to see the whole patient and access every aspect,” says Schnoebelen.

The one of the biggest challenges in critical care today is the changing patient population, with patients coming into the hospital sicker and more complex. “Years ago patients were not as critical,” says Schnoebelen. “But now everything is done as outpatient. So patients in the med-surg unit are very sick, and the ones in critical care are extremely sick. They used to stay in critical care for maybe five or six days, and now can stay as little as one or two days. As soon as they are able to go to step down unit, they are being transferred. The patients are coming in and out faster then ever before. That turnover and flow is a huge challenge for nurses.”

With these new challenges, critical care nurses today are expected to keep their assessment skills sharp and make informed decisions to insure that every aspect of care is correct before the patients transfer out of the unit.

Despite the challenges in critical care, this specialty offers plenty of job security, with critical care units playing a larger role in the future of healthcare in general. “As time goes on we may begin to see a trend in healthcare that involves only two levels of care: critical care and step-down telemetry,” says Schnoebelen. “Patients are more often being treated at home as outpatients, with a visiting nurse or being transferred to a long-term acute care hospital. This allows for the specialty of critical care to be very strong in the future years.

While experienced nurses are often enthusiastically welcomed onto critical care units, newer nurse should not dismiss an opportunity to try critical care. “Of course there is something to be said for seasoned nurses—they have lived it and they have the experience,” says Schnoebelen. “But newer nurses bring energy and knowledge of technology. So it is nice to have a blend of new and seasoned nurses; they can complement each other. That is what makes a good unit.”

Schnoebelen encourages nurses interested in critical care to build upon their nursing knowledge to learn the ins and outs of critical care. “I always want to provide for progress of my nurses,” she says. “If they want to take an EKG class, I encourage them to take it. If they want to float to my telemetry unit to understand what the monitors are like, I encourage them to float. You just want to build on the knowledge. You will find it easier to adapt and to be successful in a critical care area if you have had that experience in a med-surg or tele unit. That way you are not worrying about the skills, and you are able to move on and look at the critical aspect of it.”

NorthShore University seeks experienced staff nurse

2009-07-02T14:17:32Z

NorthShore University Health System is seeking an experienced staff nurse to fill a vacancy at its Evanston Hospital location.

The position is part-time, located within outpatient services.

Responsibilities include: employing the Northshore Nursing Process in the delivery of patient care; developing patient/family teaching plans; utilizing Epic, our electronic medical records system to document patient care; and serving as a guide for assigned nursing personnel.

Qualifications preferred include: bachelor's degree, OB/GYN experience and/or outpatient experience, at least 5 years of RN experience, and computer proficiency.

For more information about this opening or to apply, visit:

http://www.northshore.org/careers/default.aspx?id=391.

Westlake Hospital Service Awards

2009-07-02T13:32:34Z

Jean Alexandre Jr., M.D., recently congratulated Westlake Hospital Family Birthplace nurses (pictured here from left to right) Janet McPherson R.N., Gabriela Dal Cerro, Charlene Chilo R.N.C., and Barbara Mock, R.N., on their years of service during the hospital’s Service Awards Ceremony. Together, these women have worked at Westlake Hospital for 40 years.

Resurrection Health Care and Westlake Hospital executives recognized 117 hospital employees who combined have dedicated 1,640 years of service to the Melrose Park hospital.

Children’s Memorial seeks Cardiology Nurse

2009-07-01T14:12:49Z

Chicago Children’s Memorial Hospital is looking to hire a registered nurse for its cardiology department.

The position is a full-time day shift with a focus in ambulatory care.

According to the hospital, the RN's purpose is to assist providers in delivering patient care in an office/clinic setting by performing patient assessments and documenting medical histories and vital signs. The RN will utilize the nursing process and perform responsibilities in five areas of nursing practice: clinician, clinical inquiry, teacher, professional development, and leadership. Responsibilities also include patient/family education and instruction during visits, and performing telephone triage and other activities as assigned. RN will understand and integrate into the delivery of patient care the needs of neonatal, pediatrics, adolescent and adult patients in regard to their growth and development process.

Candidate must have a degree from an accredited school of professional nursing, current licensure as a registered nurse in the State of Illinois, CPR certification, basic computer skills, and the ability to effectively communicate with patient/families, physicians and hospital staff.

For more information about this job visit:

http://www.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=3996

Aurora looking for experienced registered nurse

2009-06-30T13:56:38Z

Aurora Behavioral Health Care is looking for an experienced registered nurse for its Chicago Lakeshore unit. Successful candidate will work a variety of schedules subject to change.

According to the hospital, RN will provide clinical expertise in the following areas: Nursing inpatient, adult psychiatric, chemical dependency, and child/adolescent unit.

Candidate will have graduated from an accredited school of nursing with experience. Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.

For more information about this job, visit http://www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com/careers/opportunities.php

Or send inquiries to:

Chicago Lakeshore Hospital
Attn: Human Resources
4840 North Marine Dr.
Chicago, IL 60640
fax 773.769.1821

Adventist Midwest seeks nursing assistant

2009-06-29T15:18:03Z

Adventist Midwest Health is seeking a part-time certified nursing assistant to fill a vacancy at its downtown location,working a 1st shift with weekend rotations.

The successful candidate will provide technical and patient care support for the nursing staff; assist patients with activities of daily living; and, under the direct supervision of a licensed practical and/or registered nurse, coordinate the availability and ordering of routine supplies and equipment and carry out specific aspects of personal care and selected treatments for an assigned group of patients.

Job requirements include high school diploma or equivalency, graduation from a certified nursing assistant program, CPR certification, and 1-2 years' experience.

For more information about this position, or to apply visit: http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Weiss Memorial Has Opening for Nurse Practitioner

2009-06-26T15:17:02Z

Weiss Memorial Hospital has a full-time, day-shift opening in its Vascular Clinic for a nurse practitioner.

The Nurse Practitioner will work in collaboration with physicians to provide complete physical examinations, diagnosis, and treatment of both chronic and episodic disorders in accordance with established nursing standards. The position is part of the Vascular team, supporting work with inpatients including consults, post-op visits, etc.

MSN applicants preferred. Applicants must have completed an accredited program for nurse practitioners (including preceptorship) and possess current Illinois R.N. licensure, current certification as a Nurse Practitioner (in family, adult, or geriatric nursing), CPR certification, three years' clinical experience, and effective interpersonal skills in order to communicate with the health care team and patients and their families.

For more information about this position, or to apply visit:
https://www.healthcaresource.com/weiss/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.jobDetails&template=dsp_job_details.cfm&cJobId=253948

Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital Offers Trauma Nursing Education Classes

2009-06-25T19:36:12Z

Twenty nursing professionals from five Chicago-area hospitals recently took advantage of a unique training opportunity at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital. The hospital’s trauma coordinator, Debbie Smith RN, BSN, TNS, taught a demanding continuing educational course highlighting the latest trends in trauma nursing.

Smith, a veteran trauma nurse, recently achieved certification as a Trauma Nursing Core Curriculum (TNCC) instructor through the Emergency Nurses Association. This is the first time the hospital hosted this course.

The TNCC is an intense course that Smith divided into two days of lecture and skills tests. The lecture portion consisted of content focusing on the brain and ocular craniofacial trauma, musculoskeletal trauma, spinal cord, thoracic and neck, surface and burn, psychosocial aspects, abdominal and special populations, and more. Each day ended with four hours of hands-on skill stations where each student learned the steps to proper helmet removal, splinting, head to toe assessments, spinal immobilization and airway management.

Serving as a nurse for 13 years has given Smith the ability to share the vast amounts of knowledge that she’s acquired over the years.

“As I was teaching the class it reminded me of when I was a young nurse taking my first TNCC course,” says Smith. “I was nervous and had knots in my stomach just like they did, so I made it my goal to reassure and calm them.”

With a student teacher ratio of four to one, 100 percent of the students passed the skills test.

When not at work, Smith enjoys gardening and playing with her two children – ages 3 and 6. “My children are so sweet and understanding when it comes to my job,” says Smith. “They know that mommy is a nurse and ‘helps people who are sick or in bad car accidents.’”

Smith’s next TNCC classes are scheduled on Nov. 3 and 10, with testing at the end of the second day. Students will receive certification upon completion.

MacNeal Hospital Seeks Wound Care Nurse (RN III)

2009-06-25T13:50:15Z

MacNeal Hospital is seeking to hire a Wound Care Nurse (RN III) for a full-time day shift.

The Wound Care Nurse will provide acute and rehabilitative care for people with selected disorders of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and integumentary systems; and provide direct care to people with abdominal stomas, wounds, fistulas, drains, pressure ulcers, and incontinence.

Position requires current Illinois RN licensure, BSN, and WOCN certification.

For more information about this position, or to apply visit:
https://www.healthcaresource.com/macneal/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.jobDetails&template=dsp_job_details.cfm&cJobId=740506

University Medical Center Needs RN for Oncology Unit

2009-06-24T14:59:30Z

Rush University Medical Center seeks a clinical nurse coordinator staff RN for a first shift postion.

Position is described as an excellent leadership opportunity supporting the growth and development of staff on a bone marrow treatment/hematology unit and managing the daily operations of scheduling, staffing, performance reviews, audits for regulatory functions, and supporting staff in leading quality projects. This CNC position is 60-percent clinical and 40-percent administrative.

Applicant must be comfortable working in a shared governance environment and be a licensed registered nurse with a BSN, an expert in oncology nursing, and either Master's prepared or pursuing a Master's in Nursing. OCN and chemotherapy certification required.

For more information about this position or to apply visit:
https://Rush.iGreentree.com/CSS_External/CSSPage_Referred.ASP?ReqKey=749C4544-6100-4DB7-BB39-56FAAB1168EA&AppKey=&;

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Melissa Butkiewicz of Swedish Covenant Hospital

2009-06-24T13:14:12Z

Perioperative nursing is sometimes thought to be ultra technical and not very patient-focused. But Melissa Butkiewicz, RN, BSN, CNOR, begs to differ. As an OR nurse for the past nine years, Butkiewicz takes pride in her ability to excel in the technical aspects of her job, while bringing patient safety, satisfaction and compassion to the operating room.

Before escorting a patient into the operating room, Butkiewicz conducts an interview, confirms background information and medical status, explains the procedure, obtains consent and does her best to put their minds at ease. Butkiewicz personally ensures that the patient is positioned correctly and safely for the procedure, all equipment is ready and any medication or blood is available. She also keeps family members informed about the progress of the surgery and answers all of their questions.

When the patient is discharged to PACU, Butkiewicz is confident that she has done all she can to help make his or her surgical experience a positive one.

Edward Hospital's Animal-Assisted Therapy Program

2009-06-24T13:03:18Z

Edward Hospital recently celebrated its 100,000^th patient visit of the hospital’s Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) program. The 100,000^th visit was for 5-year-old Savannah Sokol of Naperville, who received a visit from Patty Kaplan and her dog, Paxil, a Large Munsterlander Pointer. Savannah was a patient in Edward’s pediatric unit for a diabetes-related complication.

Edward’s AAT program, believed to be the largest and busiest in the country, began in 2002 with 15 teams of volunteer handlers and their dogs. Today, there are more than 80 dogs and nearly 90 handlers. Forty breeds are represented in the program. Golden Retriever is the most popular breed; Yorkshire Terrier (3.5 lbs.) the smallest; and Mastiff (180 lbs.) the largest. Handlers and their dogs average 1,100 patient visits each month to nearly every unit in the hospital.

A study at Edward has shown patients who received AAT visits required half the pain medication of patients who did not receive AAT visits. The program has been cited as a “Best Practice” by The Joint Commission, an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 15,000 healthcare companies and programs in the United States.

Advocate South Suburban Hospital Nurses Meet with State Legislators

2009-06-23T18:21:54Z

Several nurses from Advocate South Suburban Hospital traveled to Springfield for Advocate Health Care’s annual Nurse Advocacy Day. Nurses Lori Beyer, Rita Westrom, Tamara Jones, Janice Wilson and Kerensa Vinson toured the State Capitol and met with legislators to discuss issues impacting the nursing profession and health care as a whole.

The five nurses from Advocate South Suburban Hospital were part of a group of 37 direct care nurses, representing all nine Advocate hospitals and Advocate Health Centers. The group was comprised of members of Advocate’s Nurse Advocacy Council (NAC) and their invited guests. The NAC works to influence legislation that relates to the healthcare industry by providing elected officials with vital information on real caregiving issues.

Members of the House of Representatives recognized nurses as they opened their session. Later, the nurses met individually with legislators to discuss issues that impact their profession and their ability to deliver quality healthcare. The nurses from Advocate South Suburban Hospital met with legislators representing the communities in the hospital’s service area, including Senator Maggie Crotty (D-19), Representative William Davis (D-30), and Representative Al Riley (D-38). In total, the group met with 40 state legislators (10 Senators and 30 Representatives) and Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias.

“The legislators were very welcoming and eager to hear our opinions and perspectives as bedside nurses,” says Beyer, who serves as Advocate South Suburban Hospital’s NAC representative. “Many of them also conveyed their respect and support of the tireless commitment of nursing professionals. It was an excellent opportunity to inform our legislators about the many challenges and opportunities that our profession faces.”

The NAC is a unique program that provides nurses with an opportunity to engage in the legislative process, giving them a strong voice on important healthcare issues. During the trip, nurses worked to educate legislators on three critical healthcare initiatives: continued support of the Nurse Staffing by Acuity Law, opposition to pending legislation that would mandate nurse staffing ratios, and support for a State Capitol Construction Program that include money for hospitals.

“The Nurse Staffing by Acuity Law protects nurse autonomy and involves direct care nurses in staffing decisions,” Beyer explains. “Ratios ignore changing patient needs, nursing experience and the shortage of nurses that is affecting hospitals nationwide. By drawing on our personal experiences, we were able to illustrate to lawmakers why staffing by acuity rather than mandated ratios is better for our profession and, most importantly, better for our patients.”

The nurses also encouraged lawmakers to consider hospitals as part of a State Capital Construction Program. “Including hospitals in such a program would allow for updated facilities, new equipment and modern technology, which are essential for maintaining and improving access to quality healthcare,” Beyer says. “Just like streets and schools, hospitals are an essential piece of the state infrastructure. They need to be maintained and improved to keep our communities healthy.”

Decisions made by legislators have the potential to make a huge impact on the nursing profession and healthcare in general. By participating in the NAC, Advocate’s nurses are shaping their profession and representing their patients. “As nurses, it is our duty to care for our patients at the bedside and beyond,” Beyer explains. “By sharing our expertise and personal stories with state decision makers, we are acting as advocates for our patients and fellow nurses.”

Photo: Senator Maggie Crotty (center) is pictured during Advocate Health Care’s Nurse Advocacy Day with (left to right) Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center nurses Linda Maxwell, Alberto Trinidad, Kimberlee Bermont, and Advocate South Suburban Hospital nurses Tamara Jones, Rita Westrom, Kerensa Vinson, Lori Beyer and Janice Wilson.

LPN Needed for Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital

2009-06-23T16:00:28Z

Sinai Health System is looking to hire a Licensed Practical Nurse to work various part-time shifts at Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital.

This PRN position is responsible for participation in the implementation of nursing care for patients as assigned, under the direction of a professional Registered Nurse. The LPN is accountable for the performance of nursing care according to the behaviors and activities as outlined by Mt. Sinai Hospital's core values of customer service.
Applicant must be a graduate of an accredited school of pratical nursing, including theory and clinical practicum on the administration of medication. Candidate must also have current Illinois LPN license, pharmacology certificate, current CPR certification, and previous pediatric experience.

For more information about this position or to apply visit:

http://www.sinai.org/careers/career_detail.asp?job_id=56

West Suburban Seeks Clinical Nurse Specialist

2009-06-22T18:11:05Z

Resurrection Health Care is seeking a part-time Clinical Nurse Specialist to work the day shift in the Nursing Education Department at West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park.

Resurrecion Health describes the clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) as a registered nurse who is an expert in defined areas of knowledge and practices who is accountable for formal and informal unit education and orientation of staff. As a member of the leadership team, the CNS acts as a representative and catalyst for committee and task force work. As a practitioner, CNS acts as a resource for the staff and facilitates patient care activities, including provision of direct patient care when appropriate.

Applicant must be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing (master's preferred) and be currently licensed by the Illinois State Board of Nursing. Three to five years of clinical experience required -- plus effective communication, organizational and leadership skills, and ability to operate effectively in a changing environment.

For more information about this position or to apply, visit:
https://www.healthcaresource.com/reshealth/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.jobDetails&template=dsp_job_details.cfm&cJobId=193778

Chicago Rehab Center seeks Nurse Manager

2009-06-19T14:41:47Z

Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago is seeking a full- or part-time nurse manager for its downtown location.

According to the hospital, the nurse manager reports to the Administrative Director and oversees the safe, humane and individualized delivery of quality patient care to patients from admission to discharge; is responsible for the direction, supervision and evaluation of nursing activities on the nursing unit twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week; collaborates with other disciplines to guarantee continuity of quality of care; and consistently demonstrates support of the RIC statement of Mission and Philosophy by striving for excellence, facilitating staff activities in education and research, contributing to the team efforts, and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute.

Successful candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in Nursing (master’s preferred). Candidate must possess current Illinois state registered nurse licensure, two years' clinical work experience, and supervisory skills.

For more information about this position or to apply visit: http://www.ric.org/jobs/details.aspx?JobID=383.

Adventist looking for clinical nurse coordinator

2009-06-19T14:17:01Z

Adventist Midwest Health is looking for an experienced clinical nurse coordinator to fill a vacancy in its intensive care unit.

The position is full time with a 12 hour 7pm-7am shift.

Job duties include: responsibility for the coordination of delivery of patient care and monitoring plan of care; responsibility for specific personnel management functions for the ICU;and ability to work under general supervision.

Successful candidate will have graduated from an accredited school of nursing, have 1-3 years in a lead charge/ICU role, Illinois state RN licensure, and CPR and ACLS certification.

For more information about this job or to apply visit http://www.keepingyouwell.com/Careers.aspx.

Nurse Profile: Shawn Tyrrell

2009-06-19T13:23:05Z

Chicago Nursing Today Editor Diana Mirel spoke with Shawn Tyrrell, the new regional vice president/chief nursing officer of Adventist Hinsdale Hospital to discuss her new position and the status of nursing today.

Last week, Tyrrell discussed making the transition into her new position. Here, in Part 2 of our interview, Tyrell offers insight into the status of nursing today and some of the challenges facing nurse executives and staff nurses alike.

Chicago Nursing Today: What are some of the challenges for nurses in today’s healthcare climate?

Shawn Tyrrell: There are several challenges that we are all facing in nursing today. First and foremost, our patients are getting sicker; acuity is climbing due in part to the economic choices that people are being forced to make. Our patient population is not able to invest in their healthcare as well as they should. As a result, our patients are getting sicker while resources are severely stretched. So being able to continue to give great care—which is our heart and soul as nurses—when resources are so stretched is a challenge for every nurse.

CNT: How do you see today’s economic environment affecting the nursing shortage?

ST: Because the nursing shortage is abating slightly due to the economy, there could be a reduction in support for nursing, staff development. This is a fear all nursing leaders share because we know the nursing shortage is still looming. As soon as the economy improves, the shortage is going to be back with a vengeance—even worse than it has been. We have to keep our focus on doing the right thing for our patients as well as for our staff to help develop the environment that supports excellent patient care.

CNT: How will the status of the shortage affect your recruitment and retention efforts?

ST: Recruitment and retention has to be focused on in the short term as well as the long term. If we have a narrow view and make deep reductions in support for the practice environments within which nurses work, we will wind up paying a bigger price down the road. You have to have both a short-term view and a long-term view.

CNT: How will this affect efforts to recruit new graduates and newer nurses?

ST: It is very easy nowadays to say, we don’t need to recruit any new graduates because there are enough experienced staff members who want to work or who want additional hours. But, as a nurse executive looking at the longer view, we have to support the entry of our new grads. I’m fortunate that Adventist Hinsdale has had that belief and is still investing in intern programs to help make sure that new graduates and newer nurses can be onboard successfully. I see a need to still cultivate both experienced as well as new, less experienced nursing staff.

[Experienced nurses] might not be retiring right now. But retirement certainly will come within the next five years for the more mature nurse whose career has already crested and is now contemplating retirement in 5-10 years. We still have to plan for that.

Children’s Memorial to hire registered nurse

2009-06-17T15:10:01Z

Children’s Memorial Hospital is looking for a registered nurse to work in its plastic surgery department.

According to the hospital, this position provides care for patients undergoing procedures primarily involving sedation that are performed in patient care areas; utilizes the nursing process and performs responsibilities in five areas of nursing practice: clinician, clinical inquiry, teacher, professional development and leadership; understands and integrates into the delivery of patient care the needs of neonatal, pediatric, adolescent and adult patients in regard to their growth and development process; and actively supports the hospital and department’s quality goals and service excellence principles.

Successful candidate will be a graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing, possess current licensure as a registered nurse in the State of Illinois, hold CPR certification, and have the ability to effectively communicate with patient/families, physicians and hospital staff.

For more information about this job visit

http://www.childrensmemorial.org/jobs/jobListing.aspx?postingID=3967.

NorthShore seeks electrophysiology RN

2009-06-16T15:26:01Z

NorthShore University Health System is looking to hire an experienced electrophysiology registered nurse for its Evanston Hospital location.

Responsibilities include: providing safe, effective, compassionate nursing care for all patients in the Electrophysiology Lab; identifying actual and potential patient problems; developing, implementing and coordinating a plan of care; and charting patient information in EPIC.

Candidate must possess current Illinois RN licensure, have ACLS certification, and be familiar with ACLS drug protocols and vasocative drugs commonly used in the ICU/CCU.

Cath Lab/Electrophysiology experience, as well as BSN in nursing, preferred.

To learn more about this job or to apply, visit: https://eapplicant.myenh.org/psc/psapp89/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL.

Adventist Bolingbrook's Nurse of the Year

2009-06-16T15:16:24Z

Bernadette Sims, RN, was recently named Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital’s 2009 Clinical Nurse of the Year. The longtime nurse is described by her colleagues as a “cheerleader for patient satisfaction.”

Sims has worked with Adventist Midwest Health as a clinical care nurse in the emergency department for 25 years and has been at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital since its opening. Nurses and other hospital employees submitted nominations for the honor and a panel reviewed the nominations in the selection process.

“She is truly a team player and a role model for the staff,” wrote one of Sims’s colleagues in her nomination form. “She is a cheerleader for patient satisfaction.”

Dr. Michael Korpics, vice-chairman of emergency medicine says, “Bernie is a confident, knowledgeable emergency nurse. When she is in charge, she manages patient care efficiently and is truly an asset to the department.”

Sims and other Clinical Care Nurse of the Year honorees will be recognized at the 2009 High Performing Nurse Gala in December.

“I am honored and thrilled to receive this award, because I am confident there were many other worthy candidates,” says Sims. “I am lucky enough to be a part of a department that can work well together and always count on each other, so I accept the award on behalf of all of my colleagues.”

Other 2009 Clinical Care Nurse of the Year honorees include: Siji Anil, RN, medical/surgical unit; Rebecca Couri, RN, surgery; Trinh Do, RN, ICU; Margarita Lopez, RN, mother/baby unit; Jessica Saguin, RN, ICU; Joella Wright, RN, medical/surgical unit.

Loretto Hospital seeks registered nurses

2009-06-15T16:16:05Z

Loretto Hospital is looking to fill multiple registered nurse vacancies.

The departmental positions covered are: BEHAVIORAL HLTH, MED/SURG INHOUSE, REGISTRY, CCU, ER, and TELEMETRY.

Positions will cover all shifts including weekends, and will be full-time, part-time, and flex.

Duties include providing professional nursing care to adult patients (age 15 and older) through the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation, as well as effectively interacting with patients, guests and other health team members, while maintaining standards of professional nursing.

Qualifications include: graduation from an accredited school of nursing; minimum one-year experience in pertinent clinical specialty; and current Illinois RN licensure and CPR certification.

For more information visit: http://www.lorettohospital.org/employ.htm.

National Group Seeks Nominations for Dementia Care Professional of the Year

2009-06-15T05:06:38Z

There are many healthcare professionals who go above and beyond each day to help individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and their families. It is the efforts of these individuals that Dementia Care Professionals of America (DCPA) seeks to recognize in calling for nominations for its third annual “Dementia Care Professional of the Year” award.

DCPA, a division of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), will recognize an individual who has demonstrated professional excellence in care, compassionate performance that exceeds expectations and a dedicated commitment to people diagnosed with dementia.

The deadline for applications for the 2009 Dementia Care Professional of the Year award is September 1, 2009. The professional can be nominated by peers, colleagues, employers, clients or clients’ families. Nominees do not need to be affiliated with DCPA or AFA. For more information and an application, visit www.careprofessionals.org.

“With this award, we hope to shine a light on an exceptional professional who works hard each day to go that extra mile for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and whose skills and compassion set an example for others,” says Eric J. Hall, AFA’s president and chief executive officer.

With incidence of Alzheimer’s disease expected to trip by mid-century, an honor like this may also encourages others to enter this profession, especially in light of a projected chronic shortage of healthcare professionals caring for the elderly, including those with dementia.

DCPA is a membership organization for dementia care professionals and offers practical training, continuing education and qualification as AFA Dementia Care Providers and AFA Dementia Care Specialists. Its nearly 3,500 members include social workers, nurses, home health aides and other healthcare professionals.

Excellence in Nursing Spotlight: Pamela Stack of Central DuPage Hospital

2009-06-12T13:34:00Z

Pamela Stack, RN, BSN, is currently a staff nurse on orthopaedics and is actively involved in the Central DuPage Hospital Magnet Journey. Pam has been a nurse for 14 years, the last 10 of which have been at CDH. Her achievements include: four years as an oncology nurse with chemo certification, home health experience and orthopaedic experience including as Relief Charge and Preceptor.

Stack has taken on the role of Chair of the House wide Clinical Practice Committee. She has held this position for the past year and a half and has led the Practice Committee through many exciting and successful changes. She is also Unit Practice Chair, Magnet Ambassador and is active in Magnet Force Committees.

Just recently, Stack has become the newly elected staff co-chair of the Nursing Assembly. She says that the shared governance experience has given her more incentive to take on various roles reflecting nursing autonomy.

Holy Cross Hospital looking to hire RNs

2009-06-11T14:48:31Z

Holy Cross Hospital is looking to fill five registered nurse vacancies for its downtown location.

Successful candidates will work the following departments: intensive care units, emergency department, 4th floor medical surgical, 5th floor telemetry, and rehabilitation.

Position schedules vary from full- to part-time, nights, days, weekends, and registry.

Duties include patient care responsibilities, utilizing nurse process, perform nursing assessments, and other assigned nursing personnel duties.

Requirements are minimum one-year nursing experience, CPR certification, current Illinois licensure, and current ACLS certification (acute care and rehabilitation experience preferred).

For more information or to apply, visit http://www.holycrosshospital.org/HR/Nursing.htm.

Nurse Profile: Shawn Tyrrell

2009-06-10T14:49:46Z

After nine years as the vice president of nursing services at Rush-Copley Medical Center, Shawn Tyrrell is getting ready to become the regional vice president/chief nursing officer for Adventist Hinsdale Hospital. With 20 years of nursing leadership experience, Tyrrell will bring her passion for nursing and proven leadership prowess to her new post in order to provide excellent patient care.

“I have had experiences as a nurse executive and also as a nurse working in a variety of urban and suburban settings, on all shifts,” says Tyrrell. “Through these experiences I have gained an appreciation for the need of team members to work together, united around a vision. The teams that share a common goal and common vision work the best together. I plan to tap into those common themes that bind us as nurses together.”

In Part 1 of our interview, Tyrrell discusses her decision to go to Adventist Hinsdale and how she plans to transition into the role. Check back next week for Part 2 of the interview, where Tyrrell discusses the status of nursing today and some of the challenges facing nurse executives and staff nurses alike.

Chicago Nursing Today: Why did you choose to take the position at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital?

Shawn Tyrrell: Adventist Midwest Health System is a very dynamic group, very committed to patient care and developing excellence. When I heard Adventist Midwest Health was developing that same approach to patient care that I really buy into—meaning, wanting to be the best there is for our patients and community—I was inspired to check it out. It is also a broader organization than what I am used to, so the growth potential really inspired me as well.

CNT: Why did Adventist Midwest Health recruit you for this position?

ST: They had contacted me originally on the basis of some work I did at Rush-Copley. At Rush-Copley we were very successful in terms of patient satisfaction and nursing quality outcomes—and Adventist knew about that. They had worked with our team on other projects, and they had a confidence in our outcomes that they wanted to replicate. Also, some of my strengths in terms of staff satisfaction and collaboration with staff was something they felt would benefit the nursing community at Hinsdale.

CNT: Was it a tough decision to leave Rush-Copley?

ST: Yes, very tough. I developed such wonderful relationships there. For some of them, it was sad news. But they also recognized that this is exciting time for me to make the move. I leave a very strong nursing team at Rush-Copley. There is nothing that they can’t do together. It didn’t depend on one person, and I don’t think it ever does. Nursing is such a team sport. It will be a smooth transition at Rush-Copley.

CNT: How will make the transition into Adventist Hinsdale smooth?

ST: I have never been one to come in aggressively. I come in with a focus on asking my new team what they believe will signify success to them. When I get there, I will sit down with leaders, staff members and physicians, and I will ask them: In a year’s time if you felt I was successful, what will that look like? Then I also look forward to doing what I call a gap analysis. I’ll ask where we want to be as a nursing community to fulfill the mission of Adventist Midwest Health. Whenever I ask that of nursing teams and nursing leaders, I get very defined statements of where we want to get to. I always start with the end in mind.