Nurses - K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital

M e r i d i a n H e a l t h N u r s i n g A c h i e v e m e n t s 2 0 1 0
Nurses
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Table of Contents
Transformational Leadership
2010 ANCC Certified Specialty Nurse Award 2
Awards and Honors 3
Exemplary Professional Practice
2010 NJSNA C.A.R.E.S. Awards for Nursing Excellence 7
Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence 8
Certifications 12
Professional Organizations 17
New Knowledge, Innovations, and Improvements
Creating a Climate of Scholarship 20
Research and Evidence-Based Practice 21
Publications 25
Presentations 27
Structural Empowerment
Meridian Has a Lot to OFFER to Our Nursing Students 32
Community Service and Outreach 33
Military/International Service 40
Educational Achievements 41
Foundation
Sally Hetzler Nursing Education Scholarship 43
The Rudolf and Ellen Rumeld Memorial Scholarship 44
Elizabeth I. Kellogg Award 44
This annual report was prepared by Meridian Corporate Communications
and Marketing in collaboration with the Ann May Center for Nursing and Allied Health.

Dear Colleagues
Dear Colleagues:
What an exciting year! We had the pleasure of adding Southern
Ocean Medical Center and Bayshore Community Hospital to the
Meridian family. The nursing talents at these two facilities are
adding valued contributions to our community and to the
profession of nursing. We also congratulate Dr. Richard Ridge,
Chief Nurse Executive at Southern Ocean Medical Center, and
Linda Walsh, Chief Nurse Executive at Bayshore Community
Hospital, on their new leadership roles.
Meridian Health nurses continue to make significant contributions
to patient care, the community, and to the profession of nursing.
This report details the significant accomplishments that Meridian
nurses have made in the area of clinical practice, education,
research, publication, and local, regional, and national
presentations. Meridian nurses are known not only for the finest
quality care they deliver to patients but also the contributions that
they make to the advancement of the nursing science.
Over 75% of nurses are nationally certified in their area of clinical
expertise! This is an outstanding accomplishment of which we
should all be very proud! The national percentage of nurses who
are certified is between 11 and 15% and amongst Magnet
facilities it is 22%. We are certainly ahead of the curve because of
our commitment to being a highly motivated and educated nursing
staff. In the past four years, our percentage of bachelor’s prepared
nurses grew significantly and now nearly half of our direct care
givers have earned a BSN! Meridian continues to support ongoing
professional education as demonstrated by over $300,000 being
distributed in nursing scholarships!
Collectively we must continue to work diligently to create new
knowledge and innovation in the delivery of quality nursing care.
As the most respected profession, nurses will need to continue to
find new strategies to improve the outcomes of health care. By
continuing to question how we can make it better, we will develop
new solutions to age old problems and create the best nursing
organization in the country.
As we celebrate Nurses’ Week, let us remember how invaluable
we are because of our commitment and passion to the care
delivered to our patients. Nurses are the backbone of the health
care delivery team and we are trusted by our patients to care for
them with compassion and commitment to the science of nursing.
Regina Foley, R.N., MBA, MSN, FACHE
Vice President of Nursing & Hospital Operations
Ocean Medical Center
Linda Walsh, R.N., MSN, CEN
Vice President of Nursing & Chief Nurse Executive
Bayshore Community Hospital
Mary Ann T. Donohue, R.N., Ph.D., APN, NEA-BC
Vice President of Nursing & Chief Nurse Executive
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Richard A. Ridge, R.N., Ph.D., CENP
Vice President of Nursing & Chief Nurse Executive
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Richard Hader, R.N., Ph.D., FAAN, CNE, CPHQ
Senior Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer
Meridian Health
Lori Colineri, R.N., MSN
Vice President of Nursing & Chief Nurse Executive
Riverview Medical Center
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
1

Transformational Leadership
A Magnet Moment
“My unit initiated MAK (Medication Administration Check). MAK enables a nurse
to see all the medications that need to be given or have been given to a patient.
Medication administration is now charted in real time. A unique feature of this new
program is the scanning of patient identification labels and medications to verify
that the correct patient receives the correct medication.
Overall safety and quality of care has improved on 5 West due to the institution
of this new program. The professionalism and patience required to learn this new
method has brought out the best in our staff. Within a few days, our unit was using
MAK as if they had been using the program all along. However, the staff nurses
did not face this on their own. The dedication of our unit managers and nurse
educators made it all possible. They were indispensable resources, along with
Meridian Technical Support and Pharmacy, in helping to make a smooth transition.
Patrice Spina, R.N.
Ocean Medical Center, 5 West
Meridian strives to deliver quality and safety to its patients. This has been shown
through many efforts. The MAK program has been a huge step towards achieving
quality nursing care and nursing efficiency.”
2010 ANCC Certified Specialty Nurse Award
Richard T. Hader, Ph.D., R.N., NE-BC, FAAN, CHE, CPHQ
Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer for
Meridian Health
“Dr. Hader’s remarkable contributions to nursing practice and
his commitment to nursing certification make him the perfect
choice for this award,” says ANCC Executive Director Jeanne
Floyd, R.N., Ph.D., CAE.
Rich led the transformation of nursing practice and patient care
at Meridian Health through the development and implementation
of unique programs centered on increasing successful patient
outcomes. This initiative has led to a certification rate of more
than 75% in nursing specialties throughout the organization,
robust performance improvement projects within the clinical
ladder programs, and outstanding organizational and patient
outcomes. He is an innovative, visionary leader who inspires
others to new heights of excellence.
His visionary leadership led to the establishment of the
unique interdisciplinary, patient-centered Meridian Health
Institute for Evidence-Based Care. In the two years since its
inception, the Institute has produced a research study on
medication reconciliation, over 20 interdisciplinary evidence
reviews, one multi-site performance improvement project on
ambulation, seven evidence-based Webcasts, and two
ground-breaking interdisciplinary evidence-based regional
conferences. Rich’s commitment to ANCC is evident through
his service as an ANCC Magnet Recognition Program ®
appraiser. He has served as a Magnet appraiser and team
leader since 1998 and served on more than 20 review teams.
A significant achievement led by Rich was the establishment
of The Georgian Court-Meridian Health School of Nursing,
an innovative and unique partnership between a nonprofit,
independent health system and a local Catholic university. This
BSN program, established in 2008 under his stewardship, is the
only general BSN program in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Further, he secured support for the establishment of the Ann May
Center for Nursing Excellence, which offers scholarships, career
development, mentorship, education, research, and peer support
to hundreds of nurses.
“Rich Hader is one of Meridian Health’s most valuable assets,”
says Kathleen Russell-Babin, senior manager for the Institute
for Evidence-Based Care. “His outstanding knowledge
and experience in health care administration are complemented
by his abilities to rapidly and accurately assess situations and
people to direct them on a path of success.”

Awards and Honors
Our nurses are recognized for excellence in practice, education, and for the generation of innovative ideas and new
knowledge. Not only are their contributions celebrated locally at Meridian, many have been acknowledged
in the community, statewide, and nationally.
Alejandro Allanigue, RN-C, BSN Excellence Award on Clinical Excellence of the Year, JSUMC
Philippine Nurses Association of New Jersey
Bruce Alston, R.N. Geriatric Clinical Scholar, Meridian Health SOMC
Gilda M. Alvarez, RN-BC, BSN Polaris Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Donna Angelucci, MA, RN, BC Therapy Dog Terrific Award for Outstanding Service as BCH
Pet Therapist, Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs Incorporated
Roanna Rose Arcardo, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Ellen Asaro, RNC, BSN Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health OMC
Ashley Ascough, R.N., CCRN, CSC Social Change Scholarship, Walden University JSUMC
Rosie Baselici, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Nimfa Baya, RN-BC, BS Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Lambda Delta RMC
Chapter, Inductee
MaryAlyce (Molly) Berkowitz, R.N., BSN Outstanding EMS Educator, NJ State Conference on EMS JSUMC
Jane Bliss-Holtz, DNSc, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health MH
Karen Brodeur, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Lynne M. Bottge, RN-BC Orion Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Valerie Bourdot, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Maureen Buckley, R.N., CCM Star Award, Southern Ocean Medical Center SOMC
Mae Burrell, RN-BC Galaxy Award, Meridian Health; Ann May Center for Nursing JSUMC
General Scholarship, Meridian Health; Sigma Theta Tau International
Honor Society, Inductee
Sara Jane Campbell, R.N., BSN, CHN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Vimla Christian, R.N., CNN Orion Award, Meridian Health RMC
Marie Chisvette, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Jennifer Collins, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kathryn Burns Collins, R.N., BS, Good Scout Award, Boy Scouts of America; JSUMC
MPA, FACHE
Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health
Ann Marie Conte, R.N., BS, CPN Lloyd Family Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kathleen Curto, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Lucille Delas Alas, R.N., BSN Special Recognition by Medical Staff, Associates in BCH
Cardiovascular Disease (AICD)
Susan (Candy) Dice, R.N., CPAN Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health OMC
Michele Doebler Morgan, RN-BC Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Lambda JSUMC
Delta Chapter, Inductee
Colleen Drucker, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Jane Drucker, RN-BC Reiki Level III Practitioner OMC
Jackie Dwyer, R.N., MSN Gold Plus Award, AHA for Quality in Stroke JSUMC
David Egan, RNA Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Judith Egan, RNC, MSN, CAPA Monmouth University Academic Excellence Award, OMC
Monmouth University
Pamela Egnatovich, R.N, BSN Dorothy Kaywood Schafer Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC
Pasqualina (Lina) English, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Beverly J. Fey, RN-BC Orion Award and Polaris Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
3

Awards and Honors
Regina Foley, R.N., MBA, MSN, FACHE Humanitarian of the Year, Brick Rotary OMC
Most Powerful and Influential Women of the Region
Kathleen Frank, RNC Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health OMC
Julie George, R.N., BSN, CCRN Dedication and Excellence Award, HPAE Local 5138, SOMC
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Penny Geis, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N., Nursing Excellence APN category, Philippine Nurses RMC
CCRN, FNP-BC
Association of New Jersey
Lisa Guinta, MSN, RN-BC Nominee, Kellogg Award; Meridian Health JSUMC
Galaxy Award, Meridian Health
Joan Hallman, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Linda Hassler, R.N., MS, GCNS-BC First Place Poster: GREAT KIT, NYU NICHE Conference MH
Ellen Heffernan, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Mary Henderson, R.N. New Jersey Top Walker Hall of Fame, American JSUMC
Heart Association; Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health
Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, MPH, CIC Gail Lawrence Memorial Award, Meridian Health; JSUMC
Mary V. Black Memorial Award, Meridian Health;
First Place Research Poster Winner, 6th Annual Nursing Research
and Evidence Based Practice Day, Meridian Health,
F.M. Kirby Foundation Doctoral Fellowship
Bernice Hettesheimer, R.N., CGRN Orion Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Pamela Holmgren, LPN, CGN Diversity Among the Work Place Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Eduardo Iway Jr., RN-BC, BSN Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health JSUMC
Sharon S. Jones, MS, RN-BC, CCRN Circle of Excellence Award for Chapter Collaboration, OMC
Jersey Shoreline Chapter of AACN
Karen Kennedy, RNC-NIC Bard Foundation Nursing Education Scholarship, OMC
Meridian Health; Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society,
Phi Kappa Phi Chapter, Inductee
Melaney Kinn-Gurzo, R.N. Orion Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Patricia R. Kremens, R.N., CNOR, ONC Giraffe Award, Jersey Shore University Medical Center JSUMC
Ruthann Kosick, MSN, R.N., CCRN, CPAN Dawn’s Gift, Jersey Shore University Medical Center; JSUMC
Ann May Center General Scholarship, Meridian Health
Barbara Lawless, R.N., OCN Star Award, Southern Ocean Medical Center SOMC
Debra L. Lechner, R.N. Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health RMC
Sandra Leddy, R.N., BSN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Susan Levine, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Noelle Liquori, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Catherine Loughrey, R.N., MSN, Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
CCRN, CNRN
Jamie Lowe, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kate Luscombe Elliott, RN-BC Galaxy Award, Meridian Health; Shooting Stars, Meridian Health JSUMC
Rita (Sissy) Mahar, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Elisabeth A. Margl, RN-BC, BSN, CGRN Nominee, Kellogg Award, Meridian Health OMC
Lee (Sue) Martindell, LPN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC Grant Recipient, Oncology Nursing Society Foundation, OMC
Program “Fitting Yourself into Your Own Schedule”
Marie Maursky, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC

Awards and Honors
Sharon McAllister, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Rosemary McCabe, R.N., MSN, FNP, APN Mildred H. Rosa President’s Scholarship Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kimberly McCourt, R.N., BSN, MSN, Inductee, Point Pleasant Borough High School Hall of Fame; JSUMC
CCRN, ANP, APCN
NJSNA CARES Award for Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice
Joyce McKeever, R.N., MS, IBCLC Master Trainer for Team STEPPS, Agency for Healthcare JSUMC
Research and Quality
Robyn McNamara, R.N., CGRN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kenneth Murdoch, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Marlene B. Navarro, MSN, Jack Moriarty ONS Congress Scholarship, ONS, Central OMC
AOCNP, ANP-BC
New Jersey Chapter
Nicole Ortiz, RN-BC, BSN Veronica B. & Felix J. Wolfe Scholarship, Ocean Medical Center; OMC
Bard Foundation Nursing Education Scholarship; Meridian Health
Nominee, Kellogg Award, Meridian Health
Margaret Pallante, R.N., CCM Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Loretta Pasquarella, R.N., MSN, Summa Cum Laude, MSN Program, Rutgers, The State JSUMC
NP-C, OCN
University of New Jersey
Meaghan Peters, R.N. Polaris Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Aldertha Pitts, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Maria Rocel Ramos, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Karen Reider, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Thomas J. Reinhold, R.N. Nominee, Ginny Horner Excellence in Nursing, Ocean Medical Center OMC
Clair Ruffler, RN-BC, BSN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health; Polaris Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NJSNA CARES Award for Nursing Administration, NJSNA; MH
NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
Lloyd Family Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health
Gity Safari, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Audrey Savino, R.N., BSN Nominee, Donor Advocate, The Sharing Network JSUMC
Sheri L. Schuman, R.N., CCRN Polaris Award, Meridian Health RMC
Denise Schwartz, R.N., BSN, BC Ocean Medical Center Scholarship, Meridian Health; OMC
Ann May General Scholarship, Meridian Health
Kathy Shimchak, R.N Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kimberly Simon, R.N., BSN, CIC Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Award, Riverview Medical RMC
Center Medical Executive Committee
Judith Slover-Zipf, DNP, ANP-BC, Galaxy Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
BC-ADM, CDE
Danielle Smith, R.N., BSN, CNOR Nominee, Kellogg Award, Meridian Health OMC
Theresa Smith-Lipscomb, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Lisa Ann Snyder-Stackhouse, R.N., BSN Dean’s Honor List, Kean University SOMC
Chrisanne Starrett, R.N., CEN Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health; OMC
Polaris Award, Meridian Health
Kathleen Sullivan, RN-BC, MSN Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Thomas Theroux, R.N. Frank S. Hedges Memorial Scholarship, Meridian Health OMC
Maria G.D. Torres, RN-BC Galaxy Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Tiffany Troncone, R.N., OCN Mehandru Award for Nursing Excellence, Meridian Health JSUMC
Melanie Turaniczo, R.N., BSN, OCN Madelyn Wilson Scholarship, Meridian Health; JSUMC
Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
5

Awards and Honors
Debra Umlauf, RN-BC Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Tiffany E. Ustick, RN-C, BSN Orion Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Trish Vigna, R.N., MSN, APN, CWCN Forum of Nurses in Advanced Practice (FNAP); JSUMC
APN State Award for Excellence, APN Education Day;
Jenna Wallace, R.N., CCRN Ann May General Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC
Tracy Walters, R.N. Rudolf & Ellen Rumeld Memorial Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC
Kelly Ward, R.N. Florence Nightingale Award, Meridian Health JSUMC
Tamara Washington, R.N., BSN Donald J. Keenan Nursing Prize, Meridian Health JSUMC
Jennifer White, RN-BC, CNML Nominee, ONE/NJ Nurse Leader Acute Care RMC
Sonja M. Williams, RN-BC, BSN Cole Foundation Grant, Kean University; JSUMC
Florence Nightingale, Meridian Health;
Orion Award, Meridian Health
Nancy Winter, R.N., BSN, MSN, NE-BC Kellogg Award for Excellence in Nursing, Meridian Health MH
Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., NEA-BC Leadership for Academic Nursing Program Fellow for AACN 2010-2011 MH
Christine Zebrowski, R.N., BSN Barbara Bailey Nursing Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC
Laura Zimmerman, RNC, MA, Madelyn Wilson Scholarship, Meridian Health JSUMC
CRRN, HN-BC

Exemplary Professional Practice
A Magnet Moment
“The most amazing special Magnet moments for me are those times when you
win over the trust of the patient, which enables you to teach them how to care for
themselves and improve their health. Nurse retention is high at Meridian so when
patients are readmitted or use our outpatient facility, it’s a “safe” place for them
as they see familiar faces of trusted professionals. My patients have enjoyed
knowing that when Riverview Medical Center first got Magnet status, we were the
first system in the country to have all campuses Magnet certified.”
Marilyn Noesges, R.N.
Riverview Medical Center, 4 South
2010 NJSNA C.A.R.E.S. Award for Nursing
Excellence in Clinical Practice
Kimberly McCourt, R.N., MSN, APN, CCRN
Heart Failure Coordinator/Adult Nurse Practitioner
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Kim McCourt built her role as a nurse practitioner on a foundation of over 20 years of
experience in cardiac intensive care. She now expertly applies standards of practice to
manage, support, and coordinate care for the growing congestive heart failure population
during acute episodic illness and exacerbation of their chronic disease. Kim develops
collaborative plans of care as she works with 38 physician associates in delivering
inpatient and outpatient cardiac care. Through her practice, she has consistently demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in
the area of leadership, management, and patient care.
Kim has developed protocols for DVT management, initiated outpatient inotropic infusion services, tracked patient progress through
tele-medicine, and is developing updated CHF clinical pathways. She has conducted nursing research related to neseritide infusion,
epicardial pacing, use of low molecular weight heparin in the Cardiac Cath Lab, and has participated in clinical trials that included cardiac
patients. Kim actively advocates for her patients and assures their rights as she delivers safe and ethical care. She carefully manages
patients’ cardiac volumes, working with her nursing colleagues to minimize the use of medications and reduce hospital length of stay.
Kim’s service to the profession includes teaching Advanced Cardiac Life Support. She is also a frequent speaker at the Meridian Health
APN network, monthly nursing orientation, and the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner convention. Her education extends to the community
where she has presented topics related to women and heart disease and heat stroke in the elderly.
Kim possesses exemplary clinical skills and a commitment to caring that acknowledges the interpersonal connection between the nurse,
patient, and family in the delivery of cardiac health care.
“Kim prizes honesty and integrity above all else, and sets the standard higher for herself,” says Nancy Shafer-Winter, R.N., MSN, NE-BC,
senior manager of Patient Care at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. “Her self motivation, dedication to quality care, and enthusiastic
approach to accomplishing personal and professional goals can only contribute to Meridian Health.”
2010 NJSNA C.A.R.E.S. Award for Nursing
Excellence in Nursing Administration
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NE-BC, ACNS, BC
Senior Manager, Meridian Health Institute for Evidence-Based Care
Kathy Russell-Babin has demonstrated leadership expertise through her service to the
people of New Jersey for nearly 30 years in numerous roles in nursing administration.
Throughout her career she has transformed organizations, motivated team members,
and turned challenges into remarkable success stories. Kathy’s skills in sound fiscal
management are evidenced throughout her career in the administration of salary
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
7

Exemplary Professional Practice
budgets, oversight of multiple acute care departments and their
patients, and her responsibility for as many as 1,200 full time
employees. She has sought and secured numerous competitive
grants in support of special initiatives. Most recently, Kathy
secured $35,000 in funding to implement a pharmacist model of
care demonstration project aimed at medication reconciliation.
Kathy has shown outstanding leadership in the development
of sound nursing administration systems while leading her
organizations to secure and maintain the ANCC Magnet
recognition, which requires exemplary nursing leadership and
outstanding measures of nursing quality indicators. She has led
numerous executive, educational, and quality improvement teams
to ensure regulatory compliance that have resulted in high
ratings from The Joint Commission. In her most recent role
as senior manager for the Meridian Health Institute for
Evidence-Based Care, Kathy integrates a new theoretical
framework into the nursing environment. Through her leadership,
Kathy ensures that new knowledge is translated to the bedside
and that care is based on sound, scientific, and up-to-date
evidence in the delivery of safe, effective, and ethical nursing
practice. Furthermore, Kathy ensures the new paradigm
of evidence-based care is sustained through mentorship
and education of staff, physicians, and emerging
nursing administrators.
Kathy created the Nursing Quality Scholars program,
established a Nursing Quality Council, and continues to
champion patient/family centered care. Her administrative
support has helped us achieve comprehensive stroke center
designation, develop protocols for mental status assessment
and falls risk/prevention, and create reports to disseminate
NDNQI results to team members.
“Kathy is an innovative, visionary leader who fosters
professional growth, inspires and models nursing excellence,
and is highly committed to the highest standards of nursing
administration,” says Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., CNAA,
director of Meridian Health’s Ann May Center for Nursing.
Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence
The C.A.R.E. Program acknowledges and rewards nurses who have demonstrated a level of clinical expertise
and practice that improves patient outcomes.
Fellow
Jennifer Abbes, RN-C, BSN
JSUMC
Angelina Abella, R.N., BSN
RMC
Nicole Adams, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Rita M. AdAse, R.N., CNOR, CGRN, AS JSUMC
Sherry Arabia, R.N., BS
RMC
Karen Asmar, RN-C, AS
RMC
Janet Elaine Avon, RN-C, BSN
OMC
Gail Baker, R.N., CNOR
JSUMC
Roel C. Banal, R.N., CNOR, BSN
RMC
Mary Meagan Barns, R.N., CCRN, BSN JSUMC
Jerry Barry, R.N., AS
OMC
Theresa Baxter, R.N., CCRN, AS
OMC
Sebastiana Benavide, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
Kelly L. Bocchino, R.N., AS
RMC
Dana Bodziak, R.N., AS
JSUMC
Claire Bosko, R.N., CGRN
JSUMC
Suzanne Brown, R.N., CMSRN, BSN
JSUMC
Eileen Bye, R.N., AS
OMC
Kim Cardace, RN-C, BSN
OMC
A. Carol Carhart, R.N., BSN RMC
Stephanie Carrion, R.N., CAPA, BA
JSUMC
Girlie Castillon, R.N., CNOR, BSN
JSUMC
Cynthia Cates-Silva, RN-C, BSN
Annemarie Cavalli, RN-C, BSN
Kathy Cavallini, R.N., AS
Kristina J. Ceppaluni, R.N., AS
Joseph Church, R.N., AS
Suzanne Clancy, R.N., AS
Charlotte L. Cole, R.N., RN-BC, AS
Kimberly Crowning, RN-BC, BS
Jaine Cruz, RN-C, BSN
Betsy Cushman-Creter, R.N., BSN
Anabella Dacpano, R.N., CCRN, BSN
Esther M. Dayalan, R.N., BSN
Carol DeBenedictis, R.N., CCRN, BSN
Cathy D’Elia, R.N., BSN
Patricia DePuy, R.N., BS
Wendy Devirgilis, R.N., DIP
Helen DeVitis, R.N., AS
Anabello Docpono, R.N., CCRN, BSN
Margaret Doherty, R.N., BSN
Cecilia Dominisac-Sanchez, R.N., BSN
Toni Donovan, R.N., BSN
Judi Driscoll, RN-C, AS
Dolores Dzubaty, RN-C, MSN
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
RMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC
OMC
OMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC

Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence
Leslie Eaton, R.N., AS
Deborah Edgerton, RN-C
Sharon Enriquez, R.N., BSN
Lindsay Fehring, R.N., AS
Marie A. Files, R.N., CES
Nenita Flores, R.N., BSN
Abelardo Galang, R.N., M.D.
Nancy Gannon, R.N., CCRN, BSN
Rowena Garcia, R.N., BSN
Penny Gels, R.N., AS
Laurie Giacone, R.N., CCRN, BSN
Darlene Goldberg, R.N.
Karen Gould, R.N., AS
Joanne Hahn, R.N., RN-C, AS
Barbara Hammond, R.N., AS
Sharohn Hankins, RN-BC, BSN
Mary Ann Hay, RN-C, AS
Marian Hedden, RN-C
Christina Hendrickson, R.N., AS
Dawn Hergert, R.N., BSN
Laure Hill, R.N., CAPA, BSN
Lauren Hopwood, R.N., CNRN, AS
Diana Horwitz, RN-C, BSN
Mandi Hughes, R.N., AS
Jean Hughes, R.N., CNN, AS
Kristin Inzana, R.N., BSN
Janice Jaiyeola, R.N., AS
Anna Jocson, RN-C, BSN
Stephanie Kane-Faulhaber, R.N., RN-C, AS
Margaret Keffner, RN-C, BSN
Emily Keller, R.N., BSN
Donna Kester, R.N., BSN
Robin CK King, R.N.
Susan LaBianco, R.N., BS
Avegail LaGuerta, R.N., BSN
Karen Lammann, R.N., BA
Daniel Lang, R.N., CNOR, AS
Kristine Lao, RN-BC, BSN
Carmelinda Lapadula, RN-C, BSN
Alice Lastimosa, R.N., AS
Sylvia Lau-Kwan, RN-C, BSN
Deborah Lee, R.N., AS
Joseph A LeGrano, R.N.
Duane Leist, R.N., CNOR, AS
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
OMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
RMC
RMC
Christina Lombardi, R.N., AS
Janine Long, R.N., DIP
Josephine Lopez, R.N., BSN
Janice Lovell, RN-C
Jennifer Lovey, R.N., CRN, BSN
Jillian Luongo, RN-C, BSN
Tara Magill, RN-C, AS
Irene Marsh, RN-C, AS
Joena Marshall, RN-C, CBC, AS
Lauren Mashropicro, R.N., BSN
Donna Mayer, RN-C, AS
Kathleen A. McCue, R.N.
Kelley McRory, R.N., CCRN
JoAnn Merckx, RN-C
Dawn Miranda, R.N.
Deborah Monroe, R.N., AS
Barbara Moore, RN-C, DIP
Tracy Moreland, R.N., AS
Erika Mulreed, R.N., AS
Katelyn Mundorff, R.N., BSN
Leeann Murray, R.N., CAPA
Renee Nebus, R.N., AS
Dawn Negri, R.N., AS
Carole Nemec-Hart, R.N., MCS, AS
Janine Novrit, R.N., AS
Terri L. O’Regan, R.N., BSN
Granet Padalia, R.N., RN-C, BSN
Joey L. Padilla, RN-C, BSN
Pamela Palmer, R.N., BSN
Kristina Pascucci, R.N., AS
Suzanne Penna, R.N., BSN
Sandra Persaud-Foster, R.N.
Meaghan Peters, R.N., AS
Linda Peterson, R.N., AS
Jasmin Pilapil, R.N., BSN
Shannon Popola, R.N., CAPA, BSN
Brigitte Pyne, R.N.
Gwen Reynolds, R.N., AS
Amanda Rinderer, RN-C, BSN
Jessica Rivera, R.N., AS
Eileen Roberto, R.N., MSN
Ercilia Rodriguez, R.N., BSN
Clair Ruffler, R.N. BSN
Lisa M. Ryan, R.N., AS
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC
RMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
9

Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence
Sheri L. Schuman, R.N., BSN
RMC
Arlene Vito, R.N., BSN
RMC
Deborah L. Shea, R.N., CCRN, AS
OMC
Rachael Vogt, R.N., PCCN, BSN
JSUMC
Marelene Sia, R.N., BSN
RMC
Jenna Wallace, R.N.
JSUMC
Seton Simar, RN-C
OMC
Mara Warehime, R.N., BSN
RMC
Christine Simoes, RN-C, BSN
JSUMC
Lois A. Weber, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
Brandy Stewart, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Lisa Weiss-Walters, RN-C, BSN
JSUMC
Marcia A. Teape, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
Eric K. Wignall, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Marie Theosny, R.N., AS
JSUMC
Jennifer Willis, R.N., BSN
RMC
Rachel Tinao, R.N., BSN
OMC
Patricia A. Windas, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Marleen Trabold, RN-C
OMC
Marianne Wood, RN-C, BSN
JSUMC
Rita Traina, RN,-C
OMC
Patrycjusz Wysocki, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Biji Varghese, R.N., CCRN, BSN
JSUMC
Laurette Vilardi, R.N., AS
RMC
Resource
Amy Addeo, R.N., CAPA
Michelle Allert, R.N., AS
Stella Atamian, R.N., BSN
Hegel A. Balingit, R.N., BSN
Jacki Bernick, RN-C, BSN
Michele Bobal, R.N., AS
Fallon A. Brown, R.N., AS
Vicma Marie Cac, RN-C, AS
Anne Carmel E. Castillo, R.N., CMSRN, BSN
Ronald Castillon, RN-BC, AS
Almarie D. Castro, RN-BC, BSN
Catherine P. Connelly, RN-C, AS
Joanne Mary Corley, RN-C, BSN
Marilyn Crotty, RN-C, BSN
Jane Cushing, RN-C, AS
Abraham de Leon, R.N., BSN
Jeanette C. DelRosario, R.N., MSN
Wendy DiBenedetto, R.N., AS
James Dougherty, R.N., RN-BC, AS
Kimberly Dwyer, R.N., CCRN, BSN
Beata Emanuel, RN-C, AS
Mary Pat Fastiggi, R.N., BSN
Mary Ann Fernandes, RN-C, AS
Kimberly Forgione, R.N., ONC, AS
Carmenchu Go, R.N., BSN
Theresa Gonzalez, R.N., CEN, AS
Theresa Grotheer, RN-C, AS
Jose A. Guerrero, R.N., BSN
Lauren Hanson-Gaines, RN-C, BSN
Angela Hasko, RN-BC, AS
Michael Paul Hibionada, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
Joy Sheryl Hibionada, R.N., BSN
Leah Jacobs, RN-C, BSN
Jamie Kiernan, RN-BC, BSN
Diane S. LaBarbera, RN-C, AS
Kristen Latendresse-Carnevale, R.N.
JoAnn Lillis, R.N.
Sharon A. Lyden, R.N., CDN, AS
Sharon Mack, R.N.
Anne Manzi, R.N.
Ellen McCue, R.N., BSN
Jennifer L. McGinn, R.N., AS
Nenita Medina, R.N., BSN
Michelle A. Mezey, RN-C, AS
Rachel Miller, RN-C, AS
Danielle A. Moran, RN-C, MSN
Linda Murphy, R.N.
Helen Olairez, R.N., CCNN, BSN
Jody A. Orth, RN-C, BSN
Agnes Reyes, R.N., BSN
Alyssa Roman, R.N., AS
Rose Rumore, RN-C
Monica Saldarini, R.N., CPAN, AS
Mary C. Schaad, R.N., BSN
Nadine Schaefer, RN-C, AS
Maria Trifona Silverman, R.N., BSN
Marylou Stevens, R.N., AS
Sherry Timbrook, RN-C, AS
Debra Umlauf, R.N., AS
Joce Salcedo Villegas, R.N., AS
Judith Virga, R.N., CCRN, AS
Francine Wyres, R.N., CNN, BSN
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
RMC
JSUMC
RMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC
JSUMC
RMC
OMC
RMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC
OMC

Clinical Advancement and Recognition of Excellence
Scholar
Gilda Alvarez, RN-C, BSN
JSUMC
Joanah Amparo, R.N., DIP
JSUMC
Monica Bergrud, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Valerie Bourdot, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
Karen Brodeur, R.N., CPN, CPEN, AS
JSUMC
Dawn Chadwick, R.N., AS
RMC
Patricia D. Crocker, R.N., CEN
RMC
Diane Czeczuga, RN-C, DIP
OMC
Jenifer Daily, RN-C, BSN
RMC
Francine Dygulski, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
Dana Forster, R.N., AS
JSUMC
Jacqueline Frederique, RN-C
JSUMC
Carroll Friscia, RN-C, BSN
RMC
Lani Gernalin, R.N., OCN, BSN
OMC
Kelly Howey, R.N., CCRN
OMC
Michelle Iannello, R.N.
RMC
Dawn Manna, R.N., ONC, AS
JSUMC
Kathy McGovern, R.N., CCRC
JSUMC
Patricia M. McKeon, R.N.
JSUMC
Agnes Aurea C. Mendoza, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
M. Jane Mulligan, R.N., CCRN, AS OMC
Jennifer Oritz, R.N., BSN
JSUMC
Patricia Pavlinet, R.N., AS
RMC
Denise Pischel, R.N., CNRN, CCRN, BSN JSUMC
Joni Prentice, R.N., CCRN, NP-C, MSN JSUMC
Jane Schappert, RN-C, AS
RMC
Kathleen S. Spillane, RN-C, AS
JSUMC
Heather Starnes, RN-BC, AS
JSUMC
Mary Lou Wessels, R.N., CEN
RMC
Scholar - CRS
Rebecca Reinhold, R.N., AS
Scholar - EBP
Mary Bertero, RN-C, BSN
Tamara Cafaro, RN-C, BSN
Frank Dante, R.N., BSN
David Egan, R.N., CCRN, BS
Michael Rupp, R.N., BSN
Kellis Tippit, R.N., DIP
Mary Anne Unger, R.N., CCRN, AS
Scholar - GCS
Kristen Beer, R.N., BSN
Jane Drucker, RN-BC, AS
Karen Kelly, RN-C, AS
Susan Love, R.N., AS
Thomas Theroux, R.N., AS
Scholar - NQS
Elaine Alerta, R.N., BSN
Alejandro Allanique, RN-BC, BSN
Suzanne Emanueli, R.N., BA
Patricia Gordon, R.N.
Jennifer Harper, R.N., CNN
Jill E. Izzo, R.N., BSN
Carol Jamieson, RN-C, OCN, AS
Barbara Lechner, R.N., AS
Marie Mupada, R.N.
Priscilla Velasquez, RN-C, BS
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
OMC
OMC
OMC
JSUMC
OMC
RMC
RMC
RMC
RMC
OMC
JSUMC
RMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
11

Certifications
The enduring desire to advance one’s clinical skills and to achieve new knowledge is a powerful motivation for Meridian nurses.
AIDS Certified Registered Nurse (ACRN) Susan Bataille, R.N., ACRN JSUMC
Nilda R. Lamour Fitzgerald, R.N., BSN, ACRN
JSUMC
Adult Nurse Practitioner (APN-BC) Margaret M. Corcoran, MSN, MBA, APN-BC recertification MH
Vicki DeNoia, R.N., APN-BC
MQC
Patti Worth, R.N., APN-BC
MQC
Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) Mary Ann T. Donohue, Ph.D., R.N., APN, NEA-BC recertification JSUMC
Carolyn Keating, APN, MSN, CCRN
RMC
Advanced Practice Nurse, Landa A. PoianiDarocki, MSN, APN-C, COHN-S recertification MH
Certified (APN-C)
Ambulatory Care Nurse Nancy Atheras, RN-BC, BSN OMC
Certification (RN-BC) Karen Cadigan, RN-BC JSUMC
Jennifer Filardo, RN-BC, BSN
OMC
Susan Sharkey, RN-BC
OMC
Cardiac Surgery Certification (CSC) Ashley Ascough, R.N., CCRN, CSC JSUMC
Meagan Barnes, BS, R.N., CCRN, CSC
JSUMC
Cardiac Vascular Nurse Christine Brodeur, RN-BC JSUMC
Certification (RN-BC) Rebecca McBride, RN-BC, BSN JSUMC
Alanna Schauer, RN-BC
BCH
Candy Scisco, RN-BC
JSUMC
Patricia Voorhees, RN-BC
JSUMC
Certified Ambulatory Suzanne Davitt, R.N., BSN, CAPA recertification SOMC
Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Elizabeth Dowe, R.N., CPAN, CAPA JSUMC
Catherine A. Isnardi, RN-BC, BSN, CAPA
JSUMC
Noelle Liquori, R.N., CAPA recertification JSUMC
Certified Breast Cancer Nurse (CBCN) Betty Moore, R.N., BSN, CBCN JSUMC
Certified Case Management (CCM) Maureen Buckley, R.N., CCM recertification SOMC
Margaret Pallante, R.N., CCM
JSUMC
Diane Passafiume, R.N., CCM
JSUMC
Certified Childbirth Educator (CCE) Susan Pear, RNC-OB, CCE
Jean Shafto, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM recertification OMC
Certified Clinical Research Kathy McGovern, R.N., CCRC JSUMC
Coordinator (CCRC) Dawn McIntyre, R.N. BSN, CCRC JSUMC
Certified Correctional Health Susan Laffan, R.N., CCHP-RN, CCHP-A SOMC
Professional (CCHP-RN)
Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) Eddi Nitting, R.N., BSN, CDE SOMC
Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN) Philip Pesce, R.N., CDN OMC
Maria Scuttaro, R.N., CDN
RMC
Mary Ann Sullivan, R.N., BSN, CDN
RMC
Certified in Electronic Jean Shafto, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM OMC
Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM)
Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Kathleen Brophy-Degrassie, BS, CEN, ENPC, TNCC recertification OMC
Ryn Fernandez, R.N., MSN, APRN-BC, CEN, CCRN
JSUMC
Chrisanne Starrett, R.N., CEN recertification OMC
Edward Vetrecin, R.N., BSN, CCRN, CEN
SOMC
Paul Wyche, R.N., BSN, CEN, CPEN
RMC
Certified Hospice and Cynthia J. Eustice, R.N., BSN, CHPN RMC
Palliative Care Nurse (CHPN) Kathleen Gelchion, MSN, R.N., AOCNS-BC, CHPN RMC
Certified in Infection Control Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, MPH, CIC recertification JSUMC
and Prevention (CIC)

Certifications
Certified Medical-Surgical Glynda Daradar, RN-BC, BSN, CMSRN RMC
Registered Nurse (CMSRN) Jamie Mazza, R.N., CMSRN SOMC
Maryjo Phillips-Ruggiero, RN-BC, CMSRN, MSN
MH
Brenda Snow, R.N., BSN, CMSRN recertification SOMC
Certified Neuroscience Nurse (CNRN) Robin Baumann, R.N., CNRN JSUMC
Roland Castillon, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Francine Dygulski, RNC, BSN, CNRN
JSUMC
Jackie Dwyer, R.N., MSN, CNRN
JSUMC
Pasquilina English, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Jeff Garland, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Robin Grant, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Lauren Hopwood, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Nawal Jansen-Vorbach, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Catherine Loughrey, R.N., CNS, CNRN
JSUMC
Richard Penalosa, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Denise Pischel, R.N., CNRN, CCRN
JSUMC
Melissa Rocco, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Jocell Sigua, R.N., CNRN
JSUMC
Alison Trembly, R.N., CNRN, APN recertification JSUMC
Certified Nurse Executive (NE-BC) Terri T. Pietsch, R.N., MSN, CTR, OCN, NE-BC RMC
Certified Nurse Manager Leader (CNML) Jennifer White, RN-BC, CNML RMC
Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) Mary Clair Delbury, R.N., CNOR SOMC
Karalyn Fallat, R.N., BSN, CNOR
SOMC
Maria Flynn, R.N., CNOR
SOMC
Jamie Hargis, R.N., CNOR
OMC
Kathleen Loeffler, R.N., CNOR
OMC
Maria Mellaci-Lourenco, R.N., CNOR
JSUMC
Patricia R. Kremens, R.N., CNOR, ONC recertification JSUMC
Renee Nebus, R.N., CNOR
OMC
Danielle Smith, R.N., BSN, CNOR
OMC
Margaret A. Sullivan, R.N., CNOR
RMC
Gina Wickberg, R.N., CNOR recertification OMC
Certified Occupational Health Landa A. PoianiDarocki, MSN, APN-C, COHN-S recertification MH
Nurse-Specialist (COHN-S)
Certified Pediatric Emergency Karen Brodeur, R.N., CPEN, CPN, TNCC JSUMC
Nurse (CPEN) Idisbeth Perez-Burke, R.N., CPEN RMC
Paul Wyche, R.N., BSN, CEN, CPEN
RMC
Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) Edna J. Evangelista, R.N., BSN, CPN JSUMC
Mary E. Peled, R.N., BSN, CPN recertification OMC
Rebecca Reinhold, R.N., CPN
JSUMC
Jill Tralka, R.N., BSN, CPN recertification JSUMC
Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Carolyn Reichard, R.N., CPAN RMC
Certified Professional Healthcare Virginia Carbone, R.N., BSN, CPHQ OMC
Quality (CPHQ) Kirsten Zabilowicz, R.N., CPHQ recertification OMC
Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN) Jacqueline Green, R.N., CRN JSUMC
Eddy M. Sousa, R.N. CRN
JSUMC
Certified Rehabilitation Shannon Davis, R.N., CRRN MNRW
Registered Nurse (CRRN)
Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) Madeliene Ritter, LPN, CST recertification SOMC
Critical Care Certification (CCRN) Nicole Adams, R.N., BSN, CCRN JSUMC
Ashley Ascough, R.N., CCRN, CSC
JSUMC
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
13

Certifications
Meagan Barnes, BS, R.N., CCRN, CSC
JSUMC
Monica Bergrud, R.N., BSN, CCRN
JSUMC
Kathy Burke, R.N., CCRN
SOMC
Monica Bergrud, R.N., BSN, CCRN
JSUMC
Huifang Cheng, R.N., CCRN
BCH
Julie George, R.N., BSN, CCRN
SOMC
Melanie Lendis, R.N., CCRN
JSUMC
Mary Ellen “Megan” Matthews, R.N., CCRN
SOMC
Robin McBrearty, R.N., CCRN
SOMC
Ellen McCue, R.N., CCRN
JSUMC
Sandra A. Mead, MSN, APN-BC, FCCSC, CCRN
JSUMC
Maya Meyers, R.N., CCRN recertification SOMC
Patricia Murray, R.N., CCRN
JSUMC
Denise Pischel, R.N., CNRN, CCRN
JSUMC
Patricia Reiff, R.N., BSN, CCRN, CPAN recertification JSUMC
Amy Sapp, R.N., BSN, CCRN
JSUMC
Sheri L. Schuman, R.N., CCRN
RMC
MaryLou Stevens, R.N., CCRN
JSUMC
MaryEllen Strozak, M.S., R.N., CCRN, CNS recertification RMC
Georgette Tucholski, R.N., BSN, CCRN
JSUMC
Jenna Wallace, R.N., CCRN
JSUMC
Eric K. Wignall, R.N., CCRN
JSUMC
Fellow American College of Regina Foley, R.N., MBA, MSN, FACHE OMC
Healthcare Executives (FACHE)
Gastroenterology Nurse Christina Barrett R.N., BSN, CGRN, BC JSUMC
Certification (CGRN) Paulette Boquel, R.N., CGRN OMC
Coletta M. Coles, R.N., MSN, CPAN, CAPA, BC, CGRN
OMC
Robyn McNamara, R.N., CGRN
JSUMC
Cindy Stagg, R.N., CGRN recertification SOMC
Leslie Stewart, BA, R.N., CGRN recertification JSUMC
Gerontology Certification (GC) Genevieve Marino, LPN, GC JSUMC
Katy Mierta, LPN, GC
JSUMC
Noreen Raney, LPN, GC
JSUMC
Gerontology Certification (RN-BC) Virginia Adair, RN-BC, BSN, MS, MBA BCH
Sherry Arabia, RN-BC
RMC
Lisa Armstrong, RN-BC
MNRW
Barbara Boyler, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Pamela Bryant, RN-BC
BCH
Sandy Caine, RN-BC
MNRW

Certifications
Patricia Chambers, RN-BC
JSUMC
Marilyn Crotty, RN-BC
JSUMC
Kathleen Curto, RN-BC
JSUMC
Marissa S. Guzman, RN-BC
JSUMC
June Haesler, RN-BC
OMC
Jean Hirst, RN-BC
JSUMC
Darlene Innocent, RN-BC
OMC
Catherine A. Isnardi, RN-BC, BSN, CAPA
JSUMC
Cara Kennedy, RN-BC
OMC
Jaime Kiernan, RN-BC
JSUMC
Michele Knapp, RN-BC
MBTS
Susan L. Love, RN-BC
JSUMC
Rosario Mangulabnan, RN-BC
OMC
Cynthia B. McDevitt, RN-BC
OMC
Iwana Regula, RN-BC
MQC
Deborah Reynolds, RN-BC
BCH
Enid Russell, RN-BC
OMC
Erin Ryan, RN-BC
OMC
Conchita “Connie” Sim, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Georgette Spiecker, RN-BC
BCH
Maria Torres, RN-BC
JSUMC
Alda Valenzuela, RN-BC
MQC
Katherine VanBuskirk, RN-BC
BCH
Nancy Vogler, RN-BC
OMC
Julie Webster, RN-BC
OMC
Gerontological Clinical Nurse Linda Hassler, R.N., MS, GCNS-BC recertification MH
Specialist (GCNS-BC)
Gerontological Nurse Practitioner- Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., ACNP-BC, CCRN, GNP-BC MH
Board Certified (GNP-BC)
High Risk Neonatal Intensive Kim Aufiero, RNC-NIC JSUMC
Care (NIC) Lori Messer, R.N., MS, NNP-BC, RNC-NIC recertification JSUMC
Blesilda S. Mision, RNC-NIC
JSUMC
Informatics Nursing Certification (BC) Christine Devine, RN-BC, BS JSUMC
Inpatient Obstetrics (RNC-OB) Susan Pear, RNC-OB, CCE recertification OMC
Jean Shafto, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM
OMC
Low Risk Neonatal Nursing Colleen P. Anthes, RNC RMC
Certification (RNC) Janet Avon, BSN, RNC OMC
Medical Surgical Certification (RN-BC) Nimfa Baya, RN-BC, BS recertification RMC
Violet Bernknopf, RN-BC
JSUMC
Luz Bonoan, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Lynne M. Bottge, RN-BC recertification JSUMC
Barbara Boyler, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Vicma Marie Cac, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Raffaella Cervone, RN-BC
MNRS
Andrea Crate, RN-BC
OMC
Kimberly Crowning, BS, RN-BC
OMC
Deborah Edgerton, RN-BC, BA
JSUMC
Lindsay Fehring, RN-BC
JSUMC
Kandy Gilvary, RN-BC recertification JSUMC
Maryna Hall, RN-BC, ONC
JSUMC
Joan Hallman, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Peggy Kennedy, RN-BC recertification JSUMC
Denise L. LaBarge, RN-BC
SOMC
Amanda Lillis, RNC recertification JSUMC
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
15

Certifications
Carol Nickel, RN-BC
JSUMC
Nicole Ortiz, RN-BC, BSN
OMC
Jasmin Osol, RNC, BC, MSN recertification OMC
Barbara Paratore, RN-BC
JSUMC
Clair Ruffler, RN-BC, BSN
JSUMC
Nancy Shen, RN-BC
JSUMC
Kathleen Sullivan, R.N., MSN, BC recertification JSUMC
Jianru Sun, RN-BC
SOMC
Susan Sutcliffe, RN-BC
SOMC
Roseann Szpiech, RN-BC recertification OMC
Debra Umlauf, RN-BC
JSUMC
Priscilla Velasquez, RN-BC, CMSRN
RMC
Jennifer White, RN-BC, CNML recertification RMC
Sheryl L. Williams, RN-BC
JSUMC
Sonja M. Williams, RN-BC, BSN recertification JSUMC
Nurse Executive Advanced-Board Lori Colineri, R.N., MSN, NEA-BC RMC
Certified (NEA-BC) Mary Ann T. Donohue, Ph.D., R.N., APN, NEA-BC recertification JSUMC
Nurse Practitioner, Certified (NP-C) Loretta Pasquarella, R.N., MSN, NP-C, OCN JSUMC
Oncology Nursing Certification (OCN) Karen Brady, R.N. OCN recertification SOMC
Mary Lynn Breslin, R.N., BSN, OCN recertification OMC
Cheryl Cappetta, R.N., BSN, OCN
OMC
Angela A. Gagliardi, R.N., BSN, OCN recertification OMC
Nancy Kaminski, R.N., OCN recertification SOMC
Barbara Lawless, R.N., OCN recertification SOMC
Jane Masick, R.N., OCN recertification SOMC
Barbara O’Connor, R.N., OCN
SOMC
Orthopedic Nurse Certified (ONC) Barbara Cloney, R.N., ONC OMC
Evelyn Ferguson, R.N., BS, OCN, ONC
OMC
Meredith Gongora, R.N., ONC
JSUMC
Karen Gould, R.N., ONC
OMC
Maryna Hall, RN-BC, ONC
JSUMC
Peggy Kennedy, RN-BC, ONC
JSUMC
Linda A. Lagos, R.N., ONC
OMC
Cheryl Millea, R.N., ONC
OMC
Danielle Moran, BSN, RNC, ONC
JSUMC
Maria Ottens, R.N., ONC
OMC
Lori Rice, R.N., ONC
OMC
Angelica Rojas, R.N., ONC
OMC
Alison Skahan, RN-BC, BSN, ONC
OMC
Pain Management Certification (RN-BC) Annette Henry, RN-BC recertification JSUMC
Pediatric Critical Care Nursing Ruthann Kosick, MSN, R.N., CCRN, CPAN JSUMC
Certification (CCRN)
Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) Deborah Pascoe, R.N., PCCN SOMC
Vera Verwey, R.N., PCCN
SOMC
Psychiatric Nurse Certification (RN-BC) Kim Kritch, RN-BC, BSN JSUMC
Paula Lombardo, RN-BC recertification RMC
Registered Nurse, Certified in Maternal Kathleen Campbell, RNC-MNN SOMC
Newborn Nursing (RNC-MNN) Allison Hitchner, RNC-MNN, BSN SOMC
Cynthia Wilhelm, RNC-MNN
SOMC
Shelter Operations Pamela Rossano, RNC, AWHONN recertification RMC
Wound Care Certified (WCC) Mary Cohen, LPN MNRW
Joann Watson, R.N., CRRN, WCC
RMC
Helen Quigley, LPN
MNRS

Professional Organizations
Collaboration, interaction with peers, and leadership skill development are all fundamental to advancing the nursing profession.
Alejandro Allanigue, RN-C, BSN RMC Board of Directors, The Philippine Nurses Association of New Jersey, Monmouth
County Sub Chapter; Scholarship Fund for High School and College in the Philippines
Donna Angelucci, MA, RN, BC BCH Board of Directors, New Jersey League of Nurses; Member, New Jersey State Nurses
Association, Committee on Continuing Education; Consortium of NJ Nurse Educators
(CNJNE); Co-Chair, CNJNE Marketing/Public Relations Committee; Co-Chair, Nursing
Research Committee
Rhodora C. Barretto, RN-BN, BSN OMC Secretary, National Gerontological Nursing Association, Jersey Coast Chapter
MaryAlyce (Molly) Berkowitz, JSUMC Vice-Chair, Basic Life Support (BLS) Advisory Committee to the New Jersey State
R.N., BSN
EMS Committee, NJ Dept. of Health and Senior Services; NJ Trauma Center Council
representative to the NJ Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMS-C)
Committee, NJ Dept. of Health and Senior Services
Jane Bliss-Holtz, DNSc, R.N. MH Member, Manuscript Review Panel, Journal of Nursing Regulation;
Member, Manuscript Review Panel, Nursing Research
Mary Lynn Breslin, R.N., BSN, OCN OMC President-Elect Oncology Nursing Society, Central NJ Chapter
Jinx Bediguian, R.N., BSN, CNOR JSUMC Vice President, Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses, Jersey Shore Chapter
Nicholas Cardinale, R.N., CRNI RMC Editorial Review Board Member, Journal of Infusion Nursing
Coletta M. Coles, R.N., MSN, CPAN, OMC Member of Nominations and Awards Committee, Society of Gastroenterology
CAPA, BC, CGRN Nurses and Associates (SGNA); Member-At-Large, SGNA, Region 67
Christine Conner, MSN, R.N., OMC President-Elect, American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN),
CCRN, CCNS
AACN Jersey Shoreline Chapter
Diane Doherty, R.N., OCN OMC Program Coordinator and Board Member, Oncology Nursing Society
Mary Ann T. Donohue, Ph.D., R.N., JSUMC President, New Jersey State Nurses Association (NJSNA)
APN, NEA-BC
Veronica Ehlert, R.N., CGRN OMC Member-At-Large, Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA),
Ocean Monmouth Chapter
Yuri Fayngersh, R.N., MSN, CNOR JSUMC Vice President, Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Chapter 3107
Ryn Fernandez, R.N., MSN, JSUMC Treasurer and Membership Chairperson, Jersey Shoreline American Association
APRN-BC, CEN, CCRN
of Critical Care Nurses (AACN)
Maria Galgon, R.N., BSN, OCN OMC Treasurer, Oncology Nursing Society, Central NJ Chapter
Annette Gee Monahan, R.N., BCH Secretary, American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN),
MSN, CCRN
Jersey Shoreline Chapter
Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N., RMC Secretary, Philippine Nurses Association of America-Advanced Practice
CCRN, FNP-BC
Nurse (APN) Forum; President, Philippine Nurses Association of NJ,
Monmouth County Subchapter
Diane Grant, R.N., BSN, ACRN JSUMC President-Elect, Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (ANAC), NJ State Chapter
Stefanie Green, R.N., EMT BCH Captain, Oakhurst First Aid Squad
Linda Hassler, R.N., MS, GCNS-BC MH Chair, National Gerontological Nursing Association, Geriatric APN Group;
Chair Nominations Committee, NJSNA Region 6
Christine Hedges, Ph.D., R.N., MH Department Editor, Research AACN Advance Critical Care; Manuscript Reviewer,
ACNS-BC, CCNS
Research in Nursing & Health; Manuscript Reviewer, American Nurse Today;
Research Grant Reviewer, AACN
Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, JSUMC Chair, Nominating Committee, Northern New Jersey Association for Professionals
MPH, CIC
in Infection Control; Manuscript Reviewer, American Journal of Infection Control;
Planning Committee and Grant Coordinator, Annual APIC and IDSA Meeting
“Infectious Diseases and Prevention Trends for 2010”
Ruthann Kosick, MSN, R.N., JSUMC Vice President, Health Professionals and Allied Employees, Local 5058
CCRN, CPAN
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
17

Professional Organizations
Patricia R. Kremens, R.N., JSUMC Board of Directors, Monmouth-Ocean Association of Operating Room Nurses
CNOR, ONC
Margaret A. Janasie, R.N., BSN, CIC JSUMC Legislative Representative, Association for Professionals in Infection
Prevention Control
Marcie Jannetti, R.N., BSN, CNOR JSUMC Regional Coordinator, National Membership Committee; Association of Perioperative
Registered Nurses (AORN); Chair-Elect, Minimally Invasive Surgery/Lasers
/Robotics Specialty Assembly; Board Member, Local Chapter 3104
Sharon S. Jones, MS, RN-BC, CCRN OMC Past President and Committee Chair for Education Planning, Jersey Shoreline
Chapter of American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN)
Susan Laffan, R.N., SOMC Chairperson-Membership, Academy of Correctional Health Professionals
CCHP-RN, CCHP-A
Susan L. Love, RN-BC JSUMC Lay Chaplin, National Gerontological Nurses Association, Jersey Coast Chapter
Patricia A. Lucarelli, R.N., MSN, JSUMC Chair, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners Child Care Interest Group;
CPNP, APN-C
Chair, ARC of New Jersey Coalition for the Prevention of Developmental Disabilities
Elisabeth A. Margl, RN-BC, OMC President, Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA) Region #67,
BSN, CGRN
Ocean-Monmouth NJ
Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC OMC President, Central New Jersey Oncology Nursing Society
Kimberly McCourt, R.N., BSN, JSUMC Member, American Association of Heart Failure; New Jersey State Nurses
MSN, CCRN, ANP, APCN
Association (NJSNA); NJ Forum for Advanced Practice Nurses; Sigma Theta
Tau International; American Association of Critical Care Nurses
Terri McIntosh-Mount, JSUMC Chair, NJSNA-Interested Nurses Political Action Committee
RNC-OB, BSN
Marlene B. Navarro, MSN, OMC Co-Chair, Fundraising Committee, Oncology Nursing Society,
AOCNP, ANP-BC
Central New Jersey Chapter
Karen Nugent, R.N., CDN OMC Vice President, Monmouth University Professional Nurses Association;
Health Policy Liaison, American Nephrology Nurses Association, Chapter 125
Maureen O’Brien, R.N., MSN, SOMC Treasurer, American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN), Jersey
CCRN, ACNS-BC
Shoreline Chapter
Barbara Paratore, RN-BC JSUMC Member, American Association of Neuroscience Nursing (AANN)
Kristen Perri, R.N., OCN OMC Nominating Chair, Central New Jersey Oncology Nursing Society
Terri T. Pietsch, R.N., MSN, CTR, RMC Member, Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), Member, Sigma Theta Tau National
OCN, NE-BC
Nursing Society
Landa A. PoianiDarocki, MSN, MH Board Member, New Jersey State Association of Occupational Health Nurses
APN-C, COHN-S
(NJSAOHN); Nominations Committee Chair, New Jersey Hospital Employee
Health Nurse Association (NJHEHNA); President, Hospital Employee Health
Nurse Association

Professional Organizations
Grace Reilly, R.N., MSN, APN RMC Board of Directors, New Jersey State Nurses Association; Legislative Chair,
NJSNA for Forum of Nurse for Advanced Practice; Steering Committee, NJSNA
for Improving Access to Care
Diane Resnick, RN-BC, MPA JSUMC Advisory Board, Leadership Special Interest Group, American Academy of
Ambulatory Care Nurses (AAACN)
Richard A. Ridge, R.N., Ph.D., CENP SOMC Board of Directors, Organization of Nurse Executives/New Jersey; Magnet Appraiser,
American Nurses Credentialing Center
Elizabeth M. Rotchford, RN-BC, JSUMC Vice President, Board of Directors, Childcare Resources, Neptune, NJ; Expert
MA, Nurse Paralegal
Consultant Panel Member, American Psychiatric Nurses Association Task Force
for Workplace Violence
Marilyn R. Roy, R.N., MSN JSUMC Vice President and Representative, United Nations for Sigma Theta Tau
International (STTI) Special Interest Group on Global Healthcare; Lambda Delta
Chapter Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, JSUMC Member, Legislative Committee, Organization of Nurse Executives New Jersey
R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
(ONE/NJ)
Marvin Sauerhoff, R.N. BSN, CALA JSUMC Treasurer, NJ State Nursing Association, Region 3
Denise Schwartz, R.N., BSN, BC OMC President, National Gerontological Nursing Association (NGNA), Local Chapter
Shirley Shook, MSN, RN-BC, CCRN BCH Facilitator for Staff Education, NJ Stroke Coordinator’s Consortium
Judith Slover-Zipf, DNP, ANP-BC, JSUMC Peer Reviewer, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and
BC-ADM, CDE
American Journal of Nursing (AJN)
Danielle Smith, R.N., BSN, CNOR OMC Board Member, Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN)
Local Chapter, Southern NJ
Ellen Ruth Sorensen, R.N., MSN, JSUMC Journal Reviewer, Nursing 2010 Critical Care
CNS, CCRN
Leslie Stewart, BA, R.N., CGRN JSUMC President-Elect, National Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA)
MaryEllen Strozak, M.S., R.N., RMC President, American Association of Critical Care Nurse, Jersey Shoreline Chapter
CCRN, CNS
Trish Vigna, R.N., MSN, APN, CWCN JSUMC President-Elect, Forum of Nurses in Advanced Practice
Nancy Wagner, R.N., MSN, CIC, CSN OMC President-Elect, Northern New Jersey Association for Professionals in Infection
Control & Epidemiology
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
19

New Knowledge, Innovation, and Improvements
A Magnet Moment
“When nurse midwives first became affiliated with our department, they
requested that they be allowed to offer the opportunity to have a water birth
to their patients. We had never done this before, but the midwives were quite
insistent that this was a safe and ethical practice to be offering to our patients.
I had to do some research to prove to myself and assure my nursing staff that
we could provide a safe environment and optimal nursing care while providing
this experience for our patients. After visiting some sites that performed water
births, and researching articles and other institution’s protocols, my team and
I were able to put together a program for our patients. We collaborated with
other departments, especially plant operations, to assure that we could
accommodate the birth tub and water connections required. We wrote
policies based on current, nationally accepted guidelines.
Joyce McKeever, R.N., MS, IBCLC, LCCE
Jersey Shore University Medical Center,
Clinical Program Manager,
Baby Friendly Program
Our first water birth was a huge success and provided us with a “Magnet
Moment.” It was a wonderful moment for our patient and for our nurses. We
have since had many successful water births and are looking now to enhance
our services. I was honored to present our implementation process at the
Nursing Management Congress as a poster presentation.”
Creating a Climate of Scholarship
“At its best, the scholarship of discovery contributes not
only to the stock of human knowledge but also to the
intellectual climate…” (Boyer, 1990, p. 17)
A passion for inquiry ignites a climate of scholarship, and
nursing at Meridian Health has ignited that flame of inquiry,
keeping it burning brightly. The four components of Meridian’s
nursing model of care—clinical expertise, education, shared
governance, and research—serve as a foundation for a climate
of scholarship, inquiry, and discovery, allowing innovation in
care structures, processes, and outcomes.
Setting the tone for scholarship as the senior vice president
and Chief Nursing Officer at Meridian, Richard Hader, Ph.D.,
R.N., FAAN, NE-BC, CHE, CPHQ, has produced more than 100
peer-reviewed publications and six research studies. He also
has served as Editor-in-Chief of Nursing Management for more
than six years. Dr. Hader has filled the role of clinical professor
for Seton Hall University and Monmouth University in their
master’s degree programs for nursing administration and was
the prime originator of The Georgian Court-Meridian Health
School of Nursing.
The presence of scholarship can be seen by funded grants, in
articles published in referenced journals, and in the abstracts
of presentations. Since the inception of the system in 1997,
the amount of peer-reviewed publications has quadrupled, with
more than 100 nurses currently taking active part in research
activities, ranging from data collectors to primary investigators.
Mentoring for inquiry is also strongly visible at Meridian, with
six doctorally-prepared nurses housed within the Ann May
Center for Nursing and Allied Health. In aggregate, they have
published more than eighty manuscripts and secured grants
totaling more than $6 million dollars. They have served as
investigators for more than twenty research projects of their
own, and have mentored many more, including the C.A.R.E.
Clinical Research Scholar projects. In addition, they are editors
of peer-reviewed journals, department editors for journals,
manuscript reviewers, and are also prolific presenters at local,
regional, and national conferences.
Promoting education also is a pivotal factor in promoting a
climate of scholarship. Scholarship support for advanced
educational preparation has been outstanding, as more than
150 scholarships totaling more than $200,000 were awarded
to Meridian bachelors, masters, and doctoral students. In
addition, more than one million dollars in tuition
reimbursement was provided to Meridian nurses. Since
Meridian’s inception, seven Meridian nurses have achieved
their doctoral degree, and eight more are nearing completion,
adding to the support for a climate of scholarship.
A climate of scholarship also seeks meaningful integration of
new knowledge into practice. Demonstration of integration can
be seen in Meridian’s work in evidence-based practice and
translation science. To promote these activities, the Meridian
Health Institute for Evidence-Based Care (IEBC) was formed,
through which inter-professional teams perform systematic
reviews of guidelines, meta-analyses, single studies, and
expert opinion to derive best practices for the organization.
Since its creation in 2008, twenty evidence reviews have been
produced, resulting in twelve protocol changes as well as
production of new order sets, revision of electronic health
record computer screens, and development of staff education.

New Knowledge, Innovation, and Improvements
Meridian has a solid infrastructure for the integration of
scholarship. Meridian’s leadership considers the IEBC to be an
integral part of their strategic plan for success in this newest
era of health care reform. Evidence-based work is a core
element of the 2011 strategic objectives of the organization.
Significant gains have been made in advancing scholarship at
Meridian and a strong commitment is in place to continue to
support and disseminate new knowledge throughout the
system and for the greater health care community.
The key to providing exceptional patient care is the continuous effort to define and implement best practices.
Through research and evidence-based practice, Meridian nurses strive for the knowledge and evidence that
improves outcomes and the quality of care.
“Improving Patient Satisfaction with and Reducing Christina Barrett, R.N., BSN, CGRN, B-C JSUMC
Anxiety of Endoscopic Procedure Through Education”
Principal Investigator and Data Collector
Janice Irvine, R.N., BSN, CGRN
JSUMC
Sub Investigator
Video Project with Cook Medical, “The Reduction of Patient Leslie Stewart, BA, R.N., CGRN JSUMC
Anxiety through Pre-Procedure Education” by Christina Barrett
“The Unlicensed Assistive Personnel’s Attitudes, Beliefs, and Nimfa Baya, RN-BC, BS RMC
Behavior Related to Fall Prevention in an Acute Care Setting” Principal Investigator
“The Coping Experience of an Individual who Survived a Stroke:
A Qualitative Study”
Co-Investigator
“Perceptions of Change in Environmental Work Factors in a Jane Bliss-Holtz, DNSc, R.N. MH
Newly Engineered Work Environment”
Principal Investigator
“Pre and Post Educational Assessment of Computer
Literacy in Nurses”
“The Effect of Nursing Unit Spatial Layout on Nursing Team
Communication Patterns, Quality of Care, and Patient Safety”
Principal Investigator
Principal Investigator
“Pre-Discharge Transcutaneous Bilirubin (TCB) in the Jennifer Bradle, MSN, R.N., APN RMC
Prediction of Neonatal Readmissions Due to Neonatal
Co-Investigator and Data Collector
Hyperbilirubinemia”
“Assessing Dyspnea in Patients with Non-Small Lung Mary Brandsema, R.N., BSN, OCN OMC
Cancer in the Acute Care Center”
Data Collector
Lani Gernalin, R.N., BSN, OCN
OMC
Data Collector
Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC
OMC
Co-Investigator
“A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Visitation Models within Donna Ciufo, DNP, R.N., FNP-BC JSUMC
the Context of Patient-Family Centered Care” Capstone Project Primary Author
“Oncology Nurses and Allied Health Clinicians Assessment Michele Gaguski, MSN, R.N., AOCN, CHPN, APN-C OMC
and Management Practices for Patients with Oral Mucositis Principal Investigator
in a Community Based Hospital” Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC OMC
Data Collector
“Perioperative Stroke Incidence Among Long Term Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N., MSN, APN, CCRN, FNP-BC RMC
Anti-coagulated Patients”
Co-Investigator
“Adherence Evaluation after Ischemic Stroke Longitudinal
(AVAIL) Registry”
“Neighborhood Open Spaces and Health”
Co-Investigator
Co-Investigator
Research
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
21

Research
“Pain Assessment of Non-Verbal Patient in ICU and PACU” Leah Guardino, R.N., MSN, CCRN OMC
Co-Investigator
Jeanieve Caputo, R.N., BSN
OMC
Co-Investigator
“Depression and Anxiety in the Post Operative Coronary Michelle Hansen, RN-BC JSUMC
Bypass Patient”
Co-Investigator
Sheila Hanvey, R.N., PCCN
JSUMC
Co-Investigator
“Enhancing Geriatric Competencies in OMC ED” Linda Hassler, R.N., MS, GCNS-BC MH
Principal Investigator
“A Case Study of the Implementation of Bedside Reporting” Joan Harvey, DNP, MSN, R.N., CCRN OMC
Principal Investigator
“The Use of Guided Imagery in the Pre-Procedure Phase Jennifer Heck-Kanellidis, R.N., MSN, APN-C JSUMC
of Cardiac Catheterization”
Principal Investigator
“Geriatric Institutional Assessment Profile of Meridian Christine Hedges, Ph.D., R.N., ACNS-BC MH
Nursing Staff: a Benchmarking Survey”
Principal Investigator
“The Effect of Nursing Unit Spatial Layout on Nursing Team
Communication Patterns, Quality of Care, and Patient Safety”
Co-Investigator
“The Impact of the Transformation Project on Isolated Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, MPH, CIC JSUMC
Patient Placement”
Design, Data Collector, and Author
“The Lived Experience of Relocating to Newly Designed Sandra Leddy, R.N., BSN JSUMC
Patient Care Units and Emergency Department:
Co-Investigator
Phenomenological Study” Karen Garafano, R.N. JSUMC
Co-Investigator
Fotini Gordon, R.N.
RMC
Co-Investigator
Grace Survey Study, Merck 055 Study, BI study, Kathy McGovern, R.N., CCRC JSUMC
HIV Drug Study
Clinical Research Coordinator
“High Dose vs. Low Dose Methadone: Correlation with Urine Terri McIntosh-Mount, RNC-OB, BSN JSUMC
Drug Screens During Antepartum Course and In Labor” Co-Investigator
“A Study of Racial and Socioeconomic Disparity in Joyce McKeever, R.N., MS, IBCLC JSUMC
Breastfeeding Rates”
Site Investigator
“The Effect of Three Types of Hospital Gift Bags on
Duration of Breastfeeding”
Site Investigator
“The Effect of Nursing on NICU Patient Outcomes” Lori Messer, R.N., MS, NNP-BC, RNC-NIC JSUMC
Principal Investigator
“Predictors of Delirium in Geriatric Post-Op Patients” Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., ACNP-BC, CCRN, GNP-BC MH
Principal Investigator
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
Sub-Investigator
Sharon Lubeck, R.N.
OMC
Sub-Investigator
Amy Wozniak, Biostatistician
MH
Sub-Investigator
“Reducing Foley Catheter Use in the Hospitalized Elderly” Nicole Ortiz, RN-BC, BSN OMC
Principal Investigator

Research
“Health Literacy and Childhood Obesity” Rebecca Reinhold, R.N., CPN JSUMC
Principal Investigator
“Pharmacist Model of Care/Medication Reconciliation Study” Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
Principal Investigator
“Femoral Artery Access Outcomes in Out-Patients Alanna Schauer, RN-BC BCH
Post Endovascular and Cardiac Catheterization Procedures” Co-Investigator
“Nurses’ Perceptions of Obstacles to Providing Optimal Cathy Schlick, R.N. JSUMC
End-of-Life Care in the Critical Care Setting”
Co-Investigator
Donna Ruggiero, R.N.
JSUMC
Co-Investigator
Axelrod “A Study of Carboxypeptidase-A (CPA) Judith Slover-Zipf, DNP, ANP-BC, BC-ADM, CDE JSUMC
Assessment in the Blood iraglutide Effects and Actions Sub Investigator
in Diabetes: Evaluation of Cardiovascular Outcome Results”
Leader Trial
Sub Investigator
“Implementing Shared Appointments in an Endocrine Practice Loretta Ninivaggi, DNP, APN-BC, CDE JSUMC
Co-Investigator
“Indoor Environmental Quality Post Occupancy Survey” Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., NEA-BC MH
Principal Investigator
“The Effect of Nursing Unit Spatial Layout on Nursing Team
Communication Patterns, Quality of Care, and Patient Safety”
Principal Investigator
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
23

Evidence-Based Practice
“Out of Bed Initiative”
Nursing Team Members
Ellen Barrington, R.N.
Jaclyn Bernick, R.N.
Lindsay Baumann, R.N.
Marcy Engel, RPT
Judy Finkel, R.N.
Noreen Giovannone, RPT
Linda Hassler, R.N., MS, GCNS-BC
Joyce Henn, R.N.
Kris Rovell, R.N., MSN
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
Denise Schwartz, R.N.
Kathleen Sullivan, R.N., MSN
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
RMC
SRI
MH
JSUMC
RMC
MH
OMC
JSUMC
“Inpatient CHF Pathway” and
Nursing Team Members
“Order Set Update” Reviews Jeffrey Booth, R.N. JSUMC
Elizabeth Maiorana, R.N.
JSUMC
Kimberly McCourt, APN
JSUMC
Eileen Oates, APN
JSUMC
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
Alison Trembly, APN
JSUMC
“Probiotics and the ICU Sepsis Patient” and
Nursing Team Members
“Probiotics and the C. Diff Patient” Jennifer Casey, R.N. JSUMC
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
“NGT Placement Confirmation-Pediatrics”
“Hypertensive OB Patient BP Monitoring”
“Delirium Prediction in Hip Surgery Patients”
Nursing Team Members
Anne Marie Conte, R.N.
Kathy Daly, R.N.
Kathleen Kochel, R.N.
Ruth Ann Kosick, R.N., MSN
Kathleen Luthe, R.N.
Lori Messer, MSN, R.N., APN
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
Barbara Taggart Hyatt, R.N.
Nursing Team Members
Jennifer Bradle, R.N.
Jennifer Rocheskey, R.N.
Kris Rovell, R.N.
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
Jean Shafto, R.N.
Heather Starnes, R.N.
Roselyn Young, R.N.
Nursing Team Members
Sharon Lubeck, R.N.
Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., ACNP-BC, CCRN, GNP-BC
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
MH
JSUMC
RMC
SOMC
RMC
MH
OMC
JSUMC
JSUMC
“Sterile vs. Tap Water in Enteric Tubes” Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
“Obesity Prevention”
Nursing Team Members
Margaret Corcoran, APN
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
“Extended VTE Prophylaxis in Colon Cancer
Nursing Reviewer
Surgery Patients” Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
OMC
MH
MH
MH
MH

Evidence-Based Practice
Nursing Implementation Team
Joanne Farina, R.N.
MHC
Maria Ceil McEIvaney, R.N.
OMC
Parma Quinn, R.N.
MH
Joy Schwartz, R.N.
MH
Grace Schneider, R.N.
MHR
“Crew Resource Management in Perioperative Areas” Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC MH
Rhodora C. Barretto, RN-BN, BSN
Jane Bliss-Holtz, DNSc, R.N.
Juana M. Buergo, R.N.
Mary Ann T. Donohue, Ph.D., R.N.,
APN, NEA-BC
OMC Co-Author, “Meridian Aligns Magnet and NICHE.” The Nursing
Spectrum, (October).
MH “Nightingale, Hand Washing and Restroom Observations.” Issues in
Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing, 33(3), 127-128; “Evidence-based
and the Golden Quadrant.” Issues in Comprehensive Pediatric
Nursing, 33(1), 1-4.
OMC “Orientation Book for New Employees: OR Staff.”
JSUMC “Leading Change.” Leading and Managing in Nursing, (5th ed.). Patricia
Yoder-Wise, editor. St. Louis: Mosby. “Health Care Reform and Implications for
Nursing.” New Jersey Nurse. (October); “When Work Doesn’t Work Anymore.”
Institute for Nursing Newsletter. (July); “Shared Decision Making and Analysis
Paralysis.” Institute for Nursing Newsletter. (April); “Knowledge Maintenance
and the Change Process.” Institute for Nursing Newsletter. (January).
Yuri Fayngersh, R.N., MSN, CNOR JSUMC “Is Your Court Correct?” OR Nurse. (March 2011).
Ryn Fernandez, R.N., MSN, APRN-BC,
CEN, CCRN
Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N.,
CCRN, FNP-BC
Juancho Gutierrez, R.N., BSN, CPAN
Richard Hader, R.N., MSN, CHE,
CAN, CPHQ, Ph.D., FAAN
JSUMC “Septicemia Secondary to Ileus in Trauma Patients: A Human Model For
Bacterial Translocation.” Medical Journal,103(5), 461-3. (May).
RMC “Preventive Care Paradigm-Advanced Practice as Partners.” Journal of the
Philippine Nurses Association of America. (Spring Issue).
JSUMC Co-Author, “Laser Treatment of BPH.” OR Nurse.
Publications
The nursing profession only benefits from the sharing of medical knowledge. Meridian nurses help advance the
profession by contributing extensively to many publications.
MH “Allow APN’s to Practice Without Regulatory Restriction.’’ Nursing Management,
(41), 12; “Clipping Coupons for Care.” Nursing Management, (41), 12; “Lofty
Goals…Yes We Can.” Nursing Management, (41), 11; “Rethinking Service
Lines.” Nursing Management, (41), 10; “Will the Market Dictate The Educational
Level Of Nurses?” Nursing Management, (41), 9; “The Evidence That Isn’t…
Interpreting Research.” Nursing Management, (41), 9; “The Compensation
Tumble.” Nursing Management, (41), 8; “Numbers Don’t Tell the Whole Story.”
Nursing Management, (41), 8; “Stand Tall Against Shortcomings.” Nursing
Management, (41), 7; “Magnet Recognition—Excellence is the Standard.”
Nursing Management, (41), 6; “Who’s the Doctor, Anyway?” Nursing
Management, (41), 5; “United We Stand, Divided We Fall.” Nursing
Management, (41), 4; “Success in the C-Suite.” Nursing Management,
(41), 3, 51-53; “Are You Ready for the Future of Health Care Delivery?”
Nursing Management, (41), 2; “Engaging the New Wave of Second Career
Nurses.” Nursing Management, (41), 2; “The Blueprint to Excellence.”
Nursing Management, (41), 1; “Nurse Leaders: A Closer Look.” Nursing
Management, (41), 1, 25-29.
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
25

Publications
Christine Hedges, Ph.D., R.N.,
MH “Poster Presentations: A Primer for Critical Care Nurses.” AACN Advanced
ACNS-BC, CCNS Critical Care, 21 (3), 318-321.
Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, MPH, CIC
Susan Laffan, R.N., CCHP-RN, CCHP-A
Patricia A. Lucarelli, R.N., MSN,
CPNP, APN-C
Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC
JSUMC Abstract: Impact of H1N1 on NJ Infection Preventionist Activities, or Swine,
Surveys and Survival of the New Jersey Infection Preventionist 2009:
Presentation Number 5-042. [Abstract] [ENGLISH] Hessels, Amanda R.N., MSN,
MPH, CIC. Morchel, Gail H. R.N., BSN, COHN-s, CIC. Farrell, Bridget R.N., CIC.
AJOC: American Journal of Infection Control, 38(5), E42-E43 (June).
SOMC “Correctional Nursing Practice: Safe and Secure Practice.” Correct Care.
(Spring); “Work Ethics: Where Do They Come From and Do You Possess Them?”
Correct Care. (Summer); “Nursing Leadership within Correctional Facilities.”
American Jails. (May/June).
JSUMC “Healthy Skin is In.” Ready, Set, Grow Parent Magazine. (June); “Nurses Right
at Home in Medical Homes.” Nursing Spectrum. (August); “Position Statement
on Supporting Children and Families in Early Care and Education.” National
Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. (November); “What is That?”
(Childhood Skin Rash). Ready, Set, Grow Parent Magazine. (December)
OMC “When I Have Wings.” Poem within article by Michele Gaguski titled,
“Assessing Dyspnea in Patients with Non-Small Lung Cancer in the
Acute Care Center.” The Clinical Journal of Oncology. (August)
Kimberly McCourt, R.N., BSN, MSN, JSUMC “Mended Hearts. CHF Corner.” The Jersey Heartbeat, Chapter 179.
CCRN, ANP, APCN
Terri T. Pietsch, R.N., MSN, CTR,
RMC “Caring: Looking Beyond Simulation.” International Journal for Human Caring.
OCN, NE-BC 2010 (14), 2.
Patricia Reiff, R.N., BSN, CCRN, CPAN JSUMC “A Tunnel at the End of the Light.” OR Nurse, (4)5, 42-46.
Richard A. Ridge, R.N., Ph.D., CENP SOMC “Becoming the CNE: The First 100 Days.” Nursing Management. (August)
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN, R.N.,
NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
Kimberly Simon, R.N., BSN, CIC
Alison Trembly, R.N., CNRN, APN
Janet Urbanowicz, R.N., Ph.D.,
CPHQ, NEA-BC
Barbara J. Williams, Ph.D., APN
MH “Interdisciplinary Evidence-Based Care: Music to our Ears.” AACN Advance
Critical Care, 21(1), 109-111; “Supporting the Environment for a Spirit of Inquiry:
The Structures, Processes and Outcomes of a Center for Evidence-Based Care.”
The Institute for Nursing Newsletter, 6(3), 11; “Calling all Opinion Leaders! Keys
to the Diffusionof Evidence.” Nursing Management, 41(9), 8-11.
RMC “A Risk Based Approach to Infection Prevention: Creating an Infection
Prevention and Control Plan.” The APIC/JCR Infection and Control Workbook,
(2nd ed.), Chapter 4.
JSUMC “Stroke Care in the 21st Century.” Nursing Management, 41(6), 30-36. (June).
JSUMC “The Hybrid OR.” OR Nurse. (September); “Hybrid OR-Is It In Your Future?”
Nursing Management. (May).
MH “The Way to Patient-Centered Care.” Nursing Management. (October).
Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., NEA-BC MH “Obtaining Financial Support Through Grants and Gifts.” M.Boltz, J. Taylor, E.
Capezuti, & T. Fulmer (Eds.), NICHE Planning and Implementation Guide.
New York: Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing.

Presentations
Meridian nurses share research findings and other medical information with audiences
throughout the state, the nation, and the world.
A Magnet Moment
“My special Magnet moment would relate to my National Poster Presentation at
the SGNA Conference in St. Louis. It was exciting enough to have my abstract that I
worked on with another SGNA member from Riverview accepted, but the process of
developing and completing a large poster to be presented at a national conference,
well that was exciting. One of the other two nurses that worked on the actual poster
with me was also able to attend the conference. We were so excited when we found
our reserved poster site, and then intimidated when we put it up next to all the others
from throughout the United States. How proud we were to make it there!”
Sharon Marciniak, R.N.
Riverview Medical Center, MDSU
Nicole Adams, R.N., BSN, CCRN
Gilda M. Alvarez, RN-BC, BSN
Donna Angelucci, MA, RN, BC
Christina Barrett, R.N., BSN,
CGRN, B-C
Rhodora C. Barretto,
RN-BN, BSN
Nimfa Baya, RN-BC, BS
MaryAlyce (Molly) Berkowitz,
R.N., BSN
Jane Bliss-Holtz, DNSc, R.N.
Paris Bottazzi, R.N., BSN
JSUMC “Device Induced Pressure Ulcers,” Nurses at Jersey Shore University Medical Center,
Neptune, NJ
JSUMC “Atrial Electrograms for Interpretation of Atrial Dysrhythmia in Post-Op Cardiac Surgery
Patients,” Evidence-Based Practice Poster Presentation to Nurses and Nursing Students
BCH “The Educators Role in Organizational and Bioethics,” Poster Presentation, The
National Nurse in Staff Development Organization Affiliate Conference, Morristown
Memorial Hospital, Morristown, NJ
JSUMC “Improving Patient Satisfaction with and Reducing Anxiety of Endoscopic Procedures
though Education,” Clinical Nurse Research Scholar Speaker, Harvesting the Results
6th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Day Conference, West Long
Branch, NJ; Cook Medical Video Award for PI, “Improving Patient Satisfaction with and
Reducing Anxiety of Endoscopic Procedures through Education”
OMC “The Journey of the PAINAD Scale Toward Meridian Implementation,” PowerPoint
Presentation, 6th Annual Meridian Health Geriatric EBP Conference, Jumping Brook
Country Club, Neptune, NJ; “The Journey of the PAINAD Scale,” Poster Presentation,
Harvesting the Results 6th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Day
Conference, West Long Branch, NJ
RMC “The Unlicensed Assistive Personnel’s Attitudes, Beliefs, and Behavior Related to
Fall Prevention in an Acute Care Setting,” Harvesting the Results 6th Annual Nursing
Research & Evidence-Based Practice Day Conference, West Long Branch, NJ
JSUMC “Emergencies in the School Setting,” presented at five locations in NJ; “Trauma
Overview for Nursing,” presented to ED staff, Monmouth Medical Center; “EMS Role
in Injury Prevention,” NJ Conference on EMS, Atlantic City, NJ; “Drinking and Distracted
Driving,” Monmouth County IDRC (Intoxicated Driver Resource Center), 35 Monmouth
and Ocean County High School Programs; “Don’t Fall for Us,” presented to 15 Senior
Citizen Community Groups; “Heads Up for Bicycle Safety,” presented to eight school
and community groups; “Staying Safe While Having Fun,” presented to four community
groups; “Geriatric Emergencies,” “Trauma Triage and Transport,” “Traumatic Brain
Injury,” “Kinematics of Trauma,” and “Pediatric Trauma,” presented to EMS community
MH “Nursing Research in a Clinical Setting: Infrastructure and Implementation” (Panel
Presentation) 22nd Annual Eastern Nursing Research Society (ENRS) Scientific
Sessions: Celebrating Diversity in Nursing Research, Providence, RI
JSUMC “Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers,” Quality Scholar Presentation,
Meridian Health
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
27

Presentations
Jeanieve Caputo, R.N., BSN
Nicholas Cardinale, R.N., CRNI
Anne Carter, MS, R.N., CEN,
ACNS-BC
Vimla Christian, R.N., CNN
Patricia M. Cicerone, R.N.,
BSN, HNBC
Doreen Clark, R.N., BSN, CCRN
OMC “Harvesting the Results,” 6th Annual Nursing Research and Evidence-Based
Practice Day, Branches, West Long Branch, NJ
RMC “2010 Update on Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice,” Riverview Medical Center,
Red Bank, NJ
RMC “Dyeing to Identify IV Medication Errors: a Clinical Nurse Specialist Group Identifies
Factors Contributing to IV Push Medication Errors and the Resulting Housewide
Education Initiative,” Co-Abstract and Poster Presenter, National Association of CNS
Abstract and Poster, Baltimore, MD; “Suicide Assessment Screening in the ED,”
Meridian Health Nursing Research Conference, Long Branch, NJ
RMC “Caring of Vascular Access,” Poster Presenter, Annual TARC Conference; “Transplant
Update,” Riverview Medical Center, Red Bank, NJ; “Hypertension and Diabetes,”
LaborDay & Women’s Ministry, Salvation Army Camp Tecumseh
SOMC “Heartbeats-Reiki with Drumming,” AHNA 6 CE for Nurses Web site: Heartbeats.org
OMC “Dyeing to Identify IV Medication Errors: a Clinical Nurse Specialist Group Identifies
Factors Contributing to IV Push Medication Errors and the Resulting Housewide
Education Initiative,” Co-Abstract and Poster Presenter, National Association of CNS
Abstract and Poster, Baltimore, MD
OMC “The 800 Lb Gorilla in the Room,” Poster Presenter, SGNA National Conference
Coletta M. Coles, R.N., MSN,
CPAN, CAPA, BC, CGRN
Kathryn Burns Collins, R.N., JSUMC “300 Million Dollar Healthcare Project Seeks Leed Gold,” Clean Med Conference,
BS, MPA, FACHE
Global Conference on Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare, Baltimore, MD,
May 2010, “New Technology” Med Surgery Symposium
Maria Cristina P. Corpuz, JSUMC “Atrial Electrograms for Interpretation of Atrial Dysrhythmia in Post-Op Cardiac
RN-BC, BSN
Surgery Patients,” Evidence-Based Practice Poster Presentation to Nurses and
Nursing Students
Christine Devine, RN-BC, BS JSUMC “Soarian Plan of Care,” R.N. education program; “Nursing Informat-a-what,” Nursing
Management Congress
Mary Ann T. Donohue, Ph.D., JSUMC “Creating Policy, The Nurse Role in Trenton,” Meridian Health; “Projecting
R.N., APN, NEA-BC
Professionalism,” NJ-PNA, Monmouth County Subchapter NJ; “When Work Doesn’t
Work Anymore,” NJ-PNA, Morris County Subchapter NJ
Jane Drucker, RN-BC
OMC “The Red Dress Event,” Speaker, American Heart Association, Buona Sera, Red Bank, NJ
Jackie Dwyer, R.N., MSN JSUMC “Stroke Triage,” EMS; “Endovascular Stroke Rescue,” AORN; “Endovascular
Neuroscience,” Critical Care Nurses
Mary E. Eib, R.N., CCRN
OMC “Revised Surgical Count Policy,” Shared Governance
Lindsay Fehring, RN-BC JSUMC Creator, Stroke Discharge Education Form
Beverly J. Fey, RN-BC JSUMC Instructor, “ICU Competency Day,” ICU Equipment Fair
Anselma S. Gabudao, RN-BC, OMC “Improving Nursing Practice of Sedating Patients,” Nursing Quality Scholar Presentation
BSN, CCRN
Susan E. Gallagher, R.N., SOMC “Fire and Safety in the Perioperative Setting,” presented to Perioperative, Maternity staff,
CNOR, CRNFA
and Stafford Fire Department
Kathleen Gelchion, MSN, R.N., RMC “Dyeing to Identify IV Medication Errors: a Clinical Nurse Specialist Group Identifies
AOCNS-BC, CHPN
Factors Contributing to IV Push Medication Errors and the Resulting Housewide
Education Initiative,” Co-Abstract and Poster Presenter, National Association of CNS
Abstract and Poster, Baltimore, MD
Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N.,
CCRN, FNP-BC
Richard Hader, R.N., MSN, CHE,
CAN, CPHQ, Ph.D., FAAN
RMC “Stroke Update,” Renal Symposium, Ocean Medical Center
MH “Lofty Goals….Yes We Can,” Bon Secours Health System, Keynote, Journey to
Excellence Conference, Norfolk, VA, and Philippine Nurses Association; “Designed With
Evidence: Humanistic Environment,” Knowledge in Motion: Interdisciplinary Evidence-

Presentations
Based Care Conference, New Brunswick, NJ; “Advancing Nursing Leadership; Many
Roads to Success – Dialogue with CNO Health Research & Educational Trust of New
Jersey,” Princeton, NJ; “People Behind the Position: What it Means for the Future,” Nursing
Management Congress, Dallas, TX; “Afraid to Publish?” New Jersey Hospital Association,
Princeton, NJ and Holy Name Hospital Nursing Excellence, Teaneck, NJ; Keynote
Commencement Speaker, New Jersey City State University Nursing Convocation; “The
Role of the CNO,” Monmouth University; “The Evidence that Isn’t,” Institute for Nursing
of New Jersey State Nurses’ Association, Keynote Speaker, Atlantic City, NJ; Nursing
Management Congress, Dallas, TX; and New Jersey Philippine Nurses Association,
Ocean, NJ; “Get Published!” New Jersey Hospital Association
Michelle Hansen, RN-BC JSUMC “Depression and Anxiety in the Post Operative Coronary Bypass Patient,” Harvesting the
Results 6th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Day Conference, West
Long Branch, NJ and Knowledge in Motion: Interdisciplinary Evidence-Based Care
Conference, New Brunswick, NJ
Jennifer Harper, R.N., CNN OMC “Buttonhole Cannulation for AV Fistulas,” Ocean Medical Center Dialysis Nurse
and Technicians
Joan Harvey, DNP, MSN,
OMC “A Case Study of the Implementation of Bedside Reporting,” Research Day
R.N., CCRN
Poster Presentation
Linda Hassler, R.N., MS,
MH “Aging Sensitivity,” Medical Residents; “The Geriatric Interdisciplinary Fellowship Training
GCNS-BC
(GIFT) Program: Encouraging Nursing, Pharmacy and Medical Students to Choose a
Career in Geriatrics,” Co-poster (T. Wurmser) presentation, AACN Baccalaureate
Conference; “Delirium Assessment: The CAM,” Podium Presentation, NGNA Convention;
“The GREAT Kit: Enhancing Geriatric Resources, Education and Tools in the Emergency
Department of Meridian Health, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ,” National NICHE
Conference, Baltimore, MD and Meridian Health Emergency Services Symposium and
Nursing Research Conference, Poster and Podium Presentations; “Implementation of
the Pediatric Fall Risk Tool: I’M SAFE,” Poster Presentation, Harvesting the Results
6th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Day Conference, West Long
Branch, NJ
Christine Hedges, Ph.D., R.N., MH “Research for the Novice,” Knowledge in Motion: Interdisciplinary Evidence-Based Care
ACNS-BC, CCNS
Conference, New Brunswick, NJ
Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, JSUMC “Impact of H1N1 on NJ Infection Preventionist Activities, or Swine, Surveys and Survival
MPH, CIC of the New Jersey Infection Preventionist 2009: Presentation Number 5-042”
Pamela Holmgren, LPN, CGN JSUMC Cook Medical Video Presentation
Eduardo Iway Jr., RN-BC, BSN JSUMC “Compliance with Accurate Documentation of Pain Assessment and Reassessment with
Emphasis on Patient Education,” Nurse Quality Scholars
Margaret A. Janasie, R.N., JSUMC “Central Line Associated Bacteria,” Northeastern Basic Course in Infection Prevention, NJ
BSN, CIC
Hospital Association and NJ State Department of Health
Melaney Kinn-Gurzo, R.N. JSUMC “Proper Use of Pain Meds in Pediatric Population,” PACU Nurses
Susan Laffan, R.N.,
SOMC “The Respiratory System: Assessment, Treatment, and Emergency Care” and “Stroke
CCHP-RN, CCHP-A
Symptoms and Care: Time is Brain,” National Commission on Correctional Health Care
Convention, Nashville, TN; “Power and Personality in the Physician-Nurse Relationship”
with Dr. Michael Puerini, “Putting Pain in Perspective” with Margaret Collatt and Dr.
Michael Puerini, National Commission on Correctional Health Care Convention, Las
Vegas, NV; “OB Emergencies: Two Lives at Risk” and “Re-assessment and Follow-up:
Key Factors in Providing Comprehensive Nursing Care,” American Correctional Health
Service Association National Convention, Portland, OR
Patricia A. Lucarelli, R.N., JSUMC “Strategies to Communicate Vaccine Safety to Parents,” NJ Vaccine for Children &
MSN, CPNP, APN-C
American Academy of Pediatrics NJ Annual Conference; “25 Years of Prevention,” NJ Arc
Board of Directors Annual Meeting; “Immunization Update,” Family Health Center staff;
“Pediatric Assessment for School Nurses,” American Academy of Pediatrics NJ Annual
School Health Conference; “Pediatric Physical Assessment,” Ocean County School Nurse
Association Conference; “Helping Children Manage Anger & Aggression,” NJ Health in
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
29

Presentations
Elisabeth A. Margl, RN-BC,
BSN, CGRN
Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC
Rosemary McCabe, R.N.,
MSN, FNP, APN
Terri McIntosh-Mount,
RNC-OB, BSN
Joyce McKeever, R.N.,
MS, IBCLC
Robyn McNamara, R.N., CGRN
Sandra A. Mead, MSN,
APN-BC, FCCSC, CCRN
Agnes Aurea Mendoza,
RN-BC, BSN
Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N.,
ACNP-BC, CCRN, GNP-BC
Jill Mosteller, R.N., MSN
Marlene B. Navarro, MSN,
AOCNP, ANP-BC
Loretta Ninivaggi, DNP,
APN, BC, CDE
Karen Nugent, R.N., CDN
Nicole Ortiz, RN-BC, BSN
Andrea Palisi, R.N., BSN, MSN
Barbara Paratore, RN-BC
Landa A. PoianiDarocki, MSN,
APN-C, COHN-S
Pamela Rossano, RNC, AWHONN
Enid Russell, RN-BC
Kathleen Russell-Babin, MSN,
R.N., NEA-BC, ACNS-BC
Child Care Conference; “Medications in Child Care,” National Association of Pediatric
Nurse Practioners Conference (NAPNAP), Chicago, IL; “PNPs as Leader in Health
Care/Medical Home,” NAPNAP Conference, Chicago, IL; “Pediatric Physical Assessment,”
Union County School Nurse Association Conference
OMC “Transbronchial Needle Aspiration and Endobronchial Ultrasound,” SGNA
OMC “Oncology Panel,” nursing students, New Jersey Nursing Student Convention, Atlantic
City, NJ; “Juvenile Diabetes,” Girl Scout troops
JSUMC Case Study and Diabetes Discussion, “Controlling Hyperglycemia in Cardiac Surgery
and Skip Protocol,” Nursing Grand Rounds
JSUMC “Methadone and Pregnancy,” Ocean County Vocational Technical School, LPN Student
Nurse Program
JSUMC “Bringing Baby-Friendly to New Jersey: A Challenge to Change,” Presenter, Panel
Discussion “Steps for Successful Implementation” Program
JSUMC Participant, Video for Cook Medical Patient Education
JSUMC Presenter, Spring Equipment Fair, CUUHD
JSUMC “Atrial Electrograms for Interpretation of Atrial Dysrhythmia in Post-Op Cardiac Surgery
Patients,” Evidence Based Practice Poster Presentation to Nurses and Nursing Students
MH “Probiotics,” Presenter, Knowledge in Motion: Interdisciplinary Evidence-Based Care
Conference, New Brunswick, NJ; “Qualitative Research,” Felician College School of
Nursing, Lodi NJ; “Intro to EBP,” “PICOT,” “Literature Review,” “Evidence Tables,” and
“Translation to Knowledge” Presenter, Meridian Health R.N. staff
OMC OMC Schwartz Center Rounds; Monthly Guest Relations; Advance Directives Clergy
Luncheon; Overview of Palliative Care Role of the Chaplain Patient Rights & Bio-Ethics
Committee Palliative Care; Ethical Considerations
OMC “Highlights of 35th ONS Congress,” ONS Central NJ Chapter Educational Dinner
JSUMC “Use of Shared Medical Appointments to Endocrine Practice,” Meridian Health Advanced
Practice Nurse Group; “Diabetes,” Georgian Court Nursing Students; “Diabetes
Inservice,” Instructor, Neptune Rehab
OMC “Dating Violence,” Nursing Students, Monmouth University, Long Branch, NJ; “Elder
Sensitivity,” Point Pleasant Borough Police Camp, Point Pleasant, NJ; “Dialysis Rotation,”
Nursing Students, Ocean County College, Toms River, NJ
OMC “Reduction of Foley Catheter Use in the Elderly,” Poster Presentation, Harvesting the
Results 6th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Day Conference, West
Long Branch, NJ and NICHE Conference, Jumping Brook Country Club, Neptune, NJ;
“Sustaining the Path to Excellence,” Speaker, NICHE Conference, Jumping Brook Country
Club, Neptune, NJ; “Acute Care of the Elderly,” Speaker, Ocean Medical Center
JSUMC “Improving Beta Blocker Compliance,” Surgical Care Improvement Project,
Nursing Management Congress; “Care of the Surgical Patient,” Meridian Health
Medical/Surgical Symposium
JSUMC “Communication and Daily Goals,” Presenter, Quality Scholars, Hospital Administration
at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
MH “Influenza Educational Program,” Healthstream, Meridian Health Team Members
RMC “Perinatal Loss,” Presenter, Regional Perinatal Consortium Conference
OMC “Depression in the Elderly Dialysis Patient Role,” Presenter, Best Practice Conference
MH “Anatomy of Evidence-Based Practice,” New Jersey Nursing Convention, Atlantic City, NJ;
“BSN in Ten,” APN Forum for Nurses, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune,
NJ; “Follow The X’s,” Co-Presenter Poster, ONE NJ and Evidence-Based Practice

Presentations
Mary E. Peled, R.N., BSN, CPN
Terri T. Pietsch, R.N., MSN,
CTR, OCN, NE-BC
Elizabeth M. Rotchford,
RN-BC, MA, Nurse Paralegal
Marvin Sauerhoff, R.N.
BSN, CALA
Patricia Saitta, BSN, RN-C
Denise Schwartz, R.N.,
BSN, BC
Jean Shafto, MSN,
RNC-OB, C-EFM
Judith Slover-Zipf, DNP,
ANP-BC, BC-ADM, CDE
Leslie Stewart, BA,
R.N., CGRN
Kathleen Sullivan, R.N.,
MSN, BC
Maria G.D. Torres, RN-BC
Alison Trembly, R.N.,
CNRN, APN
Michael Valendo, R.N.,
BSN, CEN
Nancy Wagner, R.N.,
MSN, CIC, CSN
Linda Walsh, R.N., MSN, CEN
Barbara J. Williams,
Ph.D., APN
Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH,
R.N., NEA-BC
Conference, Princeton, NJ; “Bringing Evidence-Based Nursing Practice to the Bedside,”
Co-Presenter, Nursing Management Congress, Grapevine, Texas; “Evidence-Based
Practice Nursing Scholar Core Curriculum,” Lecturer, Meridian Health Clinical Ladder;
“Anatomy of Evidence-Based Practice”, Knowledge in Motion: Interdisciplinary
Evidence-Based Care Conference, New Brunswick, NJ; “Team Training,” Knowledge in
Motion: Interdisciplinary Evidence-Based Care Conference, New Brunswick, NJ
OMC “Pediatric Pain,” Quality Scholar, Meridian Community
RMC “Nurses Leading the Charge: Making Cancer Education and Early Detection a Reality,”
ONS Annual Congress, San Diego, CA
JSUMC “Orphan Diseases and Syndromes,” Monmouth University Graduate Program
JSUMC “From Corona to Corolla to Colace,” Speaker, NJ State Nursing Association,
Transitioning from Nursing Student to Staff R.N.
RMC “Dyeing to Identify IV Medication Errors: a Clinical Nurse Specialist Group Identifies
Factors Contributing to IV Push Medication Errors and the Resulting Housewide
Education Initiative,” Co-Abstract and Poster Presenter, National Association of CNS
Abstract and Poster, Baltimore, MD
OMC Speaker, NICHE National Conference, Baltimore, MD; Poster Presenter, NICHE
Conference, Jumping Brook, Neptune, NJ
OMC “Advanced Fetal Monitoring,” AWHONN
JSUMC “Diabetes Course,” Nursing students, Georgian Court University, Lakewood, NJ;
“Diabetes Update,” Annual Renal Symposium, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ;
“Diabetes Basics for Renal Nurses,” Annual ANNA Conference, Atlantic City, NJ;
“Implementing Shared Appointments in an Endocrine Practice,” Advanced Practice
Group, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ
JSUMC “Endoscope Technician Competency,” SGNA National Conference, Orlando, FL and
NYSGE Conference in New York, NY; “Leadership,” SGNA National Conference, Orlando,
FL and Leadership Conference, Chicago, IL
JSUMC “Follow the X’s,” Poster Presentation, 8th Annual ONE/NJ Research Day
Evidence-Based Decision Making in Education, Practice, and Quality
JSUMC “Medical Mission—Wound Care Experiences through Photography,” Wound Care Committee
JSUMC “Hypertension in the Emergency Department: To Treat or Not to Treat?”
Meridian Emergency Nursing Symposium
RMC “Emergency Department Admission Throughout,” Poster Presentation, New Jersey
ENA Conference
OMC “Healthcare Associated Respiratory Infection,” Northeastern Infection Control Education
course, NJ Hospital Association
BCH “Organ Donation after Cardiac Death,” Critical Care Committee,
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
MH “Rebirth: the Experience of Self-transcendence in Stem Cell Transplant Recipients,”
Meridian Health APN Network and United Health Services 18th Annual Oncology
Teaching Day, Binghamton, NY
MH “The Effect of Nursing Neighborhood Design on Communication Patterns, Care Quality,
and Patient Safety,” Health Care Design 2010 Conference, Las Vegas, NV Poster and
Podium Presentation, Co-presenters: Dr. Franklin Becker (Cornell University) and Tushar
Gupta (architect); “The Geriatric Interdisciplinary Fellowship Program (GIFT) at Meridian
Health,” Poster Presentation, American Association of Colleges of Nursing 2010
Baccalaureate Education Conference, Orlando FL; “Research in a Clinical Setting:
Infrastructure and Implementation,” Podium Presentation, Eastern Nursing Research
Society, Providence, RI; “Getting Funded,” Podium Presentation, New Jersey Nurses
Convention, Atlantic City, NJ
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
31

Structural Empowerment
A Magnet Moment
“I have been a team member at Ocean Medical Center since 1990 and there
are countless special moments that I could look back on. The community and
the health care organization have changed for the better as the image of nursing
has effectively influenced the system in providing excellent services to the
patients and community.
Being an Oncology nurse in an outpatient unit, I have witnessed how nursing
practice has progressed and advanced in both technology and in the delivery of
quality care. There is professionalism, advocacy, and responsibility shown in the
care of patients by competent nurses and in return, countless thanks, letters of
appreciation, and excellent surveys are received from patients and families.
Messalina M. Dy, R.N., BSN, OCN
Ocean Medical Center, Outpatient Oncology
Working in a Magnet hospital gives oneself confidence, respect, and trust and as
always, I am giving my best as an Oncology nurse. When I touch the hearts of my
patients and families through my care, love, and unending support on a daily basis,
these are some special moments for me. No words can express when you do your
very best every day and always work to the fullest. It is priceless. It is Magnet.”
Meridian Has a Lot to OFFER to
Our Nursing Students
Meridian Health has been on the forefront of supporting staff in
individual goal achievement over the years. One program that
has been particularly effective has been the Meridian Health
OFFER Program. Developed in 2001, the OFFER Program has
been successful in encouraging non-nursing staff to enter
nursing, and several federal grants were acquired to help
support this endeavor. The acronym, OFFER, identifies the
components of this innovative program: O: Ongoing support
(Retaining employment with full-time benefits); F: Financial
Assistance (Tuition reimbursement at full-time rate and
scholarships); F: Flexible Scheduling (Work 24 hours on
weekends and receive full-time pay); E: Educational counseling
and tutoring through Meridian Health resources; and R: R.N.
Mentoring. In 2003, within two years of launching the OFFER
program, Meridian received a $740,257 Health Resources
Services Administration (HRSA) Career Ladder grant to further
support the program. This grant was renewed for an
additional $800,000 in 2007.
Since the program’s inception, 138 employees have graduated
from nursing programs. A particular achievement is that of
having more than 90 percent of OFFER participants pass the
NCLEX-RN, as almost 40 percent of these participants were
from minority or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds.
Ninety percent have remained to complete the two-year work
commitment that is part of the OFFER contract, with 80 percent
of these nurses staying beyond their contractual commitment.
Many of the original OFFER Program graduates continue to
work at Meridian Health today and have gone on to achieve
advanced education, national certification, and clinical scholar
status in the Meridian Health C.A.R.E. Program. Although
vacancy rates have dramatically decreased at Meridian, the
program continues to be offered and was recently expanded to
include students enrolled in allied health programs.

Community Service and Outreach
Meridian nurses often serve as health care ambassadors and advocates in the communities in which they live and work.
Amy Addeo, R.N., CAPA JSUMC Volunteer, Children’s Fair, Riverview Medical Center, Red Bank, NJ;
Volunteer, Children’s Fair, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ
Alejandro Allanigue, RN-C, BSN RMC Head Servant of The Lord Prayer Group, St. Dorothea’s Church, Eatontown, NJ
Bruce Alston, R.N. SOMC Finance Committee, Home Owners Association
Donna Angelucci, MA, RN, BC BCH Community Day/Health Fair, Pet Therapy Dog Parade, Ocean Medical Center,
Brick, NJ; Pet Therapist, Manor by the Sea, Ocean Grove, NJ; Pet Therapist,
Burnt Tavern Rehabilitation, Brick, NJ; Embracing Hospice with Katy (Pet
Therapy Dog)
Sarah Bao-Angan, R.N., BSN JSUMC Volunteer, North Jersey Autism Walk, North Jersey Autistic Organization
Meagan Barnes, BS, R.N., CCRN, CSC JSUMC Volunteer, Annual Skin Screening, Monmouth County Cancer Coalition
Christina Barrett, R.N., BSN, CGRN, BC JSUMC Community Day, Jersey Shore University Medical Center 5K Run/Walk
Rhodora C. Barretto, RN-BN, BSN OMC Volunteer, Free Blood Pressure Screening, St. Dominic Church, Brick, NJ
Mary Lynn Barrow, R.N., BSN, CAPA OMC Meridian Life Table SDS, Seafood Festival
Susan Bataille, R.N., ACRN JSUMC Volunteer, Association of Nurse in AIDS Care (ANAC)
Jinx Bediguian, R.N., BSN, CNOR JSUMC Volunteer, Breast Cancer Walk, American Cancer Society/Meridian Health
System; Community Day, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Pediatric Fair,
Jersey Shore Medical University Center
MaryAlyce (Molly) Berkowitz, R.N., BSN JSUMC Member, Neptune Township Local Emergency Planning Committee; Training
Officer, Shark River Hills First Aid Squad; Training Officer, Neptune Township
Operations Emergency Response Team; ANSWER (Area Network Shore Water
Emergency Response) Team; Neptune Township Municipal Drug Alliance;
Co-Chair, Neptune Middle School Parent Action Committee; Webelos Leader,
Pack 81, Neptune Cub Scouts; Committee Member, Merit Badge Counselor,
Troop 72, Neptune City Boy Scouts
Jane Bliss-Holtz, DNSc, R.N. MH Associate Chair, Georgian Court-Meridian Health School of Nursing
Mary Lynn Breslin, R.N., BSN, OCN OMC Volunteer, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, American Cancer Society;
Save Your Breath, Brick Municipal Alliance Club
Kathleen Brophy-Degrassie, OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ; Point Pleasant
BS, CEN, ENPC, TNCC
Summer Police Camp; Employee Fun Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Eileen Brow, R.N. OMC Volunteer, Breast Cancer Walk and Swim-a-thon, American Cancer Society;
Rachel’s Walk for the Poor, Church of the Visitation; Pulaski Day Parade,
Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Unions; Beach Sweep, Clean Ocean Action
Paulette Boquel, R.N., CGRN OMC Volunteer, Wine Festival, Allaire Village, Allaire State Park
Lynne M. Bottge, RN-BC JSUMC Making Strides Against Breast Cancer-Bosom Buddies, Relay for Life,
American Cancer Society
Maureen Buckley, R.N., CCM SOMC Volunteer and Member, Social Concerns Committee, Sunday Suppers for
the Needy, St. Joseph’s Church, Toms River, NJ
Juana M. Buergo, R.N. OMC Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ; Fundraiser, Lymphomathon,
Mercer Park, Cancer Fight for Life Event, Freehold, NJ
Mae Burrell, RN-BC JSUMC Meridian Health-Health Fairs for Behavioral Health Services, Neptune Day;
Rolling Meadows Assisted Living, Seabrook Village
Tamara Cafaro, R.N., BSN-C, PMHN RMC Volunteer, Parker Family Health Center; Volunteer, Camp Trek (Adults with
Severe Disabilities)
Kathleen Campbell, RNC-MNN SOMC Volunteer, The Healthstart Prenatal Clinic Toy Drive, Southern Ocean
Medical Center, Manahawkin, NJ
Jeanieve Caputo, R.N., BSN OMC Volunteer, Cholesterol Screening-Heart Month, Point Pleasant Borough
Middle School, Point Pleasant Borough, NJ
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
33

Community Service and Outreach
Stephanie Carrion, BA, R.N, CAPA JSUMC Volunteer, Habitat for Humanity, Bennington, VT
Gina Carter, RNC-OB, BSN SOMC Lecturer, “Pregnancy Prevention,” Pinelands Regional and Southern Regional
High School students; Volunteer, Relay for Life, American Cancer Society;
Volunteer, Global Friendship Program for Exchange Students
Vimla Christian, R.N., CNN RMC Volunteer, Salvation Army Labor Day Camp Ministry; Volunteer, Salvation
Army Women’s Ministry
Patricia M. Cicerone, R.N., BSN, HNBC SOMC Volunteer, Animal Reiki for Homeless Paws, Barnegat, NJ
Coletta M. Coles, R.N., MSN, CPAN, OMC Volunteer, First Aid Table, Seafood Festival
CAPA, BC, CGRN
Lori Colineri, R.N., MSN, NEA-BC RMC Mistress of Ceremonies, “The Red Dress Event,” American Cancer Society;
Board Member, Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, Educational
Foundation Board; Preceptor, for a University of Pennsylvania Nursing Student
Kathryn Burns Collins, R.N., JSUMC Volunteer, Medical Explorers-BSA, Jump Start, and Big Brothers Big Sisters
BS, MPA, FACHE
Kathy Colopoulos, R.N., MSN, JSUMC Coordinator, Skin Cancer Screening, American Academy of Dermatology;
APN-C, AOCNS
Coordinator, Prostate Cancer Screening, Prostate Concerns Education Council;
Relay for Life, American Cancer Society; Choose Your Cover, Monmouth
County Cancer Coalition
Catherine Connelly, R.N., CGRN RMC Volunteer, Colonoscopy Display Handouts, Riverview Medical Center,
Red Bank, NJ
Christine Conner, MSN, R.N., CCRN, CCNS OMC Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, Point Pleasant, NJ
Patricia (Trish) Crosby, BSN, RN-C, CGRN RMC Organizer, “Pink Bank” Regatta for “Paint the Town Pink,” American
Cancer Society
Patricia Curtin, R.N., CNOR OMC Volunteer, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, American Cancer Society
Lucille Delas Alas, R.N., BSN BCH Volunteer, Health Awareness Day-Blood Pressure Screening, Church of Christ
Buklod Organization
Karen Daly, R.N., BSN BCH Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Glynda Daradar, RN-BC, BSN, CMSRN RMC “Community Stroke Education,” Meridian Health, Riverview Medical Center
Red Bank, NJ
Suzanne Davitt, R.N., BSN, CAPA SOMC Speaker, Colo-Rectal Cancer Screening, Family Resource Center
Mariebelle del Mundo, RNC, BSN JSUMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association; Making Strides
Against Breast Cancer (Bosom Buddies), American Cancer Society
Wendy Dibenedetto, R.N. JSUMC Volunteer, Juvenile Diabetes Walkathon, Juvenile Diabetes Research
Foundation (JDRF)
Diane Doherty, R.N., OCN OMC Coordinator, Annual OMC Melanoma/Skin Cancer Screening Program,
American Academy of Dermatology; Community Day, Ocean Medical Center,
Brick, NJ
Mary Ann T. Donohue, Ph.D., R.N., JSUMC Religious Education Instructor and Eucharistic Minister, St. John the Baptist,
APN, NEA-BC
Hillsdale, NJ; Coordinator, Ski Club Holdrum Middle School, River Vale, NJ
Carolyn Dougan, R.N. SOMC Volunteer, Christmas Gift Giving, New Lisbon Development Center
Elizabeth Dowe, R.N., CPAN, CAPA JSUMC Survivor and Lecturer, “Oncology Sweetheart Ball”
Jane Drucker, RN-BC OMC Team Captain, Making Waves, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ; Memory
Walk, Alzheimer’s Association
Kate Durkin, RNC JSUMC Volunteer, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, American Cancer Society
Jackie Dwyer, R.N., MSN JSUMC Volunteer, Healthy Heart, Senior Citizen Health Fair, Neptune Health Screening
Francine Dygulski, RNC, CNRN, BSN JSUMC Volunteer, Lead Paint Fair, Monmouth County Department of Health;
Volunteer, Flu Shot Clinics, Monmouth County Department of Health
Deborah Edgerton, RN-BC, BA JSUMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association

Community Service and Outreach
Veronica Ehlert, R.N., CGRN OMC Career Day Speaker, Memorial Middle School, Point Pleasant Boro, NJ;
Career Day Speaker, Brick High School, Brick, NJ; Community Day, Ocean
Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Mary E. Eib, R.N., CCRN OMC Visitation Visitors, Visitation Church Health Ministry, Visitation Church, Brick, NJ
Christine Eisenberg, R.N., BSN, BC JSUMC Captain, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Cary Evangelista, R.N., BSN OMC “Radiology Safety in Operating Room,” OR Staff, Ocean Medical Center,
Brick, NJ
Edna J. Evangelista, R.N., BSN, CPN JSUMC Volunteer, Helmet Safety Program, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey
Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ
Vivian L. Felix, R.N., BSN, CEN OMC Career Day Speaker, Memorial Middle School, Point Pleasant Boro., NJ
Regina Foley, R.N., MBA, MSN, FACHE OMC Board Member, American Cancer Society; Member, Point Pleasant
Board of Education
Maria Galgon, R.N., BSN, OCN OMC Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Susan E. Gallagher, R.N., CNOR, CRNFA SOMC Lecturer, “Fire and Safety in the Perioperative Setting,” The Stafford
Fire Department
Nancy Galos, R.N., CAPA OMC Meridian Life Table SDS, Seafood Festival
Annette Gee Monahan, R.N., MSN, CCRN BCH Volunteer, Family Promise of Monmouth County
Kathleen Gelchion, MSN, R.N., RMC Team Captain, Relay for Life, American Cancer Society; Wellness Community
AOCNS-BC, CHPN
“Ask the Oncology Nurse”
Julie George, R.N., BSN, CCRN SOMC Volunteer, Ocean County Library, Home-Bound Readers
Karen Gould, R.N., ONC OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Meridian Health Fair
Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N., RMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association;
CCRN, FNP-BC
Lecturer, “Community Stroke Education,” Meridian Health
Stefanie Green, R.N., EMT BCH Volunteer, EMT Oakhurst First Aid Squad
Lisa Guinta, MSN, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Joan Hallman, RN-BC, BSN JSUMC Volunteer Nurse, Parker Family Health Center, Red Bank, NJ
Jamie Hargis, R.N., CNOR OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Jennifer Harper, R.N., CNN OMC Parish Nurse, Blood Pressure Screening, Education, Monthly Health Notice,
St. Pius X RC Church, Forked River, NJ
Joan Harvey, DNP, MSN, R.N., CCRN OMC Career Day Speaker, Brick High School and Brick PAL, “Getting to Know the
People in Your Neighborhood”
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
35

Community Service and Outreach
Linda Hassler, R.N., MS, GCNS-BC MH Chair, Twinlights District Member; Executive Board, Monmouth Council, BSA;
MS Walk, Premium Pacer
Christine Hedges, Ph.D., R.N., MH Faculty, The Georgian Court – Meridian Health School of Nursing,
ACNS-BC, CCNS
Lakewood, NJ
Annette Henry, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer, K. Hovnanian Pediatric Fair, Jersey Shore Medical University Center
Amanda Hessels, R.N., MSN, MPH, CIC JSUMC Volunteer, Clean Ocean Action and American Cancer Society
Bernice Hettesheimer, R.N., CGRN JSUMC Founder Support Group, “Celiac Free,” The Celiac Sprue Association
Pamela Holmgren, LPN, CGN JSUMC Volunteer, Community Day 5K Run/Walk, Jersey Shore University Medical
Center, Neptune, NJ
Alice Howarth, BSN, MSN, RNC-OB, CBC SOMC Responder, Long Beach Island Community Emergency Response Team
Jule Hueth, R.N., CGRN, BSPA OMC Volunteer, Breast Cancer Walk, Health Ministry Brick Presbyterian Church,
Brick, NJ; Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ; Education at
Allaire, Allaire State Park
Marybeth Hultz, LPN SOMC Level I Catechist, Diocese of Trenton
Margaret A. Janasie, R.N., BSN, CIC JSUMC Community H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Program, Holy Spirit Church, Asbury Park,
NJ; Monmouth County Homeless Shelter Linkages Program, Wall Township, NJ
Sharon S. Jones, MS, RN-BC, CCRN OMC Career Day Speaker, Brick Memorial High School, Brick, NJ
Nancy Kaminski, R.N., OCN SOMC Volunteer, Relay for Life, American Cancer Society
Melaney Kinn-Gurzo, R.N. JSUMC Volunteer, NJ Marathon; Fundraiser, Macy’s Shop for a Cause Clothing Drive
Margaret Kluin, R.N., BSN, BC OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Patricia R. Kremens, R.N., CNOR, ONC JSUMC Volunteer, Children’s Day, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ;
Mentor, Student Nurses, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune NJ;
Board of Director, Kiwanis
Amanda Lillis, RNC JSUMC Team Captain, Talkin’ Tummies—Take Steps Walk, Crohn’s and Colitis
Foundation of America; Walker, MS Walk
Kathleen Loeffler, R.N., CNOR OMC Volunteer, Family Readiness Group, Fort Carson, CO
Susan L. Love, RN-BC JSUMC Teacher, Sunday School; Leader, Celebrate Recovery; Fundraiser, Spaghetti
Meatball Dinner for Children’s Ministry, First Baptist Church, Manasquan, NJ;
Celebrate Recovery Outreach, Ocean Grove, NJ; Class Mom, Manasquan
Elementary, Manasquan, NJ; Volunteer, Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk,
Point Pleasant, NJ; “The Older Women’s Prevention & Health Promotion
Seminar,” True Vine Church, Asbury, NJ; Fundraiser and Member, Making
Waves, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Patricia A. Lucarelli, R.N., MSN, JSUMC Volunteer Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Parker Family Health Center; Volunteer
CPNP, APN-C
“Teddy Bear Tea Luncheon,” Monmouth County Seniors/Salvation Army;
Adjunct Nursing Professor, The Georgian Court–Meridian Health School of
Nursing, Lakewood, NJ
Sharon Marciniak, R.N., CGRN RMC Volunteer, Colonoscopy Display Handouts, Riverview Medical Center,
Red Bank, NJ
Elisabeth A. Margl, RN-BC, BSN, CGRN OMC Volunteer, GI Nurse’s Day Exhibit, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Elizabeth Martinez, R.N., ONC OMC Global Youth Day, Brick Municipal Alliance; Volunteer, “Choose Your Cover,”
Ocean County Cancer Coalition; Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick,
NJ; Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, American Cancer Society; Co-
Partner with ONS President, “Relax, Rejuvenate, Revitalize: A Nursing Retreat
to Wellness,” Southern Jersey Chapter; “Save Your Breath,” Brick Municipal
Alliance; Team Captain, Walk for a Cure for Diabetes
Sandra A. Mead, MSN, APN-BC, JSUMC Preceptor, 3 Nurse Practitioner students at Primary Care Practice
FCCSC, CCRN
Rosemary McCabe, R.N., MSN, FNP, APN SUMC Lecturer, “Health Promotion Day” and “Diabetes Awareness Day” Neptune
School District, Neptune, NJ

Community Service and Outreach
Kimberly McCourt, R.N., BSN, MSN, JSUMC Expert Panel, “Women’s Heart Advantage Go Red for Women”; Rider, MS
CCRN, ANP, APCN
Awareness Point Pleasant Triathlon; Meridian Health Volleyball Tournament,
American Heart Association
Kathy McGovern, R.N., CCRC JSUMC Volunteer, ATEAM World Aids Day Fair
Joyce McKeever, R.N., MS, IBCLC JSUMC Volunteer, March of Dimes Walk; Shoreline Heart Walk, American
Heart Association
Robyn McNamara, R.N., CGRN JSUMC Community Day, Jersey Shore University Medical Center 5K Run/Walk;
Colon Cancer Alliance Undy 500 Run
Maya Meyers, R.N., CCRN SOMC “Living with Illness” Support Group for Caregivers; Dinner Fundraiser,
“Huntington Disease,” Manhattan, NY
Helen Miley, Ph.D., R.N., ACNP-BC, MH Specialty Director for Acute Care NP Program, Rutgers University
CCRN, GNP-BC
Dawn Mirabal, R.N. OMC Volunteer, Melanoma International Foundation 5K
Jill Mosteller, R.N., MSN OMC Volunteer, Community Day; 12th Annual Interfaith Memorial Service; Annual
Clergy Luncheon; OMC Association, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ; Trustee,
Ocean County Cancer Coalition
Patricia Murray, R.N., CCRN SUMC Volunteer, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Marlene B. Navarro, MSN, AOCNP, OMC Volunteer, Making Stride Against Breast Cancer and Relay for Life, American
ANP-BC
Cancer Society; Global Youth Day, ONS CNJ; Brick Municipal Alliance: Save
Your Breath, ONS CNJ; Skin Cancer Screening, Ocean Medical Center, Brick,
NJ; “Choose Your Cover,” Ocean County Cancer Coalition
Loretta Ninivaggi, DNP, APN, BC, CDE JSUMC Lecturer, “Diabetes Lecture,” Seabrook Village, Tinton Falls, NJ
Eddi Nitting, R.N., BSN, CDE SOMC Volunteer, Relay for Life, American Cancer Association
Karen Nugent, R.N., CDN OMC Victim Advocate, Sexual Assault Response Team, St. Francis, Long Beach
Island, NJ; Volunteer, Domestic Violence Response Team, Providence House
Catholic Charities; Volunteer, Violence Prevention Coalition Task Force Ocean
County, St. Francis, Long Beach Island, NJ
Maureen O’Brien, R.N., MSN, SOMC Team Captain, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
CCRN, ACNS-BC
Barbara O’Connor, R.N., OCN SOMC Event Chair, Relay for Life-Manahawkin, America Cancer Society
Granet Padalla, BSN, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer, North Jersey Autism Walk, North Jersey Autistic Organization
Pam Palmer, R.N., BSN OMC Church Blood Pressure Screening, Manasquan United Methodist Church,
Manasquan, NJ
James Pang, R.N., BS, CNOR OMC Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Barbara Paratore, RN-BC JSUMC Community Stroke Education, Meridian Health Fair
Cathy Patsco, R.N. BCH Fundraiser, Leukemia Cup Regatta, New Jersey Hospice Cup Regatta, and
180 Women’s Charity Regatta
Susan Pear, RNC-OB, CCE OMC Elixir Fund Supporter and Fundraiser, Bike MS, New Bern, NC; Fundraiser,
NYC Marathon; Fundraiser, Run for MS; Volunteer, Caregivers Association
Mary E. Peled, R.N., BSN, CPN OMC Volunteer, Puberty PowerPoint Seminar for adolescent girls, St. Dominic’s
School, Brick, NJ
Meaghan Peters, R.N. JSUMC Instructor Kindercare Teachers, Hand Hygiene, Aseptic Technique
Kim Pheifer, R.N., BSN BCH Team Captain, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Terri T. Pietsch, R.N., MSN, RMC Member, Palliative Care Work Group for the NJ State Cancer Control Plan
CTR, OCN, NE-BC
Landa A. PoianiDarocki, MSN, MH Volunteer, Rutgers Community Health Advisory Council
APN-C, COHN-S
Tamara M. Proto, R.N. BCH Volunteer, Ladies Auxiliary, Aberdeen Fire & Hose Company Number One,
Aberdeen, NJ
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
37

Community Service and Outreach
Thomas J. Reinhold, R.N. OMC Career Day Speaker, Memorial Middle School; Health Booth, Jazz and Wine
Festival, Historic Allaire Village at Allaire State Park
Diane Resnick, RN-BC, MPA JSUMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Richard A. Ridge, R.N., Ph.D., CENP SOMC Adjunct Faculty, Kean University, School of Nursing; Advisory Board
Member, Monmouth University, Marjorie K. Unterberg School of Nursing and
Health Studies
Jennifer Rocheskey, RNC-OB, BSN SOMC Lecturer, “Pregnancy Prevention,” Pinelands Regional, Southern Regional,
and Barnegat High School Students
Pamela Rossano, RNC, AWHONN RMC Volunteer, Medical Reserve Corps, Monmouth County, “Vaccinations” and
“Homeland Security”
Nancy Salerno, RN-BC, BA, NE, OCN BCH Volunteer, “Choose Your Cover,” Cancer Coalition; Registrar, Breast Walk,
American Cancer Society
Irene Salvatore, R.N. OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Vera Sansolo, R.N., CPN OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ; Parish Nurse,
Annual Blood Pressure Screening, Youth Group, Thanksgiving for the
Homeless, Epiphany Church, Brick, NJ; Instructor, Jersey Shore Mother’s
Group-Pediatric Teaching
Marvin Sauerhoff, R.N., BSN, CALA JSUMC Volunteer, Civil Air Patrol Holiday Party
Alanna Schauer, RN-BC BCH Board of Trustee Member, CPC Behavioral Health; Co-Chair, CPC Annual Gala;
Team Captain, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Barbara Sedillo, R.N., CNOR OMC Volunteer, Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweep, Clean Ocean Action; Shoreline
Heart Walk, American Heart Association; “Share the Magic” WJRZ Radio Magic
100.1 Sponsored Donation and Fundraiser for Ocean County Hunger Relief, Big
Brothers, Big Sisters, and Jersey Shore Animal Center
Jean Shafto, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM OMC Volunteer, Ocean Medical Center Foundation Golf Outing; March of Dimes,
March for Babies
Nancy Shen, RN-BC JSUMC Volunteer, Parker Family Health Center, Red Bank, NJ; Making Strides Against
Breast Cancer Walk, American Cancer Society
Conchita (Connie) Sim, RN-BC, BSN JSUMC Volunteer, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, American
Cancer Society
Judith Slover-Zipf, DNP, ANP-BC, JSUMC Endocrine Nurse Practitioner, Parker Family Health Center, Red Bank, NJ
BC-ADM, CDE

Community Service and Outreach
Danielle Smith, R.N., BSN, CNOR OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Brenda Snow, R.N., BSN, CMSRN SOMC Volunteer, Monthly Soup and Socks Project, Stockton Christian Fellowship,
Martin Luther King Park; Volunteer, Feeding and Clothing the Homeless,
Atlantic City, NJ
Leslie Stewart, BA, R.N., CGRN JSUMC Volunteer, “Colon Cancer Screening” Fort Monmouth Health Fair, Four Season’s
Health Fair, Seabrook Health Fair, and Neptune Community Day and Health Fair
MaryEllen Strozak, M.S., R.N., CCRN, CNS RMC Parish Nurse, St. Benedicts Catholic Church, Holmdel, NJ
Marsha Swartz, R.N., CNOR OMC Volunteer, Community Day, Ocean Medical Center, Brick, NJ
Maria G.D. Torres, RN-BC
JSUMC Volunteer, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association; Making Strides
Against Breast Cancer (Bosom Buddies), American Cancer Society; Homeless
Ministry-Missionary of the Poor, St. Veronica Church, Howell, NJ; Haiti and
Uganda Food Drive, Missionary of the Poor, multiple churches
Jill Tralka, R.N., BSN, CPN JSUMC Volunteer, Make-A-Wish, Kids Day America, Doctor Bernard’s Birthday
Celebration, Kids Rock Health Fair/Meridian Health; CCD Educator, Holy
Innocents Society (special needs children)
Karin Verrier, R.N. OMC Vice President, Lavallette PTA; Volunteer, Livestrong Challenge Bike/Walk;
Purple Stride, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network; Assistant Coach, Point
Pleasant Elks Cheerleading Midgets
Edward Vetrecin, R.N., BSN, CCRN, CEN SOMC Member, Stafford Township VFC#1, BPOE Elks
Beverly Wade, RNC-OB SOMC Volunteer and Foster Family, Shore Hearts Golden Retriever Rescue
Nancy Wagner, R.N., MSN, CIC, CSN OMC Coordinator, H1N1 Vaccination Clinic, Ocean Medical Center; Coordinator,
Volunteers for Annual OMC Golf Classic; Lecturer, Brick MOMs Association,
“Immunizations, H1N1, and Basic Infection Control Measures”; Coordinator,
Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Screening for Go Red for Women Day;
Volunteer, Administered PPD’s to Junior Volunteers and Pneumococcal and
Flu Vaccinations to OMC Foundation Members
Linda Walsh, R.N., MSN, CEN BCH Clinical Faculty, Brookdale Community College
and The Georgian Court – Meridian Health School of Nursing
Jennifer White, RN-BC, CNML RMC Team Captain, Shoreline Heart Walk, American Heart Association
Eric K. Wignall, R.N., CCRN JSUMC Career Day Speaker, Asbury Park High School; Mended Hearts Group;
“Cholesterol and a Healthy Diet” Instructor, OMC BLS
Cynthia Wilhelm, RNC-MNN SOMC Volunteer, The Healthstart Prenatal Clinic Toy Drive, Southern Ocean Medical
Center, Manahawkin, NJ
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
39

Military/International Service
While many Meridian nurses volunteer their time and skills outside the walls of our hospitals, some
also give of their time beyond the boundaries of the United States. They act as goodwill ambassadors
by bringing their knowledge and expertise to those in need.
Meridian Health Sends Medical Team and Supplies to Haiti
At Meridian Health, our commitment to improving the health and well-being of patients goes far beyond the borders
of our own community.
Following the tragic events in Haiti last January, Meridian worked directly with the CRUDEM Foundation, an American nonprofit
organization which supports the Hospital Sacre Coeur in Milot, Haiti. Meridian physicians, nurses, and team members have
regularly traveled on medical missions, and Meridian has provided supplies to the Hospital since 1997.
On February 26, 2010, Meridian sent equipment, supplies, and a full medical team to Haiti for a week-long mission as part of our
support for earthquake relief efforts. Our nurse representatives were Regina Foley, R.N.; Florence Germaine, R.N.; Darline Innocent,
R.N.; Kris Rovell, R.N.; and Trish Wesch, R.N. The mission was supported by the Medical and Dental Staffs of each Meridian
hospital, who generously committed the financial support to fund the travel expenses for our team and shipment of their supplies.
Marie Arbour, R.N., BSN, MSN
Regina Foley, R.N., MBA, MSN, FACHE
Christine Hedges, Ph.D., R.N.,
ACNS-BC, CCNS
Kathleen Loeffler, R.N., CNOR
Maria G.D. Torres, RN-BC
Jill Tralka, R.N., BSN, CPN
Teri Wurmser, Ph.D., MPH, R.N., NEA-BC
Paul Wyche, R.N., BSN, CEN, CPEN
BCH Surgical Coordinator, Aloha Medical Missions Hawaii, Philippines; PACU
Nurse, Hospital De La Familia Medical Mission, Guatemala
OMC Volunteer, Mission Earthquake Relief, Haiti
MH Volunteer, Right to Sight and Health Mission, Kedegou, Senegal, West Africa;
Volunteer, Aloha Surgical Mission, Silay City, Negros, Philippines
OMC Volunteer, Family Readiness Group, Food and Supplies to Soldiers in Iraq,
Fort Carson, CO
JSUMC Volunteer, Medical Mission-Missionary of the Poor, Kingston, Jamaica
JSUMC Volunteer, Henry B. King Medical Brigade, Honduras
MH Volunteer, Medical Mission, Philippines
RMC Navy Reserve Nurse Corps Officer, Operation Enduring Freedom to
Multinational Medical Unit, Kandahar Airfield, Kandahar Afghanistan

Educational Achievements
Maintaining a work/life balance is a challenge for nurses working in today’s health care environment. Yet many Meridian
nurses continue to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in order to advance their clinical skills.
Associates in Applied Sciences (AAS)
Lavonne Colasuonno, R.N. JSUMC Brookdale Community College
Jennifer Drew, R.N. JSUMC Ocean County College
Maria Ferguson, R.N. RMC Brookdale Community College
Alicia Fernandez, R.N. OMC Ocean County College
Jamie Hargis, R.N., CNOR OMC Ocean County College
John Menafra, R.N. OMC Ocean County College
Charles Morro, R.N. RMC Brookdale Community College
Meaghan Peters, R.N. JSUMC Ocean County College
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Barbara Boyler, RN-BC, BSN JSUMC Seton Hall University
Francine Dygulski, RNC, CNRN, BSN JSUMC Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey
Maria Galgon, R.N., BSN, OCN OMC Kean University
Laura J. Gomes, RNC, BSN JSUMC Kean University
Kathleen Haggerty, R.N., BSN JSUMC Drexel University
Kim Kritch, RN-BC, BSN JSUMC Felician College
Michelle McLean, R.N., BSN, CMSRN SOMC Kean University
Betty Moore, R.N., BSN, CBCN JSUMC University of Phoenix
Sirena Opaleski, R.N., BSN, CEN JSUMC Kean University
Jennifer Rocheskey, RNC-OB, BSN SOMC Drexel University
Amy Sapp, R.N., BSN, CCRN JSUMC Felician College
Brenda Snow, R.N., BSN, CMSRN SOMC Kean University
Lisa Snyder-Stackhouse, R.N., BSN SOMC Kean University
Edward Vetrecin, R.N., BSN, CCRN, CEN SOMC Drexel University
Eric K. Wignall, R.N., BSN, CCRN JSUMC Felician College
Sandria Wilmot, R.N., BSN SOMC Kean University
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Consuelo Royal, LPN JSUMC Lincoln Technical
Institute
Masters in Counseling
Rosemarie De Almeida-Gajda, R.N. OMC Kean University
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
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Educational Achievements
Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Jackie Dwyer, R.N., MSN JSUMC Walden University
Judith Egan, RNC, MSN, CAPA OMC Monmouth University
Ruthann Kosick, MSN, R.N., CCRN, CPAN JSUMC Walden University
Tracy E. McIntyre, R.N., MSN, CCRN JSUMC Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Andrea Palisi, R.N., BSN, MSN JSUMC Seton Hall University
Loretta Pasquarella, R.N., MSN, NP-C, OCN JSUMC Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Maryjo Phillips-Ruggiero, RN-BC, CMSRN, MSN MH Walden University
Jean Shafto, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM OMC Walden University
Daniel Unachukwu, R.N., MSN JSUMC Monmouth University
Nancy Wagner, R.N., MSN, CIC, CSN OMC Monmouth University
Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Donna Ciufo, DNP, R.N., FNP-BC JSUMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Rebecca Graboso, DNP, R.N., CCRN, FNP-BC RMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Christine Hader, DNP, RN-BC, MSN, CCRN, CPAN OMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Joan Harvey, DNP, MSN, R.N., CCRN OMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Kristine Monia, DNP, R.N., CEN OMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Loretta Ninivaggi, DNP, APN, BC, CDE JSUMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Judith Slover-Zipf, DNP, ANP-BC, BC-ADM, CDE JSUMC University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey

Foundation
Meridian Health believes that education is a life-long process. To support this process, a large number of generously
donated scholarships are available for team member students who are preparing to enter the nursing profession,
as well as nurses who are seeking advanced degrees.
A Magnet Moment
“My Magnet Moment encompasses providing quality care to patients and family members. I believe it is essential to also serve as
a mentor to new nurses, exemplifying nurses as teachers. This will help us continue the strong legacy of the profession. My special
Magnet moment occurred in 2007, when I was awarded the prestigious Mildred Rosa Trust Presidential Award. This prestigious
award meant a lot to me not only because it provided financial support to continue with my education, but it also was a special
moment of recognition by John Lloyd, Dr. Hader, and other Meridian team members. It also meant a lot to me to have
my nurse manager, Kathy Armstrong, there to support me.
It is truly rewarding to be employed in an environment that supports and enhances professional development. This environment
supports the force of quality improvement. As a result, I will achieve one of my career goals of attaining a Master’s of Science
Degree in Nursing. I plan to utilize my degree to continue the legacy in nursing and teach nursing students.”
Sonja Williams, RNC, BSN
Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Northwest Pavilion 2
Sally Hetzler Nursing Education Scholarship
To memorialize her exceptional life and love of learning, the family of Sally Hetzler, an outstanding community member and former
patient of Riverview Medical Center, has established a fund in her memory to be used for the education of nurses and nursing
students throughout Meridian Health.
Peter T. Hetzler, M.D., presented the Sally Hetzler Nursing
Education Scholarship to Elizabeth Paulus-Moore, R.N., BSN,
OCN, CBPN-C (right) and Tiffany Troncone, R.N., OCN. The fund
was created in memory of Dr. Hetzler’s mother, Sally.
Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
43

Foundation
The Rudolf and Ellen Rumeld Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship was established in recognition of, and in appreciation for, the care
and compassionate treatment which the nursing staff on Northwest Pavilion 6 at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
provided to Mr. Rumeld in his final
days. The Rumeld’s have established
an endowment for the professional
development of the nurses on
Northwest Pavilion 6.
Harvey and Myron Rumeld presented the
award to Tracey Walters, R.N., a staff nurse
on Northwest Pavillion 6, who provided care
for Mr. Rumeld when he was a patient at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Elizabeth I. Kellogg Award
This award was established in 1990 through the generosity of the Kellogg family to acknowledge the contribution nursing
makes in providing quality care. To honor the memory of Mrs. Kellogg, this award is granted annually to nurses who work
at each of the Meridian hospitals.
In 2010, Ocean Medical
Center team members
Kathy Frank, RNC;
Susan Dice, R.N., CPAN;
Ellen Asaro, RNC, BSN; and
Chrisanne Starrett, R.N.,
CEN, were awarded the
Elizabeth I. Kellogg Award.

Meridian Health Nursing Achievements 2010
45

Jersey Shore University Medical Center
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital
Ocean Medical Center
Riverview Medical Center
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Bayshore Community Hospital
Meridian Partner Companies
MeridianHealth.com
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