The Mississippi RN - June 2018

Vol. 80, No. 2 Quarterly publication direct mailed to approximately 58,000 RNs and LPNs in Mississippi. 

Summer 2018 

A Message from the President 

Debra Allen, MSN, RN 

How many times have 

we used the expression “I 

feel at home here?” Each 

of us wants to be valued 

as a part of a group and 

feel comfortable in our 

surroundings. This is the 

time of year that many of 

our new nurse colleagues 

are beginning their careers 

in nursing, and it’s up to 

us to make them feel at 

home in our profession. Debra Allen, MSN, RN 

They are experiencing the 

excitement and nervousness 

of obtaining their first nursing job – just as we 

did. I recall that on my second day as a brand new 

nurse, I had to work by myself due to my preceptor’s 

unexpected absence. Reflect on how you felt entering 

this fast-paced and ever changing profession, and 

determine how you can make their transition easier. 

This first experience creates a desire to remain 

and excel in nursing or, unfortunately, may result 

in a decision to pursue a new job somewhere else, 

or even another profession. When I ask new nurses 

what they find important coming into a new job, they 

frequently respond “to feel accepted and supported.” 

Those who report feeling valued by their employer 

are significantly more likely to be motivated to 

do their very best. 1 As seasoned nurses, we should 

strive to create a nurturing environment for our new 

colleagues, fostering respect and support. That means 

that we not only provide advice, we actively seek 

feedback as well. Their observations and ideas provide 

an opportunity to view processes in a new light. 

These new nurses are our leaders of tomorrow. The 

significant number of nurses at or near retirement 

age increases the urgency of developing these nurses’ 

leadership skills. It’s much easier to encourage them to 

embrace leadership opportunities if we connect with 

them on a personal level and they feel comfortable 

asking questions. Let them know that every one of us 

has good days and bad days – no matter how many years 

we’ve been a nurse. Let them know that it’s normal to 

feel frustrated, tired, or even a little scared, especially 

during the first year as a nurse. Let them know it’s 

essential to have a sense of humor to get you through 

those bad days and that the good days are often great 

days! Be the nurse mentor they trust and in whom 

they can confide. When they reflect on their first year 

as a nurse, be the colleague who readily helped them 

through that first exciting and exhausting year. 

MNA welcomes these new nurses and wants them 

to feel at home as members of MNA. From this first 

year as a nurse through retirement, being a member 

of MNA is beneficial to your career and shows pride 

in your profession! Invite a new nurse to lunch and 

discuss the many benefits of being a member of MNA. 

Encourage them to attend a District meeting with 

you and introduce them to other members. MNA’s 

numerous networking opportunities will allow them to 

connect with their colleagues, many of whom are also 

newly entering the nursing profession. Invite them to 

accompany you to one of MNA’s continuing education 

events and explain that MNA hosts events throughout 

the state. Relate to them how you have personally 

benefitted by being a member, and how the nursing 

profession has benefitted from MNA’s successful 

advocacy efforts! Let’s make our new colleagues “feel 

at home” as they join with us! 

1 

Workplace Survey, American Psychological Association, 

Harris Interactive, March 2012 

Racing to Meet Nursing Challenges of Today and Tomorrow 

2018 Annual Convention 

October 23-26, 2018 

Biloxi, MS 

current resident or 

Presort Standard 

US Postage 

PAID 

Permit #14 

Princeton, MN 

55371 

NOTICE OF HOUSE OF DELEGATES MEETING 

The Mississippi Nurses’ Association’s House of Delegates will convene on 

Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. 

at the MS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center, Biloxi, MS.

Page 2 • Mississippi RN June, July, August 2018 

MNA: Meeting the CNE Needs of Mississippi’s RNs & APRNs 

Board of Directors 

President 

Vice President 

Debra Allen, MSN, RN Tonya Moore, PhD, RN 

dallen@deltastate.edu 

tonyamoore2010@gmail.com 

Secretary 

Treasurer 

Sandra Arnold, MSN, RN Carl Mangum, PhD, PMHNP 

sandi.arnold@hattiesburgclinic.com cmangum@umc.edu 

NRCME/FMCSA DOT Medical Examiner 

Course & Pharmacology 

Opioids: A Wake Up Call – In Conjunction 

with Pine Grove Behavioral Health 

2018 APRN Symposium: Gateway to a 

Healthier Mississippi - In Conjuction with 

Tri-State Provider Regional Network and 

Magnolia Regional Health Center 

2018 Annual Convention 

2019 Lobby Day 

25th Annual Nursing Summit 

Nightingale Awards Gala 

Singing River Medical System - Pascagoula, MS 

Friday & Saturday, June 15-16, 2018 

Forrest General Hospital - Hattiesburg, MS 

Friday, June 29, 2018 

Pizza Grocery & Magnolia Regional Health Center - Corinth, MS 

Friday & Saturday, August 10-11, 2018 

MS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center - Biloxi, MS 

Tuesday – Friday, October 23-26, 2018 

Mississippi State Capitol – Jackson, MS 

Wednesday, January 23, 2019 

Jackson Convention Complex – Jackson, MS 

Tuesday, February 19, 2019 

Jackson Marriott – Jackson, MS 

Monday, March 4, 2019 

Council on Nursing Education 

Tomekia Luckett, PhD, RN 

tearl@wmcarey.edu 

Council on Health Affairs 

Alice Messer, DNP, 

RN, FNP-BC 

amesser@ns2.md 

Directors 

Council on Nursing Research 

Lorraine Gaddis, PhD, 


lkgaddis@muw.edu 

Council on Nursing Practice 

Shonda Phelon, DNP, RN, 

FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, GNP-BC 

shondaphelon@msn.com 

Council on 

Council on 

Organizational Affairs Advanced Practice 

Deloris Slade, MSN, RN, FNP-BC Rebecca Cagle, PhD, RN, 

delorisslade@aol.com 

FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC 

RACagle@nmhs.net 

Executive Director 

Teresa Malone 

tmalone@msnurses.org 

Executive Assistant 

LaGina Walker 

lwalker@msnurses.org 

Advanced Practice Coordinator/ 

Publishing Coordinator 

Dionne Inman 

dinman@msnurses.org 

MNA Staff 

Finance Administrator/ 

Membership Coordinator 

Deborah Norman 

dnorman@msnurses.org 

Director of Events 

& Marketing 

Dana Walker 

dwalker@msnurses.org 

Treasures of Northern California July 22-30, 2018 

Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights November 6-12, 2018 

LPN & RN 

OPPORTUNITIES 

The Mississippi Center for Quality and Workforce is focused on 

solutions for the emerging healthcare workforce challenges due 

to changes in the nursing workforce. 

QUALITY 

– Hospital Improvement Innovation 

Network – HIIN 

WORKFORCE 

– Summer Student Nurse 

Externship Program 

– Annual MS Report of 

Nursing Vacancy, 

Turnover & Anticipated 

Future Demand 

Executive Director: 

LaNelle Weems, MSN, RN 

Clinical Director: 

Debbie Logan, MHA, RN 

Programs Manager: Robin Powell 

Office: 601-368-3321 

Fax: 601-368-3200 

Visit us online to learn more: 

MSCQW.ORG 

Skilled Nursing 

at 

Ruleville Nursing 

& Rehab 

Contact Tina Alexander, Executive Director 

662-756-4361 

ms58ed@tarahc.com 

SMART 

STRATEGIC 

CONNECTIVE 

RELIABLE 

Impacting 

Healthcare 

& Health 

Workforce 

daily. 

Memphis VA Medical Center 

has exciting career opportunities available for 

Registered Nurses & Nurse Practitioners 

We invite you to join our team, where every day 

We Proudly Serve Our Nation’s Heroes! 

For more information, contact: Angelique Graham, Nurse Recruiter, 901.523.8990; 

by email at MEMNurseRecruiter@va.gov; or, 

apply online at www.USAJobs.gov E.O.E 

Privately owned and operated 

Join our 

talented team! 

Feel free to... 

come in and apply or send us a resume or apply online 

at senatobiahealthcare.com or on or 

Contact: 

Tawnya Pionk, Director of Nursing 

662-562-5664 • tawnya.pionk@sccrsnf.com 

Senatobia, MS 

District 1: 

Adams, Franklin, Jefferson, and 

Wilkinson counties 

Brenda Collins 

bcollins@alcorn.edu 

District 2: 

Amite, Copiah, Lawrence, Lincoln, 

Pike, and Walthall counties 

Tammy Livingston 

tlivingston@kdmc.org 

District 5: 

Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River, and 

Stone counties 

Deborah Mauffray 

debmauffray@gmail.com 

District 6: 

Jackson, George, and Greene counties 

Robbie Burnsed 

rene1461@yahoo.com 

District 7: 

Covington, Forrest, Lamar, Perry, 

Jefferson Davis & Marion counties 

Linda Holmes 

lholmes@forrestgeneral.com 

District 8: 

Jasper, Jones, and Wayne counties 

Emily Phillips 

Emily.phillips@jcjc.edu 

District 11: 

Simpson and Smith counties 

Teresa Windham 

twindhamdon@yahoo.com 

District 12: 

Claiborne, Issaquena, Sharkey, and 

Warren counties 

Debbie Hoover 

Debbie_0401@yahoo.com 

District 13: 

Hinds, Rankin, Madison and 

Yazoo counties 

Beverly Oliver 

boliver@stdom.com 

District 15: 

Leake, Neshoba, Newton, and Scott 

counties 

Cassandra Gibbs 

cassie39365@yahoo.com 

MNA District Presidents 

District 16: 

Clarke, Kemper, and 

Lauderdale counties 

Linda Todd 

ltodd@bellsouth.net 

District 18: 

Choctaw, Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, 

Oktibbeha, Webster, and Winston 

counties 

Alena Lester 

aalester@muw.edu 

District 21: 

Humphries, Sunflower, and 

Washington counties 

Kaffie Burns-Denley 

eiffak67@yahoo.com 

District 23: 

Bolivar, Coahoma, Quitman, 

Tallahatchie, and Tunica counties. 

Shelby Polk 

spolk@deltastate.edu 

District 25: 

Alcorn, Benton, Calhoun, 

Chickasaw, Itawamba, Lee, 

Monroe, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Tippah, 

Tishomingo, and Union counties 

Donna Cannon 

dgcannon2@yahoo.com 

District 28: 

DeSoto, Marshall, and Tate counties 

Phyllis Chambers 

phyllischambers960@gmail.com 

District 31: 

Lafayette, Panola, and Yalobusha 

counties 

Morgan Walter 

mdwalterl@gmail.com 

District 32: 

Attala, Carroll, Grenada, Holmes, 

Leflore, and Montgomery counties 

Heather Wilkey 

hwilkey@bellsouth.net 

Advertising 

For advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur L. Davis Publishing 

Agency, Inc., 517 Washington Street, PO Box 216, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613, 

(800) 626-4081, sales@aldpub.com. MNA and the Arthur L. Davis Publishing 

Agency, Inc. reserve the right to reject any advertisement. Responsibility for 

errors in advertising is limited to corrections in the next issue or refund of price 

of advertisement. 

Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement or approval by the 

Mississippi Nurses’ Association of products advertised, the advertisers, or the 

claims made. Rejection of an advertisement does not imply a product offered 

for advertising is without merit, or that the manufacturer lacks integrity, or that 

this association disapproves of the product or its use. MNA and the Arthur L. 

Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. shall not be held liable for any consequences 

resulting from purchase or use of an advertiser’s product. Articles appearing 

in this publication express the opinions of the authors; they do not necessarily 

reflect views of the staff, board, or membership of MNA or those of the 

national or local associations. 

Mississippi RN is published quarterly every March, June, September and December 

and is the official publication of the Mississippi Nurses’ Association, 

31 Woodgreen Place, Madison, MS 39110, a constituent member of the American 

Nurses Association.

June, July, August 2018 Mississippi RN • Page 3 

Executive Director’s Column 

Who says continuing education events can’t be 

exciting? Attendees wholeheartedly declare that 

the MNA APRN’s Charting the Course: Change, 

Innovation, Opportunity Conference hosted in Natchez 

was stimulating on all levels! 

We were honored to have Dr. Leandro Mena as 

our opening speaker on Friday morning presenting 

on Population Health to Address the HIV Epidemic. 

Dr. Mena is recognized throughout the country for his 

work in developing programs to treat HIV patients. It’s 

incumbent on nurses across all roles to understand the 

growing challenge of human trafficking in our state. 

We sincerely appreciate Paula Broome, Bureau Chief, 

Bureau of Victim Assistance, Mississippi Attorney 

General’s Office, for her insightful presentation on 

this issue, and North Sunflower Medical Center for Teresa Malone 

sponsoring this session. We also appreciate the coverage of this session by The 

Natchez Democrat. On Saturday, we were privileged to be joined by Dr. Melissa 

King, DNP, FNP-BC, ENP-BC, President of the Mississippi Board of Nursing, and 

Phyllis Johnson, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, Executive Director. Dr. King’s presentation 

focused on the opioid epidemic, and Phyllis Johnson provided information on 

recent changes, both regulatory and practice oriented. Attendees expressed their 

appreciation for the opportunity to interact and pose questions to both of these 

individuals after their presentations. Renowned career coach and sought-after 

presenter, Olivia Martin, engaged attendees with her unique style - blending 

humor and data to encourage attendees to navigate change full steam ahead by 

assessing their individual energy levels and taking action to improve their careers, 

their mindsets, and their lives. Everyone enjoyed reading the message in a bottle 

composed by one of their colleagues. For those wanting to take advantage of 

additional continuing education opportunities, the pre-conference sessions included 

ASCCP Guidelines on Pap Smears and HPV testing presented by Dr. Freddy Grant, 

and the NRCME/FMCSA DOT Medical Examiner Course presented by Deloris 

Slade, MSN, RN, FNP-BC. We were delighted to be welcomed to the beautiful 

city of Natchez by the distinguished Mayor Darryl Grennell. True to the gracious 

reputation for which Natchez is known, Mayor Grennell also presented us with a gift 

basket containing some of the best finds in Natchez. 

Replete with steamboat photo opportunities, nautical inspired conference totes, 

and a Chart Your Course to the Fiesta on the Bluff Street Party, the Conference 

sought to interweave the best of Natchez throughout the event. Providing a taste 

from some of the most famous restaurants, the Street Party featured margaritas, 

tamales, and nachos from Fat Mama’s, and empanadas and tacos from Grindstone. 

Adding to the ambiance was music provided by one of the Natchez’s most requested 

bands, Bubba and Drew. Networking with colleagues is always enjoyable in such a 

fun and beautiful setting! 

A special note of thanks to the many exhibitors who joined us at the Conference! 

We also extend our appreciation to Laerdal for use of their simulation models at 

numerous sessions during the Conference. Most importantly, we thank the many 

attendees who joined us, shared your ideas, and provided feedback to us! Thank you 

for your support of the Mississippi Nurses’ Association! 

We have many more events planned over the next several months and encourage 

registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses to join us as we host events 

across the state. MNA is here for you and welcomes your suggestions on continuing 

education events. Please contact us so that we may continue to meet your needs! 

Summer Sizzling 

Membership Drive! 

Support Your Nursing Profession! 

Take part in the Mississippi Nurses’ Association 

Summer Sizzling Membership Challenge 

Let’s sizzle along with the summer sun and make our voice even stronger! 

For Every Application received by July 15th, Recruiting Members 

and New Members will be placed in a drawing for great prizes. 

Visit our website at www.msnurses.org for details. 

Encourage your colleagues to Join MNA! 

Be a part of MNA’s legacy of taking the Lead in advancing the nursing profession! 

By working together, we will continue to Succeed in Mississippi!


APRN Spring Conference 

Special Thanks to... 

2018 APRN Spring Conference 

Sponsors and Exhibitors 

North Sunflower Medical Center, 

Our 2018 APRN Spring Conference 

Lunch Sponsor 

and 

Amgen and Visit Natchez, 

Our 2018 APRN Spring Conference 

Networking Break Sponsors 

AbbVie 

Amgen 

Arbonne International 

Becker Professional Education 

Blackston Consulting PLLC 

Bling with Dow 

Calmoseptine 

Cardionics 

CRAssociates 

Enhanced Wellness Living 

Gilead Sciences, Inc. 

Hologic 

Keystone Healthcare Management 

kyBoot Walk-on-Air 

Laerdal 

MiMedx 

Mississippi Blood Services 

Mississippi Nurses Foundation 

Mississippi University for Women 

College of Nursing 

Mississippi Vein Institute 

Molnlycke 

MS AETC / AIDS Education & 

Training Center 

Mississippi State Department of 

Health 

North Sunflower Medical Center 

NRD New Orleans/NORS Jackson 

US Navy Recruiting 

Office of Oral Health 

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & 

Addiction Services 

Regions Bank 

Southern New Hampshire 

University 

Stonewater Adolescent Recovery 

Center 

The Gideons International 

Troy University 

University of Mississippi Medical 

Center School of Nursing 

Visit Natchez 

Walgreens 

DISABILITY INSURANCE 

for the Nursing Profession 

If you are a nurse, you need employee benefits, such as nurse disability 

insurance and critical illness insurance. The Enroll Me Now team has more 

than 100 years combined experience providing nurses, just like you, with nurse 

disability insurance and critical illness insurance. If you are a member of an 

approved nurse association group, we can provide these employee 

benefits to you today. 

Exclusive Offers for Members 

Members need services that they own and control. The Enroll Me Now 

program was created to provide exclusive services for which only a 

Member can qualify: 

• Guaranteed Issue (No health questions) 

• Disability benefits for off the job accident or illness 

• No offset (reduction) of benefits if you have other disability plan 

• Annual cash wellness payments 

• Accidents: more than 40 cash payments for accidental injury, 

ranging from medical, hospital, to accidental death 

• May include family members; plus spouse accident disability 

• $10,000 cash payment for diagnosis of Critical Illness 

• (Children covered at no charge for Critical Illness) 

• Not tied to any employer – you control your plan 

and pay via convenient bank draft 

Office: 

601-978-2391 

Online Enrollment: 

enrollmyplans.com 

“We focus on you, so you 

can focus on them.”


APRN Spring Conference


Rebecca Cagle, PhD, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC 

Director, Council on Advanced Practice 

Several events of late have prompted me to 

reflect on professionalism in nursing and advanced 

practice nursing. Whether one is a new graduate 

from an advanced practice program or a seasoned 

nurse practitioner, I ask each this question: do you 

have a career resolution to develop and maintain 

professionalism throughout your career? Is it in your 

five year plan? Often while in nursing school we develop 

plans, be they individual or business. Sometimes once 

the goal of graduation, certification and licensure has 

been obtained, the long term plan gets set aside for 

being thankful for a NP job and learning the tasks to 

survive in this health care business. As requirements 

for certification and indeed licensure are changing, 

and with additional certification requirements varying, 

one can become bewildered and confused. Has anyone 

had the experience of finding out too late their basic 

Report from Council on Advanced Practice 

Do You Have Professionalism as a Career Resolution? 

Rebecca Cagle, PhD, 

FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC 

life support credential has expired and you cannot work until it is current? With 

all you were keeping up with, you simply missed the basics. Has anyone received 

an unfavorable patient and family satisfaction survey report to realize that despite 

your skill and knowledge, you were not perceived as professional or caring to a 

patient or family? 

Hands Only CPR 

Hattiesburg Clinic, Laerdal, and the Mississippi Nurses’ Association hosted 

a Hands Only CPR event for the public at Hattiesburg Clinic on April 10th. 

Attendees encouraged each other as they learned how to successfully administer 

Hands Only CPR. We extend our sincere appreciation to instructors Paul 

Thompson, RN with Laerdal and Sandi Arnold, MSN, RN with Hattiesburg 

Clinic. 

A conversation I had this week with a man who was quite satisfied with his 

new PCP, a nurse practitioner, reminded me of the importance of presence and 

professionalism, caring for and caring about our patients. He mentioned that he 

had not really had a PCP since his doctor had left the primary care setting for 

a practice as a hospitalist. He had gotten very sick during the winter and had 

need for a PCP. He selected a local NP, whom he did not know, but she was from 

his area. As he put it “she is the only provider I may ever need.” He described 

how competently she had assessed and treated him with appropriate diagnostic 

tests and medications. She even called to see if he was improving the next day. 

He felt that his health was cared for, but also that he as an individual was cared 

about as a person. I beamed with pride for our discipline as this was a former 

student of mine of years past. She was still keeping the common touch and was 

linked with her purpose many years after becoming a NP. She was the ultimate 

professional by keeping professionalism in the focus, along with CEUs and skills 

competencies. 

Consider taking a moment to sit down, reflect, and look at several areas in 

the next five years. The areas will naturally include requirements for licensure 

and certification, but also areas of career job goals, overall professional goal, and 

professional service to patients and fellow health care providers, be it medical 

mission trips or academic/mentoring roles. The one thing we know for certain 

is that we cannot do everything all the time or at the same time necessarily. We 

need to look at the season that we are in and the season we want to reach that 

is our preferred one. We must find a way to keep ourselves connected to our 

inner purpose of serving our patients. I have of late given up television and social 

media as a distraction to keeping myself balanced, focused, and on task. I am not 

suggesting that you should do this. You know what you need to be healthy. 

Professionalism can be improved through many avenues. Professional 

development through membership, service in a particular office locally, statewide, 

or even nationally can help us remain connected to the cause. What is your 

plan to give back and serve? We can all serve through membership in MNA. We 

may also consider running for office. Might you want to be a local MNA officer 

in preparation to becoming a state wide board member for MNA? Likewise 

presenting your knowledge and expertise to fellow NPs to obtain those CE hours 

can be a goal. Sometimes we have a need for a particular CE offering that we 

don’t have locally, but what can we do to make that CE happen? MNA is always 

working to meet the needs of the NPs in all nursing roles. Let us know your need 

and we will make an effort to schedule your requested topic. 

Lastly, on a rather personal note, I lost a family member and mentor this past 

month. She was my Aunt Jo. She was a nurse. She was my first nurse to work with 

as a NP in the clinic. At the age of 43 with six children, she went to LPN school. 

She graduated third in her class and made a perfect score on her boards. She was 

the epitome of nursing for as long as she worked. She was born to be a nurse, 

some might say. She always kept her patient as her focus. She advocated for the 

patient and simply did her job. She helped all that she could for as long as she 

could. She always looked and acted professionally. 

She was the most practical and professional nurse that I have known. I am 

who I am because of who she was. She used her talents and abilities despite 

challenges to make the world a better place for those about her. Thank you Joyce 

Ann Stephens, LPN for being professional and caring for and about people. Can 

the same be said of us? Do we inspire others to our profession because we are 

professional nurse practitioners? 

Leaders Defining the Art & Science of Nursing 

Graduate Academic Programs 

· Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) Research Focused Program 

· Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) 

BSN to DNP 

Advanced Practice Roles 

• New: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care or Primary Care 

• New: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner 

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner 

• Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist 

• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner 

• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner 

• Nurse Anesthesia 

• Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner 

Aggregate, Systems, and Organizational Roles: 

• Executive Nurse Leader 

• Public/Community Health 

Post Masters DNP 

· Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) 

• Clinical Nurse Leader 

• Nurse Educator 

Pursue your DNP degree at the only nursing school within an academic 

health science center that is the only recognized National League for 

Nursing Center of Excellence for Nursing Education in Louisiana. 

For more information, please contact: Jillian Gibbs (504) 568-4188


District 

Spotlight... 

District 7 presented a donation of $550 to 

Fellowship Health Clinic from proceeds of the Fourth 

Annual Heart & Sole Race/Walk. Fellowship Health 

Clinic provides services to uninsured and under 

insured in our community. Katie Heindl, RN serves 

as Assistant Director of Clinic, she accepted the check 

from Shenika Russell, Race Committee Chair and 

First Vice-President of DNA 7. 

Pictured: Katie Heindl, RN, Assistant Director 

Fellowship Health Clinic; Shenika Russell, RN, 

DNA 7 First Vice-President and Heart & Sole Race 

Committee Chair; and Linda Holmes, MSN, RN-BC, 

DNA 7 President. 

District 13 presented five complimentary one-year 

MNA memberships to one graduating nursing student 

from Belhaven University, Hinds Community College, 

Holmes Community College, Mississippi College and 

the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of 

Nursing. Each recipient was active in the Mississippi 

Association of Student Nurses, and upon successful 

passage of the NCLEX, we look forward to welcoming 

these new members to MNA! 

District 15 hosted a lunch for the graduating class 

of East Central Community College and provided 

gift bags to each student. District 15 and MNA are 

looking forward to having these new nurse leaders join 

with their colleagues as members of MNA! 

Lorraine Gaddis, PhD, RN, FNP-BC 

Director, Council on Nursing Research 

Convention is right 

around the corner 

with its many exciting 

opportunities for 

Poster Session Benefits Nurses 

learning, networking 

and presenting. Please 

take advantage of the 

opportunity to submit 

and present your 

completed scholarly work 

or work in progress at 

MNA's poster session! 

If you have considered 

submitting and presenting 

a poster, or even if you 

have been reluctant to 

do so, read on and ask 

yourself these essential questions. 

Lorraine Gaddis, PhD, 


Do I have to be a formal "researcher" to present 

my work? Not at all. Registered nurses and 

advanced practice nurses are involved in all kinds 

of creative enterprises that have a profound impact 

on the art and science of nursing. Formal research 

is certainly a part of what we showcase, but a poster 

session is the ideal way to share all your efforts in 

improving nursing practice. Quality improvement 

projects, safety initiatives, needs assessment 

outcomes, community-based endeavors, new 

practice prototypes, qualitative findings – these are 

but a few of the types of innovative undertakings 

you are encouraged to share. If your project is 

evidence-based and has the potential to improve the 

practice of nursing, chances are others will benefit 

from hearing about it. 

What is the professional value of presenting 

at the poster session? The poster session offers a 

chance for a deep level of engagement with other 

Convention attendees about your special interests. 

Presenting a poster is the perfect opportunity 

to share ideas one-on-one with those whose 

scholarly work is similar to your own. This session 

is different from the other networking you will 

do at Convention. The poster session clearly 

identifies you in your area of scholarly endeavor 

and facilitates conversation among those who 

share that interest. Many collaborative projects, 

joint publications, and job opportunities have 

come out of a personal interaction that started 

at a poster session. In addition, you will likely get 

positive feedback as well as friendly critique that 

will help you take your ideas to the next level. As 

you take this feedback home, don't forget that your 

submission was peer-reviewed and can be added to 

your resume as such. 

RN to BSN 

Concentration 

Leaders Defining the Art & Science of Nursing 

Have I been struggling to find a forum to 

disseminate my work? Students at all levels, along 

with working registered nurses in Mississippi, 

conduct rich and valuable scholarly work. Too 

often the outcomes of evidence-based practice 

initiatives are not disseminated after completion. 

Podium presentations and publications are too 

often considered the "most prestigious" ways to 

share ideas and completed works. This thinking 

leaves poster sessions to be undervalued for their 

rich opportunities to advance ideas and stimulate 

meaningful dialogue among professionals. Because 

of time constraints and concurrent sessions, you 

could end up with as high attendance at your poster 

session as your colleagues who presented from the 

podium. We structure the poster session to provide 

time for all attendees to have an opportunity to 

view the posters and interact with authors. 

What if I have a fear of public speaking? Luckily 

for you, a poster session is one of the best ways to 

overcome that fear. Christie Davis, poster presenter 

at a recent event, had this to say: "I was nervous 

about presenting but I passionately believed in my 

subject matter. Having the opportunity to present 

at MNA gave me the confidence to submit and 

present from the podium at a national conference 

just a few months later." At our poster session, 

you will present the content of your poster several 

times to a small number of individuals. This will 

help you hone your presentation skills. Because 

you are the expert on your project, you cannot fail 

when attendees ask questions about your work. The 

poster session is therefore ideal for novice speakers. 

Experts, don't forget that it also gives you the 

chance to be a role model and mentor colleagues, 

supervisees, and students. 

Does presenting my poster really make a 

difference? Emphatically, yes! A life affirming 

visual might draw the attention of a fellow nurse 

who is nearing burnout. A safety issue resolved 

might save the life of a patient in another's care. 

A personal story shared in a private conversation 

might change the world view of a colleague seeking 

to find his or her own core values in nursing. 

There are many professional benefits to be gained 

from conducting and presenting scholarly work 

including those that improve a resume. But at its 

heart, nursing scholarship is about your passion 

for changing practice for the better and delivering 

excellent nursing care. Take a chance. Make that 

difference! 

The deadline for poster abstracts is September 

12th. For questions regarding the poster session, 

abstract submission, or the selection process please 

contact MNA at (601) 898-0670 or mna@msnurses. 

org. 

RNs earn your BSN degree in JUST 3 SEMESTERS 

· Apply BSN competencies to 

work experiences 

· Hybrid model of delivery supporting 

peer/faculty engagement 

· Face to face meetings at least monthly 

Magnolia Health is currently hiring for 

Registered Nurses! 

Apply online at 

www.magnoliahealthplan.com 

· Early admissions to our MSN/DNP programs 

District 16 and Eliza Pillars Nursing Organization 

celebrated a successful community health fair on 

Saturday, March 17, at the East Mississippi Electric 

Power Association Building in Meridian, Ms. 

Vendors representing a wide range of healthcare 

and wellness products and programs participated in 

the health fair event. Blood sugar, kidney function 

and vision screenings were provided for health fair 

attendees. Guest speakers presented on a variety of 

health related topics as well as updated information on 

Cyberbullying and Human Trafficking. 

For more information contact: 

Dr. Stephanie Pierce • spierc@lsuhsc.edu


Congratulations! 

Dr. Cindy Luther was selected to serve on the 

Content Expert Panel for the American Nurses 

Credentialing Center - Adult Gerontology Primary 

Care NP Panel. She recently visited the ANA 

Headquarters where the panel was tasked with 

Reviewing Role Delineation Studies and Certification 

Exam Test Content Outlines. 

The Importance of Addressing Health 

Literacy & the Social Determinants of Health 

Michael L. Jones, PhD(c), 

RN, MSN, MBA 

Consider this: 

Healthcare goes far 

beyond what we see 

presented before us. What 

is presented before us as 

healthcare providers is a 

small symptom of a much 

larger problem. 

process the meaning of medical jargon, and ultimately 

make the best decisions needed for positive health 

outcomes. All too often, limited health literacy is 

mistaken for “noncompliance,” when, in fact, the 

individual is unable to process health information 

effectively. In addition to worsening chronic disease 

states, individuals with limited health literacy also 

have increased emergency room visits and often 

struggle with medication adherence, which can 

be both deadly and costly. So what can be done to 

address the issue of health literacy? 

Dr. Cindy Luther at ANA headquarters in front of 

original letters of Florence Nightingale 

For many years, the 

state of Mississippi has 

been plagued with many 

chronic diseases such as 

diabetes, heart disease, 

hypertension, and obesity. 

Michael L. Jones, 

PhD(c), RN, MSN, 

MBA 

According to Mississippi State Department of 

Health (2016), Mississippi ranks second in the nation 

for diabetes prevalence. Cardiovascular disease, 

which also includes diseases of the heart and stroke, 

is the leading cause of death in Mississippi. It is 

estimated that more than 700,000 Mississippians have 

hypertension. Attributed to one in every five deaths in 

Mississippi, cancer prevalence is also a major issue for 

our state. Obesity is most often the underlying cause 

or contributing factor of many of the aforementioned 

conditions (Mississippi State Department of Health, 

2016). Because of the aforementioned chronic diseases 

and their burden on the state and health practices, 

meeting quality measures (e.g. average blood pressure, 

average hemoglobin A1c, average BMI, etc.) may also 

be a challenge. 

Getting back to the initial statement of this article, 

in many instances, these conditions are further 

exacerbated by poverty and limited access to health 

care. There is also the issue of health literacy and 

the environment in which individuals must live (the 

social determinants of health). It is also important to 

mention the limited number of primary healthcare 

professionals in the most rural areas of our state. It is 

certainly no secret that Mississippi is one of the most 

rural states in the country with some of the highest 

poverty rates. These are known facts and there is no 

need to rehash what is already known. 

Health Literacy 

Health literacy is a common exacerbating factor 

of the issues we face in our state related to chronic 

disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control 

and Prevention (2017), health literacy is defined as 

“the degree to which an individual has the capacity to 

obtain, communicate, process, and understand basic 

health information and services to make appropriate 

health decisions.” In other words, health literacy 

has to do with an individual’s ability to put into 

practice the information he or she has been provided 

by the healthcare professional. It also has to do with 

the overall actions of the individual as it relates 

to his or her health outcomes. It is estimated that 

approximately 9 out of 10 individuals in our nation 

struggle with understanding health information. 

Such information literally comes across as a foreign 

language to individuals with limited health literacy. 

Costing millions of dollars to the healthcare system 

each year, limited health literacy limits one’s ability 

to find health information and services, effectively 

communicate needs to the healthcare provider, 

RNs & LPNs 

WE NEED YOU! 

Hospital/Facilities/ 

Home Care Staffing 

Serving Mississippi 

for over 25 years 

Gulf Coast 

to Memphis... 

From the 

PCNURSING.COM 

1-800-844-4298 

Below are a few things to consider: 

• Conduct a thorough assessment of the 

individual’s level of understanding. Instead of 

asking close-ended questions, ask open-ended 

questions. For example, instead of asking “do 

you eat fruits and vegetables with each meal?”, 

ask the following: “tell me about your meals 

each day.” This gives you an opportunity to 

understand whether the individual has truly 

processed what has been taught to them. 

• Provide information in terms in which the 

individual understands. This may also include 

using pictures to illustrate the message you are 

attempting to convey. 

• Utilize community liaisons (i.e. community 

health workers) to follow up with the individuals 

while they are at home. 

The Social Determinants of Health 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and 

Prevention (2014), “social determinants of health are 

economic and social conditions that influence the 

health of people and communities. These conditions 

are shaped by the amount of money, power, and 

resources that people have, all of which are influenced 

by policy choices.” The most prevalent driving force 

in an individual’s health is the social determinants of 

health. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of avoidable 

deaths are related to the social determinants of health 

(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). 

Let’s dig a little deeper into what this all means. 

According to the World Health Organization (2010), 

there are 10 components to the social determinants 

of health. They include the social gradient, early life, 

work, social support, food, stress, social exclusion, 

unemployment, addiction, and transport. Whether 

you are the nurse caring for a patient or a Nurse 

Practitioner serving as the health care provider, it is 

important to provide holistic care in order to ensure 

the best possible health outcomes. 

Below is an explanation of each social determinant 

of health and are a few things to consider when 

providing care to your patients. 

1. The Social Gradient – life expectancy is 

much shorter and disease prevalence is more 

common the farther down the social gradient an 

individual lives. 

2. Stress – excessive stress leads to physical health 

issues. Nurses should assess for stress, and work 

with patients to alleviate the source of the stress. 

Prolonged stress leads to depression. Ensure 

patients are effectively screened and treated 

for depression (i.e. PHQ-9 screening tool). 

Depression can lead to physical health issues. 

3. Early Life – early health care impacts the rest 

of our lives. Nurses should ensure children get 

their necessary screenings and preventive care 

(i.e. dental, immunizations, hearing, etc.). 

4. Social Exclusion – hardship, resentment, 

poverty, and discrimination impacts overall 

physical health. Nurses should partner with 

other professionals in the interdisciplinary team 

to ensure patient needs are met. For example, 

there should be assessments performed to 

identify instances of intimate partner violence. 

The nurse works with a social worker, for 

example to address patient needs and ensure 

safety. 

5. Work Life – a stressful workplace increases 

one’s likelihood of developing certain diseases. 

Nurses should assess for and assist patients 

with coping mechanisms related to dealing 

with stressful situations. In this instance, 

working with the interdisciplinary team is 

essential. 

Addressing Health Literacy continued on page 14


MNF School of Nursing 

Scholarship 

Through the foundation’s Car Tag Program, Nurses Touch Lives, MNF is 

fortunate to offer each School of Nursing a $1,000 scholarship for one deserving 

student. The student is selected by the Nursing School Leadership based on 

academic excellence, leadership abilities and community involvement. 

Thank you to our Schools of Nursing for allowing the Mississippi Nurses 

Foundation to be a part of your students’ success. 

The 2018 Schools of Nursing Scholarship recipients are listed below: 


MNF Announces 2018 

Money Raffle! 

Get your $25 tickets online at 

www.msnursesfoundation.com or call 601.898.0850 

Scholarship Recipient 

Ophelia Fleming 

Latoya Nicole Smith-Gray 

Brittany Mitchell 

No Name Submitted 

Anna Carver 

Khalil Triplett 

No Name Submitted 

Janaisha Berry 

Tonya Owens 

Iheshia Trimble-Koonce 

Carmen Breland 

Pamela Watson 

Anna Grace Davis 

Cyneiceya Wallace 

Jessica Ginn 

Emily Kruse & Victoria McDaniel 

William Fowler Quinn 

Adrianne Browning 

Taylor Autin 

Brandi Hamilton & Fall Awardee to 

be named 

Olivia Herrington 

Annie Doster 

Rebekah Nevala 

School of Nursing 

Alcorn State University 

Belhaven University 

Coahoma Community College 

Copiah-Lincoln Community College 

Delta State University 

East Central Community College 

East Mississippi Community College 

Hinds Community College 

Holmes Community College 

Itawamba Community College 

Jones County Junior College 

Meridian Community College 

Mississippi College 

Mississippi Delta Community College 

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community 

College 

Mississippi University for Women 

Northeast Mississippi Community 

College 

Northwest Mississippi Community 

College 

Pearl River Community College 

Southwest Mississippi Community 

College 

University of Mississippi Medical 

Center 

University of Southern Mississippi 

William Carey University 

*Winner is responsible for all taxes 

*Winner need not be present to win 

*Proceeds support the programs and daily operations of MNF 

• BSN (Traditional and Accelerated) 

• RN to BSN 

• BSN to MSN 

• RN to MSN 

• Post MSN to DNP 

• BSN to DNP 

• Post Graduate 

Certificates 

College of Nursing 

University of South Alabama 

High quality programs 

online and on-campus 

• Subspecialty options available 

The University of South Alabama is a place of unlimited possibilities, 

unrestricted ideas, and exceptional accomplishments. 

• USA College of Nursing is currently the largest academic program at USA. 

• One of the largest Nursing programs in the United States. 

• Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 

655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 887-6791. 

#WeAreSouth 

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/con


DEDICATED 

COMPASSIONATE 

HOME CARE SERVICES 

Our team of first rate RNs, LPNs 

and CNAs enable us to offer 

comprehensive services for 

virtually every need from 24 hour 

home care to sitter services. 

Our Home Care Services are 

provided for your loved one in their 

personal residence, hospital, 

nursing home, assisted living 

facility or hospice. 

MISSISSIPPI’S MOST 

PROGRESSIVE 

MEDICAL STAFFING 

AGENCY 

POSITIONS INCLUDE: 

• All Clerical Positions 

• X-Ray Techs/Lab Techs 

• Certified Medical Assistants 

• Nurses 

• Phlebotomists 

• CNAs 

• And More! 

FBI Fingerprinting and Extensive Background Checks 

Mississippi’s first Healthcare Staffing Agency 

to earn The Joint Commission Certification. 

SPECIALIZING IN THE TEMPORARY 

AND PERMANENT PLACEMENT OF 

MEDICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS. 

www.SouthernHealthcare.com 

301 New Pointe | Ridgeland, MS 39157 

T: 601.933.0037 | 800.880.2772 

Successfully Serving Mississippi Since 1993



Coffee Club 

Application 

The Mississippi Nurses Foundation Coffee Club was started 

in April 2009 with the support of Dr. Kim Hoover, Dean of the 

University of MS School of Nursing, with her donation for MNF 

daily operations. The coffee club recognizes individuals who 

donate between $300- $5,000 or more to the Foundation. 

You can join today with a monthly donation of $25.00 to the 

Nurses Foundation. Please select your level of support for 

membership into the Mississippi Nurses Foundation Coffee Club. 

Bank draft and credit card monthly donations will automatically 

renew every 12 months unless notified by the donor. 

_______ Espresso Level 

$4,000 to $5,000----Two packages of MNF signature coffee and 

two coffee mugs, four tickets to all upcoming events sponsored 

by the Foundation, recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, 

Recognition on MNF’s website, newsletter, recognition at the 

Mississippi Nurses Association Annual Convention and a 4” X 8” 

engraved brick in the Mary E. Stainton Center for Nursing Garden. 

_______ Cappuccino Level 

$2,000 to $3,999----Two packages of MNF signature coffee and 

two coffee mugs, two tickets to all upcoming events sponsored 

by the Foundation, recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, 

Recognition on MNF’s website, newsletter and recognition at the 

Mississippi Nurses Association Annual Convention. 

WISHES & KISSES 2018 

A campaign to support Make-A-Wish Mississippi in granting wishes 

Our Campaign was a Success! 

Your gift helped to grant Angel’s Wish! 

With the support of nurses and friends of 

nurses, our Wishes and Kisses Campaign 

was a huge success. We raised $8,000 to 

grant Angel his wish. MNF hosted a pizza 

party to celebrate with Angel and his 

family, friends, and representatives from 

Make-A-Wish ® Mississippi. Angel and his 

family will be heading to Florida to make 

his Wish come true. 

Thank you for Touching Lives and 

Granting Wishes! 

Nurses Touch Lives... and grant wishes 

I wish to go to my favorite 

Florida Theme Parks 

Angel, 5 

Cancer 

_______ Mocha Level 

$500 to $1,999-----One package of MNF signature coffee and 

coffee mug, two tickets to one of MNF’s sponsored events, 

recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, Recognition on MNF’s 

website, newsletter and recognition at the Mississippi Nurses 

Association Annual Convention. 

_______ Coffee Level 

$300 to $499 -----One package of MNF signature coffee 

and coffee mug, a ticket to one of MNF’s sponsored events, 

recognition at MNF’s Philanthropy Day, recognition on MNF’s 

website, newsletter, and recognition at the Mississippi Nurses 

Association Annual Convention. 

_______ No, I cannot join the Coffee Club but I will give a 

donation to support the MS Nurses Foundation. 

( ) $25 ( ) $50 ( ) $75 ( ) $100 

( ) $150 ( ) $200 ( ) $250 

Name (Please print)__________________________________ 

Address __________________________________________ 

City _____________________________________________ 

State _________ Zip _________________ 

Phone: Home _______________ Cell ___________________ 

Email address ______________________________________ 

Method of Payment 

Credit Card #_______________________________________ 

Exp. Date______________ 3 digit code/ back of card _______ 

Amount _________ 

( ) Amex ( ) MasterCard ( ) Visa 

( ) Bank Draft 1st or 15th (circle one) Amount per month _____ 

Month to start __________________ 

Send a voided check to the MS Nurses Foundation 

( ) One time payment for yearly membership ______________ 

Please include check or money order and mail it to the 

MS Nurses Foundation 

( ) DONATE ONLINE at www.msnursesfoundation.com 

Mississippi Nurses’ Association presents... 

Treasures of Northern California 

July 22 - 30, 2018 

Pictured: Angel; Rod Henderson, Senior Director of 

Development, Make-A-Wish ® Mississippi; and Rosalyn 

Howard, Executive Director, Mississippi Nurses Foundation. 

Mississippi Nurses’ Association presents... 

Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights 

November 6-12, 2018 

Your tax deductible donation to the Coffee Club will help support 

the Nurses Foundation in its daily operations of carrying out its 

mission of raising, accepting and dispersing charitable donations 

to promote professional nursing and better health in Mississippi. 

Sponsored events exclude the Nightingale Awards Gala. 


31 Woodgreen Place • Madison, MS 39110 

Phone: (601) 898-0850 Fax: (601) 898-0190 

Book 

Now! 

For more information contact 

Dana Walker • dwalker@msnurses.org 

Mississippi Nurses’ Association 

(601) 898-0670 

View online brochure at www.msnurses.org 

Book 

Now! 

For more information contact 

Dana Walker • dwalker@msnurses.org 

Mississippi Nurses’ Association 

(601) 898-0670 

View online brochure at www.msnurses.org



The Mississippi Nurses Foundation held its 

Brick Garden “In Honor” and “In Memory” 

ceremony Saturday, May 12, 2018 at the 

Mississippi Center for Nursing, in Madison MS. 

A special thanks to Mary Stainton, for which the 

brick garden is named, for joining us and sharing 

the history of the garden. Another special thanks 

to our sponsor and nurse, Dr. Kaye Bender, 

for her generous support of the Brick Garden 

Ceremony. It was a beautiful event as nurses and 

friends of nurses joined us in celebrating the life 

and legacy of nurses throughout the state. Please 

join us in congratulating and remembering the 

following nurses “In Honor” and “In Memory”: 

The Mississippi 

Nurses Foundation 

Welcomes New 

Board of Trustees 

“In Honor” 

Mary Ann Chiles 

Jennifer Dumal 

East Mississippi Community College ADN 

Program Class of 2017 

Kim W. Hoover 

Annette Joyner 

Cindy Luther 

Matty Hersee Nurses 1913-1986 

Tammie M. McCoy 

Angela Skinner 

Wallace Strickland 

Estelle Watts 

Mary Stainton 

Dana Walker, 

DNP, RN Assistant 

Professor and RN- 

BSN Coordinator 

Bachelor of Science 

in Nursing Program 

Mississippi University 

for Women 

Ann Barnes, RN 

President 

Prime Care Nursing 

“In Memory” 

Tammy L. Johnson 

Hiawatha Northington 

Rosie Small-Gregory 

Sandra Townsend 

LaDine Washington 

Kimberly Holcomb Watts 

Dr. Kaye Bender 

Amy Lampton Walker, 

MSN, FNP-BC 

Chief Clinical Officer 

Delta Regional 

Medical Center 

Alicia Lundstrom, 

PhD, RN, CNE 

Associate Dean of 

Nursing 

Associate Professor 

of Nursing 

William Carey 

University 

Joseph and Nancy 

Fail School of Nursing 

Eileen S. and Earl C. Whittemore Fund Advanced Practice/Nurse Practitioner 

Scholarship 

MNF and The Gulf Coast Community Foundation will present a $2,500 scholarship to a student 

in an accredited nurse practitioner program. The student must also be a resident of Hancock, 

Harrison, Jackson, Pearl River, Stone or George County. 

Deadline for application is July 6, 2018. 

Mississippi Nurses Foundation announces deadline for two (2) PhD Research 

Grants up to $10,000 each. 

Applicant must be a member of MNA, enrolled in a PhD Nursing program in Mississippi, and a 

resident of Mississippi. 

Deadline for application is July 9, 2018. 

$1,000 Award for Scholarly Writing 

Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc. will sponsor a $1,000 award for scholarly writing. 

The Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency publishes The MS RN magazine for the 

Mississippi Nurses Association. 

Deadline for application is August 20, 2018. 

For application information and forms, please visit www.msnursesfoundation.com or contact: MS 

Nurses Foundation 

31 Woodgreen Place 

Madison, MS 39110 

601-898-0850 

Email: foundation@msnurses.org



Correctional Medical Associates 

YOUR SOURCE FOR 

JOBS IN MISSISSIPPI 

(OR ANYWHERE) 

RNs & LPNs needed for PRN 

work; days, nights and weekends 

in Jackson County Detention 

Center in Pascagoula, MS 

A minimum of 1 yr med surg, long term care, 

or emergency room experience. Must possess a valid MS license, 

TB certification and BLS. Correctional experience a plus, 

but not required. Competitive salary. 

Please forward resumes to sthomas@correctionalmed.com 

Registered Nurse & Licensed Practical Nurse 

The North Mississippi Regional Center accepts applications for 

Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses on three shifts. 

These positions are assigned to the main campus in Oxford, MS 

supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

Minimum Requirements: Applicants must possess a valid Mississippi License 

for Registered/Practical Nurse. 

Excellent benefit package, including: 

• Health Insurance 

• Vacation Leave 

• Medical Leave 

• Paid Holidays 

• Public Employee’s Retirement 

System of Mississippi 

For an application contact the North Mississippi Regional Center, 

Human Resources Office at (662) 513-7772. 

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER 

Recruiting all RN’s 

New Base Pay Rates 

Eastern LA 

Mental Health System 

Call (225) 634-0559 

for more info 

The largest publicly funded 

Mental Health System in Louisiana 

Leading the way in Mental Health Care!


Addressing Health Literacy continued from page 8 

6. Unemployment – one’s job security increases 

his or her level of satisfaction with life, thus 

leads to better physical and mental wellbeing. 

Unemployment also leads to one not having 

adequate health insurance required to fund health 

care. Nurses should assess for issues related to 

unemployment. For example, prior to prescribing 

a medication, ask the patient if he or she has the 

funds to afford the medication. This is also yet 

another opportunity to work alongside the larger 

interdisciplinary team to ensure patient needs are 

met. 

7. Social Support – good social relations, friendships, 

and a strong and supportive network often 

equates to healthy outcomes. The nurse must 

assess for the patient’s level of social support and 

work to address any gaps identified. This includes 

inviting the patient’s family to be part of the care 

experience and working alongside the member 

to identify support groups in the individual’s 

own community to ensure more positive health 

outcomes. 

8. Addiction – when dealing with social hardships 

and stress (mental and physical), individuals often 

turn to addiction as a coping mechanism. It is 

important for the nurse to assess for addiction and 

ensure any identified issues are addressed through 

identifying available community resources 

(i.e. mental health and chemical dependency). 

Working along with the interdisciplinary 

healthcare team is essential in this regard as well. 

9. Food – healthy food and access to it is essential to 

good health. Individuals who live in food deserts 

(lack of food sources within a certain mile radius) 

increase the likelihood of one not having access. 

While interacting with the larger disciplinary 

team, the nurse should ensure the patient has 

access to food sources (i.e. community food 

bank, food stamps, WIC, etc.). There is also the 

opportunity to ensure the patient has access to 

nutritional education (referral to dietician as an 

example). 

10. Transport – adequate transportation equates 

to enhanced access to healthcare services. 

Individuals with limited transportation tend to 

have poorer health outcomes. The nurse should 

assess for adequate transportation and work 

with the interdisciplinary team to ensure the 

patient has adequate transportation. It is essential 

to identify and utilize available resources (i.e. 

transportation for Medicaid beneficiaries) to 

ensure patients have transportation to and from 

visits to the health care facility (i.e. doctor’s visits, 

procedures, etc.). 

(World Health Organization, 2010) 

At Hattiesburg Clinic, our goal is to provide 

quality health care with a focus on service and 

excellence to the patient. Hattiesburg Clinic has 

over 300 physicians and providers representing 

over 45 specialties and covering an 18 county 

region. As the largest multi-specialty clinic in the 

state, we offer care tailored specifically to the 

physical and emotional needs of every patient. 

From family medicine to medical specialists, 

come explore some of the many reasons why 

Hattiesburg Clinic strives to be the health care 

provider of choice for South Mississippi for 

more than 50 years. 

For employment opportunities, 

visit us online at 

www.hattiesburgclinic.com. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, because our state is faced with so 

many health issues and because we have so many great 

resources in our state such as our communities, it’s time 

that we begin to think outside of the box as it relates 

to addressing patient health needs. The first step is to 

not only address health care needs, but to also take 

a step back and assess whether the member actually 

understands what we teach them to do. Additionally, we 

must incorporate the communities in which the patient 

lives in the care continuum. 

Taking a step back and addressing the many factors 

that are in the communities in which individuals 

come from is essential. I often say that as healthcare 

professionals, we don’t actually manage healthcare, but 

instead we monitor healthcare. We must ensure patients 

are effectively managing his or her healthcare. In doing 

so, we can ensure a step in the right direction toward 

positive health outcomes, which benefits not only the 

patient, but also the health care provider as we work to 

ensure the highest quality of those in which we serve. 

To do so, we must equip them with what they need to 

be healthy. Conducting a thorough assessment of the 

individual’s environment and addressing any identified 

issues is necessary. 

References 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2017). Health 

Literacy. Retrieved May 8, 2018, from http://www.cdc. 

gov 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014). Social 

Determinants of Health. Retrieved May 8, 2018, from 

http://www.cdc.gov 

Mississippi State Department of Health (2016). Chronic 

Diseases. Retrieved February 24, 2017, from http:// 

msdh.ms.gov 

World Health Organization (2010). Social Determinants of 

Health. Retrieved May 10, 2018, from http://www.who. 

int.social_determinants/en/


Membership

Whether caring for patients in one of our hospitals or out in 

the community, we’ve created environments that allow our 

nurses to live, grow and thrive! Forrest Health offers one of 

the most competitive benefits packages in Mississippi and 

provides opportunities for career development and growth. 

Learn more at joinforresthealth.org.

The Mississippi RN - June 2018

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?