Tennessee Nurse - May 2022

Volume 85 • Number 2 • Summer 2022
Tennessee Nurse
The voice for professional nursing in Tennessee since 1905
The Official Publication of the Tennessee Nurses Foundation
Quarterly publication distributed to approximately 112,000 Registered Nurses in Tennessee.
Upcoming TNA Events
• Have you considered running for a TNA state
or district office but fear “I just don’t know
enough yet”?
• Are you interested in helping your district
association become more active but aren’t sure
where to start?
• Would you like to learn more about how to
advocate for your patients and your profession?
• What are the TN Nurses PAC and TNF?
• How do we boost local membership?
Participants will receive answers to all of these
questions! Information will be provided regarding the
TNA state board and its responsibilities, and the role of
the TN Board of Nursing, in addition to discussions on
how to look for other leadership opportunities.
Pre-licensed nursing student fee: $25
Join officers and nurse liaisons of the Tennessee
Student Nurses Association (TSNA) and participate
in concurrent sessions with TNA leaders and the
Executive Director of the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
Participants will better understand TSNA’s composition
and mission, receive tips on how to lead productive
meetings, advocate for nursing at the Tennessee
Legislature, and understand the role of the Tennessee
Board of Nursing.
Go to TNAonline.org and click on the Events menu
for full details and for registration link.
TNA Critical Issue Forum
Now What?
What did I just do? Should I report my mistake? Will
I be prosecuted? Can I really go to jail? Who has my
back when I make an error? Can somebody help me
understand what’s happening? How can I continue to
protect my patients when I don’t know how to protect
myself? Do I really want to do this? What has really
changed since the trial?
These are just a few of the questions being asked by
the millions of nurses in the U.S. because of the recent
trial of RaDonda Vaught.
To address these questions and more, the
Tennessee Nurses Association (TNA) will be presenting
a special live-streamed event on June 24, 2022, from
12:00 noon to 4:00 pm Central Time.
Featured Speakers:
• Elizabeth Rudolph, JD, MSN, RN, PLNC, will provide
her insight as both an RN and an attorney.
• NSO, a valued partner with TNA, will bring their
expertise in the area of Risk Management.
• An extensive Q&A period will follow the presentations.
Where do you go from here? The first step is to be
fully informed as to the risks and potential remedies
available to you as a nurse. Join TNA for this frank
conversation about your future in nursing.
TNA Member: $25; Non-Member: $50;
Non-Licensed Nursing Student: $10
For those of you who are unable to attend the live
presentation, the session will be recorded and available
on-demand at the same price as listed above.
October 6-9, 2022
current resident or
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage Paid
Princeton, MN
Permit No. 14
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs
700 Cool Springs Blvd. | Franklin, TN 37067
See page 4 for 2022
conference information

Page 2 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
From the President
Julie Hamm, MSN, ACNP-BC
As I am writing this article
that will appear in the summer
issue of the TN nurse, it is the
beginning of April. I would be
remiss in addressing you, our
members, nurses, and others
in our community without
mentioning the recent guilty
verdict in the case of RaDonda
Vaught and the impact the
charges and verdict are having
on our nursing practice and Julie Hamm
profession. These past two
years have been extremely challenging for all nurses.
We work in a complex and ever-changing field that
most outside our domain never see. The pandemic and
continuation of changing variants of COVID-19 have
brought to light so many other health crises we face
in America that could be preventable to treatable with
better access to healthcare.
Amid working in this field, we move fast. We make
challenging, quick decisions about patients, the care
needed, and the numerous orders we must perform
within time-limited constraints. While going about our
daily nursing tasks, errors can happen; we are humans.
TNA and ANA followed the trial very closely over the
past years with concern, issuing our first statement
during the trial and immediately after the verdict. We are
concerned that the ruling will set a dangerous precedent
for Tennessee Nurses and nurses worldwide.
While it is unfortunate that this trial and subsequent
conviction happened in our state, I am proud to represent
all Tennessee nurses. We are over 110,000 strong!
I want you to know that I hear and share your concerns
and understand what you face daily. I, too, am a practicing
nurse. I am with you in your fear of how this will affect
the profession of nursing and all healthcare professionals
moving forward.
Self-care is always a must during difficult times.
Moving into the summer months, I hope we see some
relief from Covid 19 and its impact on our healthcare
system. As nurses, we are burned out and could use
some self-care during these troubling times. Please
take time this summer to take a vacation, staycation, or
do whatever you enjoy doing to recharge and care for
yourself.
I hope that TNA can be one of your strong support
networks as you navigate your nursing practice. We are
stronger when we are all united as one voice for the
healthcare of Tennesseans across our great state.
Please reach out to me anytime if you need to talk
about this or any other nursing matter. Sometimes listening
and having someone understand can be very cathartic. You
can always email me at President@tnaonline.org.
The Tennessee Nurse is the official publication of the
Tennessee Nurses Foundation, 545 Mainstream Drive, Suite 405,
Nashville, TN 37228-1296
Phone: 615/254-0350 • Fax: 615/254-0303
Email: tnf@tnaonline.org
Published exclusively by the
Tennessee Nurses Foundation and the
Arthur L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc.
TNF 2021-2022 Board of Trust
Raven Wentworth, President
Alicia Frasure, Vice President
Debra Sullivan, Treasurer
Patsy Crihfield, Secretary
Cindy Borum, Brad Creekmore, Shannon Davis,
Ken Edmisson, Kristin Fitchpatric, Amy Hamlin, Julie Hamm,
Karen Hande, Kenda Harrison, Brittany Haskell,
Angela Heatherly, Heather Jackson, Bill Jolley, Kelsey Kent,
Carla Kirkland, Sharon Little, Sue MacArthur,
Jennifer Pearson, Bonnie Pilon, Dara Rogers, Nancy Stevens
TNA 2022 Board of Directors
Julie Hamm, President
Carla Kirkland, Past-President
Heather Jackson, Vice President
Nancy Stevens, Treasurer
Angela Heatherly, Secretary
Jennifer Hitt, Director – Membership
Kerry Copeland, Director – Education
Michele McCarthy, Director – Operations
Marcia Barnes, Director – Government Affairs
Monique Beale, Director – Practice
TNA 2022 District Presidents
Kristin Fitchpatric, District 1; Co-Presidents: Angela Heatherly &
Erin Morgan, District 2; Ginny Massey-Holt, District 3;
Nancy Stevens, District 4; Christine Reed, District 5;
Raven Wentworth, District 6; Shannon Johnson, District 8;
Chaundel Presley, District 9; Christy Blount, District 10;
Vacant, District 12; Marcia Barnes, District 15
Managing Editor
Kathryn A. Denton
TNA Staff
Kirk W. Lawson, CAE, Executive Director
Kathleen Murphy, Director, Government Affairs/Chief Lobbyist
Kathryn Denton, Director of Operations, Managing Editor –
Tennessee Nurse, TNF Program Director
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The official publication of the Tennessee Nurses Foundation
shall be the Tennessee Nurse. The purpose of the publication shall
be to support the mission of the Tennessee Nurses Foundation
and Tennessee Nurses Association through the communication
of nursing issues, continuing education and significant events of
interest. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those
of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the
views of the association, its staff, its Board of Directors, or editors
of the Tennessee Nurse.
Article Submissions: The Tennessee Nurses Foundation
encourages submissions of articles and photos for publication
in the Tennessee Nurse. Any topic related to nursing will be
considered for publication. Although authors are not required
to be members of the Tennessee Nurses Association, when
space is limited, preference will be given to TNA members.
Articles and photos should be submitted by email to Kathryn.
Denton@tnaonline.org or mailed to Managing Editor, Tennessee
Nurses Foundation, 545 Mainstream Drive, Suite 405, Nashville,
TN 37228-1296. All articles should be typed in Word. Please
include two to three sentences of information about the author
at the end of the article and list all references. Preferred article
length is 750-1,000 words. Photos are welcomed as hard copies
or digital files at a high resolution of 300 DPI. The Tennessee
Nurses Foundation assumes no responsibility for lost or damaged
articles or photos. TNF is not responsible for unsolicited freelance
manuscripts or photographs. Contact the Managing Editor for
additional contribution information.
Reprints: Tennessee Nurse allows reprinting of material.
Permission requests should be directed to Tennessee Nurses
Foundation at Kathryn.Denton@tnaonline.org.
For advertising rates and information, please contact Arthur
L. Davis Publishing Agency, Inc., PO Box 216, Cedar Falls, Iowa
50613, (800) 626-4081, sales@aldpub.com. TNF 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 Tennessee Nurses Foundation of products
advertised, the advertiser, 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 Foundation disapproves of the product or its use. TNF
and 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 opinion of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect views
of the staff, Board or membership of TNA and TNF or those of the
national or local associations.
Copyright©2022 by the Tennessee Nurses Foundation. The
Tennessee Nurse is published quarterly in February, May, August
and November. Published free for TNA members and emailed to
registered nurses licensed in Tennessee. Others may request a
subscription to the Tennessee Nurse for $30 per year by contacting
Kathryn.Denton@tnaonline.org.

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 3
From the Executive Director
Kirk W. Lawson, CAE
Having just completed my first six months on the
job, it is hard for me to believe just how much we have
accomplished together and how fast things move here in
Tennessee.
I am pleased to report that TNA has a dedicated staff
that has taken on many challenges and new responsibilities
to keep the organization moving smoothly, and I don’t
believe there is a better or more committed volunteer
Board and/or elected Officers to help guide us.
I am sure that the articles provided in today’s
publication by TNA President, Julie Hamm, and Chief
Lobbyist, Kathleen Murphy, will do an excellent job of Kirk W. Lawson
bringing you up to date on what has transpired over the
past few months, so I’ll point out a couple of events that you can look forward to in
the coming months.
The TNA Leadership Academy will be a revamped offering that will take place on
Saturday, July 16, in Nashville. Through this program, the goal will be to engage and
educate TNA members about the association’s programs, products, and services,
along with the many leadership opportunities available to groom future nurse
leaders. In addition, a half-day parallel program is planned for pre-licensed nursing
students who are considering membership, volunteering, or leadership in the TSNA.
As you are aware, the past two TNA conferences became “virtual” due to the
seemingly never-ending pandemic. This year we are planning a hybrid conference
with the on-site component taking place at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs
beginning on Thursday, October 6 and concluding on Sunday, October 9. The virtual
program will take place simultaneously and provide similar content as the in person
event, along with a few virtual only options as well. I hope to be able to upgrade
the virtual platform that we have used in the past with an eye on creating a more
satisfying virtual experience for those who cannot attend in person due to financial,
timing, or travel concerns.
For the first time since 2019, we also plan to welcome back the Tennessee
Student Nurses Association (TSNA) to our conference. The student’s pathway
will feature programming specific to their needs while also offering time for the
students to interact with our professional nurse attendees.
This year’s theme is “Creating a Path Forward.” The program will be divided
into four specific pathways: Bedside Nursing, Advanced Practice Nursing, Nursing
Educators, and Nursing Students.
The Conference Planning Committee began its work in March and is working
hard to develop a variety of relevant, compelling, and entertaining sessions within
each of these pathways.
Now, more than ever, we recognize the importance of coming together in ways
that honor the diversity of ideas and experiences that each of us bring to the table,
and we look forward to harnessing the inherent power in all nurses throughout
Tennessee to build a more inclusive, exciting, and meaningful association.
Through many arduous challenges, we have learned how to connect to each
other in new and innovative ways. We hope to capitalize on what we have learned
to further reach out to all nurses in Tennessee.
While it is true that we have not accomplished everything that we had hoped
over the past couple of years, I feel encouraged by what I have seen and have hope
that the best is yet to come.
I see the dedication of our volunteers, board, and staff, and know that, along
with our members, we will continue to push forward, learn, adapt, and grow into
one of the premier state nurses’ associations.
I want to thank each of you for your help and support of the Tennessee Nurses
Association (TNA), the Tennessee Nurses Foundation (TNF), and the Tennessee
Nurses Political Action Committee (TNPAC).
I Am TNA
Georgita Tolbert Washington, PhD, RN,
NPD-BC, MACM
I learned of the importance of membership in one’s
professional organization from of all people, my mother, the
teacher. After graduation and starting in my first nursing
position, she said two things were going to happen; I would
be starting an annuity to prepare financially for retirement,
and I would be joining my professional organization. Mom
had been an active member of her education association,
and I would be a member of the nursing association.
After graduation in 1980 from Clemson University, I
became a member of the South Carolina Nurses Association
(SCNA). As a young, single nurse, I had time and energy to
be an active member. The experiences of attending forums,
educational offerings, legislative meetings, and networking
with colleagues from other areas of the state were not only
Georgita Tolbert
Washington
invaluable, but also fun. I was able to meet many new people and have conversations
I would not have had otherwise.
After marrying, I moved to Tennessee in 1988 and became a member of the
Tennessee Nurses Association (TNA). With relocation and a new position, soon came
children, home ownership responsibilities and surprises, returning to school to earn
three additional graduate degrees, church activities, and surviving breast cancer. Add
position changes, changing organizations, increasing levels of responsibility and some
management; time became quite a precious commodity making consistent meeting
attendance a challenge. Several times during these different seasons of life, I thought,
“sleep is highly overrated!”
The value of TNA was never a question. I found other ways to support my
professional organization. As a result of my TNA membership, I was able to
become a member of the Continuing Nurse Education (CNE) Review Committee.
Not only was the process itself an education, but I also learned by reviewing the
proposed CNE offerings in nursing that were not in my areas of practice. As a
member of this CNE review committee, I wrote the first application document for
my organization to become a CNE provider unit and became its first Lead Nurse
Planner. This made CNE contact hours more readily available to local nurses. So
even when I could not always actively participate in the meetings, forums, and
other gatherings, I found other ways to be involved. The access to the journals
and newsletters filled the gap and was enough for me to want to remain a
financial member at the very least. Besides, the Association could always use
my membership dues to do its work of advocating for the healthcare consumer,
nurses, and nursing.
Membership in TNA also helped me learn about professionalism. I was able to
witness how the nursing profession lives out its mission, clinically, educationally,
and politically. I was able to see how the association impacts healthcare access,
delivery, practice, and policy. I was encouraged to write letters to the editor
and send messages to legislators regarding those issues. I could write letters
encouraging legislators to accept federal monies that would expand access to
health care to more Tennesseans that need such assistance. I could send emails
stating how Nurse Practitioners are a safe, cost-effective, and efficient way of
providing care to those who need it, and with very positive outcomes.
The most beneficial is the gathering venues that allowed me to network with
other colleagues from different areas of the state. It was great to hear about the
experiences of other nurses and that challenges are the same no matter where we
practice. It was also great to hear new ideas and solutions to similar problems that
had been successful in other areas. Membership led me to submit abstracts for
consideration, leading to presenting several educational offerings at TNA conventions,
giving me even more opportunities for networking.
Membership in TNA led to a desire to seek and obtain certification in almost every
specialty area in which I have practiced, including being one of the first to be certified
as a Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist (CCNS).
Now retired, I can reflect on a nursing career that has only been enhanced by
membership in TNA. It has also given me many opportunities to support the work of
my professional organization. I would not have missed this ride for anything!

Page 4 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
TENNESSEE NURSES ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THE 2022
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
CREATING A PATH FORWARD
IMPORTANT DEADLINES
October 6-9, 2022
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs
700 Cool Springs Blvd.
Franklin, TN 37067
2022 TNA & TSNA Conference Registration Fees. Register NOW and Save While
Early-Bird Pricing is Available! Visit: TNAonline.org/Events to register.
Registration Early Bird Deadline Ends August 22
Registration Onsite After September 18
Registration Cancellation/Refund Deadline September 18
Hotel Reservation Deadline September 15
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization
acknowledged that the Covid-19 pandemic was
occurring. Since then, even the most skilled,
experienced clinicians have been challenged,
sometimes to the brink of mental and physical
exhaustion. Nurses are referred to as the “front line”
– a phrase commonly associated with soldiers in war.
Because national Covid-19 numbers are declining in
most areas of the country, many are looking at picking
up the pieces and gathering thoughts on how to move
onward.
Following any mental challenge, the debriefing
phase is essential for mental health support. This stage
is a time for reflection, acceptance, and recovery. This
year, the Tennessee Nurses Association conference
will examine the issues nurses have experienced, the
effects of nursing-related outcomes and ways to best
create and extend a path forward. In so doing, we will
revisit our historical roots of conquering hardships and
obstacles that have so often plagued our profession
and reinforce our unifying voice to positively influence
healthcare.
TNA & TSNA REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Pre-Conference
Full Registration
Full Virtual
Registration
TSNA Conference
Advocacy—included in Full TNA Conference Registration or as a stand alone purchase
Includes pre-conference on Thursday, lunch on Friday, Friday’s Welcome Event featuring exhibits, food, music, silent auction opening,
and networking opportunities; attendance to all educational activities; entrance to Saturday Awards Reception; Exhibit Hall; Saturday
luncheon; all breaks and Membership Assembly
Virtual attendance only. Includes pre-conference on Thursday, virtual attendance to all educational activities, and Membership Assembly
Includes lunch on Friday, Friday’s Welcome Event featuring exhibits, food, music, silent auction opening, and networking opportunities;
attendance to all TSNA educational activities; (including an NCLEX Review) entrance to Saturday Awards Reception; Exhibit Hall; Saturday
luncheon; all breaks and TSNA Membership Assembly.
TNA & TSNA CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FEES
NOTE: Only paid registrants displaying an official TNA conference name badge will be allowed entrance to conference program events.
Full TNA Conference Registration -
Includes Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Thursday Only
TSNA Pre-Licensure Students
Early Bird!
Thru Aug 22
Regular
8/23 – 9/18
On-Site
After 9/18
– –
TNA Member $320 $370 $400 $120 –
Non-Member $420 $470 $500 $120 –
Virtual Member $220 $270 $300 $120 –
Virtual Non Member $320 $370 $400 $120 –
TSNA Conference N/A N/A N/A N/A $95

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 5
TENNESSEE NURSES ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THE 2022
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Advocacy
Thursday, October 6
Pre-Conference
Price will be included in the TNA Full Conference
Registration fee. However, Thursday only pricing is
available if you do not plan to attend the conference.
Check TNAonline.org and click on events for details as
they become available.
Membership Assembly
All TNA members who attend this Annual
Conference will be eligible to vote on all issues,
positions, resolutions, and policies brought before the
assembly. Don’t miss this chance to let YOUR voice be
heard!
Let’s Vote!
TNA members will vote for Board officers and
Directors on Sunday. Election results will be announced
during the closing of the Membership Assembly. The
slate of candidates will be at TNAonline.org as soon as it
is available. If you are unable to attend the conference,
Absentee Ballots are available. Information on
requesting an Absentee Ballot is available in this issue of
the Tennessee Nurse.
If you are interested in serving on the TNA Board of
Directors or as a Nominating Committee member, the
Call for Candidates information is available in this issue
on page 6.
TNF Silent Auction
TN Nurses PAC Live
and Silent Auctions
TN Nurses PAC will hold both a live and silent
auction. If you are interested in donating items
to either of the PAC auctions, please email
Kathleen.Murphy@tnaonline.org for more information
and a donation sheet.
TNA Achievement Awards
Reception
The TNA Achievement Awards Reception, held on
Saturday evening, October 8, offers an opportunity to
honor nurses and other individuals by acknowledging
their exceptional dedication, commitment, and
professionalism to the profession of nursing. The
Ceremony will be followed by the Awards Reception.
We ask all TNA members to consider nominating
someone. We have all crossed paths with outstanding
nurses. Don’t put off sending in your nomination.
Hotel Information
The cut-off date for TNA’s discounted room rate
is Thursday, September 15, or until the group block
is filled! After this date, reservations will be accepted
at the hotel’s prevailing rate, based on room type
availability.
TNA’s special room rate: $149 (single/double). The
direct booking link is https://www.marriott.com/
event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=164753393
4118&key=GRP&app=resvlink
Online reservations are preferred to ensure you
receive TNA’s group rate.
Join TNA in Franklin, TN, from
October 6-9, 2022, to experience
a conference jam-packed
with opportunities to engage and
network with colleagues and pursue
professional development, all while
earning contact hours. With four days
of sessions and hundreds of nurses, you
don’t want to miss this event!
The Tennessee Nurses Foundation will hold its
Annual TNF Silent Auction and will offer a unique
assortment of items, with proceeds going to
support nurses through TNF’s programs, as well as
opportunities to support fellow colleagues. The TNF
Silent Auction — your shopping extravaganza—
begins Friday and ends Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
Donations are being accepted through 11:00 a.m.
on Saturday, October 8, the last day of the auction.
An intent to donate form is available at this link
https://form.jotform.com/221034939173152
Edna Mason Memorial TNA
Conference Scholarship
The Tennessee Nurses Foundation is pleased to offer
a scholarship to attend the TNA Annual Conference.
This scholarship is only available to Registered Nurses
in direct care, and you must be a first-time attendee
to the TNA Annual Conference. Previous conference
attendees will not be eligible.
TNF will award one (1) scholarship in 2022 to cover the
TNA Annual Conference registration fee. This scholarship
does not include lodging or travel. Transportation to and
from the conference, hotel, additional meals, incidentals,
etc., is the responsibility of the scholarship winner.
Submission Deadline: Thursday, August 25, 2022
Apply today at: https://www.jotform.com/
form/212564757451157
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Page 6 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
CALL FOR CANDIDATES
TNA Members – Help Lead and Shape TNA Policy
Self-Nominations Accepted Now for Several
Elected Positions
The Tennessee Nurses Association Nominating
Committee is actively seeking nominations for
several positions that will be open for election
on the TNA ballot at Membership Assembly on
October 9. A nomination to one of the Board of
Directors’ positions allows you to lead and make a
difference in your state professional association.
YOU are the Voice of TNA!
Positions Available:
• President Elect – 1 to be elected
• Vice President – 1 to be elected
• Treasurer – 1 to be elected
• Director, Education – 1 to be elected
• Director, Membership – 1 to be elected
• Nominating Committee – 2 to be elected
Go to TNAonline.org and click on Call for
Candidates under the Events menu for full
details and position descriptions.
TNA encourages ALL TNA members who are
interested in serving on the Board of Directors
to submit the online Call for Candidates selfnomination
form, available at https://form.
jotform.com/221084186191151
The submission deadline date is midnight
July 18, 2022.
No handwritten, faxed, or mailed Call for
Candidates Applications will be accepted. All
Call for Candidates applications will be reviewed
and selections made by the TNA Nominating
Committee. Thank you in advance for your
willingness to serve.
Several members have
asked how resolutions
are formatted for
consideration by the TNA
Membership Assembly. I
hope that this brief article
provides you with some
guidance on how to write a
resolution. The information
below is garnered from
Robert’s Rules of Order
Newly Revised, 11th Edition
and the TNA Policy and
Procedure Manual.
A resolution or a long or
complicated motion should
be prepared in advance
How to Write a Resolution
of the meeting and should be put into writing before it is
offered. The deadline for submission of resolutions this
year is August 13, however, TNA policies and procedures
allow for resolutions to be submitted to TNA no later than
30 days prior to the Membership Assembly. Resolutions
shall then be referred to the Reference Committee for
appropriate review. Resolutions cannot be submitted from
the floor of the Issues or Bylaws Forums, or Membership
Assembly except by affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3)
of the members of the Membership Assembly present
and voting. Any resolution submitted from the floor and
accepted for presentation must be submitted in written
form.
Resolutions must be submitted adhering to the
following guidelines:
• The Resolution shall deal with a single topic.
• The Resolution shall be accompanied by an action
plan in sufficient detail to allow a financial impact
statement to be delivered.
• The Resolution and accompanying action plan
shall be concise and clear.
CALL FOR RESOLUTIONS
The Tennessee Nurses Association is issuing
a formal Call for Resolutions for the 2022 TNA
Membership Assembly to be held during the TNA
Annual Conference on October 6 – 9, 2022, at
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin, TN.
Resolutions can be submitted by any TNA
member.
If you wish to submit a Resolution,
please submit by email to Kathryn Denton,
kathryn.denton@tnaonline.org,
no later than August 5, 2022.
• The Resolution shall
have relevance to the
Tennessee Nurses
Association and/or
citizens of the state of
Tennessee.
• The Resolution shall
not duplicate existing
Association policy or
Bylaws or be redundant.
TNA resolutions
include a preamble,
a preamble consists
of brief statements of
background and reasons
for the resolution. A
preamble consists of one or more clauses beginning with
“Whereas,…” To avoid detracting from the force of the
resolution itself, a preamble generally should contain no
more clauses than are strictly necessary. The last paragraph
of the preamble should close with a semicolon, after which
a connecting expression such as “therefore” or “therefore,
be it” is noted. The preamble is then followed by the
actions being requested of the Membership Assembly.
These actions are written as “Resolved” clauses, the
resolved is generally in italics, followed by action clauses,
not in italics. If there are more than one resolving clause,
each of them should be a separate paragraph.
The resolution format therefore is as follows:
Whereas, The (text of preamble),
Whereas, Text of additional background/reason….; now,
therefore be it
Resolved, That (text of action). Additional actions should
be in additional resolved statements.
Article reprint permission – Tina Gerardi, MS, RN, CAE
TNA resolutions, therefore, should be submitted using the following template.
TENNESSEE NURSES
ASSOCIATION MEMBERS
ONLY REQUEST FOR
ABSENTEE BALLOT - 2022
TNA Member Agreement: I understand that
mailing the TNA ballot to me in the manner and
form that has been approved, discharges TNA’s
responsibility to me in the matter of absentee
voting. I further understand that requesting an
absentee ballot removes my name from the list
of eligible voters at the TNA Annual Conference.
Absentee ballot requests must be submitted
online through the TNA Request for Absentee
Ballot JotForm at https://form.jotform.
com/221226744261147. The submission
deadline is September 9.
The absentee ballot with return instructions
will be mailed to you by September 14. Your
completed ballot must be received at TNA
headquarters by the close of business on
September 30, 2022.
If you have questions, please contact Kathryn
Denton at Kathryn. Denton@TNAonline.org or call
615-254-0350 ext. 3.
We invite you to submit an
abstract to be considered for
oral or poster presentation
at the 2022 TNA Annual
Conference, Creating a
Path Forward in Franklin,
Tennessee. Poster abstracts
may be on any topic. The
focus/content of your oral
abstract should relate to one
of the following paths:
• Education
• General Nursing Practice
• Bedside Nursing
• Advanced Practice
• Undergraduate Nursing
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
TNA Annual Conference
Creating a Path Forward
October 6 – 9, 2022
Franklin Cool Springs Marriott
Franklin, TN
(Office Use Only) Resolution ________________
MA Disposition _________________________
INSERT NAME OF RESOLUTION HERE
WHEREAS, Insert Resolution Information, and
Continue using WHEREAS until you have covered all background/reasons; and now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, Insert Resolved Information, and
Continue using RESOLVED until you have covered all action issues.
Submitted By,
Insert Name(s)
Insert Submitter’s email address
*Resolutions requiring resources must include a financial impact statement
ABSTRACT
SUBMISSION DEADLINE:
Abstract submissions must
be received by 4:30 p.m. CST,
on June 17, 2022.
SUBMISSION ACCESS LINK
Submit abstracts at:
https://form.jotform.
com/220945117735154 or visit
TNAonline.org and click on Call for Abstracts under
the Events menu. Important note: a completed
Educational Planning Table and a Financial Disclosure
Form (available at TNAonline.org, Events menu, Call
for Abstracts) must be completed and submitted as
part of your application.
If you have an innovative project or topic that
does not quite fit into any of these categories,
please submit, as a few innovative presentations
outside those boundaries will be considered.
If you have questions, please
email TNA@TNAonline.org.

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 7
The Societal Benefits Gained from Associations
Jack Frazee, JD
Consider the fact that in our representative democracy, elected officials are
selected from all walks of life. Your representative or senator, prior to their election,
may have been an exterminator, a public school teacher, a lawyer —all professions
with little or no training in evidence-based health care. These same people are then
asked to consider complex questions about how we ought to design our public health
systems and policies. That is a significant task, and in the democratic system we foist
it upon people with skills that sometimes do not match the assignment. To make
informed decisions about these issues, elected officials rely on input from people with
specialized knowledge.
Specialized knowledge is difficult and time consuming to obtain. We invest time,
money, and our professional reputations in the pursuit of it. And for our system of
government to work, we must find ways of consistently sharing this knowledge with
elected officials when they are considering specialized issues.
This is the power of professional associations like TNA. Through association,
members create an institution that can present their collective knowledge to
elected officials when elected officials need it most.
When associations share knowledge with elected officials, there is no benefit
to being rude, aggressive, or hostile. The association therefore serves a moderating
function in an otherwise combative political dialogue. For people who find the
political system too coarse, meanspirited, and vindictive, their professional
association is a means of engaging in more reasoned discourse. Moreover, there is
an inherent benefit to the public when we create institutions that share high quality
information on specialized issues with elected officials, because otherwise, elected
officials would lack the resources necessary to make informed decisions.
Elected officials don’t have to be stupid to make poor choices; even intelligent
people can be ill informed. There’s simply not enough time to become an expert in
everything, and so we all rely on one another to make better choices as a collective.
The association serves another important function: Much like elected officials
may lack knowledge of nursing and evidence-based medicine, nurses may lack
knowledge of the political and legal systems. These systems, like the practice
of medicine, require study, experience, and the accumulation of knowledge to
navigate effectively. The association provides expertise that promote its members’
ability to engage elected officials, seek relief from societal problems, and
participate in the political process.
The freedom to associate and participate in government is rooted in the First
Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America, which protects
“the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government
for a redress of grievances.” By exercising this right, Tennessee nurses promote
good government and the public’s interest in an effective healthcare system.
Reprinted with permission from Texas Nursing Magazine, Issue 2, 2022.
TN Nurses PAC
National Nurses
Week Celebrations
2022 Scholarly Writing Contest
The Tennessee Nurses Foundation (TNF) announces Afrodita Aguilar, RN, BSN
as the 2022 TNF Scholarly Writing Contest winner. The contest is held yearly in
celebration of National Nurses Week.
It gives us great pleasure to award Afrodita Aguilar with a check for $1,000,
plus a free registration to the TNA Annual Conference, held October 6-9, 2022, at
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin, TN.
Afrodita Aguilar, “Thank you to the Tennessee Nurses
Foundation for selecting my essay for the 2022 Scholarly
Writing Contest! The Tennessee Nurses Foundation has
been a great source of information and support for nurses
navigating the professional realm of nursing. As a young
nurse aspiring to be a leader at Parkridge Valley Hospital in
Chattanooga, TN, I look up to many nurse leaders to guide
my growth in this beautiful field. Thank you so much to the
TNF for allowing me to attend the Annual Conference, where
I will meet many great nurse leaders and advocates for a
greater future.”
Afrodita Aguilar’s paper, Leadership in Nursing, is
available under the Tennessee Nurses Foundation (TNF)
menu at TNAonline.org.
Afrodita Aguilar,
RN, BSN

Page 8 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
Nurses Well-Being
Sleep and Your Health
Cynthia Meyer, MSN, RN, CHSE
Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT
To sleep, perchance to dream. – Shakespeare
One in three adults do not get the uninterrupted sleep that
is recommended, and inadequate sleep has a direct effect
on the functioning of the immune system. Nurses and other
health care workers are part of the 18 to 20% of Americans
who work alternating shift schedules. Sleep is essential, not
only as restorative but because of its role in the regulation
of immune response. There has been some interesting
research in the last 20 years that explored the connections
between sleep, inflammation, and immune function. With
this information at hand, a nurse can improve self-care and Cynthia Meyer
appreciate the importance of teaching sleep hygiene as part
of holistic patient health care system.
The sleep-wake cycle balances biological health,
mental well-being, and helps the immune system adapt as
needed. The sleep-wake is based on the 24-hour circadian
clock that regulates complex bodily functions, including
the cardiovascular system, inflammation, and immune
response. Cytokines are messenger proteins that can be proinflammatory
or anti-inflammatory, triggering a response
to infection or injury. People with chronic inflammatory
disease, sleep problems, and depression have higher levels of
circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines.
While the body is awake, the immune system is protecting
the body against foreign pathogens. Anti-inflammatory Debra Rose Wilson
cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and TGF-β) are active. Natural
killer (NK) cells act by stopping the growth of mutating cells such as cancer, and increase
production during the wakeful state. These immune cells are very responsive to stress and
lower or discontinue production when the sympathetic nervous system spills the stress
hormones. The longer you are stressed during wakeful periods, the less opportunity NK
cells have to increase in numbers and the greater the chance that rogue cells will continue
to mutate. The body can’t do maintenance work on immune function when the resources
are being transferred to first aid and alarm response systems when stressed. For those
who experience a great deal of stress, sleep is even more important. Once asleep, the
body is put back into balance as CD4+ T cells and Th1 and Th2 respond, and production is
higher. Natural killer cells, melatonin, and stress hormones can replenish themselves.
Sleep Deprivation
Both short-term and long-term sleep deprivation disrupts the 24-hour circadian
clock and immunological functions. Sleep deprivation increases inflammation, so
those with a pre-existing inflammatory disease (such as RA, depression, or bowel
disease) need consistent sleep even more than others. With increased inflammation
and decreased melatonin risk for CVD, breast cancer, and other inflammatory diseases
rise. Thermoregulation, insulin levels, vaccine response, and cognitive flexibility are
impaired with inadequate sleep. Those with sleep apnea are at higher risk for diabetes,
hypertension, coronary issues related to the increased inflammation. For those who
are significantly stressed, quality sleep is difficult to achieve. The sleep-wake cycle
is disrupted when pro-inflammatory cytokines and stress hormones (e.g., cortisol,
epinephrine, and norepinephrine) are released.
Shift work
Current estimates are that about 20% or one-fifth of the workforce currently
participate in shift work. Of those working in the healthcare sector, 52% report short
sleep duration. Studies also showed that those working the night shift reported poorer
quality sleep and sleep deprivation. The general recommendation is for individuals to
get between seven to nine hours of sleep, but shift workers get less than six hours daily
or one to four hours less per week. Those working the night shift may not be able to
make up for lost sleep which is needed for relaxation and physical restoration.
Shift work is essential for healthcare. Nurses must work hours that may not be
conducive to sleep to provide round-the-clock care for patients. These hours may cause
a disruption in sleep. Circadian rhythms are what regulate the sleep-wake cycle, and
these cycles rely on light to direct the cycle. Daylight causes us to become more alert
and awake, while darkness leads to melatonin production, which prepares the body for
sleep. Shift work disrupts the natural sleep-wake cycle, and research has shown that
over time the physical and mental health of those who participate in shift work may be
impacted by the disruption in sleep.
Shift work has been shown to have a negative impact on the psychological and
social health of the individuals working those hours. Shift work sleep disorder (SWSD)
occurs when work schedules disrupt the natural circadian rhythms, and the disruptions
cause excessive sleepiness, fatigue, or insomnia. Eventually, these symptoms may result
in distress or impairment in mental, physical, and social functioning. Furthermore,
sleep deprivation can lead to increased stress which in turn can lead to decreased job
satisfaction for nurses. Studies showed that health professionals who worked night
shifts had higher levels of psychological and mental health problems than their day
shift counterparts. This included higher levels of depression, irritability, stress, OCD, and
mood disorders. Shift workers also exhibited negative feelings, isolation, and difficulty in
relationships.
Continued on next page

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 9
Nurses Well-Being
Sleep allows the body to heal itself, and it helps
boost immune function. Nurses who do shift
work are not exempt from the negative effects of
inadequate sleep. Obesity is more common in shift
workers, and there is an increased risk of metabolic
syndrome and diabetes. Shift work compromises
immune function and places individuals at an
increased risk for breast and colorectal cancer.
When compared to day shift workers, those
doing shift work have an increased risk of
cardiovascular disease. Continued alterations in
the circadian rhythms have also been linked to
gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis, indigestion,
appetite disorders, irregular bowel movements,
constipation, heartburn, and pain. Since nursing
is predominantly a female profession, it is worth
noting the correlation between shift work and
reproductive issues such as decreased fertility,
altered menstrual cycles, and other reproductive
issues.
Tips
Shift work can have negative effects on health;
however, these crazy hours are necessary for the
nursing profession. There are things workers can do
to improve sleep and maintain adequate rest. The
following tips are included for surviving shift work:
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
o Keep the same sleep-wake cycle on days off
o Sleep directly after a shift or adopt a split-nap
schedule
o Take a short nap prior to shift on workdays but
avoid naps longer than 30 minutes
• Maintain an ideal sleep environment
o Cool environment between 68-72 degrees
Fahrenheit
o Limit noise using white noise or earplugs
o Limit light using an eye mask or blackout
curtains
o Stay away from electronic devices such as a
computer screen or cell phone in the two hours
prior to sleep.
• Promote sleep
o Take a hot shower, go for a walk, or use
meditation for relaxation
o Limit strenuous exercise
o Limit caffeine, alcohol, nicotine three to four
hours before bed
o Maintain a healthy diet and avoid fatty, spicy
foods before bed
o If you tend to be cold, wear socks to bed
• Things to do at work
o Eat healthy
o Use caffeine in moderation and avoid 4 to 6
hours before sleep
o Take short, frequent breaks
o Keep the work environment well lit
o Schedule wisely with no more than three
consecutive 12-hour shifts and have 11 hours
off to ensure adequate rest time
o Nap before driving home if needed
o Get out into the sunshine on your breaks when
possible
o Give yourself stress management breaks where
you rest, meditate, or practice breath work.
Conclusion
Shift work is part of our profession, but changes in
sleep rhythms have a negative impact. Lack of sleep
in nurses not only increases the chance of error but
leads to health issues. This is a global issue for nurses.
Assess your own sleep. The National Sleep Foundation
(NSF; sleepfoundation.org) has a Sleepiness Test that
examines sleep patterns over the past 2 weeks. There
is the Epworth Sleepiness Scale that assesses daytime
sleepiness and STOP BANG screening questions for sleep
apnea. If you aren’t sure about your sleeping habits, try
a sleep diary. The NSF can guide you through keeping a
week of journaling with quality of sleep, caffeine intake,
bedroom environment, and sleep hygiene. What are you
going to do to improve your quality of sleep?
References Available Upon Request
Cynthia Meyer, MSN, RN, CHSE – Cindy is an Assistant
Professor and the Simulation Lab Coordinator at Austin
Peay State University, currently working on her PhD at
East Tennessee State University.
Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-
BC, CHT – Dr. Wilson is a Health Psychologist and a
Professor of Nursing at Austin Peay State University
and was the 2017-18 American Holistic Nurse of the
year. She has been educating nurses in Tennessee for
over 20 years, and has a private hypnosis practice in
the Nashville area, and teaches hypnosis to nurses and
psychologists.
HANDS ON. ONLINE.
ON TARGET.
MSN . DNP . POST-MASTER’S . PhD
Top-ranked nursing programs
14 specialties, 11 Post-Master’s programs,
2 DNP tracks & personalized PhD program
Distance and hybrid learning
Supportive, diverse and inclusive culture
NURSING.VANDERBILT.EDU
Vanderbilt is an equal opportunity affirmative action university.

Page 10 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
Government Affairs
Advocacy and Legislative Session Update
Kathleen Murphy
TNA Director of Government Affairs and Lobbyist
As I write this update for you, the Legislature is still
in Session, although they are closing committees for the
year and the Governor’s budget had been announced.
Both of those activities are signs that the end is near, or
the official adjournment motion is “sine die.” Sine die
means with no appointed date for resumption. This is
the second year of the two-year General Assembly. The
next General Assembly will return the second Tuesday in
January 2023.
We will be emailing out and posting on our website
a more comprehensive update of legislation of interest
shortly after they adjourn. Until then, I feel it is
important to update you on two pieces of legislation Kathleen Murphy
impacting the nursing profession.
First is the Transition to Prescribing legislation sponsored by Sen. Jon
Lundberg and Rep. Bob Ramsey supported by TNA and the Access to Care
Coalition. After several weeks of being rolled to the next calendar in the Senate
Commerce Committee in an effort to work out amendments with other Senators,
the legislation SB176/HB184 was sent to a summer taskforce. Senator Lundberg
informed the committee how talks and negotiations between the Tennessee
Medical Association/Coalition for Collaborative Care and the nursing community
coalition, TNA and the Access to Care Coalition had not happened because the
physician community would not come to the table in a meaningful way.
Senator Lundberg did an outstanding job this session for this legislation.
His commitment to working with other legislators to work out areas of
disagreement should be commended. He is a true supporter of nurses. We
cannot thank him enough for his efforts alongside the House Sponsor, Rep. Bob
Ramsey.
While we did not make it through committee, crucial contacts and
connections were made with legislators. The committee made real
commitments to hold a task force before next legislative session that will bring
the medical community and stakeholders together to work through areas
of disagreement. While this is not the progress we wanted this year, it is still
progress. To quote one Senator, “APRN Full Practice Authority is coming, we
must pass some legislation.”
The other piece of legislation I wanted to tell you about is a big victory for
the nursing profession. SB2401/HB2148 establishes the Tennessee Center for
Nursing Advancement within East Tennessee State University and passed the
House and Senate without any negative votes! The funding for this center has
been provided in the Governor’s budget in addition to other funding sources to
provide for the center.
The Center will: Develop a strategic statewide plan for nursing manpower
based on a detail analysis of workforce needs; Establish and maintain a
database on nursing workforce needs; Routinely convene representatives of
nursing professionals, healthcare; professional organizations, business and
industry leaders, and other stakeholders to solicit: (A) Reviews and comments
on data analysis provided by the center; and (B) Recommendations for
systematic changes and strategies to implement the recommended changes;
and Enhance and promote activities for nurses in this state to be recognized,
rewarded, and renewed.
We know first-hand that the demand for nurses will only increase in the
decades ahead due to the health needs of the aging Tennesseans, increases in
behavioral and mental health conditions, increases in lack of access to primary
health care, high maternal mortality rates, and other sociodemographic factors
and health workforce imbalances.
This Center will do important work gathering information so that legislators,
educators, employers, and nurses can make decisions to improve the nursing
profession and understand our workforce needs. TNA has already been assisting
and contributing information in shaping the future of this center and look
forward to continuing and supporting the work it will do.
TNA is committed to fighting for access to health care for all Tennesseans.
We serve as the voice for every Tennessee nursing professional, and that is a
responsibility we take seriously. Tennessee is home to incredible health care
professionals, and we are grateful for the progress made. We will keep you
updated on the timeline of the task force and how you can help keep the
momentum growing.
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May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 11
Spotlight on Practice
Older Adult Mental Health
Megan Simmons, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Assistant Professor, PMHNP Program Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Practicing at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s
Outpatient Geriatric Psychiatry Clinic
Suicide awareness and prevention is an important topic
for any age group, yet the older adult population is often
overlooked when assessing for and addressing mental
health issues. Getting older does not mean your mental
health should suffer, and depression is not part of normal
aging. Mental health issues have been linked to negative
outcomes in older adults, such as cognitive impairment,
mortality, hospitalization, and nursing home placement
(1). As healthcare providers, it is important to be aware of
and educate our patients on the prevalence, risk factors,
signs and symptoms, and resources available for those with
mental health concerns. As the older adult population Megan Simmons
rises across the world and the United States, the mental
well-being of this population should be at the forefront for healthcare providers and
society.
Older Adult Population Trends
It is estimated that between 2015 and 2050, the global population of those over
60 years old will nearly double from 12% to 22%, and approximately 15% of those
older adults suffer from a mental disorder (2). According to the 2020 U.S. Census,
those age 65 and older account for 16.5% of the nation’s population, and this
number is projected to rise to approximately 20% of the overall population by 2050
(3). In Tennessee, approximately 17.1% of the state’s population were 65 and older
in 2020 (4).
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues in Older Adults
In 2019, 8.1% of those 65 and older in the United States reported frequent
mental distress and 14.7% of older adults in the United States reported that a
health professional told them that they have depression (5). In Tennessee,
10.3% of older adults reported frequent mental distress, and 18.9% reported
a health professional told them that they have depression (5). These numbers
show that older adults are more likely to have a healthcare professional tell
them that they have depression than to self-report mental distress, which
highlights that mental health issues are under-reported by older adults.
Furthermore, there was an 11% increase in reported frequent mental health
distress by older adults in the United States between 2016 and 2019, and a 3%
increase in deaths due to intentional self-harm per 100,00 adults age 65 and
older in the United States (6). Among all adults, young adults have the highest
prevalence of suicide attempts, but men age 75 and older have the highest
suicide rate (6). Among adults age 50 and older in 2020, 2.7% had serious
thoughts of suicide in the past 12 months, 0.4% made a suicide plan, and 0.1%
attempted suicide (7). Under-reporting and rising prevalence of mental health
issues among a continued growing population is a grave concern that requires
attention and education.
Risk Factors
Due to lack of psychoeducation and stigma, older adults are less likely to report mental
health issues, and healthcare providers perpetuate this further with under-diagnosing and
treating mental disorders. Older adults tend to report depressive symptoms differently,
such as in the form of physical symptoms, which may be one reason for under-diagnosis.
In addition to stressors that are common in all age groups, older adults may have
more population-unique stressors related to physical health issues, decreased functional
abilities, cognitive impairment, bereavement, change in socioeconomic status due to
retirement, relocating, lack of social support, and isolation. Social isolation is a risk factor
that the COVID-19 pandemic magnified. We all need social connection to thrive, yet older
adults often spend more time alone especially when isolating in a pandemic.
What You Can Do
Unfortunately, there is a shortage of mental health providers in the workforce and even
more so for those who specialize in the care of older adults. With the increasing older
adult population, the shortage of mental health providers is projected to increase and thus
create more barriers to care for this vulnerable population. The Institute of Medicine and
others have proposed strategies to address the capacity of the geriatric mental healthcare
force. In the meantime, primary care remains the most likely place to capture this
population (1).
The power of mental health and suicide awareness is frequently underestimated.
Don’t be afraid to start the conversation about mental health, or to ask patients if they
are having thoughts of wanting to harm themselves. Although it seems like an awkward
topic of conversation, you can normalize it just by asking the question. Screening tools are
an especially helpful way to initiate that conversation and measure symptomology. Older
adults will often express symptoms of depression as physical symptoms such as feeling
tired, having pain that changes locations in their body, or feeling weak. Educate yourself
and your patients on the prevalence and presentation of mental disorders and know what
local resources you can suggest or provide for your patients.
References
1. Kunik, M.E., Mills, W.L., Amspoker, A.B., Cully, J.A., Kraus-Schuman, C., Stanley, M., and Wilson,
N.L. (2017). Expanding the geriatric mental health workforce through utilization of non-licenses
providers. Aging Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/
PMC5568805/ Accessed May 13, 2022.
2. World Health Organization. (2017). Mental health of older adults. Retrieved from https://www.
who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults Accessed May 13, 2022.
3. United States Census Bureau. (2020). Population 65 and older in the United States. Retrieved from
https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?q=s0103 Accessed May 13, 2022.
4. Kilduff, L. (2021). Which U.S. states have the oldest population? Retrieved from https://www.prb.
org/resources/which-us-states-are-the-oldest/ Accessed May 13, 2022.
5. United Health Foundation. (2021). America’s Health Rankings Analysis of CDC, Behavioral Risk
Factor Surveillance System. Retrieved from https://www.americashealthrankings.org/ Accessed
May 13, 2022.
6. National Institute of Mental Health. Suicide. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/
statistics/suicide Accessed May 13, 2022.
7. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (October 2021). Key Substance
Use and Mental Health Indicators: Results from the 2020 National Survey on Drug use and Health.
Retrieved from https//www.samhsa.gov. Accessed May 13, 2022.

Page 12 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
District News
District 1
President: Kristin Fitchpatric
Artangela Henry, DNP, AGACNP-
BC, NP-C (TNA District 1
member) has been named a 2022
American Heart Association
Woman of Impact. This is an
initiative through the Go Red for
Women campaign to fundraise
for ongoing education and
research involving the risk of
cardiovascular disease and stroke
in women. Cardiovascular
Kristin Fitchpatric disease is responsible for one in
three deaths among women. The
campaign runs from February 4th through April 7th.
Dr. Henry is a nurse practitioner and assistant
professor. She is a subject matter expert in sickle cell
disease and advocates for underserved and overlooked
patient populations.
On March 24, 2022, The University of Tennessee Health
Science Center (UTHSC) College of Nursing hosted the
Inaugural Kaleidoscope Story Slam. Christie Manasco,
PhD, RN, and Lisa D. Beasley, DNP, APRN, NP-C, did a
wonderful job planning this event.
UTHSC states: “Sharing our stories illustrates how
we, individually and professionally, value the distinctive
contribution and worth of all persons and imparts our
commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion for all.”
Several of our District 1 members participated in
2 dynamic, master-storytelling workshops led by the
Creative Director, Josh Campbell of Spillit Memphis. These
workshops were designed to teach participants how to
Artangela Henry
craft their personal stories in preparation for this event.
Thank you to the UTHSC Office of Inclusion, Equity, and
Diversity for funding the Diversity and Inclusion Mini-
Grant that made this possible!
District 1 elections will be held soon for multiple
officer positions. The call for nominations will be sent
via email. Thank you to all the District 1 nurses for their
hard work and dedication to the profession!
Ginny
Massey-Holt
District 3
President: Ginny Massey-Holt
April Membership Meeting
The District met at Belmont
University on Thursday, April
21, 2022. Our gratitude to
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Candidate and Adjunct
Instructor Carolyn Howard,
who presented ‘Nurses’
Implicit Attitudes Regarding
LGBTQ Population.’ A 1.0
hour continuing nurse
education credit was provided
to attendees; thank you
to Dr. Cathy Lovelace for
coordinating the continuing education. Our guests
enjoyed a taco bar from Flavours (Belmont’s
Sodexo). We had door prizes, including TNFfundraising
T-shirts, coffee mugs, and canvas bags.
The grand prize of two general admission tickets to
WonderWorks Tennessee in Pigeon Forge was won
by Dr. Loretta Bond!
This District is sincerely thankful to Dr. Loretta
Bond, Associate Professor at Belmont and District

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 13
District News
Director, for spearheading this membership
meeting event! Thank you to Belmont University
for sharing their beautiful campus.
Upcoming July Membership Meeting
Please mark your calendars for the July District
Membership Meeting on Thursday, July 21, 2022,
from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Our speakers will be
Tammy Stokes, MSN, CHPN, RN-BC, Director of
Palliative Care at Maury Regional Medical Center,
and Dr. Chris Turner, MD, Hospital Medicine. The
topic is ‘Resiliency and Gratitude.’ The location:
Maury Regional Medical Center in the Auxiliary
Conference Room. The address is 1224 Trotwood
Avenue, Columbia, TN. 38401.
District Elections
District elections will be held during the July
21 meeting for President-Elect (this is a threeyear
commitment, one year as President-Elect to
learn the role, and two years as President); Vice
President; Secretary; and three Board of Director
positions. Please contact one of the current
officers if you have questions about the roles and
responsibilities, and submit your name via email to
Ginny Massey-Holt at vholt5@Columbiastate.edu
by July 15.
District 5
President: Christine Reed
District 5 held a special meeting on
February 15. Members attended a
panel discussion centered on Role
Conflict, a topic that was
recommended by nursing students
at a prior general district meeting.
The expert panel was comprised of
nurse leaders in higher education,
hospital administration, clinical
education, and nurse residency
program management. Members
Christine Reed praised the presentation format,
and District 5 is considering
holding additional panel discussions in the future.
On April 19, Melanie Stanton, BSN, MBA, RN, NEA-
BC, presented “Implementing a Nurse Leader Residency
Program to Improve Leadership Competency.” Ms. Stanton
is the CEO of Franklin Woods Community Hospital and a
member of TNA District 5.
District 5 continues to support the community, including
plans to donate funds to two local nonprofits in 2022.
Branch House Family Justice Center will receive its donation
in April 2022. Branch House is in Sullivan County and exists
to serve survivors of abuse through unified community
engagement, education, and collaboration. Family Promise,
which will receive its donation later in 2022, addresses
family homelessness, providing homelessness prevention,
emergency shelter, workforce development, education,
financial capability, health, and wellness. District 5 is proud
to support both organizations.
To celebrate Nurses’ Week, District 5 honored one of
its members as Nurse of the Year. The District 5 Nurse of
the Year Award was designed to honor an outstanding
nurse who embodies excellence in the nursing profession.
Nurses were nominated by their peers for a variety of
reasons, including nurses in the following roles: Clinical,
Administrative, Education, Non-Traditional Role, APRN.
The Nurse of the Year is someone who represents nursing
values such as compassion, kindness, knowledge, ethics,
and innovation.
District 5 is pleased to announce Dr. Gail Broyles
as District 5’s first recipient of the Nurse of the Year
Award 2022. Visit District 5’s webpage at https://tna.
nursingnetwork.com/page/94134-district-5
Raven Wentworth
District 6
President: Raven Wentworth
District 6 hosted a revitalization
meeting on April 21 at White Hall
on Union University’s campus.
Thank you to Dr. Harden and
Union University for supporting
District 6 nurses. Kirk Lawson,
TNA Executive Director; Julie
Hamm, TNA President; and
TNA’s Past-President, Carla
Kirkland, attended to show
support and encourage TNA
members and non-members.
District News continued on page 14

Page 14 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
District News
District News continued from page 13
General updates were provided as well as a
brainstorming session on how to increase engagement
and support nurses within the District. A treasurer’s
report was provided, and the District is in good
financial standing.
New officers were elected as follows: Christie
Manasco Doris, President; Julie Cupples, Vice
President; Celecia Osborne, Secretary; and Tiffany
Elliott, Treasurer. Thank you for serving and providing
leadership.
If you are not a member, we invite you to join at
TNAonline.org and select the red Join TNA tab in the
white area under the menus. Joint membership in TNA
and ANA is only $15/month or $174/year. Joining TNA
and ANA is a smart choice to achieve quality patient
care, advance your career and elevate our profession.
Save the date for TNA’s Annual Conference in
Franklin, TN, October 6-9, 2022. Information on this
and all TNA events can be found under the Events
menu at TNAonline.org.
District 15
President: Marcia Barnes
Greetings from District 15!
Welcome to all our new
District 15 members! Always
good to see that monthly list of
new members. We appreciate
each and every one of our
members.
Well, spring has sprung, and it
is such a welcoming sight. Things
are budding, and color is starting
to appear. Hope you are ready to
Marcia Barnes get outside, feel some sunshine,
and enjoy warmer weather.
District 15 held its last quarterly meeting via
zoom on April 4. Dr. Kristie Peggins delivered the
presentation on Medical Cannabis 101. Dr. Peggins is a
family nurse and adult-gerontology nurse practitioner
at Baptist Health Sciences University in Memphis. She
holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from University
of Tennessee Health Science Center. She is currently
an assistant professor and clinical coordinator in the
doctoral program at Baptist Health Sciences University.
She will complete a Masters degree from the
University of Maryland Baltimore in Medical Cannabis
Science and Therapeutics this May. This was a very
informative and interactive presentation.
Dr. Kim Holden and Janice Brothers, RN, hosted the
American Holistic Nurses Association Nashville (AHNA)
Chapter meeting on April 11th via zoom. Special guests
included Dr. Deborah Wilson.
Debbie Sullivan and colleagues have an abstract that
was accepted by the NLN Research Conference in Las
Vegas called “A 3 Phase Project looking at the Nurse
and Student Nurse Mental Health and Burnout during
COVID-19 Pandemic.
District 15 voted to select Doors of Hope as our Project
Help for Nurses Week. Doors of Hope has been serving as
a reentry initiative for the incarcerated and those being
released from incarceration in Rutherford County and
50+ counties across Tennessee since 2011. They empower
women to break the cycle of addiction, homelessness,
and incarceration through education, intervention,
mentoring, and case management in a safe and
supportive recovery-based environment. We are honored
to support this organization and will be making a cash
donation to provide much needed feminine products.
Congratulations to Kayla Cross for being the winner of
two tickets to the Island in Pigeon Forge, TN compliments
of the Tennessee Nurses Foundation.
As of this publication’s mailing date, District 15 had a
Meet and Greet Social on Monday, May 9. This was an inperson
event, our first since the Pandemic.
The next District 15 quarterly meeting will be Monday,
August 1, at 6:00 pm at a location TBD in Lebanon.
It is trying times to be a nurse, as many would agree
but, nonetheless, nurses we are. So, it is with pleasure to
be amongst this group of nurses. I hope that all of you had
a Happy Nurses Week!

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 15
New and Returning Members
District 1
Megan Alexander, Clare Anderson, Shekinah Andrews,
Sofia Andujo, Jo Bissler, Charlene Bonner, Cheryl Burnett,
Kendra Butler, Sherry Chapoell, Netasha Conrad,
April Diaconescu, Patrick Drummond, Shakila Erby, Liz
Escoffery, Christina Hillhouse, Meta Holliday, Zehra Jaffer,
April Johnson, Paula Jones, Twanna Jones, Amy Koehn,
Alexander Labrador, Rebecca Lyons, Ayanna Miller, Sarah
Miller, April Mohundro, Linda Mosby, Erin Newman, Page
Oetzel, Demetric Osborn, Shkendie Papraniku, Adrian Rolle,
Kasanga Saddler, Michelle Schivers, Madison Smallwood,
Amanda Taylor, Aurelia Taylor, Tiffany Tenort, Charmin
Thomas, Wendy Weaver, Dynisha Wigginson, Angela
Williams, Loretta Williams, Tina Williams, Alicia Wright,
Fariborz Yaghini
District 2
Kathleen Appleby, Chassidy Ballard, Christy Beard, Angel
Behne, Shaunda Brooks, Hannah Campbell, Christina
Cutcher, Ellen Dooley, Caroline Dougherty, Hannah
Fruechtl, Latanya Gallow, Dee Hall, Kayla Holt, Ronald
Larrieu, Teresa Malone, Kimberly McCready, Christy
Moyers, Brittany Munford, Jalisa Nance, Amanda Partin,
Elizabeth Pettit, Allison Pickrell, Matthew Price, Michelle
Rhodes, Chenoa Shenandoah, Nicole Simmons, Daniel
Tabor, Sadie Thompson, Julie Thurmer, Mary Walker,
Michael Wilcoxson, Betty Winstead, Sara Zoladz
District 3
Shelley Atkinson, Catherine Badger-Rodriguez, Amy
Marie Baldwin, Madora Bevis, Shanda Brown, Hannah
Bruce, Samuel Burress, Elizabeth Burton, Kimberly
Chipman, Aurea Cuevas, Kandace Dalton, Jessica Darnell,
Lindsey Davis, Lori Dickson, Jerlliyah Dotson, Bethany
Ezell, Stephanie Ferguson, Genet Fikremariam, Amanda
Fitzgerald, Michelle Foreman, Rachel Fox, Sarah Franklin,
Barton Galloway, Alma Garcia, Sylvia Hagberg-Fitch, Danna
Hammers, Courtney Harris, Queen Henry-Okafor, Kathryn
Hinds, Geraldine Holden, Abbey Holthaus, Miriam Jackson,
Victoria Jackson, Carey James, Jennifer Jones, Beverly Lee,
Jennifer Leigh, Jessica Lindsey, Melanie Lowe, Lorianne
Marsh, Sheree McBurney, Amanda McDaniel, Heather
Miles, Brooke Miller, Mark Miller, Monica Millett, Kelly
Mooneyham, Carol Moore, Nancy Muldowney, Lynise
Nelson, Teri Nine, Sarah Ohm, Jennifer Owens, Brianne
Page, Elizabeth Paschall, Nipa Patel, John Perez, Rhonda
Pinkerman, Marianne Raynes, Ronald Reed, Sarah Reeder,
Michele Reynolds, Brandon Richardson, Chelsea Ridley,
Brooke Roberson, Sylvia Robinson-Nichols, Meghan
Schicker, Jessica Searcy, Machell Simms, Melan Smith-
Francis, Shirleta Soden, Deborah Taber, Claire Thompson,
Bridget Timoney, Caroline Turk, Beverly Turner, Susan
Underwood, Dina Velocci, Stephanie Veneklase, Brandi
Weber, Marlayna Witham, Xiaoxiao Zhang
District 4
Amber Anderson, Melody Baldwin, Kallen Blankenburg,
Dana Broadhurst, Tonya Freeman, Rebecca Higgins, Paige
Hill, Mendy Howard, Raymond Howard, Shila Kimpson,
John King, Anna Machado, Chanda Okyere, Karen Olsen,
Elizabeth Pope, Abbey Roe, Ann Schide, Emily Smith,
Michelle Sotelo, Kimberley Stollenmaier, Julia Tucker,
Angela Weaver
District 5
Rebecca Barrows, Ashley Bennett, Kaylee Birchfield, Holly
Broadwater, Sharon Charmaine Bucu, Emily Churchwell,
Kelley Coffey, Millicent Combs, Virginia Copas, Deborah
Daugherty, Natasha Flick, Robin Freyling, Lauren Griffith,
Brittany Grimes, Lori Hernandez, Jessica Hughes, Wanda
Jarrett, Jennifer Johnson, Mary Johnson, Cindy Jones, Laura
Jones, Heather Leonard, Heather Linton, Sharon McAnear,
Jamie McNutt, Angela Milligan, April Morelock, Heather
Mullikin, Taylor Nunn, Kaitlin Rodrigues, Halie Salyers,
Teresa Sellstrom, April Steele, Norma Stevens, Emily Street,
Kortney Stump, Hazel Taylor, Karen Valk, Shelby Wallace,
Brittany Walters, Jeremy Whited, Sydney Williams, Cathy
Worley
District 6
Emily Altom, Daniel Carroll, Cynthia Cole, Alexandria Hays,
Desiree Holland, Erica Johnson Lockett, Amy Luckey, Tereva
Moore, Renee Morris, Sharon Page, Dujuana Phelps Naylor,
Karmen Sparks, Lindsay Voda
District 8
Chelsea Bass, Graylin Benusches, Erica Edwards, Janice
Niblett, Marguerite Record, Rachelle Schilling
District 9
Daniela Acuña, Angela Best, Donna Buttrum, Florence
Fontana, Tari Garrett, Casey Gregory, Katherine Pendleton-
Romig, Colleen Price, Deborah Redmond
District 10
Brittney Steele
District 12
Vivian Bridges, Leticia Harris, Laura Morrison, Rita Nolen
District 15
Ana Atherton, Gail Boylan, Latoya Byrd, Jimmy Edington,
Jessica Hall, Kristi Hamil, Mendy Hicks, Paul Jackson,
Dana Kizer-Shands, Carolyn Lowery, Mindy McMeans,
Richard Meeks, Tamara Moss, Christy O’Connell,
Jacqueline Odom, Jasmine Scott, Niesha Scott, Susan
Seal, Kaythi Soe, Raina Tomlinson, Jacey Walker, Brigitte
Williams, Elizabeth Yorks
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Page 16 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
Membership
Jennifer Hitt, PhD, RN, CNE
TNA Director - Membership
Nurses historically have been good at advocating. We
advocate for our patients during times of distress. We listen and
advocate for families when their voices are not being heard.
However, we often fail to advocate for an important group of
people-ourselves. In the past, nurses have failed to advocate for
things such as representation, salary, employment standards,
and safe working environments. We have not seen our own
promotion and value as worth advocating. However, times are
changing. Whether due to the pandemic or recent court issues,
nurses are starting to find their voices.
Advocacy has been seen through our work in legislation,
both at the local and national level. These organized efforts are Jennifer Hitt
our first line of advocacy, as it demonstrates our shared unity in
establishing best practices for nursing. Our advocacy has extended to grassroots efforts,
such as the recent Nurses Day marches and social media campaigns. These efforts are
important as they target a new way of advocating and sharing our experiences with the
public. Both the Tennessee Nurses Association and American Nurses Association have
shown support for nurses who chose to participate in these activities to bring awareness
and expertise, as the lack of public understanding of our profession is a barrier to
advancing nursing care.
Most nurses see advocacy as a job for a select few, namely those in distinguished
leadership positions. However, I argue that any nurse can and should be an advocate for
the profession. Bedside nurses are needed to share their experiences and expertise to
show the public just why change is needed. Issues such as safe staffing ratios and patient
quality cannot be advocated for without input from the bedside nurse. Ways to advocate
can include involvement in organized associations, such as TNA, but can also occur at the
grassroots level. Use social media to share your experiences. Advocate for nurses that
need help. Help others understand the complex work of the nurse. Take any opportunity
to speak up for nurses. Attend local meetings and seek appointments to serve on boards
and committees. These are steps we can all take to advocate for our profession and show
the public we have one voice.
We aren’t simply advocating for ourselves. We are advocating for our profession, our
patients, and our communities. The age of professional advocacy is here in nursing. It is
time to put our needs first.
Tennessee Nurses
Foundation
Funding Available for
Leadership Development and
Nursing Research Grants
Leadership and Grant Applications are reviewed twice each year.
Submission deadline dates are the last day of February and August.
Leadership Nursing Program – The Tennessee Nurses Foundation provides
scholarship opportunities for members of the Tennessee Nurses Association to
participate in a variety of leadership development programs to prepare nurses for
an enhanced role in nursing and community involvement.
Criteria and Application: https://tinyurl.com/p45pf27x
Nursing Research Grants – The Tennessee Nurses Foundation provides grants to
nurses who are members of the Tennessee Nurses Association engaging in scientific
and other research projects focusing on nursing practice.
Criteria and Application: https://tinyurl.com/2p8acpmu

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 17
Tennessee Nurses Foundation
Honor A Nurse From the TNF Board
Nursing is a calling, a way of life. Nurses rely on each
other for the synergistic effect of teamwork in our
efforts of care giving. It is appropriate that we honor
those colleagues that have made an impact in our lives
and the lives of others.
We honor you…
Cynthia R. Martin, RN
Ms. Martin has a long, and varied career. In private
psychiatric practice for over 25 years. Always putting
her patients first.
Visit www.tnaonline.org for complete information on
the Honorees and the Honor A Nurse program.
Raven Wentworth, DNP, RN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC,
FNP-BC | TNF President
The Tennessee Nurses
Foundation (TNF) established
the Disaster Relief Fund to assist
actively licensed Registered
Nurses in Tennessee that
might be facing hardship after
a natural disaster. A natural
disaster is out of the control of
humans and can result in the
loss of life and/or property as
well as damage to property.
Since the fund was established, Raven Wentworth
natural disasters such as high
winds, flooding, tornadoes, and fires have occurred in
our state. The TNF Board of Trust feels that by assisting
registered nurses monetarily after a natural disaster not
only benefits the individual, but the community as well. If
you have faced hardship due to a disaster, please complete
an application. You may find an application by going to
https://tna.nursingnetwork.com locating the purple tab
TNF – Scholarships & Grants, and scrolling down to TNF
Disaster Relief Fund. Please share this opportunity with
your Registered Nurse colleagues, friends, and family. You
may also make a tax-deductible donation to the fund at this
website.
The TNF supports nursing education by offering
scholarships to individuals that are in an entry-level nursing
program in an accredited institution of higher education as
well as pursuing a higher degree in nursing. The TNF Board
of Trust recently awarded $30,000 in scholarships.
• The TNF supports the education of Licensed Practical
Nurses by providing scholarships for those nurses
seeking higher education through an accredited
LPN to RN nursing program and awards $5,000 to
the recipient. This year there were two recipients,
Monete Gardner and Nickole Beaman.
• The Regional Educational Scholarship is awarded to
a recipient that is enrolled in an entry-level nursing
program in an accredited institution of higher
education. Airiana Paris, Alyssa Leming, Davis (Seth)
Hair were awarded $5,000 each for the Regional
Educational Scholarship.
• The Maureen Nalle Memorial Graduate Nursing
Scholarship Program awards $5,000 to a registered
nurse enrolled in a program of study in an accredited
institution of higher education that would enable
the nurse to make a greater contribution to nursing.
Ashley Carter was awarded this scholarship.
Thank you to everyone that applied. There were many
accomplished applicants.
The Tennessee Nurses Foundation also sponsors a
scholarly writing contest for all Registered Nurses (within
all specialties of nursing) in Tennessee. This year’s recipient
is Afrodita Aguilar, RN, BSN. As part of the celebration of
Nurses Week 2022, the winner will receive a $1,000 award
and a free registration to TNA’s Annual Conference at the
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs in Franklin, TN.
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation
to TNF today. Your support enables the Foundation to
continue to promote excellence in nursing by providing
scholarships, grants, leadership opportunities, and disaster
relief to the registered nurses in our state.
MSN Concentrations:
■ Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse
Practitioner,
■ Family Nurse Practitioner &
■ Nurse Educator
• High-value/low-cost tuition
• Nationally accredited
• Online classes
• Low Student-Faculty ratios
• Preceptor compensation:
Promotes clinical placements
• Interactive, hands-on learning
opportunities
Visit nursingALD.com today!
Search job listings
in all 50 states, and filter by location and credentials.
Browse our online database of articles and content.
Find events for nursing professionals in your area.
Your always-on resource for nursing jobs, research, and events.
apsu.edu/nursing/msn
graduatenursing@apsu.edu
931-221-7737
JI f AUStln Peay
61 State University

Page 18 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
Congratulations to Tennessee’s 2022 Rising Star Nurse Leaders!
Together with the Tennessee Nurses
Association and the Tennessee Hospital
Association, the Tennessee Action Coalition
acknowledges these young nurse leaders:
• Andrea Poynter, Belmont University
• Andrea Sebastian, University of Tennessee Health
Science Center College of Nursing
• Ashley Carter, Nashville State Community College
• Ashley Marston, St. Jude Children’s Research
Hospital
• Astrid Banegas, CHI Memorial
• Brandi Pruitt, University of Memphis
• Brittan Kilpatrick, Tennessee Department of
Health – Hickman County Health Department
• Candice Short, East Tennessee State University
• Charlotte Isabel, St Jude Children’s Research
Hospital
• Chelcie Oseni, Methodist Le Bonheur Community
Outreach
• Chelsia Harris, Lipscomb University
• Chelsie Caperton, Southern Tennessee Regional
Health System-Lawrenceburg
• Christian Williams, Metro Nashville Public Health
Department
• Ernest Maupin, East Tennessee State University
• Gabrielle Jackson, Alma Wellness Associates
• Jacquelyn Dean, Vanderbilt Bedford County
Hospital
• Jazmine A. Rankin, Methodist University Hospital
• Jerlliyah (Jay) Dotson, Vanderbilt Medical Center
• Josh Hawkins, The University of Tennessee
Medical Center
• Julia Steed, Vanderbilt University School of
Nursing
• Kaleb (Tanner) Henry, The University of Tennessee
Medical Center
• Kathryn Dambrino, Belmont University
• Lauren Moss, Belmont University/Elite Healthcare
Alliance
• Marisa Schultz, The University of Tennessee Medical
Center
• Mary Leigh Joiner, Regional One Health
• Rachael Wyatt Hodges, University of Tennessee,
Knoxville, College of Nursing
• Rebecca R. Kojak, Cookeville Regional Medical Center
• Richelle Graham, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center
• Shelley Lawson, West Tennessee Healthcare –
Pathways
• Whitney Owen, The University of Tennessee Medical
Center
• Zacnite Vargas, Metro Public Health Department
100% Online
APSU Program Advantages:
• 100% online coursework
• Five start dates each year
• Complete in as few as 12 months
• Accelerated, seven-week courses
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Visit: www.apsu.edu/nursing/bachelornursing/rn-to-bsn/
Email: RNtoBSN@apsu.edu
Austin Peay State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation,
gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with
respect to all employment, programs and activities sponsored by APSU. https://www.apsu.edu/policy. Policy 6:003 Pub# AP69/11-20/1
These individuals are part of an elite group of young
Tennessee nurse leaders representing the Three Grand
Regions of Tennessee, a variety of racial and ethnic
backgrounds, frontline clinicians, academicians, and
managers.
Selection was based on criteria determined by leaders
from the Tennessee Action Coalition, Tennessee Nurses
Association, and Tennessee Hospital Association; and
includes leadership among peers and others, professional
growth and development, contribution to building a
culture of health in the community, and commitment as a
role model for health.
The aim of the Tennessee Rising Star Nurse Leader
program is to engage and empower young nurses to
lead the nursing profession in improving the health of
Tennesseans.

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 19
TN Board of Nursing Update
Nurse Licensure Compact
Sherry Richardson, MSN, RN
Executive Director, TN Board of Nursing
The Nurse Licensure
Compact (NLC) provides
increased access to care while
maintaining public protection
at the state level. States that
are members of the NLC issue
multistate licenses (MSL) that
allow an RN or LPN to practice
physically, electronically and/
or telephonically across a state
border to patients located in
other compact states.
Sherry Richardson
A nurse practicing in other
states on the multistate licensure privilege must
adhere to the laws and rules of the state where the
patient is located. If a nurse needs to practice in a state
that is not a member of the NLC, the nurse must obtain
a single state license issued from that state regardless
of where the nurse holds a MSL.
Currently, 39 jurisdictions have joined the NLC, and
member states will change as states pass laws to enact
the NLC. To view the latest map detailing NLC states,
please visit www.nlc.gov.
Licensure Requirements
New Tennessee licensees and those moving to another
NLC state must meet uniform licensure requirements
(ULRs) to be eligible for a MSL. ULRs include:
1. Meets the requirements for licensure in the home
state (state of residency);
a. Has graduated from a board-approved RN or LPN
prelicensure program; or
b. Has graduated from an international prelicensure
program approved by the accrediting body
in the country and that has been verified by
an independent credential review agency as
comparable to a US board-approved program;
2. Has passed an English proficiency exam if
prelicensure program was not taught in English or if
English is not the individual’s native language;
3. Has passed an NCLEX-RN® or NCLEX-PN®
Examination or predecessor exam (State Board Test
Pool Exam);
4. Is eligible for or holds an active, unencumbered
license (i.e., without discipline);
5. Has submitted to state and federal fingerprintbased
criminal background checks (CBC);
6. Has no state or federal felony convictions (absolute
bar to MSL);
7. Has no misdemeanor convictions related to the
practice of nursing (determined on a case-by-case
basis);
8. Is required to self-disclose participation in an
alternative program, e.g. Tennessee Professional
Assistance Program; and
9. Has a valid United States Social Security Number.
What is the impact on nurses practicing in Tennessee on
the multistate privilege?
A nurse holding a MSL in another compact state may
practice in Tennessee on the multistate privilege and must
adhere to the laws and rules of Tennessee while caring for
Tennessee residents.
NLC impact on APRNs
APRNs practicing in Tennessee must hold a Tennessee
RN license (single or multistate) or multistate license
from an NLC party state in addition to a Tennessee APRN
certificate.
What does an employer need to know?
Employers that have nurse employees practicing in
Tennessee on the multistate privilege from a state must
ensure that the nurse is eligible to practice in Tennessee. Use
Nursys Quick Confirm lookup at https://www.nursys.com/.
The Board of Nursing recommends employers register its
nurses in E-Notify, also found at https://www.nursys.com/.
Follow the NLC at
https://nursecompact.com/about.htm.
Precepting: The Joy of Giving Back
April A. Reyes DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC
Director of Behavioral Health
Hope Family Health
Westmoreland TN
What brings us joy?
According to Webster, joy is
defined as “A strong feeling
of great happiness; delight.”
If we consider joy in our
work, what comes to mind?
Many aspects of our work
can create joy; a patient that
expresses appreciation for
our care, coming to the aid
of a coworker or receiving
a promotion. One central April A. Reyes
theme of our profession is
giving back. The reward of giving back can result in
the same joyous feeling. One way to give back is by
serving as a preceptor for up-and-coming nurses
and nurse practitioners. Have you considered this
as an option? When we give back, there is a sense
of joy inside, and that same feeling happens when
we offer to help train and mold those who may
follow in our footsteps. If you have not served as a
preceptor, I urge you to consider the possibility.
I remember the stress of finding a preceptor
during both my FNP and PMHNP time as a student.
I was fortunate to find great preceptors, but it did
not come easy. I spent countless hours making
phone calls, sending emails, making office visits,
and networking with contacts to secure a preceptor.
There is no shame in contacting a previous coworker
or acquaintance when it comes to finding a
preceptor. Once I found a willing preceptor, secured
a contract, submitted all the paperwork, and
received site approval, it was true joy and relief!
After graduation and completion of the board
exam, the entry into clinical practice begins
with immense joy and sometimes trepidation.
We utilize the skills learned during our student
clinical rotations, which serve as a guide in our
practice. It is not possible to learn everything
during the student rotation but having a wellrounded
experience is helpful. The clinical rotation
was different from my experience with the
PMHNP role versus the FNP role. As I journeyed
through my clinical rotation for the PMHNP, I
took a mental note of those things that I felt were
missing or aspects that I would change or improve.
Throughout clinical practice, you will continue to
discover tips, tricks, and skills that you wish you
would have seen, learned or experienced during
the student rotation. Take note, and even though
you cannot go back, you can pass this along.
I build my clinical rotation for students by taking
note of the missed opportunities and passing it
forward. I couple this with the skills that I use
daily to build a student clinical that will hopefully
result in a successful and positive experience
for the students. This includes working with our
medical assistant to become comfortable triaging
patients, observing and then performing an
AIMS assessment, and completing screenings for
anxiety, bipolar, depression, ADHD, etc. As the
student works with our medical assistant, who is
a certified mental health technician, they will see
that our workflow runs like a well-oiled machine
on most days. This rotation also helps reinforce
what the students learn during the didactic course
regarding medications and appropriate or required
monitoring. One of our quality measures this year
is performing a sleep apnea screen on all patients
diagnosed with depression, as there is a known link
between depression and untreated sleep apnea.
The students will also become familiar with the
Stop-Bang screening tool during rotation (Hobzova,
et al., 2017). Lipids are checked on 100% of the
patients that are on an antipsychotic medication as
well. I know that not every practice setting is the
same. I base my office set up on my previous work
as an FNP; therefore, I have found that utilizing a
well-trained medical assistant is essential to our
practice. It brings me great joy to pass along what
I have learned to the students that I precept.
Serving as a preceptor helps me grow and is always
a learning opportunity; therefore, the student’s
rotation may change depending on their feedback
and what I think works or may need adjusting.
Being a preceptor for PMHNP students is
rewarding. Finding PMHNP preceptors is difficult.
Just ask any current student, and it should not be
this way. As clinicians, we should be willing to give
our time to students who are our future clinicians
and coworkers to help ensure that they are well
prepared. What we learn during our student
rotation provides a basis for our practice. I may
have a unique way of thinking, but as difficult as
it was for me to find a clinical rotation in northern
middle TN, I find it my duty to give back. I hope
that you will consider serving as a preceptor. Joy!
Bring it on!
Reference
Hobzova, M., Prasko, J., Vanek, J., Ociskova, M., Genzor, S.,
Holubova, M., . . . Latalova, K. (2017). Depression and
obstructive sleep apnea. Neuroendocrinology Letters,
38(5), 343-352.

Page 20 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
Concept Analysis of Hospice Care
Amanda Camden is a BSN-prepared RN caring for hospice patients in
southwest Virginia. She is also a graduate nursing student at the University
of Tennessee Knoxville with a focused interest in hospice nursing.
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this concept analysis is to
investigate the concept of hospice care using Rodgers’
Evolutionary Method. A pre-analysis of hospice care is
included, and the definition is updated throughout the
concept analysis process.
Methods: Rodgers’ Evolutionary Method was utilized as
a framework for this concept analysis. Data was retrieved
from the CINAHL database searching for the keywords
“hospice care”. The search was further refined by literature
that is written in the English language, published between
2012 and 2021, has full-text availability, and the first author
of each publication is a nurse.
Amanda Camden
Findings: The concept of hospice care is evolving and
multifaceted. Further, the context can affect the definition of hospice care. Four
attributes of hospice care were identified during this concept analysis process: 1)
palliative care, 2) comfort, 3) collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork, and 4)
patient education. The results of this analysis reveal the complex nature of hospice
care.
Conclusions: The scale and necessity of hospice care have developed since its
American conception in 1965. Hospice care includes the promotion of comfort,
the collaboration of the interdisciplinary team with the patient and family, the
ever-changing concept of patient education, and aspects of palliative care. The
integration of palliative care is controversial and the lines between the two
concepts are still evolving and somewhat ambiguous. Further research is needed to
investigate the facilitation of hospice services to underrepresented populations.
Keywords: hospice care, end-of-life, nursing,
concept analysis
Introduction and Concept Analysis Method
Hospice care is a multi-disciplinary approach to comfort care that can be
provided in a variety of settings. Because of the complexities of providing end-oflife
care; hospice care can be difficult to describe; however, it is generally agreed
upon that hospice provides comfort-focused care at the end of life. Hoffman
(2005) explains that the paradigm shift from curative treatment to comfort
treatment enables hospice patients to obtain a higher quality of life. The need
for quality hospice care will rise in the coming decades as will the complexity of
hospice patient needs. All persons have the right to determine the direction of
their care when facing a life-threatening illness. This highlights the critical need for
hospice care services. Hospice care prepares patients and their families for death;
this makes hospice care unique when compared to other health disciplines. In
addition, hospice services are underutilized by urban Hispanic/Latino patients,
African-American patients, and low-income patients; this problem requires creative
solutions providing these patients the option of hospice services. Finally, hospice
care is underutilized in the adolescent patient population. The majority of these
patients die in acute care settings without comprehensive palliative or hospice care
services.
This concept was analyzed using Rodgers’ Evolutionary Method; noting the
common characteristics of the concept and the influence of social context within
the concept. Identifying the interconnectedness of concepts and their social context
is paramount in concept. Further, developing the concept of hospice care will assist
in identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the concept and reveal opportunities
for further research. Identifying the essence of hospice care can help create a
foundation for clear communication about end-of-life care and reveal opportunities
for nurses to facilitate dignified dying within the context of hospice care
Pre-analysis of Hospice Care
Merriam-Webster defines hospice as “a program designed to provide palliative
care and emotional support to the terminally ill in a home or homelike setting so
that quality of life is maintained and family members may be active participants in
care.” This author defines hospice care as a collaborative approach to comfort and
Appendix A

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 21
symptom control for patients with a terminal illness.
Hospice does not focus efforts on curative treatment;
rather, energy is diverted to nursing, psychosocial, and
spiritual support to facilitate a collaborative approach.
While many areas of healthcare strive for a multidisciplinary
team approach hospice accomplishes this
via a system built upon collaboration. Incorporating
spiritual care, medical social workers, massage, pet
therapy, trained volunteer support, and bereavement
services provide a rich support network for patients
and families. Further, hospice regards patients and
their families as a unit; and focuses care efforts on
both entities. The ANA highlights the importance of
inter-disciplinary collaboration and establishing patient
trust via nurse advocacy. Hospice care serves as a
viable model for this assignment.
Concept Development Process
The CINAHL database was queried for “hospice
care”; the search was further refined by literature
that is written in the English language, published from
2012 to 2021, and the results had to have full-text
availability. Finally, in keeping with the purpose of this
analysis, the first author of each publication must be a
nurse. A total of 215 articles were retrieved utilizing this
search criterion. Ten articles were selected at random
representing a variety of contexts, including hospice
education and practice, pediatric hospice and palliative
care, nurse practitioner documentation, hospice patient
education, end-of-life care in the inpatient setting, and
cultural constructs of death. Each selected manuscript
has the word “hospice” within the text.
Attributes of Hospice Care
Clarification of the concept of hospice care
revealed a common thread of comfort, palliative care,
collaboration, and patient education within care. These
themes divulge the special and meaningful nature of
hospice interactions. The term palliative was recognized
as a recurring attribute of hospice care; this theme is
somewhat confusing, as the two terms sometimes are
used interchangeably, but they aren’t identical in nature.
This provides an opportunity for further research to
distinguish between the two concepts. Comfort was
identified as an attribute of hospice care. The attribute
of comfort aligns with NIH guidance regarding endof-life
care. Comfort is a cornerstone of hospice care
and is at the forefront of hospice nursing. Another
recurring characteristic is the collaborative approach
to care. Again this is a foundational concept of the
hospice movement, and it utilizes multidisciplinary
professionals to provide a team approach to hospice
care. The final attribute noted was the importance
of patient and family education. This illuminates the
complex nature of hospice care; especially within the
home setting. Hospice nurses have complex roles that
include extensive patient and family education during
high-stress situations. The occurrence of this theme
To access electronic copies of the
Tennessee Nurse, please visit
http://www.NursingALD.com/publications
within the literature reinforces this essential attribute
and highlights the importance of effective patient and
family education.
Through literature review and reflection on
the concept of hospice care, this paper has added
additional depth to the concept of hospice care.
The NINR lists “relieving symptoms and suffering”
and “understanding decision-making by patients,
caregivers, and health care providers” as prominent
research goals, and this concept analysis of hospice
care aligns with said goals. This additional information
can benefit current and future hospice patients and
nursing professionals caring for hospice patients. By
embracing the fluid nature of hospice care one can
have a better understanding of the concept. Utilizing
this new information will assist with progression and
reveal relevant research paths.
Antecedents of Hospice Care
The most common antecedents were end-oflife
and 6 months or less life expectancy. These are
unsurprising as hospice care is end-of-life care. One
can argue that these are different words to describe
the same thing, however, there are small variations
within each, and both shed light on the concept of
hospice care. Acknowledgment of these similar terms
can facilitate improved nursing communication with
hospice patients and families. Healthcare professionals
often use technical and possibly confusing language
when interacting with their patients and families. The
realization of these antecedents can be employed
with the help of therapeutic communication to
clearly articulate common goals and expected patient
prognosis.
Conclusion
This concept analysis has revealed the
multidimensional nature of hospice care. Further,
through the systematic process of redefinition, the
importance of the educational component of hospice
has been realized and expanded upon. Birth and death
are certainties for all persons; dying with support
enables a good death and a meaningful experience for
BECOME A
CAREGIVING
PARTNER
MAKE A DIFFERENCE. FOR PATIENTS.
FOR YOURSELF.
the patient and family. Building upon the information
learned from this concept analysis of hospice care
adds additional information to the pre-analysis
definition. Initiating hospice care early facilitates
therapeutic communication and builds trust within
the nurse-patient relationship. Hospice represents the
humanization of healthcare; it seeks to alleviate the
unpleasant aspects of death and highlight the intimate
nature of the process.
Appendix B
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Page 22 Tennessee Nurse May, June, July 2022
Career Building for the New Professional Nurse
Kathryn C. Hansen, RN, BSN, STTI
Co-Author:
Cynthia Borum, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, NE-BC
Introduction
Nursing is a career
filled with an abundance
of opportunities that is
exciting at the same time is
overwhelming and stressful.
The new professional nurse
must consider their purpose
as they grow into their
nursing career. The new
professional nurse is defined
as an individual that is in the
initial stages of launching
Kathryn C. Hansen
and flourishing within
their nursing career. The
personality of professional
nurses assumes the basic
characteristics of compassion
and human caring. Finding the
right job involves an in-depth
appraisal of the organization
along with the nursing
environment. The professional
nurse looks at the organization
as a whole and assesses if
they align with the mission,
Cynthia Borum
values, vision, and beliefs. Additionally, they examine
the necessary factors of the nursing environment, such
as socialization and teamwork amongst coworkers,
nursing care provided to patients, and the image of
Please share with new grads!
The Board of Nursing receives thousands of
Initial Licensure by Exam applications each
year. Incomplete applications can result in
delays in applicants receiving eligibility for
the NCLEX. Submit complete applications on
time to secure the Authorization to Test (ATT).
Full instructions with links to all required
documents are available at: https://
www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/
healthprofboards/nursing/applications/
Exam%20App%20Instructions%20for%20
Students.pdf.
nursing. Mentorship and gaining knowledge about the
vast amount of specialty nursing careers will lead them
to establishing their career and ultimately their niche.
Mentorship
Success of the new professional nurse developing
their career and landing the right job involves a few
essential components, with mentorship being at
the center. The significance of mentorship within
the field of nursing has and continues to positively
impact nurses in their personal and professional
growth. When a mentor and a mentee form a
relationship, it is important to recognize that both the
mentor and the mentee learn from each other and
ultimately influence their career (Marshall, 2021). A
well-matched mentorship helps a new professional
nurse who is passionate about making a difference
in their career lead them in their journey of career
development to accomplish their goals. In the article,
Mentorship In Nursing: An Interview With Connie
Vance (Nickitas, 2014), she addressed the individuals
in the field of nursing, “that we can’t and don’t
achieve alone; mentors are absolutely essential to
our individual and collective success.” (p.68). A new
professional nurse experiences a very challenging and
rigorous first year out in the field and therefore it is
essential that there is support and resources available
to help them gain confidence and achieve success in
their patient care and overall understanding of their
job (Innes & Calleja, 2018). This will in turn affect the
overall job satisfaction and decrease the chances of
losing outstanding nurses to other professions (Innes
& Calleja, 2018).
It takes time and effort to find the right individual to
create a well-matched mentorship; however, putting
in the work and building connections can only benefit
a new professional nurse to grow and develop their
career. By doing so, the mentorship has the capacity
to be lifelong and create a lasting impact on the new
professional nurse to keep striving for excellence
within the nursing profession. Ultimately, the
mentorship that is formed is significant and creates a
lifelong commitment to mentoring and nurturing other
professional nurses in the profession.
Looking for a Mentor?
Finding a mentor can be as easy as checking
mentor programs within your organization, a trusted
and admired personal friend, a professor, teacher or
even professional organizations such as the American
Nurses Association (https://community.ana.org/
pages/mentorprogram?ssopc=1).
Table 1:
Checklist to Identify a Good Mentor
• Admired, trusted, with shared interests and
values
• Dyadic Relationship
o Sets goals and mutual expectations
o Invites questions, interactions, ongoing
communication
o Advises with active listening and honest
feedback
o Inspires confidence
o Encourages professional development
and advancement
• Accessible, available, flexible, and
responsive
• Willing to share resources, time, and
knowledge
• Compatible culture and background
Nursing Specialty and Career Building
The customary approach for new nurses
seeking employment was in a general medical
surgical nursing unit to gain experience with
time management and organizational skills and
sharpen patient care and nursing skills (Innes &
Calleja, 2018). Conversely, today, new professional
nurses are taking the non-traditional pathway
and pursuing nursing specialty jobs early in their
careers. According to Baldwin, Sleutel, Urban,
Wells, J. N., et. al., (2021) greater numbers of new
professional nurses are being hired directly into
nursing specialty areas. Professional nurses are
selecting specialized nursing units for a variety of
reasons. New professional nurses are being driven
to specialized nursing units to fill the greatest need
for staff because of the nursing shortage (Baldwin,
et.al., 2021 and Innes & Calleja, 2018). On the
other hand, new professional nurses are pursuing
specialty nursing jobs to gain respect and earn the
badge of honor as a professional nurse. There is a
perception that a nurse must work in critical care
to be a professional nurse. Professional nursing

May, June, July 2022 Tennessee Nurse Page 23
can be found in many settings such as ambulatory
environments, surgery centers, hospitals, and
even manufacturing and schools. Moreover,
professional nurses are involved in MANY patient
populations that span across the human life cycle
from birth to death. Professional nurses take care
of infant and pediatrics patients, women’s health
needs, adolescents, and geriatrics populations.
Consequently, nurses that are competent and have
mastered skills for independent nursing practice
are professional nurses, regardless of their nursing
specialty. Building and strengthening one’s nursing
career takes into account the professional nurse’s
passion for human caring coupled with choosing the
right nursing specialty.
Conclusion
Nursing is a special calling and a career for
life where professional nurses exemplify the gift
of healing and compassion for human caring. A
new professional nurse may find themselves in a
situation where the job is not a good fit. However,
the nurse cannot leave the profession of nursing,
rather they must explore other opportunities and
areas within the nursing field. With the ability to
build your career through mentoring and the vast
amount of nursing specialty opportunities available,
the professional nurse MUST remain optimistic,
and hopeful in successfully landing the right job.
Securing the right job will help to avoid the tragedy
of losing a new professional nurse to a career
outside of nursing.
Although it can be challenging to find the right
job, taking the necessary time to explore and gain
more knowledge about all the wonderful and
rewarding careers within the field of nursing is
crucial for the new professional nurse. No matter
your environment or specialty, the slow or fast work
pace, patient acuity, or patient population, you
are a professional nurse. You have developed the
characteristics that make you qualified for the job.
Thus, the new professional nurse must understand
that its not, “are you fit for the job,” but “is the job
the right fit for you?”
References
Baldwin, K. M., Sleutel, M., Urban, R. W., Wells, J. N., Behan,
D., Walsh, J., & Newcomb, P. (2021). An exploration of new
graduate nurses transition to specialty practice. Journal
for Nurses in Professional Development (37)2, 93-100. DOI:
10.1097/NND.0000000000000695
Innes, T., & Calleja, P. (2018). Transition support for new
graduate and novice nurses in critical care settings: An
integrative review of the literature. Nurse Education in
Practice, 30, 62-72.
Marshall, L. S. (2021). Take Charge of Your Nursing Career. Sigma
Theta Tau.
Nickitas, D. M. (2014). Mentorship in nursing: An interview with
Connie Vance. Nursing Economics, 32(2), 65-69.
Not the Right Job, What’s Next?
Starting to lose sleep, feeling constantly
on edge, and arriving way in advance before
my shifts to look up my patients was what
consumed me throughout my first job as
a new professional nurse. Although I felt
supported, I was not happy and could no
longer enjoy my life outside of work. It
was when I started to have panic attacks
that I knew I needed to make a switch to
another unit. It wasn’t an easy decision—it
was tough. I had worked so hard to achieve
what I thought was my “dream” job, but my
intuition and the physical and emotional
toll just wasn’t right. I felt like a failure, and
I wanted it to work out so badly. Luckily,
through discussions with mentors, I was
inspired with confidence, and empowered
to search for an area in nursing where I was
meant to be. Taking care of yourself is very
important and with there being so many
opportunities as a nurse, it is okay to not feel
okay, however at the same time I realized
I can continue mastering skills, sharing my
strengths, and ultimately fulfilling my passion
and dream as a new professional nurse.
RN to BSN 14 months
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The The University of of Tennessee at at Chattanooga is an is an equal equal employment opportunity/affirmative action/Title
VI/ opportunity/affirmative Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA action/Title institution. VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution.