2019 Academic Newsletter
Alumni Updates Candace Asbury (BSN 2015) has been awarded the Daisy Award multiple times (3) and has recently attained her CMSRN (Certified Med-Surg RN). Scarlett Baker (BSN 2018) is a recent grad who has received a Daisy Award. She prides herself on the “Liberty nursing difference” and the way we are impacting direct patient care.
A MESSAGE FROM THE
DEAN As the science of nursing grows, the profession of nursing is continually reinventing its role in healthcare. This adds value to the profession but, more importantly, value to the patient. And when the science of nursing is interwoven with the art of caring, we begin to truly impact health and wellness. On the following pages, you will not only learn what is happening at LUSON, but you will also discover how our students, alumni, and faculty are benefitting individuals and communities here in Lynchburg and around the world. LUSON is dedicated to holistic care: caring for the soul (mind and emotions), the spirit (eternal presence), and the physical body. This concept is seen in classroom content, experienced in our out-of-class events, and supported by our Student Nurses Association (LUSNA) and our Psi Delta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau. In this newsletter, you will encounter how this is done with excellence and compassion, based on ethics and research with your future and the future of nursing in mind. The legacy we leave continues through each student, alumni, faculty, and staff member. We are beings created to connect and invest in each other. God’s gift of community allows us to build teams, to create positive work environments, and to challenge each other to reach higher levels of success. When this is done through His love, the world around us changes, and we ourselves change. This is how you can impact the world — one person at a time — for His glory! Take time to find the moment He has offered you to make a difference in someone else’s life. YOU are His hands and feet to a hurting world. “Our vision is to Train Champions for Christ who care with their hearts and their minds, exhibiting both our art and our science to care for those most in need here and around the world, impacting and investing in the lives of others.”
Dr. Shanna W. Akers Dean
Autumn Bolton (BSN 2017) works at UVA on Mother Baby/L&D and has been trained to be a full-time charge nurse. Brian Curtis (BSN 2016) is stationed in San Antonio, Texas, and works in the Air Force with general pediatrics and Med/Onc units. Stephene Aizcorbe Hertwig (BSN 2010) is currently working as a nurse practitioner in the Norvant UVA Culpeper ICU and also as a flight nurse with Pegasus. Courtney Grenke Matis (BSN 2012) has enjoyed working at the Cleveland Clinic (ICU) and other smaller hospitals while she has been moving around with her husband, who is in the Air Force. Heather Tanis (BSN 2016) has been enjoying a career in ED/Trauma since graduation. She has attained her CEN board certification and TNCC certification and most recently has begun MSN studies. Mark Walker (BSN 2012) has completed graduate school in nurse anesthesia from VCU and is currently employed there. Lexie Wojtcuk (BSN 2016) is now working at the R. Adams Cowley Shock/Trauma Center in Baltimore, Md. Taylor Woodson (2014) is practicing as an Emergency and Internal Medicine Family NP (FNP-BC). His bedside experience includes ED and Trauma.
Student Recognitions N O V. 2 0 1 8
MARCH 2019
Joey Emerson , Sophomore Foundation Stone – Compassion Joey drove an older man in a wheelchair from campus back to his hotel.
Joanna Asselin, DNP Student Foundation Stone – Excellence During the assessment of her patient, Joanna noted inconsistencies with the admitting diagnosis. Because of her findings, the patient diagnosis was changed and the treatment improved.
Andrew Haack, Junior Foundation Stone – Excellence Nurses were impressed with Andrew’s professionalism and communication with a Spanish-speaking patient and their family. Lew Rocha, Senior Foundation Stone – Excellence Lew intuitively spot-checked his patient’s blood glucose level — which was 48 — and treated quickly with a good outcome. JAN. 2019 Joanna Bansteev, Junior Foundation Stone – Excellence Joanna interpreted for a patient who only spoke Russian. It is truly amazing that the Lord prepared the way for her to be in the right place at the right time to minister to patients. Anna Lovin, Senior Foundation Stone – Excellence Anna interpreted for a patient who only spoke Dari. FEB. 2 0 19 Emma Coudeyre, Junior Foundation Stone – Compassion A clinical instructor observed Emma holding an unresponsive patient’s hand, gently speaking to him, and then praying for him. (This patient was not Emma’s assigned patient.)
Brielle Millermon, Junior Foundation Stone – Excellence Brielle noticed a change in her patient, checked his oxygen saturation (75%), and got help immediately. The patient was given a breathing treatment and oxygen. APRIL 2019 Brittany Jamison and Sallie Robertson, Junior Students Foundation Stone – Ethics Both Brittany and Sallie stayed with a patient with agonal breathing, holding her hand and talking to her for the remainder of the shift while waiting for the family to arrive so that she would not be alone when she passed. Meredith Parnell, Post BSN DNP/FNP Student Foundation Stone – Ethics After Ms. Parnell sent her students home at the end of the shift, she stayed with a patient who was in the last moments of life. She waited until the family arrived, making sure the patient was never alone in those last few hours. Victor Shehu, Student Worker Foundation Stone – Excellence Victor developed a computer program that manages inventory throughout the lab by allowing workers to input amounts and types of supplies.
M E E T O U R N E W F A C U LT Y
DIEDR A SIMPSON In Spring 2019, Dr. Deidra Simpson joined the LUSON team. She is originally from Hazard, Ky., has been married for 21 years, and has been blessed with three children. Dr. Simpson received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky in 1998 and teaches in the BSN, MSN, and DNP programs for LUSON. She is also the program facilitator for the International Nursing Student Program. Dr. Simpson’s heart for teaching and discipleship and her love of international and missionary students is grounded in her own experience of serving as a missionary in East Asia.
KRISTEN OAKLEY In Fall 2019, Kristen Oakley joined the LUSON team. Mrs. Oakley is married to her college sweetheart and has two children and a mini dachshund, Tucker. She graduated from Liberty University (BSN 2009; MSN 2014), and she is boardcertified as a Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse and in Nursing Professional Development. Mrs. Oakley will assist in teaching Fundamentals of Nursing and Medical-Surgical Nursing I & II.
S ANDRA TORDOFF In Fall 2019, Sandy Tordoff joined LUSON as a full-time faculty member, bringing almost 30 years of critical care experience to the LUSON team. She is certified in critical care as a CCRN, is trained in the Fundamentals of Critical Care Support (FCCS), and is an ACLS instructor. She graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Liberty University. Mrs. Tordoff will assist in teaching Crisis Nursing, the Adult Critical Care Certificate Program, and Critical Care and will also participate in LUSON’s international clinical experiences.
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DEBBIE MADDOX Dr. Debbie Maddox, DNP, FNP-BC has served faithfully with the DNP program as an adjunct online faculty. She is now moving to a full-time residential faculty position with a focus on the family nurse practitioner program, chronic health, and practicum courses. She brings a wealth of experience in clinical setting, family practice, and healthcare administration.
R ACHEL JOSEPH Dr. Rachel Joseph, Ph.D., CCRN, will be supporting the DNP program as she develops a global health course online and updates the residential global health course. Dr. Joseph is a Fulbright Scholar and has conducted research abroad. She will be supporting the Ph.D. programs, assisting with development of dissertation courses, and serving as a subject matter expert in the MSN nurse educator concentration. Dr. Joseph’s experience and nursing expertise in both the clinical and academic setting will be tremendous asset for our LUSON programs.
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Faculty Updates Fall 2019 Dr. Tracey Turner and Professor Sydney McCraw presented on Liberty University’s Hands and Feet Clinic at the 2019 Virginia Nursing Student Association Conference at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va., in February. Dr. Tracey Turner, Dr. Mary Highton, Dr. Kathryn Miller, and Ms. Amber Bruffy had a poster presentation at the National League of Nursing’s 2019 Education Summit in National Harbor, Md., in September 2019. The poster presentation was titled, Improving Communication and Collaboration Between Nursing and Medical Students Through an Obstetrical Interprofessional Simulation Experience. Dr. Ken Thompson is a grandfather (or rather a PopPop)! Lily Ann Philbrook was born on July 15, 2019, at 4:19 a.m. She weighed 8.5 lbs. and is 20 inches long. Kristen (LUSON, Class of 2017) and Lily are home now and doing great. Dr. Brenda Jessee (LUO IM for LUSON) is now board certified in Advanced Diabetes Management through American Association of Diabetic Educators. Dr. Kris Diggins recently published an article — Deprescribing: Polypharmacy in Older Adults with Comorbidities (July 2019) — in The Nurse Practitioner Journal, and published in the Journal of Christian Nursing, In Want of Water: Quenching the Thirst of Body and Spirit. She is also excited to announce that her oldest son is getting married in October. Congratulations, Dr. Diggins! Dr. Kathryn Miller, Mrs. Mary Dowell, and Mrs. Amber Bruffy attended the Virginia State Simulation Alliance (VASSA) Conference in July of 2019. They presented their work, Gaining SSH Accreditation for your Simulation Center: The Nuts and Bolts of a Self-Study, in a podium presentation.
Mrs. Mary Dowell passed her Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) exam. Congratulations! Dr. Dana Woody was recently promoted to Division Nurse Leader for the Mid-Atlantic for the American Red Cross, and she currently serves as Board Member for the Historic Blue Ridge Chapter of the American Red Cross. Dr. Woody also published in Virginia Nurses Today, Health Literacy: Answering the Call (May 2019). Dr. Shanna Akers and Dr. Kathryn Miller received the Faculty Research Project Award from the Center for Research & Scholarship. Their work is ongoing and related to the topic of spiritual care. Dr. Donna Washburn presented her topic, Addressing Barriers to Medication Adherence: A Screening Instrument Validation Study, as a poster presentation at the VA CNS conference in April 2019. She has been invited to present this topic at the Sigma 45th Biennial Convention in November 2019. Dr. Jerry Harvey and Dr. Steve Keith published an article - Incarnational Ministry for the Healing of Body and Soul: Interdisciplinary Engagement from Nursing and Chaplaincy in The Faith and the Academy. Dr. Karla Giese recently presented at the Conference on Physician Burnout. Dr. Raymond Zakhari presented at the National American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Conference.
S T U D E N T S P O T L I G H T : M AT T W Y S O R , J UNIOR NUR SING ST UDENT DENA TODD
Matt Wysor decided to come to Liberty University after serving 4 years in the U.S. Army and is currently serving as the Vice President of the Liberty University (LU) Student Veterans Association. “I thought God was calling me to do 20 years in the military and then retire,” Matt shared. “Then God pulled my heart in another direction to come to Liberty.” Matt finished his career in the Army as a combat medic with a total of 6 years of service. He values the education
he is receiving from LUSON and shared that the classes set a tone for critical thinking while helping him engage with the patient in a knowledgeable manner through practice in simulation and clinical environments. Matt’s plans are to finish his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree at Liberty University, then pursue his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and ultimately serve the Lord in medical missions overseas with his wife. The Scripture passage in Jeremiah 17:8 has provided encouragement through his journey: “He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” School of Nursing
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LUSON Boot Camp for Freshmen SHANNA AKERS
Moving away from home for the first time (or sending your student away to college) can create a multitude of fears and challenges. LUSON Senior and LUNSA Events Coordinator Connor Grossoehme came up with a great idea! Freshman nursing students were invited to attend the 2019 LUSON Freshman Boot Camp to visit the LUSON Simulation Center and be introduced to topics such as medical terminology,
cardiopulmonary resuscitation, diabetes management, health assessment, and simulation. At the end of each session, students and their parents were invited to meet the LUSON dean and faculty, where they experienced the love, joy, and gentleness of our LUSON family and learned the information needed to adapt to their new surroundings.
Simulation Center Update: Using Standardized Patients A M B E R B R U F F Y A N D K AT H R Y N M I L L E R
The more realistic the training environment, the better prepared the student will be for a real-life patient encounter. Standardized patients (SP) are used by the Liberty University School of Nursing Simulation Center to increase the student learning experience and best prepare our students for today’s healthcare environment. This is the highest fidelity of simulation, using real people as actors to portray patients with healthcare concerns. Manikins and task trainers assist with psychomotor skill acquisition, but skills that lie within the affective domain and deal with professional communication require a human aspect that only standardized patients can provide. The Association of Standardized Patient Educators (ASPE, 2013) is the international organization for professionals in the field of simulation and standardized patient methodology. The association is dedicated to setting standards of best practice and fostering patient-centered care. The SP training provided by the LUSON Simulation Center is based on the models set forth by this organization, in alignment with the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL, 2019) and the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH, 2016). The 2019 ASPE conference, held in Orlando, Fla., focused on “Small World, Big Ideas: Advancing Best Practices.” Amber Bruffy, APRN Simulation Center Director who coordinates the LUSON Simulation Center SP program, was able to
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attend the conference in June. The conference was robust with information regarding best practices, setting goals for SP programs worldwide. Future goals for the LUSON Simulation Center SP program include partnerships with local theater groups and a mentorship program where experienced SPs will be paired with new SPs for additional training and support. Association of Standardized Patient Educators (2013). About ASPE. Retrieved from https://aspehq.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_ content&view=article&id=31:about-aspe-overview&catid=20:sitecontent&Itemid=113 Association of Standardized Patient Educators (2013). The ASPE standards of best practice. Retrieved from https://www.aspeducators.org/ standards-of-best-practice-. International Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning. Standards of best practice:INACSL standards of best practice: SimulationSM(2019).Retrieved from https://www.inacsl.org/inacslstandards-of-best-practice-simulation/. Society for Simulation in Healthcare (2016). About simulation. Retrieved from https://www.ssih.org/About-SSH/About-Simulation
S P I R I T U A LI T Y in H E A LT H C A R E SHANNA AKERS
The American Nurses’ Association’s Code of Ethics for Nurses outlines that nurses are ethically responsible for the spiritual care or well-being of patients and their families (Provisions 3 and 5). The NANDA nursing diagnoses list has contained both spiritual well-being and spiritual distress in the 1970s (Nanda, 2018). The Joint Commission requires the spiritual assessment of all patients (Joint, 2019). To bring this topic to the attention of nursing students and other healthcare students, in the spring of 2019, the Liberty University School of Nursing Convo Select discussed the topic of spiritual care in the patient care setting, including both acute care and community care perspectives. I had the honor of interviewing Mr. Darren Miller, chaplain at Centra Health, and Rev. Jennifer Williams, chaplain and faith community nurse at Centra Health. When discussing spiritual care, Mr. Miller stated, “Spirituality — spiritual care — for each person can be very unique and quite different.” Rev. Williams further connected the role of the nurse as spiritual caregiver by stating, “We cannot do without speaking about spirituality because we are spiritual beings.”
The role of the nurse is that of the holistic caregiver. He or she should be attentive to the spiritual needs of the patient as much as the physical and mental/emotional needs. Spiritual care should be patient centered, create a connection between caregiver and patient, and align with the beliefs of the patient. As Christian nurses, we are called to serve and to care for our patients, their families, and our communities. To fulfill God’s calling on our lives, we must be invested in offering spiritual care. I would encourage you to view the interview in full. You can view it at http://media2.liberty. edu/mediaplayer/1199/message. American Nurses Association (ANA). (2015). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements. Silver Spring, MD: Author. Joint Commission (2019). Medical record-spiritual assessment. Retrieved from https://www.jointcommission.org/standards_information/ jcfaqdetails.aspx?StandardsFaqId=1492&ProgramId=46 Nanda Nanda Nursing Diagnosis List (2018). Nursing diagnosis list. Retrieved from http://www.nandanursingdiagnosislist.org/#VALUES
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LUNSA — Revamped, Recharged, and Shining for Him DA N A WO O DY
The Liberty University Nursing Student Association (LUNSA) had a landmark year in 2018-19. Newly committed to leadership (voice), scholarship (knowledge), and philanthropy (service), we hosted the Council of Student Leaders Summit. This meeting provided nursing students from all over the state an opportunity to connect with members of the Virginia Nursing Student Association (VNSA) Board of Directors, as well as an opportunity to network and collaborate. In the fall, we hosted our first annual Pink Out event in support of breast cancer awareness. The event showcased our philanthropy (service) commitment by making butterfly hugs for those battling cancer across the nation. We stole the show at LU Homecoming with a first place win in the float contest. Under the direction of Sarah Soworice, LUNSA vice president, and showcasing our Christian virtues, the float was truly an impressive sight to see. In February, over 60 students attended the VNSA State Conference in Harrisonburg, Va. Our attendance was unprecedented, as we swept the floor with 44 voting delegate seats. All five of our students were voted onto the VNSA Board of Directors for 2019-20. Kelsey Nafzger, LUNSA president, led LUNSA’s Resolution Committee, and we had our first resolution passed at the state level. Showcasing our commitment to scholarship (knowledge) and leadership
(voice), the resolution on workplace violence and incivility left a lasting impression on students and will be featured as the foundation for a simulation experience in the School of Nursing this coming fall. LUNSA supported Gleaning For The World’s WINGS program via a philanthropy (service) event and hosted its first resilience event: Pancakes, PJs, and Paws. LUNSA hosted its first NCLEX Game Night, sponsored by UWorld in April. The game night gave students an opportunity to practice NCLEXstyle questions in a fun environment. We capped off the spring with several service events in support of LU Serve and the Lynchburg Community Care Collaborative — our lights continued to “shine” for Christ! As our year came to a close, we adopted a LUNSA logo. Under the creative spirit of Connor Grossoehme, events director, and the talent of graphic designer Cameron Andrews, the design provides a visual of our commitments. Positioned atop the armor is a Scripture reference, Ephesians 4:13: “Until we all reach unity in faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” LUNSA still has work to do for LUSON and for the nursing profession at large — all for His glory. We look forward to “shining on” in 2019-20
LUSON Review of Research Week CYNTHIA GOODRICH
2019 Research Week at Liberty University was an exciting time! It is always inspiring to see presentations from all disciplines as they deliver the fruits of their labors. It was especially exhilarating to have several nursing students participate this year. Paige Andrews placed second for her presentation entitled, A Risk Benefit Analysis of Home Birth & Holistic Interventions for the Hospital
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Setting. Lauren Carter and Chris Lepto submitted a PowerPoint presentation on student mentorship. Carrington Crossland and Hee Seung (William) Lee participated in the poster session. Faculty mentors are an integral part of guiding and encouraging students to strengthen their skills in conducting research while they are at Liberty University and well into their careers. Research is the foundation of the nursing profession and serves as the cornerstone for providing safe and excellent care. The Liberty University School of Nursing is anticipating more involvement each year as Liberty University and The School of Nursing raise the expectations for scholarship!
D N P P R O G R A M F A L L 2 0 1 9 U P D AT E S H A R O N KO P I S
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program now offers four DNP pathways and one certificate program. Options for students to obtain a DNP include: • Post MSN DNP online • Post BSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) DNP online and residential • Post MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP) online • Post graduate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Telehealth continues to expand opportunities for advanced practice nursing students. This fall, residential, online FNP/ DNP students, along with PMHNP/DNP and certificate students, will all work through a standardized mental health patient scenario using telehealth and the I Double® Robots. This will be the first standardized patient scenario that brings all four programs together. To find out more about our DNP program, visit Liberty.edu/DNP.
INS PROGRAM TRACEY TURNER
The residential BSN program has a hidden jewel: the International Nursing Student Program (INS)! The purpose of the program is to meet the needs of international and missionary kids who are not well connected to academic and community resources that could benefit their experience at LUSON. Students who are in the INS Program meet with the program
facilitator regularly throughout the semester to assess the student’s spiritual, mental, physical, and academic well-being. The program has been very well received by the students and began with Professor Raj (aka Mama Raj) as the program facilitator. In Fall 2019, Dr. Simpson took over the program.
B S N P R O G R A M U P D AT E TRACEY TURNER
The residential BSN program has enjoyed growth in students and faculty over the past year. In May, the BSN program graduated 106 students. The graduation ceremony was held in the Center for Music and the Worship Arts, and, in true LUSON fashion, the School of Nursing filled the building with people, celebration, and Christ’s love. For the 2019-20 academic year, the program will have over 700 students enrolled in sophomore-, junior-, or senior-level nursing courses. The residential BSN program enjoys participating in interprofessional experiences throughout the academic year. Within the past academic year, BSN students have participated in events with the School of Aeronautics, School of Law, Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lynchburg Community Care Collaborative, and many more! This fall, the residential BSN program
will be serving respiratory therapy students as they join nursing students in pharmacology. LUSON is also partnering with LU’s Emergency Preparedness Management in an effort to provide every incoming BSN student with the Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) training. CRASE training will be incorporated into health assessment. BSN students are an essential part of area healthcare systems, with students completing clinical rotations in Lynchburg, Roanoke, and Richmond, as well as internationally. Each healthcare facility routinely provides feedback on the compassion, integrity, and knowledge of LUSON’s BSN students and alumni! To learn more about the BSN program, visit our website at Liberty.edu/Nursing.
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Nurse Camp 2019 K AT R I V E R A
The halls of the nursing school were alive this summer. For three days in July, the school was taken over by nurse camp as 38 high school students came to spend time with the faculty and staff of LUSON. These students were given their first pair of scrubs and a stethoscope that they used to listen to heart and lung sounds. They learned to do vital signs and obtained their BLS certification. The simulation center hosted the students in four different stations for hours of robotic fun and learning. They watched a delivery, learned how to start a computerized IV, practiced infant care and feeding, and got their Stop the Bleed certificates. Each day also included fun activities such as relay races with medical equipment, team-building activities, and a scavenger
hunt that included the entire LU campus! One student said this was the highlight of her summer and that she was definitely coming to Liberty in two years. This year there were students who participated thanks to the generosity of local businesses (Centra Health, Gear UP, and Staunton River High School) that provided scholarships. This was a wonderful opportunity for the faculty to share why they became nurses and why they feel it is such a rewarding profession. Parents of students commented about how wonderful this experience was for their child, and faculty and staff were blessed by the enthusiasm of this energetic group of young people.
Psi Delta Update and Plans for 2019-20 CYNTHIA GOODRICH The Psi Delta Chapter of Sigma Thea Tau International had an active 2018-19 year. Education on health awareness was the emphasis during the fall semester. A “Pink Out� was held in October to profile Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and a breast cancer survivor was the featured speaker. During the month of November, Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner Meghan Calland spoke on the progress that has been made in this area of practice to better support patients and families during times of chronic illness. Research was the focus for the spring education programs offered through a partnership with Psi Delta and the Liberty University School of Nursing (LUSON) Research Council. Faculty from the Liberty University School of Education supported the education efforts with Dr. Kurt Michael speaking on quantitative research and Dr. Cindy Spaulding presenting essential aspects of qualitative research. 13
Community service continues to be a priority by providing Christmas gifts to children in the foster system who are in need of caring and support. April brought transition of new board members. After the annual meeting, a transition meeting was held where new officers were installed. The current board members include: President: Cindy Goodrich Vice President: Tonia Kennedy Secretary: Dottie Murphy Treasurer: Emilee Harker Leadership Succession Chair: Dana Woody Governance Chair & Counselor: Sharon Kopis Psi Delta is looking forward to a productive 2019-20. Psi Delta members, with the support of the board, will develop a strategic plan to articulate the goals for increasing education programs, extending community service activities, and strengthening leadership with current and future members. Psi Delta will be sending two delegates, Cindy Goodrich and Tonia Kennedy, to the Biennial Convention in Washington D.C., in November. Perhaps we will see you there!
Nursing Missions: Africa K AT R I V E R A In keeping with Liberty University School of Nursing’s long history of international medical mission trips, students went to both Rwanda and Kenya over spring break last semester. A total of 38 students and six faculty members spent 12 days in Africa serving the people there. The Kenya trip offered junior-level pediatric students the opportunity to earn pediatric clinical credit while working with children of all ages. The team worked at the Jesse Kay Children’s Hospital and Happy Life Orphanage in Nairobi alongside local nurses caring for both healthy and sick infants and children. The team ran three free clinics for people of all ages, providing medical screenings for hundreds of patients who do not normally see a healthcare provider. The team was also able to include free medications for those who needed it,
thanks to the nurse practitioner faculty that came from LU. The Rwanda team returned to “the people beyond the forest” to see firsthand how community assessment and social determinates of health can impact patient outcomes. Women of Gihaya knew that giving birth in the Mont Cyangugu Health Center was preferred but voiced that there was no transportation for them across the vast Lake Kivu. Now, through voice, vision, and LUSON partnership, transportation across Lake Kivu is a reality. Following in the footsteps of the 2018 team, this year’s LUSON Rwanda team dedicated the boat their fellow classmates had raised money to build. The boat, built on site by local craftsmen and captained by a locally hired boatman in partnership with the Anglican Church, now serves the island of Gihaya. The Mont Cyangugu Health Center now expects increased births in the health center and improved outcomes for the women and children of Gihaya. Everyone involved agrees that these trips were life changing for all involved, and everyone was blessed to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Trips to Kenya and Rwanda are already planned for spring of 2020 and also a new trip to Nepal in May of 2020.
I N T E R P R O F E S S I O N A L E D U C AT I O N D R . S H A N N A A K E R S A N D D R . K AT H R Y N M I L L E R
As nurses, we know the value of interprofessional education (IPE). Whether it is learning the soft skills of communication or the competencies of practice, healthcare professionals have been working together for decades to offer the best care to patients. The educational setting should be the starting place for all future healthcare professionals to begin learning alongside and from each other. Over the years, LUSON faculty and students have participated in multiple joint-educational opportunities with the Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM), the School of Aeronautics (SOA), and the Department of Public Health (DPH) in the School of Health Sciences (SHS). The Simulation Center provides an opportunity for students in the American Sign Language program to interpret in a medical setting. IPE impacts team communication, competencies, and management of high stress situations. Research shows that IPE improves patient outcomes. In Spring 2019, we officially launched the IPE Council. The Council has representatives from every school at Liberty University and exists to organize, manage, and evaluate IPE events as well as disseminate best practices through interdepartmental collaboration, communication, and shared knowledge.
A new website connected to the LUSON Simulation Center’s site will be launched in early Spring 2020 to better serve students learning across all disciplines. The website will host a calendar of events as well as indicators of the responsible school and contact persons. LUSON administration and faculty believe this addition will improve student learning outcomes and foster creativity as we more fully understand the impact of IPE in our student population. Dr. Kathryn Miller, LUSON executive director of Clinical Affairs, and Dr. Shanna Akers, LUSON dean, are co-chairs of the IPE Council for the academic year. If you have ideas for IPE events, please email IPECouncil@Liberty.edu. Gaumard (2019). White Paper. A Primer in Simulation for Nursing Education: Key Elements and Best Practices. Interprofessional Education Collaborative Expert Panel. (2011). Core competencies for interprofessional collaborative practice: Report of an expert panel. Washington, D.C.: Interprofessional Education Collaborative. Retrieved from https://hsc.unm.edu/ipe/resources/index. html World Health Organization. (2010). Framework for action on interprofessionaleducation and collaborative practice. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/hrh/resources/framework_action/en/
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LUSON ADVISORY BOARD ROSTER 2019-2020 Shanna Akers, EdD, MSN/MBA-HC, RN, CNE Dean, LUSON Curt Baker, RN CNO, Centra Health Diane Bridge, EdD, MSN, RN Administrative Dean, Online Nursing Education Reba Childress, EdD, MS, RN, FNP-C, CNE VASSA President & Conference Administrator Joan Deal Vice President, Acute Care Nursing, Centra Health Danielle Englund American Red Cross Kecia Hall, MSN, RN-BC CHS - Clinical Nurse Educator/Student Liaison Sharon Kopis, EdD, MS, RN, FNP-C, CNE Chair, Doctoral Studies, LUSON Nancy Littlefield, DNP, RN, FACHE Riverside Health System, Chief Nurse Officer Andrea Mazzoccoli, PhD, RN, FAAN Senior Vice President /Chief Nurse Executive, Bon Secours Health System
Shannon Miles, BSN, RN Coordinator of Community Outreach and Perinatal Navigation, Centra Health Kathryn Miller, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE Executive Director of Clinical Affairs, LUSON Tara Miller Director of Operations, LUSON Keith Paulus, MSN, RN LUSON Instructor and Instructional Mentor | MSN Program Alumni Brandi Rawlins, MSN, RN, CMSRN LUSON Instructor | BSN Program Alumni Meg Scheaffel, BSN, MBA-MHA, RN VP/CNO Carilion Clinic Hospital and Health Care Tracey Turner, EdD, MSN, RNC-OB Chair, BSN Program, LUSON Heather Vasioutovitch, DNP, RN, FNP-BC Centra Health | LUSON Alumni Georgiann Watts, RN Vice President/CNO Bedford Memorial Hospital
Vickie McLean, DNP, RN, CCRN, ACNS-BC CNS, Lynchburg General Hospital
STUDENT ADVISORY BOARDS
Alondra Ramirez, Senior, Dec. Paige Wolford, Senior, Dec. Joelle Schreiber, Senior, Dec. Heather Kubel, Senior, Dec. Sarah Mann, Junior Taylor Rose, Senior, May Madison Bowe, Junior Faith Montgomery, Senior, May Hee Seung “Will” Lee, Junior Lauren Bishop, Sophomore Makayla Reynolds, Junior Mary Adonteng, Junior Ronald Friedman “Ronnie,” Junior G R A D U AT E S T U D E N T S ADVISORY BOARD
Nina Killian, MSN Summer Hepler, MSN Anika Holmes, RN-BSN-MSN Patricia Day, RN-BSN-MSN Stephen Wright, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP Joanna Asselin, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP Samantha Wilkins-Copeland, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP Lisa Floyd, Post-MSN to DNP Meredith Parnel, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP
L U S O N F A C U LT Y Shanna Akers, EdD, MSN/MBA-HC, RN, CNE Dean, School of Nursing
Carol Harvey, MSN, RN Assistant Professor
Diane Bridge, EdD, MSN, RN Administrative Dean, Online Nursing Education
Jerry Harvey, EdD, RN Associate Professor
Sharon Kopis, EdD, MS, RN, FNP-C, CNE Chair, Doctoral Studies
Mary Highton, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC Associate Professor
Kathryn Miller, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE Executive Director of Clinical Affairs, Associate Professor
Heather Humphreys, DNP, CNE Associate Professor
Tracey Turner, EdD, MSN, RNC-OB Chair, BSN Program
Rachel Joseph, PhD, CCRN Associate Professor
Mary Lynn Clarke, EdD, MSN, RN, CCRN Associate Professor
Frederick B. Kail, MSN, RN Associate Professor
Mary Dowell, MSN-Ed, RN, CHSE Undergraduate Simulation Center Director, Adjunct Professor
Tonia Kennedy, EdD, MSN, CCRN-K Associate Professor
Cindy Drohn, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Cindy Goodrich, EdD, CNE Professor Linda Gregory, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Emilee Harker, MSN, RN Assistant Professor
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Debra Maddox, DNP, RN Associate Professor Sydney McCraw, MSN, RN Instructor, Adjunct Professor Vickie Moore, DNP, RN, FNP-C Associate Professor Dorothy Murphy, DNP, RN, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner Program Director, Professor Kristen Oakley, MSN, RN-BC, CMSRN Instructor
Folashade Odedina, DNP-RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Psych-Mental Health NP Program Director, Associate Professor Tamra Rasberry, PhD, RN Associate Professor Katherine Rivera, DNP, RN Associate Professor Deidra Simpson, Pharm.D Associate Professor Stacy Taylor, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Dena Todd, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Ken Thompson, Pharm.D, RPh Associate Professor Sandra Tordoff, MSN, CCRN Assistant Professor Elizabeth Whorley, PhD, CNE Associate Professor Dana Woody, DNP, RN Associate Professor
C ALENDAR OF EVENTS | 2019-20
OCT. 18-20
Homecoming
NOV. 22-29
OCT. 19
LUNSA Tailgate
DEC. 3 2-3:30 P.M.
OCT. 21
CENTER FOR MUSIC AND THE WORSHIP ARTS, CONCERT HALL
OCT. 29 3-5 P.M.
IPE Events - Aviation
LUSON Convo Select
NOV. 7 10-11:10 A.M. CENTER FOR MUSIC AND THE WORSHIP ARTS, CONCERT HALL
NOV. 15 7:30 P.M.
Shanna’s Café
Pinning and Dedication Ceremony
6-7:30 P.M.
NOV. 8 2-4 P.M.
Thanksgiving Break
CFAW and DNP Open House
Salvation Army Band Concert CENTER FOR MUSIC AND THE WORSHIP ARTS, CONCERT HALL
DEC. 13
Last day of fall semester
JAN. 13
Spring semester begins
FEB. 29 VNSA Conference 8 A.M.-5 P.M. MARCH 7 6-7:30 P.M.
Pinning and Dedication Ceremony
JULY 6-8 8 A.M.5 P.M.
Nurse Camp
location-arrow Liberty.edu/Nursing phone 1 (855) 586-8773 @LibertyUNursing | instagram @libertynursing
Training Champions for Christ since 1971