ANA COVID-19 Resource: Evidence as the Basis of Decisions In this time of unprecedented change and uncertainty due to COVID-19, the emerging scientific evidence results in recommendations that may change based on new data and information. As new information emerges, this must be communicated with all those affected by the pandemic and those caring for…
Our Voice: Bridget Heroff on the fluctuating role of the school nurse in the Covid era
Bridget Heroff MSN, RN, PEL-CSN, has worked in the field of Pediatric nursing for nearly 15 years. A year into attending St. Norbert College for a degree in Fine Arts and Communications, Heroff opted instead to pursue nursing. Heroff explains, “During the first couple of weeks of my first year of college, 9/11 happened. So…
How We’ve Got Your Back
Let’s face it. Sometimes, nurses have it rough. Even before the start of COVID-19, nursing had one of the highest rates of burnout of any profession. This was, in part, a result of overwork and unconventional hours, both of which have only been accentuated by the pandemic. At the American Nursing Association – Illinois, we…
Our Voice: Julio Santiago challenges the status quo in vascular access
Julio Santiago, DNP, R.N., MSN, CCRN, VA-BC, grew up in a high crime area of Brooklyn before making a move to Illinois with his father following his parents’ divorce. He knew he wanted to help others, particularly those from underserved communities, and felt a solid education could help him do just that. In 1990, he…
Proposed Bylaws Amendments – 2020
Bylaws Amendments ANA-Illinois held to Bylaws Forums (June 2nd and June 4th) designed to give the members input on proposals. Feedback received from the Forums was then incorporated into the proposals to be disseminated to the members for a vote. Reminder – Voting for the ratification of the Bylaws Amendments will occur via electronic/online voting.…
Our Voice: Molly Moran on the value of health and personal wellness among nurses
Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation of Illinois (HNHN-IL) state lead, Molly Moran, MSN, RN, CCRN, has been passionate about healthy and holistic living for the better part of ten years. But major life changes, professional and personal, have often required she adapt her approach. She finds, “Like everybody else, it has been a journey. And that…
American Nurses Association – Illinois: Taking Care of Your Mental Health During a Pandemic
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the public view of the scientific and health communities has seemed to focus on little else. Because of the danger and contagiousness of COVID-19, ways to slow the spread of the virus and mitigate its severity have eclipsed most other health issues. At ANA-Illinois, we believe the effects of COVID-19 on…
Our Voice: Tamara Bland talks about diversity in nursing education and practice
“You will never make it through this program.” Tamara Bland, RN, MSN, Ed.D. is a Southside Chicago girl and proud of it. Her passion for diversity started as a student while attending Concordia University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. One of four students of color in her cohort, Bland expressly remembers walking into…
Our Voice: Nurse staffing based on patient needs means better care and safety
It is Thursday afternoon and in my medical intensive care unit there are twelve critically ill patients. I am one of six nurses scheduled for duty that day. Normally we would have a 2:1 ratio, a nurse for every two patients. However, like most days, this is not a normal day. Difficult decisions will need…
Why be an American Nurses Association — Illinois Member?
What is the American Nurses Association? There are a variety of professional organizations for both student and full-time nurses. So, what makes the American Nurses Association (ANA) different? The ANA is the only comprehensive professional organization that represents the interests of the nation’s 4 million registered nurses. According to the National Health Council, the American…