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This episode features Jose D. Castillo III, PhD, MSNA, CRNA, APRN, FAANA, discussing the Florida Board of Nursing and its work investigating fraudulent nursing schools, his goals for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and the importance of giving back. 

Dr. Castillo earned his PhD in Instructional Design and Technology from Keiser University in 2016. He previously completed his BSN at West Visayas State University in 1994 and his MS in Nurse Anesthesia at Wolford College in 2007. Currently, Dr. Castillo is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) practitioner in Florida and has been a full-time Nurse Anesthesia faculty member for over 16 years. In 2023, he was appointed as a tenured Associate Professor at Texas Wesleyan University. 

Dr. Castillo has held several significant leadership roles, including past President of the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, recent Chair of the Florida Board of Nursing, and current President-Elect for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. His dedication to the nursing profession has earned him the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology 2021 Ira P. Gunn Award for Outstanding Professional Advocacy and a 2024 Fellow designation. On a national level, Dr. Castillo frequently presents scholarly topics relevant to CRNAs and nursing.  

Links 

National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) 

Florida Board of Nursing (FBON) 

FBON Nurse Compact FAQs 

Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

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The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In this episode, Shamisca Jean Baptiste, RN, talks about celebrating her two-year nursiversary, choosing a nursing school, and preparing for the NCLEX. 

Shamisca is a dedicated registered nurse with a strong commitment to providing exceptional patient care. With experience in various health care settings, she excels in delivering compassionate support and expert medical assistance. Shamisca is skilled in both clinical and administrative tasks, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.  

Links 

Florida Board of Nursing NCLEX Pass Rates 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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This episode features Jose D. Castillo III, PhD, MSNA, CRNA, APRN, FAANA, in discussion with Florida Center for Nursing Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, about his role as a CRNA, finding the nursing role that fits you, and asking the hard questions. 

Dr. Castillo earned his PhD in Instructional Design and Technology from Keiser University in 2016. He previously completed his BSN at West Visayas State University in 1994 and his MS in Nurse Anesthesia at Wolford College in 2007. Currently, Dr. Castillo is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) practitioner in Florida and has been a full-time Nurse Anesthesia faculty member for over 16 years. In 2023, he was appointed as a tenured Associate Professor at Texas Wesleyan University. 

Dr. Castillo has held several significant leadership roles, including past President of the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, recent Chair of the Florida Board of Nursing, and current President-Elect for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. His dedication to the nursing profession has earned him the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology 2021 Ira P. Gunn Award for Outstanding Professional Advocacy and a 2024 Fellow designation. On a national level, Dr. Castillo frequently presents scholarly topics relevant to CRNAs and nursing. 

Links 

National Council of State Boards of Nursing 

Florida Board of Nursing 

Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In this episode, Cynthia Drew, DNP, APRN, talks about the role of autonomous nurse practitioners, the value of precepting, and encouraging the next generation of nurses. 

Dr. Drew’s education consists of a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) in leadership at University of Texas Arlington and a Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Florida. She is a nationally certified geriatric nurse practitioner through ANCC and licensed and practicing as an autonomous nurse practitioner in Florida. Her experience as a nurse practitioner in the past 36 years has involved mainly primary and secondary care with cardiology and internal medicine patients. She has been involved with nursing policy at the state and national level since 2006. She is currently on the board of the Sarasota County Nurse Practitioner Association, educational committee of the Florida Nurse Practitioner Network, and member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.  

Links 

Sarasota County Nurse Practitioner Association 

American Association of Nurse Practitioners 

Florida Nurse Practitioner Network 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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This episode features Susan Parda-Watters, DNP, MMOAS, MSN, APRN/ACNS-BC, CMSRN, discussing learning to be a leader, the reality of being a military flight nurse, and the alphabet soup of her credentials. 

Dr. Parda-Watters is a global leader with extensive experience as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist and in expeditionary command and control leadership. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and a retired Lieutenant Colonel with over 20 years of active-duty service and 31 years of nursing expertise in aeromedical evacuation/flight nursing, aerospace physiology transport, critical care, emergency/trauma response, planning and coordination, hyperbaric, and psychiatric medicine. Her exposures and opportunities as a nurse built her up and prepared her to be where she is today, and she is currently a member of a USF research team as an Advanced Practice Provider.  

Links 

USF Health Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment (HBOT) Clinical Trial 

Military Order of the World Wars 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In this episode, Anthony J. Silva, MSN, RN, CNOR, AMB-BC, ROT, discusses his work on the frontlines and in the classroom, the importance of relationships in his career, and more.  

Anthony Silva is an orthopedic scrub nurse and ambulatory registered nurse at Naples Comprehensive Health in Naples, FL. He is faculty at Rasmussen University in Fort Myers, FL, as an adjunct clinical nursing instructor. He is a custom infusion nurse at The Wellness Lab in Naples, Florida. He is currently pursuing his DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner at the University of Miami.  

Links  

Global Surgical Volunteers 

FNA Special Interest Group for New Graduates 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In this episode, Dakota Redd, RN, discusses his work as a Chief Nursing Officer, the importance of listening as a leader, and maintaining a focus on helping nurses thrive. 

Dakota Redd’s health care journey started more than forty years ago with eighteen years of critical care nursing, focusing on Cardiovascular Nursing. He then took on roles in nursing leadership, moving from Nursing Supervision to Department Director, Chief Nursing Executive and Chief Nursing Officer. Beginning in 2021, he started his current role as the Chief Nursing Officer for Hendry Regional Medical Center in Clewiston, Florida. In 2023 he was recognized by the Florida Rural Health Association, as a “Healthcare Hero” for his leadership and courage in transforming his hospital’s culture.  

Links 

Florida Rural Health Association
Florida Center for Nursing 
Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 
Find FCN on social media  

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In the second part of the conversation between Florida Center for Nursing Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, and Francine Bono-Neri, PhD, RN, APRN, PNP, Dr. Bono-Neri talks about self-care, shares data gathered by her organization Nurses United Against Human Trafficking, and offers tips for nurse advocacy. 

Francine Bono-Neri, PhD, RN, APRN, PNP is a pediatric nurse practitioner, academic nurse educator, trained sexual assault nurse examiner, researcher, published author, invited speaker, and nurse leader. She served as a Director-at-Large for the American Nurses Association for the State of New York, and as President for the Long Island Chapter of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Bono-Neri is the recipient of the prestigious 2019 Jane Eleanor Knox N.E.F. National Scholarship. As a way of giving back, she has established a scholarship in perpetuity through N.E.F., The Francine Bono-Neri Scholarship, which will be awarded annually to a master’s or doctoral nursing student pursuing clinical expertise or scholarly work in the area of human trafficking and anti-trafficking measures. Dr. Bono-Neri was awarded a Nassau County Legislature Citation and was recognized at the United Nations, receiving the 2024 Inspiring Global Nurse Award and the 2024 International Ceca Award. She was selected to be inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) this upcoming Fall. Dr. Bono-Neri is the Co-founder and President of Nurses United Against Human Trafficking, P.A., a global professional association created for the sole purpose of combatting modern-day slavery by educating, equipping, and empowering healthcare professionals on human trafficking and anti-trafficking measures.  

Links  

Nurses United Against Human Trafficking  

National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA)  

Florida Center for Nursing  

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter  

Find FCN on social media  

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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This episode features Florida Center for Nursing Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, in conversation with Francine Bono-Neri, PhD, RN, APRN, PNP. Dr. Bono-Neri discusses her work fighting human trafficking and her refusal to fail another victim. 

Francine Bono-Neri, PhD, RN, APRN, PNP is a pediatric nurse practitioner, academic nurse educator, trained sexual assault nurse examiner, researcher, published author, invited speaker, and nurse leader. She served as a Director-at-Large for the American Nurses Association for the State of New York, and as President for the Long Island Chapter of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Bono-Neri is the recipient of the prestigious 2019 Jane Eleanor Knox N.E.F. National Scholarship. As a way of giving back, she has established a scholarship in perpetuity through N.E.F., The Francine Bono-Neri Scholarship, which will be awarded annually to a master’s or doctoral nursing student pursuing clinical expertise or scholarly work in the area of human trafficking and anti-trafficking measures. Dr. Bono-Neri was awarded a Nassau County Legislature Citation and was recognized at the United Nations, receiving the 2024 Inspiring Global Nurse Award and the 2024 International Ceca Award. She was selected to be inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) this upcoming Fall. Dr. Bono-Neri is the Co-founder and President of Nurses United Against Human Trafficking, P.A., a global professional association created for the sole purpose of combatting modern-day slavery by educating, equipping, and empowering healthcare professionals on human trafficking and anti-trafficking measures. 

Links 

Nurses United Against Human Trafficking 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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Featured guest Christine Vega-Perez, RN, MSN, CHC, talks with FCN Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, about starting small, learning from mistakes, and the importance of sleep. 

Christine Vega-Perez is a Decision Making & Accountability Life Coach. She is also an RN and has worked in the health care setting since 2007. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Systems Management. Christine founded Life’s Risk Management in 2021, a life coaching service that provides one-on-one services to guide self-development and strategy implementation to improve overall wellness in life.  

Links 

Life’s Risk Management 

But Are You Happy? Podcast 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find FCN on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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This episode features guest Terry Chase, ND, MA, RN, CEIP-ED, talking about finding nursing after a traumatic bike accident and making herself “bigger than the chair.” 

Dr. Terry Chase is a nationally recognized speaker, teacher, and author spanning careers in health care, higher education, and private practice. As a leader in nursing and health care, she has contributed value to educational programs as Patient and Family Education Coordinator at Craig Hospital, Denver Colorado, and most recently, as Associate Professor-Mental Health in the BSN program at Colorado Mesa University. She is the author of countless professional papers and the award-winning book, Spoke by Spoke: How a Broken Back and a Broken Bike Led to a WholeHearted Life. 

Links 

The Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence 

National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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Two military nurses join the discussion for this episode, Major Isis Rosario, BSN, RN, 66C, 66G, AN, and Captain Andrea Tosi, BSN, RN, CCRN, AN. The guests talk about the importance of mentorship and the differences and similarities between military and civilian nursing. 

Major Isis Rosario enlisted in the Army in 2007 as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Demonstrating a commitment to her professional development, Major Rosario pursued further education through the Army Enlisted Commissioning Program. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Wayland Baptist University and was subsequently commissioned as an Army officer.  Major Rosario began her nursing career as a Medical-Surgical nurse on a telemetry step-down unit, later specializing as a Labor and Delivery Nurse. After five years in Labor and Delivery, Major Rosario decided to further specialize by obtaining certification as a Behavioral Health Nurse. She has continued to excel in her military and nursing careers, taking on a leadership role as the Officer in Charge of an inpatient behavioral health unit at Fort Belvoir, VA. Major Rosario currently serves as the Nurse Counselor for the 6th Brigade station at Fort Hunger, Georgia.  

Captain Andrea Tosi earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a Minor in Military Science from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ, in 2016 and commissioned through ROTC in the Army Nurse Corps. She was activated during the COVID-19 pandemic to support Joint Task Force Civilian Support in Knoxville, TN at University of Tennessee Medical Center (Sep-Oct 2021) and Urban Augmentation Medical Task Force in Riverside, CA, at Riverside University Health System (Jan-Feb 2021). Captain Tosi maintains national certification for Critical Care Nurse through American Association of Critical Care Nurses. She is the Knowledge Management Officer for Female Mentoring and Morale Program through United States Army Cadet Command.   

Links  

US Army Cadet Command 6th Brigade 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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This episode features Renee Thompson, DNP, RN, FAAN, discussing her work addressing bullying and incivility in the health care industry, the importance of a healthy workplace culture for nurse retention, and the necessity of asking for help. 

Dr. Renee Thompson is the CEO & Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute and works with healthcare organizations to cultivate a professional workforce by addressing bullying and incivility. Renee has authored several books and is one of only 30 nurses worldwide who have achieved the prestigious certified speaking professional designation. In 2018, she was recognized as one of LinkedIn’s Top Ten Voices in Healthcare for her contribution to their global online healthcare community. In 2022 and 2023, she was identified as one of LinkedIn's top 5 Nurse Influencers.

Also, in 2022, Renee was inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing for her work to eradicate disruptive behaviors in healthcare.

Links 

Healthy Workforce Institute 

Coffee Break: Breaking the Cycle of Bullying in Healthcare, One Cup at a Time 

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In the second part of the conversation between Florida Center for Nursing Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, and Mary Anne Enns, DNP, RN, CNE, Dr. Enns talks about advancing the nursing workforce with the creation of her trailblazing LPN to RN pathway program. 

Dr. Enns is a nursing faculty member at Cape Coral Technical College and at Fort Myers Technical College, where she teaches the LPN to RN bridge program that she created. Her field experience spans more than 30 years in the United States and Canada, and she is nationally certified as a Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE). Dr. Enns earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Post University and holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University, and a Diploma in Nursing from St. Boniface General Hospital Diploma School of Nursing. She was appointed to the Florida Center for Nursing Board of Directors by Governor DeSantis in 2023. 

Links  

Fort Myers Technical College  

Cape Coral Technical College 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

This episode features a follow-up interview with Daniela Diaz, BSN, RN. In 2021, Daniela was a guest on Season 1 of Frontline Nursing when she was a prelicensure BSN student. Now a registered nurse in Miami, FL, Daniela returns to share what it’s like to be a new nurse in the rapidly changing health care landscape.   

Daniela Diaz earned her BSN from the University of South Florida College of Nursing and is a registered nurse in a Cardiovascular surgical intensive care unit in Miami, Florida. 

Links 

Has the Pandemic Impacted our Future Nurses? A Discussion with Daniela Diaz, Student Nurse – Frontline Nursing Season 1 Episode 11  

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

In this episode, Mary Anne Enns, DNP, RN, CNE, discusses starting out with a Diploma in Nursing, returning to school after 25 years, and her current role training excellent practical nurses. 

Dr. Enns is a nursing faculty member at Cape Coral Technical College and at Fort Myers Technical College, where she teaches the LPN to RN bridge program that she created. Her field experience spans more than 30 years in the United States and Canada, and she is nationally certified as a Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE). Dr. Enns earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Post University and holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University, and a Diploma in Nursing from St. Boniface General Hospital Diploma School of Nursing. She was appointed to the Florida Center for Nursing Board of Directors by Governor DeSantis in 2023.  

Links 

Fort Myers Technical College  

Cape Coral Technical College 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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This episode features Jennifer Bonamer, PhD, RN, AHN-BC, NPD-BC, discussing her work shifting the narrative for nurses from self-sacrifice to self-care. Dr. Bonamer also discusses the importance of responding, not reacting, and talks about her work on the American Nurses Association Enterprise Research Advisory Council.

Jen Bonamer works as a Nursing Professional Development – Research Specialist at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System in Sarasota, Florida. She leads the nursing research and evidence-based practice (EBP) programs and is actively focused on supporting healthy work environments and clinician well-being. Jen received her BSN from the University of Florida (Gainesville) and practiced for ten years in pediatrics (general practice and hematology/oncology/bone marrow transplant). She completed the University of South Florida’s (Tampa) Nursing BS to PhD program with her Master of Science degree (nursing education) and PhD (nursing). She is certified in both nursing professional development and advanced holistic nursing. Jen teaches an online EBP class for a local BSN program, is an active member in the American Nurses Association –Enterprise (ANAE) Research Council, and an independent contractor of peer review services for the Magnet program

Links  

ANA Enterprise Research Advisory Council

American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation

2013-2016 American Nurses Association Health Risk Appraisal

Florida Center for Nursing

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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Where do men fit into nursing? In this episode, guest Oleg Frolov, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CMSRN, discusses his journey as a male nurse in the female-dominated profession of nursing. He also discusses his teaching philosophy and the connection between boxing and nursing. 

Oleg has over 20 years of experience in boxing, holding certifications from USA Boxing and Boxing Therapy (of Israel). With a decade as a coach and cornerman at amateur and professional levels (20 years total boxing experience), he emphasizes the USA Boxing curriculum to build a solid foundation for his fighters. Additionally, Oleg is an advanced nurse with a master’s degree in nursing education and 15 years of experience. He holds advanced certifications in Nursing Professional Development (NPD-BC) and Medical-Surgical Nursing (CMSRN). Combining his nursing expertise and boxing experience, Oleg brings a unique approach to Boxing Therapy, integrating fighting and therapeutic principles. He sees boxing as a sport that mirrors life’s rhythm and cycle.  

Links 

Wise Warrior: Boxing for Mental Health 

2013-2016 American Nurses Association Health Risk Appraisal 

ANA's Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

In this episode, Jackie Silvers, RN, dives deep into the realities of school nursing, a much more dramatic line of work than it may seem. She discusses her role as the go-to health expert in the school, the importance of hope, and the “truth” of tummy aches. 

Before relocating to Florida five years ago, Jackie’s nursing career spanned nearly two decades of practice in both acute and public health settings. With a strong cardiac background in critical care, she was provided the opportunity to work in a diverse multifaceted office, which included nuclear stress testing, endoscopy theater, and clinical evaluation of double-blind pharmacological studies. Working with a pediatrician provided her with the experience that prompted her school nursing career.  

 As a school nurse Jackie’s practice has spanned multiple states and diverse educational settings. She has dedicated the last fifteen years to promoting the health and well-being of school-aged children, providing care and support to school communities in both the private and public settings. Throughout her career, she has navigated various challenges— from gang violence to the Covid-19 pandemic—with resilience and determination. Her focus has always been a deep commitment to health equity and fostering a positive environment for learning. Her passion for nursing drives her to empower students to lead healthy lives and achieve their fullest potential.  

 After graduating in 1989 from Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, NY, with an Associate Degree in Applied Nursing Science, she currently holds a multistate license. She has completed several certifications: ACLS, PALS, CCU, BLS, and, more recently, CMHFA. She currently practices at Carrollwood Day School in Tampa.  

Links 

National Association of School Nurses (NASN)  

Florida Association of School Nurses (FASN) 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

In this episode, Jody Long, MSN, MBA, RN, CEN, shares how she made her way from working as an ER nurse to the nursing leadership roles she has today. Her conversation with Frontline Nursing host, Florida Center for Nursing Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, ranges from using AI and technology to unburden bedside providers to advice for nurses looking to advance their careers. 

Jody Long has a long career in nursing since 1997, with more than 18 years of experience dedicated to Emergency Care setting and a Leadership role. Recently, Jody has transitioned to Clinical Innovation and Technology to bring awareness to the needs of the bedside providers for tools to deliver frictionless care.  

Jody has a Master of Science in Nursing, a Master's in Business-Healthcare Management, and a specialty certification as a Certified Emergency Nurse. She is an active member of the local and national chapters of ENA and ANA to improve nursing care and support the nursing profession.  

Her recent service to the community includes her appointment by the governor to serve on the Board of Nursing for the State of Florida, and she also participates in the National Council of State Boards of Nursing as well as the Commission for Nurse Reimbursement.  

Jody is committed to the improvement of nursing with the creation of safe, high-quality patient care practices. She is enthusiastic about process improvement and creating innovative changes to achieve better outcomes for both clinicians and patients. Jody inspires those she works with by keeping a positive attitude and building strong, transparent relationships with those she leads, mentors and befriends.  

Links 

Florida Board of Nursing 

National Council of State Boards of Nursing 

Commission for Nurse Reimbursement 

American Nurses Association (ANA) 

Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter 

Find us on social media 

Frontline Nursing podcast 

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

Part Two of the conversation with Willa Fuller, BSN, RN.  Listen to S2E1 of Frontline Nursing for the first part of the conversation where Willa talked about how nurses make a difference. 

In this episode, Willa discusses her personal journey, touching on what it means to be involved in the nursing community, the role politics and advocacy play in nursing, and why nursing is the most trusted profession.   

Willa Fuller, BSN, RN, is the Executive Director of the Florida Nurses Association and has been a nurse for over 30 years. She worked as a medical-surgical nurse and clinical nurse educator before following her passion and joining FNA to advocate for nurses.     

Links  

Encyclopedia Brittanica 

Florida Nurses Association  

Florida Center for Nursing  

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The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

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In this episode, Dr. Lisandra Sorrentino, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, speaks with Frontline Nursing host and FCN Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, about the health care challenges in rural communities, the importance of communication for nurses, and preparing future nurses as a nurse educator. 

Dr. Lisandra Sorrentino is a dedicated nursing professional with a rich background in clinical practice and education. She earned her Accelerated BSN from the University of Florida in 2012, followed by her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2016. Dr. Sorrentino's clinical experience spans various specialties, including Medical/Surgical Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiovascular ICU, and Primary Care, where she served as a nurse practitioner.  

 Transitioning into the realm of education, Dr. Sorrentino has excelled as a nurse educator for over five years. She has taught in Associate Degree programs and online RN-BSN programs, demonstrating her commitment to shaping the next generation of nurses.  

 Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Sorrentino finds joy in her personal life. She is happily married and a proud mother of four boys, aged 8, 5, 4, and 1. Despite her busy schedule, she maintains a vibrant lifestyle, engaging in activities like running, cycling, yoga, reading, and dancing.  

Dr. Sorrentino's passion lies in mentoring and supporting nursing students at all stages of their journey. She believes in meeting students where they are and empowering them to achieve their fullest potential. Her enthusiasm for nursing education reflects her desire to inspire and nurture the very best in her students.  

Links 

Florida Center for Nursing 

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The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

In this episode, Allison McHugh, DNP, MHCDS, RN, NE-BC, discusses why we need nurse leaders, the importance of finding joy, and the call for recognition and support in the nursing workforce.

Dr. Allison McHugh is a nurse with almost 30 years of experience, born and raised in Massachusetts. She has practiced nursing in many parts of the country in both academic medical centers and community hospitals. She has over 20 years of experience in leadership, including Director, Associate Chief Nurse, and Chief Nursing Officer.  

As a diploma nurse who went on to receive two master’s degrees and a DNP in Executive Practice, Dr. McHugh considers herself a role model and example of a lifelong learner who loves continuously learning new things. She has an incredible passion for nursing and lifting others up. Leadership development and executive practice are her areas of expertise. 

Dr. McHugh also has a passion for research and scholarly work. She has presented and published on a variety of topics, including “Finding Purpose,” “Infusing Joy into Your Life and Work,” and “Healthy Work Environments.” Dr. McHugh is happily married to her husband of over 25 years, and enjoys the outdoors, baking, art, photography, and time with family and friends. She currently lives in Tallahassee, Florida.  

Links

FSU College of Nursing DNP in Executive Health Systems Leadership 

American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) 

Center for Mind-Body Medicine 

Florida Center for Nursing 

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter

Find us on social media

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

In this episode, Kasey Pacheco-Moran, BSN, RN, talks with FCN Executive Director Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, about holistic nursing, innovation, and securing the pipeline of nursing.

Kasey Pacheco-Moran, BSN, RN, is a dedicated nurse collaborator and entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Preservers of Life LLC, a digital marketing agency, and the Executive Director of Nurses in Charge, a global non-profit focused on bolstering the international nursing team. With a passion for highlighting the often-overlooked aspects of life, she's not just a nurse but also a Video Content Creator, Nurse Guide, Community Collaborator, Burnout Prevention Coach, Holistic Health Educator, Speaker, and YouTuber.

Kasey believes that true value transcends mere titles but lies within what we were each purposed to become. As a nurse, she strives to bring our collective awareness to the preciousness of life itself. Her mission is to promote the fullness of life and joy, and to bring real health into the world.

Links

Preservers of Life

Nurses in Charge 

Florida Center for Nursing

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The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.

Love Frontline Nursing? Let us know

Jamie Roberts, LPN, shares her experience as a home health nurse and as a triage nurse. She speaks with FCN Executive Rayna Letourneau about the importance of building trust and how nurses need to be well-rounded. “Nursing is not textbook,” Jamie says. “Nursing is thinking out of the box.”

Jamie Roberts is a licensed practical nurse who works as the triage nurse for a Florida pediatric office. When she is not answering calls and providing education to families, she works as a home care nurse, providing care to individuals in the community in their own homes.

Links

Florida Center for Nursing

Subscribe to FCN’s newsletter

Find us on social media

The Florida Center for Nursing

The Florida Center for Nursing is established to research and address issues of supply and demand for nursing, including issues of recruitment, retention, and utilization of nurse

The vision of the Florida Center for Nursing is to ensure that the health care needs of the residents and visitors of Florida are met by a competent and sufficient nursing workforce.

The Florida Center for Nursing is proudly headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.