Caring Beyond the Bedside Update On Socius Health Solutions

Coming Soon! WakeMed Circle of Excellence winners
Check out the next issue of Microscope to learn about WakeMed’s 2015 Circle of Excellence winners!
Happy, healthy holidays at WakeMed
See photos inside...
www.wakemed.org
NEWS FOR EMPLOYEES AND FRIENDS OF WAKEMED JANUARY 2016
WakeMed Earns Quality Designations from BCBSNC, Cigna
Blue Distinction Center +
We are proud to announce that WakeMed has been designated
a Blue Distinction Center+ by Blue Cross Blue Shield in the
following areas:
• Bariatric Surgery • Maternity Services • Cardiac Care
Blue Distinction+ Centers are health care facilities shown to deliver
quality specialty care based on objective measures for patient safety
and better health outcomes.
To earn this designation, WakeMed had to meet and exceed nationally
established quality-focused criteria for each specialty area.
Cigna Center of Excellence Designations
Each year, Cigna health insurance evaluates the patient outcomes
and cost efficiency of every hospital in their network. Hospitals that
earn at least five stars (with at least two stars for patient outcomes
and two stars for cost efficiency) receive the Cigna Center of Excellence
designation for that surgical procedure or medical condition. For 2015,
WakeMed received Center of Excellence designations for the
following areas:
Cary Hospital
• Bariatric Surgery
• Cesarean Section Delivery
• Hip Replacement
• Knee Replacement
• General Cardiac Medical
Raleigh Campus
• Cesarean Section Delivery
• Hip Replacement
• Knee Replacement
• Vaginal Delivery
Cary Hospital Earns Echocardiography
Reaccreditation
Cardiopulmonary
Services at Cary
Hospital recently
received three-year
echocardiography
reaccreditation through
the Intersocietal
Accreditation
Commission (IAC). The
accreditation recognizes
the department’s
expertise in adult
transthoracic
echocardiography.
IAC accreditation is
nationally respected
and signifies that WakeMed provides quality patient care in compliance with
national standards. Accreditation is granted following a comprehensive
application process and thorough case study review.
Cardiovascular Testing at Raleigh Campus also received reaccreditation
from IAC for adult transthoracic, adult transesophageal and adult stress
echocardiography earlier this fall.
Above left to right, Bruce Handley (Respiratory Care – Cary Hospital),
Leigh Anne Frazier, Diana Batts and Crystal Anderson (all of
Cardiopulmonary Testing – Cary Hospital) show off their IAC accreditation
certificate.
Caring Beyond the Bedside
Update On Socius Health Solutions
40-plus Years of Spiritual Care
Socius Health Solutions is a partnership between WakeMed, Wake Forest Baptist
Medical Center, and Vidant Health that aims to improve the quality and affordability
of health care within the communities the systems serve, while strengthening
organizational independence and positioning them for the future. The company,
which formed in October 2014, has spent the past 13 months identifying and
prioritizing opportunities for the three organizations to work together. Teams with
representatives from each organization have been formed to investigate initiatives
that can increase value for all three health systems. Laundry, print management,
supply chain and IT equipment acquisition are just a few examples of project areas
where Socius is involved, and many more are being explored.
WakeMed’s Spiritual Care department dates back to 1972, when it was formed following
a shooting at a local shopping center. As the hospital treated wounded patients, staff and
leadership realized that we didn’t have resources to care for their families and loved ones.
Early the next year, WakeMed’s first chaplain was hired and the department soon began
to grow into the strong program it is today. “Our chaplains minister to people of all faiths
– whether they are patients, family members or staff. We try to meet people where they
are and provide
comfort, support and
compassion,” commented
Lil Galphin, director
(Spiritual Care), who
has been with the
department for 38 years.
A key component to
providing this care is our
thriving Clinical Pastoral
Education program,
which recently celebrated
its 40th year. Each year,
six residents and dozens
of interns spend time at
WakeMed, ministering to all who come through our doors. “Many of our residents
comment on how well integrated our programs are with the system. They are welcomed
by staff and encouraged to be part of the team,” said Mary Ann Poythress, supervisor
(Spiritual Care).
With a dedication to enhancing health operations for all three members, Socius
considers a wide range of techniques to increase quality and decrease costs,
including:
• Sharing best clinical practices across organizational boundaries
• Group contracting with suppliers to achieve better pricing
• Aligning operational strategies to minimize waste
Improving the quality of clinical care is at the center of Socius’ mission and the
opportunities to collaborate are many. “One of our goals is to take best practices and
share them to improve outcomes for patients and the organizations at large. For
example, if there's a particular diagnosis in which physicians and caregivers have
great outcomes in one health system, they can share that with the other two,” said
Mark Tribbett, president of Socius.
Socius would like to hear your ideas. If you have recommendations for how it can
help improve health services for patients, providers or staff, please send them to
info@sociushealth.org.
The Spiritual Care team plays an important role on our trauma team and is a resource for
grieving family members and staff. They help employees understand unfamiliar faith
traditions and can connect with community resources so we can better meet the needs of
patients from all different backgrounds. In addition to leading Tea for the Soul, Blessing
of Hands and other programs, chaplains are also available to meet one-on-one with staff
who are having a difficult time for any reason. If you’d like to request a visit with a
chaplain or learn more about Spiritual Care services, please call ext. 08556.
Raleigh Campus Chapel Services
The chapel is on the third floor between 3A and 3B.
Interfaith Worship
Daily, 11 am
Catholic Mass
Monday –Saturday, 11:30 am
Prayer rugs and Korans are available daily.
A chapel is also located at Cary Hospital (first floor) and WakeMed North (beside
Administration).
As part of a Socius initiative, nurses from WakeMed met with nurses from Wake Forest
Baptist, who shared best practices from their nationally recognized sepsis program.
NEWS FROM WAKEMED PHYSICIAN PRACTICES
WOW, WHAT AN EMPLOYEE!
Sheri DeShazo, RN, vice president & administrator,
WakeMed North, was appointed to the YMCA of the
Triangle Board of Directors.
Welcome New Physicians
Osi Udekwu, MD, (WPP – Surgery & Trauma) was
sworn in as president of the North Carolina Medical
Board in November 2015. He will serve in this role
until October 31, 2017.
Lisa Forte, manager, (OneCall) presented a case
study titled “Connecting Staff Across a Large Health
System for Better Patient Care” at the SPOK Connect
15 Conference in Nashville, Tenn.
Kelly Thompson-Brazill, NP, (WakeMed Heart &
Vascular Physicians) published an article titled
“Certification Test Prep: What Would Dr. Seuss Say?”
in the December 2015 issue of the journal Critical
Care Nurse.
Beth Rudisill, director, (Rehab Hospital) was a
panel speaker at the N.C. State University General
Hugh Shelton Leadership Forum.
Karen Wilhelm, PhD, (Neuropsychology) has been
appointed board chair of the American Board of
Professional Neuropsychology.
Michael Klinkner, MD
WakeMed Urgent
Care – Cary
Yi-Zhe Wang, MD
WPP – Psychiatry
Welcome New Advanced Practice Providers
Elisa Vicario, PA
WPP – Psychiatry
Ayanna Kozlow, PA
WPP – Hospitalists
Heather Day, NP
WPP – Hospitalists
Alisha Holbert, PA
WakeMed Urgent Care –
Cary
WPP – Employee Health & Wellness
Adds Second Provider; Expands Hours
WPP – Employee Health & Wellness
recently welcomed Jolena Allred, FNP, as
the second provider for the practice and
expanded their hours Monday through
Thursday to meet the growing needs of
WakeMed employees. Conveniently
located on the first floor of the Andrews
Center, WPP – Employee Health &
Wellness provides primary care and
urgent care services to WakeMed employees and their
dependents age 6 and up.
WPP Employee Health & Wellness
Monday through Thursday – 7 am to 7 pm
Friday – 7 am to 3 pm
Please note that the Andrews Center parking garage elevators
close to the public at 5:30 pm; you will need a WakeMed ID
badge to access the elevators after that time.
www.wakemedphysicians.com
Stacey Wilson (Occupational Therapy) was lead
author of “Diversity in the Workplace, Perspectives
from Emerging Leaders,” which appeared in the
November issue of AOTA Magazine.
Klarissa Barnes, RN, (Surgical Services) earned a
master's degree in health administration from the
University of Phoenix.
Heather Norton, RN, (Staffing Resources) earned a
master’s degree in nursing (MSN) from Pembroke
University.
Karen Weaver, RN, manager, (Emergency
Department – Garner Healthplex) earned an MSN.
Cyndi Gill, RN, (3A CVIC) earned a bachelor’s
degree in nursing (BSN) from Winston Salem State
University.
Skyler Cauley, NAI, (Emergency Department) and
Kimberly Pyne, RN, (Labor and Delivery) earned
BSNs from East Carolina University.
Samantha Pritchard, RN, (3A CVIC) earned a BSN
from Fayetteville State University.
Ebonee McConnell, RN, (Emergency Department –
Garner Healthplex) completed her BSN.
Occupational Health recognizes the Food &
Nutrition Services – Cary Hospital team for being
100 percent compliant with their annual health
screenings a full 10 days before their due date.
Omar Alkadhi, BSN, RN, (Clinical Administrators)
became a healthcare accreditation certified
professional (HACP).
WakeMed and WakeMed Physician Practices are committed to helping our employees be the healthiest they can be in 2016 and
beyond. That’s why we’re kicking off the New Year with HealthyMe – a healthy living series to help our employees, volunteers and
physicians learn more about improving and maintaining your health.
Talking Diets & Weight Loss with Dr. Amerson
HealthyMe Seminar Series
With WakeMed Physician Practices
What diets have the most success?
There are many diets and eating trends out there, but there’s no magic fix that
will work for everyone. Trying numerous diets can be frustrating and unhealthy,
so instead of jumping from one diet to the next, try following these guidelines:
• Sugars and starches are not your friend.
• Eat vegetables in abundance – as long as they grow
above the ground.
• Eat a moderate amount of high-quality proteins.
• Do not be afraid of fat.
How important is exercise?
Exercise is a key part to healthy weight management or
weight loss. Variety, consistency and intensity are all
important, but you don’t have to train for a marathon to
see results. Exercise moderately and regularly. Your goals
for exercise should look something like this:
• To maintain optimal health – 150 minutes per week.
• For active weight loss – 150-300 minutes per week.
• To maintain weight loss – 200-400 minutes per week.
Theresa
Amerson, MD
WPP – City Center
Medical Group
919-350-9100
Lauren Smith, BSN, RN, (Clinical Administrator)
earned RN-BC certification.
I eat pretty healthy foods, except when I’m
stressed. That’s OK, right?
Pat Thomas, RN, (6B Orthopaedics & Oncology)
was promoted to clinical educator/supervisor.
When you are stressed, your cortisol levels rise. Sugar reduces cortisol levels, so
we often turn to sweets and starches when we are stressed. In addition to
making us crave unhealthy foods, high cortisol levels can cause increased
anxiety, depression, fatigue and mood swings. Instead of eating, look for
healthy ways to tackle stress, such as meditation, visualization or exercise.
Meagan Stout, RN, (6B Orthopaedics & Oncology)
earned Oncology Nursing Society (ONS)
certification.
All members of the WakeMed family are
encouraged to attend and ask questions.
Stay tuned for additional topics, dates
and information throughout the year.
January: Know Your Numbers
Learning about important health
indicators such as cholesterol, blood
pressure and body mass index can help
prevent many chronic diseases and
health problems. Our physicians will
provide a broad overview on managing
these indicators and share how to
achieve a healthy range based on your
age and lifestyle factors.
Raleigh Campus
Presented by Jennifer Phifer, MD
WPP – Knightdale Family Practice
Andrews Center Rooms 6&7
Tuesday, January 19
Noon to 12:45 pm
Cary Hospital
Presented by Dr. Amrita Parikh-Desai, MD
WPP – Parkway Primary Care
Conference Center
Wednesday, January 27
Noon to 12:45 pm
When should I seek medical assistance for weight loss?
Tiffany Lam, RN, (Case Management – Cary
Hospital) passed the American Case Management
(ACM) exam.
Pre-registration encouraged. To register,
Talking with your primary care physician before getting started with any weight
visit the homepage of the WakeMedWeb.
loss plan is always a good first step. If you have tried diet and exercise with
minimal success on your own, talking to your primary care doctor about your
goals and challenges can help them develop an individualized plan just for you. Physicians – particularly those with advanced
training in the field of medical weight management – have other tools available that may be helpful, such as
group weight management programs, meal replacement plans and medical therapies.
Abby Frey, RN; Natalie Saralegui, RN, and Holly
Whitley, RN, (all of Staffing Resources) received
certification for progressive care nurses (PCCN).
Interested in medical weight management? Call (919) 350-9100 and ask to schedule a medical
weight management consultation with one of our primary care physicians. Regular physician
co-pay fees will apply.
Jeanne Hale (Spiritual Care) was certified as a
supervisory clinical pastoral educator by the
Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc.
Kellie Hayworth (Respiratory Care Services –
Garner Healthplex) obtained adult critical care
specialist (ACCS) certification.
Vicky Helms, RN, (Case Management – Cary
Hospital) passed the Commission for Case Manager
Certification exam.
Maiah Lalo, RN, (Staffing Resources) received
medical-surgical nurse certification.
Kelly Washington (Food & Nutrition Services –
Cary Hospital) became a certified nutrition support
clinician (CNSC).
Myrrh Winston, RN, (Emergency Department)
earned sexual assault nurse examiners – pediatric
(SANE-P) certification.
Lauren Egan, RN, (Emergency Department) earned
national certification in emergency nursing.
WaWell
MANAGEMENT UPDATES
Dr. Monroe Named Campus Director
for UNC Program at WakeMed
Raleigh Campus
Rasheeda Monroe, MD, (WPP – Pediatrics)
has been appointed campus director for the
UNC teaching program based at Raleigh
Campus. In this role, Dr. Monroe will
provide coordination, oversight and
direction of UNC medical students’ educational activities and
assignments while at WakeMed and in the surrounding community.
Dr. Monroe received her medical degree from East Carolina
University and completed her pediatrics residency training at UNCChapel Hill. She has been very involved with medical education,
and she also serves as associate director of WPP – Pediatrics.
Lori Piatt Named Director,
Talent Acquisition & Diversity
Lori Piatt has been chosen to lead
WakeMed’s Talent Acquisition &
Diversity department. Piatt, who
previously served as manager of
Compensation/HRIS, joined
WakeMed in 2006 as an HR
analyst. She has a bachelor’s degree in business
administration with a concentration in HR management
from Meredith College and holds Senior Professional in
Human Resources (SPHR) and Society for Human
Resource Management Senior Certified Professional
(SHRM-SCP) certifications.
Surgical Services Work Continues With RPIW
WakeMed’s second Rapid Process Improvement Workshop
(RPIW) was held in December and focused on our Surgical
Services Value Stream. A team of nine staff members,
including a physician, nurses and surgical techs, spent a full
week analyzing the current surgical cart preparation process
and making improvements. While the value stream includes
surgical services at Raleigh Campus, Cary Hospital and
WakeMed North, this event focused specifically on Cluster 1
at Raleigh Campus, which is primarily used for general
surgery and lower-complexity cases.
“Cart accuracy was identified as a priority at the August
visioning session and our observations revealed that missing
items cause frequent disruptions and delays. These delays
cause subsequent surgeries to start late, which impacts our
staff, surgeons and – most importantly – our patients,”
commented Kenneth Murray, director (Kaizen Promotion
Office). During the observation period before the event,
nearly half (46.6 percent) of carts were delivered to cluster
COMINGS & GOINGS
Patient Financial Services wishes
Valerie Soles a happy retirement. She
retired in December after 33 years of
service to WakeMed.
1C Clinical Evaluation Area welcomes
Lahoma Arthur; Linsey Strader, BSN,
RN; Chase Chase, BSN, RN; Rod
Howard; Tunishia Jones, BSN, RN;
Tobby Jordan; Stephanie O’Neal, RN;
Jay Venable; and Karla Wiggins, BSN,
RN.
6B Orthopaedics & Oncology welcomes
Jasmyn Eichelsdorfer, NA; Kwanza
Parker, RN; Diana Ricks, NA; Brian
Stearns, NA; and Annie Thomas, NA.
WPP – Urology Garner welcomes
Danielle Blanchard, RN.
WPP – Garner Primary Care welcomes
Brynne Ferguson.
WPP – Primary Care welcomes Scott
McMahon.
Strategic Sourcing welcomes Jennifer
Allen.
The Clinical Administrator team
welcomes Misty Alford, BSN, RN;
Lenora Britton, BSN, RN; and Candice
Kravitz, BSN, RN.
OneCall Scheduling welcomes Ashley
Stein De Hurtarte and Tony
Henshaw.
staging areas with incorrect or missing items, and each cart
had an average of 4.8 errors. The goal of the RPIW was to
improve the process and ensure accurate and complete carts
that reflect the physician preferences for each case.
After brainstorming project ideas, the team spent much of
the week evaluating and refining their ideas using the PlanDo-Study-Act (PDSA) approach. “It was amazing to see the
team work together to improve patient care. Many different
personalities were put to the side to reach a goal of zero
defects delivered to the patient and the surgeon. Through the
hard work and dedication of the OR staff, we will continue to
reach for our goal of zero defects,” commented Calvin Brown
(Surgical Services) who was the process owner for the event.
By Friday, the team had made a number of changes,
including:
• Starting case cart preparation later in the day to allow the
sterilization process to catch up and have more instruments
available
TAKEFIVE
• Developing standard work related to preference lists,
specifically what items should be opened in the operating
room and what should be placed on the cart but unopened
• Rearranging supply layout to reduce staff walking distance
and the time required to pull cases
“I feel so privileged to have been part of this process and to
work with such a knowledgeable and talented group of
people who take such pride in their work. I gained a much
deeper appreciation of what goes on behind the scenes to
ensure that each surgical case goes as smoothly as possible,”
commented Ndidi Azikiwe, MD, (WPP – Surgery & Trauma).
“I am confident that, once implemented, the changes
identified will streamline the process further to that we can
continue to provide outstanding care for our patients.”
The RPIW changes are now being implemented in Cluster 1
and if they improve the cart assembly process, they will be
evaluated for system-wide implementation.
FIVE STEPS TO RECEIVE
YOUR WAKEWELL REWARD
WakeWell Rewards encourages and provides incentives for WakeMed employees who take steps toward a healthier life. WakeWell
Rewards is designed to build a culture of health by providing an annual ‘snapshot’ of your health status and connecting you with
resources that are available to improve it. WakeWell Rewards criteria for 2016 will look very familiar! Participants who earn 120
points (see chart below) have the opportunity to earn up to $500 toward out-of-pocket medical costs in 2017. Individuals who fall
short of 120 points can make up the difference by completing an alternate standard. With questions, contact Bob Nelson
(Wellness) at 919-350-6903 or wellness@wakemed.org.
STEP
01
STEP
02
STEP
03
Make your Appointment JANUARY 11 – FEBRUARY 21
• Employees enrolled in WakeMed’s BCBSNC health plan as of March 1, 2016, are eligible.
• Register via WakeMed MyChart. If you don’t have a MyChart account, visit
mychart.wakemed.org to get started.
• To earn the WakeWell Reward, pregnant employees will need to complete the biometric
screening (no fasting required), online health assessment and an alternate standard.
Complete the Biometric Screening FEBRUARY 24 – APRIL 8
• Screenings include height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and a basic cholesterol
panel with blood glucose. Fasting for eight hours is required unless prohibited for medical reasons.
• Results will be available on WakeMed MyChart and on the BCBSNC online portal.
Take the BCBSNC Online Health Assessment MAY 16 – JUNE 30
• The online health assessment is administered by BCBSNC and takes about 15 minutes.
• Log in to www.mybcbsnc.com to take the online health assessment.
CICU welcomes Brianna Canterbury.
Pathology Labs welcomes Stephney
Gupton.
5B Neuro Intermediate Care welcomes
Denise Burkett, RN; Daniel Clapper,
NAI; Caitlin Collins, NAI; Dakota
Cuyler, NAI; Cassie Driver, RN;
Kimberly Hubbard, RN; Christie
Madamba, RN; Geneva Melvin, RN;
Christel Reams, RN; and Michael
Scoggins, NAI.
Health Information Management
welcomes Lisa Person, BSN, RN; and
Donna Harris, MSN, RN.
Outpatient Rehab welcomes Laura
McCarthy.
STEP
04
STEP
05
ADDITIONS & ATTACHMENTS
Nicole Harper, her husband Harrison,
and their daughter welcomed their son,
Liam Sawyer, to their family on
September 2.
Check Your Points MAY 16 – AUGUST 31
• You must accumulate 120 points to receive the WakeWell Reward in 2017. The chart
below outlines the point system in more detail.
• After completing the health assessment, log in to www.mybcbsnc.com and click on Wellness
to see your points.
Meet Alternate Standards (IF NECESSARY) JANUARY 1 – AUGUST 31
• If you fall short of 120 points, you can make up the difference by participating in an alternate
standard. See chart below for details.
• If you suspect you need to complete an alternate standard, you can do so at any time from
January 1 through August 31, 2016. It’s a good idea to get a head start and avoid any
scheduling conflicts or delays.
Alternate Standards
Points Chart
WaWell
r e wa r d s
Required Activities
Take the Biometric Screening
Complete Health Assessment
Flu Shot (or Medical Exemption)
40 points
40 points
10 points
Biometric Screening Results
LDL Cholesterol Below 130
BMI Below 30
Glucose Below 126
Non-tobacco User
10 points
10 points
10 points
10 points
PROGRAM GOAL
120 points
If you fall short of 120 points, you can make up the
difference by participating in an alternate standard.
One-on-One Consult with Dietitian
40 points
Signed Physician Form
LDL Cholesterol
10 points
BMI
10 points
Non-tobacco
10 points
Glucose
10 points
Maternity Care Advising
40 points
Call 855-220-7955 to register.
Care Advising
40 points
WakeMed
Health & (Referral
Hospitals Required)
Staff throughout the organization gathered for holiday meals and a celebration of WakeMed’s 2015 accomplishments.
Former patients, families and
employees gathered for the
annual Love Light Tree
Lighting Ceremony on
December 9. The Dapo family,
pictured below, lit the tree this
year, where lights and stars on
the tree represent donations in
memory of loved ones.
WakeMed celebrated the 2015 holiday season
with festive luncheons for all employees
throughout the system, participation in
community events and parades, our annual Love
Light Tree Lighting Ceremony, Trim the Tree
with Twinkle holiday craft event and by giving
back to the less fortunate in our community.
Employees and their families wished the community a happy,
healthy holiday at the Apex, Garner & Raleigh Christmas parades.
Many departments came together to collect toys and food for community
families in need, and, as a system, WakeMed supported Backpack Buddies,
a program of the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle designed to help children have
regular access to nutritious food on the weekends. As you can see, the
holiday season was well spent at WakeMed!
3A CVIC was
just one of
many
departments
that collected
gifts for
community
members in
need this
holiday
season.
The
Operations
Leadership
Team sported
their favorite
ugly sweaters
to their
December 21
meeting.
At Trim the Tree
with Twinkle,
children of all ages
created ornaments
for trees that
brought holiday
cheer to our
pediatric patients.
The Case
Management team
at Cary Hospital
decorated their
offices with a tacky
tinsel theme to
celebrate the
holidays.
GETTING TO KNOW
Denise Warren
Executive Vice President
& Chief Operating Officer
he first time Denise Warren, MBA, walked through the doors at
Raleigh Campus earlier this year, she knew that WakeMed was a
place she needed to be. “In my first meeting with Donald, he took
me around to visit some units and it was obvious how much
everyone cares about their patients and each other. It just felt
right, and I knew I wanted to be part of the WakeMed family.”
T
Warren, who was born at East Wake Hospital (later known as WakeMed
Zebulon/Wendell), grew up in Johnston County where her mother owned a
craft store and her father worked as a handyman. She studied economics at
Southern Methodist University in Dallas and started her career in investment
banking. In 1996, she earned a master’s in business administration from
Harvard Business School and several years later moved to Nashville, Tenn. In
2005, she transitioned from finance to health care, working for Capella Health
Care, which provides clinical, operational and financial leadership to community
hospitals nationwide. There, she held the role of chief financial officer but was
also closely involved in the operations side of the business.
Since joining WakeMed in October, Warren has
aligned her goals for the organization with our 10
aspirational goals. “I want to make sure we hit our
goals and benchmarks on time and grow in ways that
will meet the needs of our community.” She feels
strongly that our patients and families must be at the
center of all we do, but she also puts a personal emphasis
on WakeMed employees. “Our employees are our
strongest asset. I want the members of our team to want
to be here and to feel like they have ownership in this
organization. For that to happen, we need to invest in our
employees, encourage them to speak up and challenge
them to be active participants.”
Since her first day on the job, Warren has made it a point to
get to know the organization and the people who make it
run on a day-to-day basis. “I’m not going to learn what’s happening at WakeMed
sitting at my desk, so I’m hardly ever in my office. I love talking to employees and
hearing about their goals and challenges and how I can help them overcome any
obstacles.” She encourages employees to contact her with questions or ideas and often
sits down with staff members in Café 3000 to introduce herself and get to know people
one-on-one. Warren takes an equally open and collaborative approach to leadership.
She prefers to guide, consult and encourage, rather than give directions. “What’s
important to me is that we meet the goals we have set for ourselves. Whatever ideas will
get us there are the ones we should use. They don’t have to be my ideas – they just have
to be good ideas.”
Though her career began in finance, Warren finds it very rewarding to work in the health
care industry. “Only in health care do we have the opportunity to change people’s lives
every day. It’s incredible to have a front-row seat to that work. I smile every time I see a
new dad walking down the hall carrying a car seat and I cringe every time I hear an
overhead code called. So much life happens within these walls.” When asked about
challenges, Warren is quick to point to health care’s demanding regulatory environment,
which requires health systems to do more with less. As chief operating officer, helping
WakeMed meet those challenges is one of her main priorities.
Since moving back to Raleigh this fall, Warren admits she hasn’t had much time to explore
beyond her immediate neighborhood. Her husband of 32 years, Michael, and their teenage
daughter Madeleine are still in Nashville but will join her when the school year ends. In the
meantime, she has enjoyed being closer to her father, sister, niece and nephew. To get her
mind off work, Warren enjoys reading, making jewelry and going to the beach, where her
favorite activities are fishing and clamming.
Happy Retirement, Dr. McDonald
In November, Thad McDonald, MD (WPP – OB/GYN) began transitioning to
retirement after 23 years on the medical staff. During these years he provided
care to GYN and high-risk obstetric patients while also teaching medical
students and resident physicians. He held numerous leadership positions
including director of WPP Women's Services, physician IT chair, OB
department chair, MSQI committee chair, MEC chair and president of the
Raleigh Campus medical staff. Though he is stepping back from full-time
practice, Dr. McDonald won't be a stranger to WakeMed – he plans to work part
time for a while and then hopes to volunteer. We asked Dr. McDonald to share
some insight from his tenure with us and here's what he said:
“I came to WakeMed wanting to teach residents and care for high risk OB/GYN
patients, particularly those in underserved populations. I did much of my medical
student and resident education at Raleigh Campus, where I learned first-hand the
importance of WakeMed to our community. It is a shining light for both the
community and the region. I have greatly valued the opportunity to work for an
organization whose mission is
to serve others, especially
those less fortunate.”
“It has been especially
rewarding to be a part of the
Women's and Children's
services at WakeMed. Our
obstetric nursing, physician
and advanced care providers
have always provided
outstanding and
compassionate care in tandem
with the finest neonatal team
in the country. Our growing
maternal-fetal medicine and
pediatric surgery programs
allow us to provide comprehensive care so that no woman with a high-risk
obstetric or neonatal condition should ever have to leave Raleigh for treatment. It
has been a great privilege for me to work with the physicians and staff in these
areas. I must also mention the exceptional support of our anesthesiologists – they
can handle anything, which is most comforting to a surgeon.”
“I see the growth of Wake Physician Practices as a very positive development for
WakeMed. We have an incredibly strong group of physicians and leaders who are
committed to our mission and patients. It has been an honor to be counted among
them and to be a part of the WakeMed family.”
Stay Informed this Winter with WMAlerts
WMAlerts is a new employee alert program that uses text messages and Twitter to
keep you informed during inclement weather. You do not need a Twitter
account to sign up. To join and receive text updates from WMAlerts (message
and data rates may apply):
• Text “Follow WMAlerts” to 40404.
• You will receive a text message (from 40404) when WMAlerts posts an update.
• To unsubscribe, text “Stop” to 40404 at any time.
If you are on Twitter, you can also follow WMAlerts to get updates that way.
WMAlerts is managed by Public Relations and is different from eNotify. All
information shared on WMAlerts will also be sent via email, but this is a great way
to stay informed when you’re on the go or away from a computer.
WakeMed’s Good Catch Program
encourages staff to positively
impact patient safety by speaking
up, reporting good catches and
sharing their experiences. If you
have made a good catch, share it
by clicking the “Report a Good Catch”
link on the WakeMedWeb (it will
take you to the online reporting site).
Melissa Honeycutt, RN, (Emergency Department) was
removing what was supposed to be vials of heparin
1000 units/ml from the Pyxis when, under closer
inspection, she noticed they were 10,000 units/ml
vials. Melissa then checked nearby Pyxis machines and
noted that the mix-up had occurred in another ED bay
as well. After making her good catch, Melissa took the
necessary steps to fix this problem and prevented
possible patient harm. Great job, Melissa!
non-labor steering committee Sees Big Savings
WakeMed’s Non-labor Steering Committee (NLSC) works to lower the amount we spend
on supplies by negotiating contracts and evaluating new supply item requests. For fiscal
year 2015, the committee racked up $2.9 million savings – and identified $2 million more
that will be realized in fiscal year 2016. Here are just a few of their success stories:
• To protect patient privacy, medication packaging was being thrown into
pharmaceutical waste bins. Privacy labels were purchased to conceal patient
information so this waste could go in regular bins, reducing pharmaceutical waste
processing costs by nearly $37,000.
• WakeMed had been using different vendors at different locations for bulk and cylinderdelivered medical gases. Consolidating vendors for all medical gases saved
approximately $300,000.
• Collaboration with Central Atlantic Health Network (CAHN) and Southern Atlantic
Healthcare Alliance (SAHA) helped drive down costs in many areas.
• A newly negotiated contract for inhaled nitric oxide saved $89,000.
All of these successes – and many more – were the result of
multidisciplinary teamwork to ensure that patient safety and quality
remains the priority while finding opportunities to reduce costs.
Another way the NLSC works to save money is by having value analysis
teams look at all new supply item requests and determine if they make
sense from patient safety, quality, efficiency and cost standpoints. “These
teams evaluate many factors to determine if it’s worthwhile for the system to invest in
new supplies. It’s not solely about cost; it’s about making sound investments that advance
or improve patient care. In some cases, a cost may be higher but an item will improve
physician efficiency or lead to better outcomes for our patients, and those are investments
we should make,” explains Vicki Block, senior vice president & administrator, Raleigh
Campus. If you have a suggestion or idea that you think the NLSC should evaluate, let
your manager know!
JANUARY 2016
FocusOnNursing
Excellence in the ar t and science of nursing care and car ing.
www.wakemed.org
I Am
Proud.
I Am Proud
WakeMed nurses joined over 9,000 colleagues from all
over the world to attend the 2015 ANCC National Magnet
Conference in October. One of the conference objectives
perfectly describes the impact it had on the WakeMed
attendees: incorporate best practice, science-based
innovations and groundbreaking research or tools that
demonstrate the value of Magnet and improved patient
outcomes. WakeMed was one of 104 healthcare
organizations recognized for their Magnet initial or redesignation. Many thanks to the WakeMed Foundation
and Volunteer Services for providing travel funds for our
team to attend the conference.
Jill Whade Receives Special Recognition
Sharing Clinical Excellence
More than 150 colleagues as well as her husband and son were on hand to
surprise Jill Whade, BSN, RN, (Nursing Administration) with the
prestigious WakeMed Nursing Leadership Award in December. The award is
only given periodically to nurses who demonstrate a special level of
excellence. Whade received the award for her integral role in WakeMed’s
journey to achieving Magnet recognition.
Four WakeMed nurses took part in a panel discussion titled Improving Outcomes: Practice,
Education & Productivity at the 4th Annual Cone Health Nursing Research and EvidenceBased Practice Symposium in Greensboro, N.C. Elizabeth Griffin, MSN, RN (Children’s
Emergency Department) moderated the discussion, which included Bethany HartnessSmith, MSN, RN (Heart Center Pre- & Post-Procedure Care); Heather Kindl, BSN, RN
(Nursing Education); and Melanie Johnson, BSN, RN (Clinical Nursing Resource Services).
Cindy Boily
MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Senior Vice President &
Chief Nursing Officer
SPEAKING OF NURSING:
A NOTE FROM OUR CNO
One of the many highlights of the year was attending the 2015 ANCC National Magnet Conference in October,
where WakeMed Health and Hospitals was recognized for our official designation of Magnet. For me, hearing our
organization recognized at the largest nursing conference in the world was the capstone for the years of hard
work, ingenuity, dedication and teamwork of our WakeMed family.
Among the many wonderful things said at the Magnet Conference, one thing we heard time and again was that
everyone deserves access to a Magnet facility where patients and families are at the center of every decision made
by an expert, inter-professional team. This statement supports how “right on” the Magnet standards are in
supporting our continual quest for excellence in all that we do.
As we move into 2016, I know we will encounter many opportunities, challenges and successes. I’m looking
forward to working with you as we continue to build upon our foundation of excellence. You make me proud to
be a WakeMed nurse!
Epic Outcomes Highlighted at CNC Poster Presentations
In December, WakeMed hosted the 7th Annual Clinical Nurse Council (CNC) Poster Presentations at Raleigh Campus. This year’s theme was EPIC Outcomes and CNC
representatives from throughout the organization shared how nursing interventions improved outcomes on their units.
CNC representatives evaluated ‘best-in-show’ for the following categories: most creative, best use of evidenced-based practice to support interventions, best use of
data, most likely to implement on your unit and overall favorite. The posters are on display in their respective units and they will be available to all WakeMed staff
later this year during Nursing Education’s annual poster presentations. Dates will be shared this spring.
Deanna Harris, RN, (Imaging Nursing) presented
how multi-modality huddles can improve work
processes with the poster “Round and Round
We Go.”
With “I Wanna be Close to You!” Aryonna
Williams, RN, and Jessica Mitchell, RN, (Labor &
Delivery – Cary Hospital) shared the importance of
skin-to-skin bonding.
Erica Cook, RN, and Sandra Van Scoy, RN,
manager, (3B CVSIC) shared strategies to increase
patient satisfaction in open heart surgery patients
with “Healing Hearts One Bite at a Time.”
Lindsey Haydt, RN, (Neuro ICU) presented
“Changing Lives One Organ at a Time.” She is
pictured with Carol Cecile, manager (5B NIC).
Liz Lux, RN, (3 West Med/Surg - Cary Hospital)
shared two practices that decrease CAUTI rates with
her poster, “CAUTIon.”
Pat Thomas BSN, RN, supervisor/educator and
Lori Kleeberg, RN, manager, (6B Orthopaedics &
Oncology) present “What is Your True Color:
Enhancing Team Communication.”
Nancy Reyes, RN, and Stacey Clapp, RN, (Heart
Center Pre- & Post-Procedure Care) presented
“Shockingly EPIC,” which identified inpatient
cardioversion practice change.
Hayes Lee, RN, (PICU) and Cheryl Lucas, RN, (4E
Pediatrics) presented “Pediatric Perfect Care,”
which showed how a set care model can improve
patient care and patient satisfaction.
Jackie Omeara Francisco and Karen Skowronski,
RN, (Case Management) shared their department's
efforts to improve the Freedom of Choice
interventions and documentation.
2016 Nursing Education and Certification Goals
Every year, more and more WakeMed nurses
expand their knowledge and professional skills
by pursuing advanced degrees and national
certification. Here’s an update on where we
stand now (as of October 1, 2015) and our goals
for next year:
Higher Education (Bachelor’s Degree in
Nursing or Higher)
• End of Fiscal Year 2015: 59.48 percent
• Fiscal Year 2016 Goal: 61.5 percent
National Certification
• End of Fiscal Year 2015: 31.82 percent
• Fiscal Year 2016 Goal: 33.5 percent
If 2016 is your year to pursue an advanced
degree in nursing or national certification, there
are many ways WakeMed supports your journey!
Tuition and certification reimbursement, Success
Pays and the Helton Awardee Program are just a
few options available to you. Visit the
WakeMedWeb to learn more.
2015 Nursing Annual Report
Now Available
The WakeMed Nursing 2015 Annual Report is
now available online. This year’s report is
dedicated to our Magnet journey and some of the
exceptional people and exemplars that were
integral to our success. We’ll share some of the stories from the annual report
in the next Focus on Nursing, but we encourage you to read them yourselves.
To view the report online, visit the Nursing Administration site on the
WakeMedWeb and look for the link on the right hand column.
Non profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Raleigh, NC
Permit NO. 1307
WakeMed Health & Hospitals
3000 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, NC 27610
Microscope is a monthly newsletter written by and for the employees of WakeMed.
Our goal is to provide employees and friends of WakeMed with the most up-todate news on all of the hospital system’s activities. The Public Relations
department thanks all of the employees who contributed to this publication.
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
We welcome comments and suggestions on this publication and its content. Call
(919) 350-8120, e-mail microscope@wakemed.org, or write Microscope, WakeMed Public Relations Department, 3000 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27610.
Kate Wilkes, Editor
WakeMed Employees, Photos
©WakeMed Public Relations, January 2016
Congratulations to The Volunteers at
WakeMed Cary Hospital for netting $9,700 at their annual golf
outing/fundraiser in October. The Volunteers thank their
sponsors and golfers who participated in the event. Some of the
top sponsors included Medline Industries (Double Eagle),
Overstreet Signs (Eagle), VALIC (Birdie), RR Donnelley (Birdie),
Jersey Mike’s (Birdie), Canteen (Birdie) and Hendrick Auto
(Birdie).
Band Together NC Big Cahoot
Saturday, January 23, 8 pm at City Limits Saloon
WakeMed is proud to sponsor Band Together NC, which uses
live music as a platform to benefit the Triangle community.
Every year, the organization hosts events and concerts to raise
money for local nonprofits and has donated over $5.5 million
to our community since it was formed in 2001.
One of this year’s events, the 2016 Big Cahoot, will feature one
of WakeMed’s own physicians – Michael Ferguson, MD, (WPP
– ENT – Head & Neck Surgery) – performing with his band
Balsa Gliders. Funds raised at the event will support the Band
Together mission and 2016 partner organization, Kidznotes,
which provides music education to students in select schools in
Raleigh and Durham. We invite you to come out and have fun,
enjoy some music, cheer on Dr. Ferguson and support our
community!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
First Uniform Sales
Tuesday, Feb. 2
Cary Hospital Conference Center
7 am to 4 pm
Thursday, Feb. 4
Andrews Center
7 am to 4 pm
To help you plan ahead, this calendar lists upcoming system-wide events, training classes and community
events. For details and fee information, visit the WakeMedWeb. Send calendar submissions to Public
Relations or email microscope@wakemed.org.
NURSING EDUCATION
Wake AHEC
CPR Blitz – Thursday, February 4, 2016 – “Check-off only” is any time between 8:30
am and 8 pm. Classes held from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm; 1:30pm to 5:30 pm; and
6:30pm to 10:30 pm. See Learning Link (NEAHA23 & NEAHA24).
Visit www.wakeahec.org for details.
The Medicine of Compassion (LL Code: NE014-9073) Jan. 14, 8:30 to 11:30 am,
NED A
Compassion in Action (LL Code: NE014-12009) Feb. 18, 8:30 to 10:30 am, NED C
Healing Touch
Nursing Professional Development Book Series:
Level 1 Class – Feb. 13 & 14,
Cary Hospital Conference Center.
Registration is $365; contact
DCox@wakemed.org for more
information.
• The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down (LL Code NE014-12124) Jan. 18, 2 to 3
pm, NED C
• To Comfort Always (NE014-11003) Jan. 21, 8 to 9 am, NED C
• Eat That Cookie! (LL Code: NE014-12086) Jan. 25, 7:30 to 8:30 am, Cary Hospital
Conference Center
• Critical Care (LL Code: NE014-15026) Feb. 16, 2 to 3 pm, Cary Hospital Conference
Center; Feb. 26, 7:30 to 8:30 am, NED C
• The Florence Prescription (LL Code: NE014-13093) Feb. 25, 10 to 11 am, NED C
Cardiovascular Care Symposium:
Innovations and Building on Strong
Foundations in Cardiovascular
Patient Care – Jan. 30, Andrews
Center
Lactation Consultant Review Course
– Feb. 8-12, Andrews Center
Case Studies in Dental Hygiene – Feb.
19, Andrews Center
Child Forensic Interviewing:
Introduction to the RADAR Interview
Protocol – Feb. 22-25, N.C. Justice
Center, Raleigh, NC
Asthma Made Easy: Empowering for
Success – Feb. 24, Andrews Center