Excellent Care Requires the Latest Knowledge
Grateful individuals and families found a special way to honor nurses who provide excellent care. They gave the gift of continuing education by developing the Virginia Mason Nursing Education Endowment. Anyone can donate to this fund that provides grants for continuing nursing education and development.
“The fund supports both formal education such as advanced degrees, as well as ongoing education to keep knowledge and skills current to meet our patients’ needs,” says Charleen Tachibana, DNP, RN, FAAN, senior vice president for Quality and Safety and Chief Nursing Officer. “Nursing practice changes over time and nurses need to seek ongoing education across the entire span of their career.”
“I learned about the latest practice ideas, medications and technology options for patients with diabetes,” says Roxanne Baker, BSN, RN, CDE, who attended the American Association of Diabetes Educators conference. “We’re so fortunate to have nursing education endowment grants that help support us in attending these conferences.”
Educating 77 Nurses in 2016
In 2016, the endowment provided grants of $91,000 to assist 77 nurses in attending educational programs and professional meetings. “We also provide an Annual Distinguished Nursing Lecture, and the endowment funds allow us access to national expert speakers for this lecture,” says Deborah Kelly, MN, RN, Administrative Director, Clinical Practice and Professional Development. “Many staff cannot take advantage of these opportunities without assistance.
“Neither nursing nor medicine is getting less complex,” emphasizes Deborah. “Our patients require the highest caliber quality of care and our nurses want to provide it. As we work to transform health care, we need to support lifelong learning.”
To learn more about the fund, you can call (206) 583-6083 or give online.
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