Ask Nurse Alice

Have you ever gone through a major life change and felt like a part of you was suddenly missing? Maybe you just graduated from college, left a job, or went through a divorce. It's like waking up and realizing that the role you once played every day no longer defines you. In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin, clinical nurse specialist and family nurse practitioner, dives deep into the topic of identity fusion and how we tie our self-worth to our jobs, roles, and the communities we belong to. Alice shares her personal story of navigating career transitions and the impact it had on her mental and physical well-being. This episode explores the reasons why we identify with our roles and the challenges we face when those roles change. With relatable stories and practical advice, Alice offers guidance on how to reclaim your identity and self-worth after life changes. This episode is your guide to rediscovering who you are and thriving through life's transitions. Don't miss out—your journey to a healthier, happier you starts here. Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Welcome to the Ask Nurse Alice Podcast [00:01:30] Introduction: Identity and Self-Worth [00:03:00] Nurse Alice's Personal Story of Career Transitions [00:05:00] Understanding Identity Fusion [00:08:00] The Impact of Role Changes on Mental and Physical Well-being [00:10:30] Why We Identify with Our Roles [00:12:00] Practical Steps to Reclaim Your Identity and Self-Worth [00:15:00] Diversify Your Identity, Set Personal Goals, Build a Support Network [00:17:00] Practice Self-Compassion, Mindfulness, and Self-Reflection [00:20:00] Seek Professional Help When Needed [00:25:00] Conclusion: Embrace Your Intrinsic Value and Thrive Through Transitions Connect with Nurse Alice: Website: AskNurseAlice.com Social Media: @asknursealice Contact us: info@AskNurseAlice.com

Are you stuck in a toxic work environment that's draining your energy and affecting your well-being? You're not alone—and there's hope. In this episode of Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin tackles the all-too-common issue of workplace toxicity and its profound impact on mental and physical health. Joined by integrative health coach Tracy Holder, this episode dives deep into the traits of toxic work environments, shares relatable personal stories, and offers practical strategies to identify and address these challenges. Learn how to spot the signs of burnout, prioritize self-care, and create a healthier work-life balance. With actionable advice and real-world insights, this episode is your guide to reclaiming control over your well-being and thriving despite workplace stress. Don't miss out—your journey to a healthier, happier you starts here. Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Welcome to the Ask Nurse Alice Podcast [00:01:30] Overview of Workplace Toxicity [00:03:00] Identifying Signs of a Toxic Work Environment [00:04:45] Attributes of a Toxic Workplace [00:05:44] Strategies for Addressing Workplace Toxicity [00:08:00] The Impact of Toxicity on Mental and Physical Health [00:10:30] Importance of Taking Mental Health Days [00:12:00] Tools for Assessing Workplace Burnout [00:15:00] Practical Tips for Self-Care and Mindfulness [00:17:00] Conclusion and Encouragement to Seek Help Connect with Tracy Holder: LinkedIn Contact us at info@AskNurseAlice.com Feedback or questions? We love hearing from you. Share your thoughts on social media!

This episode tackles the taboo of menstrual health. Through real-life stories, Alice highlights conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids, shedding light on their debilitating effects and the importance of a timely diagnosis. With a blend of medical expertise and personal experience, Alice advocates for open conversation and support for menstrual health in our communities and workplaces. Tune in to empower yourself and start the conversation on menstrual health. Episode Highlights: [00:01:30] - Addressing the silence around menstrual challenges [00:05:45] - Raising awareness and debunking myths about menstrual cycles [00:10:20] - Providing resources and accommodations at work [00:15:10] - Encouragement to seek support from healthcare providers [00:17:45] - Conclusion and a call to action for listeners Contact us at info@AskNurseAlice.com Feedback or questions? We love hearing from you. Share your thoughts on social media or in the comments!

Nurse Alice dives into the hot topic of weight loss injectables, shedding light on the increasing number of lawsuits surrounding them and what patients need to know before, and while, taking them. Discover benefits, side effects, and a holistic view on weight management. We tackle patient education, healthcare responsibilities, and the need for transparency in the pharmaceutical industry. Join us for a critical look at medication roles in health and happiness. Episode Highlights: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Weight Loss Injectables & Growing Lawsuits 00:05:41 - Early Reports of Weight Loss Injectable Side Effects 00:06:16 - Base Line Assessments Before You Should Have Done BEFORE Starting Weight Loss Drugs 00:07:39 - Importance of Nutrition in Weight Management  00:08:26 - How Mental Health Impacts Weight Loss 00:09:12 - How Sleep Impacts Weight Loss 00:11:00 - Expected Medication Side Effects You Should Report 00:12:33 - The Allegations Behind Many Weight Loss Medication Lawsuits 00:14:35 - The Pharmaceutical Company's Responsibility to Provide Medication Information 00:15:30 - When the Patient Doesn't Want to Talk/See the Healthcare Provider 00:21:38 - What is Gastroparesis and How it is Treated 00:23:09 - Suicidal Ideation Side Effects and Weight Loss Medications 00:25:00 - Proper Use of Medications Require the Supervision of a Healthcare Provider 00:26:35 - Semiglutide Variants Made at Compounding Pharmacies are Not FDA Approved 00:29:40 - What You Should Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Newly Prescribed Medications 00:30:45 - Understanding the Health Consumer's Responsibilities While on Medications 00:34:23 - The Healthcare Provider's Responsibilities When Prescribing Medications 00:35:41 - The Pharmaceutical Company's Responsibilities When Developing New Medications 00:36:33 - Post-Marketing Surveillance and Drug Labeling Updates  00:37:23 - Promoting Health Literacy for Patient Understanding Engage With Us: LinkedIn YouTube Twitter Facebook Feedback or questions? We love hearing from you. Share your thoughts on social media or in the comments!

In this episode, Nurse Alice revisits the case of Redonda Vaught, who was convicted of gross negligence in a medication error that resulted in the death of a patient. Her nursing license was revoked by the Tennessee Board of Nursing in 2021 but seeks nursing license reinstatement. Nurse Alice discusses the importance of medication safety systems and the devastating impact of such errors on patients and their families. She emphasizes the need for exploration and investigation to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.Jump ahead to listen:[00:00:31] Medication error and patient death. [00:04:23] Nursing license reinstatement. [00:10:46] Patient death and consequences. [00:13:37] Breach of standard procedures. [00:17:13] Public trust in healthcare. [00:22:29] The board of registered nursing. [00:24:19] Nursing license and public protection. [00:27:30] Revoking nursing license discussion. 

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin discusses the alarming increase in drug overdose deaths in the United States. With over 105,000 deaths reported in 2022 alone, the issue of counterfeit pill use is becoming a major concern. Alice highlights that these deaths are often a result of drugs being abused and sold illegally on the black market, such as opioids and benzodiazepines. She stresses the importance of distinguishing these fake prescription pills from legitimate medications used for conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. It is crucial to address this issue and take action to prevent further harm.Jump ahead to listen:[00:03:48] Counterfeit drugs and their dangers. [00:10:06] Fake medications and leftovers. [00:11:16] Medication abuse and misuse. [00:14:48] Prescription medication and addiction. [00:19:13] Substance use and managing pain. [00:21:44] Higher drug overdose death rate. [00:26:45] How to protect from counterfeit pills. [00:33:23] Prescribing intranasal Narcan. [00:36:14] Helping people manage pain.

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin discusses the story of Eliana Tinnenbaum, a 16-year-old who recently graduated from Arizona State University's accelerated nursing program. Alice shares how this achievement sparked controversy and divided opinions among people. While some praised Eliana's academic prowess, others questioned the appropriateness of someone so young entering the nursing profession. Alice explores the different perspectives surrounding this milestone and emphasizes the importance of congratulating individuals for their achievements, regardless of their age.Jump ahead to listen:[00:00:27] Controversy over young nursing graduate. [00:04:38] Young nurse's eligibility dilemma. [00:08:19] Adolescents as nurses. [00:11:23] Licensing and age requirements. [00:15:11] Emotional challenges for young nurses. [00:19:13] Job demands and adolescent maturity. [00:21:40] Incorporating adolescents into healthcare. [00:25:19] Younger nurses and professional growth. [00:29:48] Impact of 16-year-old nurses. 

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin welcomes Dr. Mitzi Saunders, the president of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. Dr. Saunders, who has 34 years of nursing experience and is a professor and graduate nursing coordinator, discusses the role of the clinical nurse specialist and its importance in healthcare. The conversation highlights the need to educate people about the CNS role and emphasizes its significance in providing specialized care. Tune in to learn more about the valuable contributions of clinical nurse specialists in the field of nursing.Jump ahead to listen:[00:01:56] What is a clinical nurse specialist (CNS)? [00:09:24] Impacting the population. [00:14:27] The problem with CNS title. [00:18:43] Harmony in leadership teams. [00:21:46] Demonstrating value in healthcare. [00:24:30] Nurse retention and shortages. [00:28:23] Career satisfaction during COVID. [00:31:13] CNS role and education.

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, Nurse Alice discusses her transition to working remotely as a family nurse practitioner. She discusses her extensive experience working in various healthcare settings and the challenges faced along the way. Despite her love for patient care, she needed a change and is thrilled to have found a remote opportunity. Working remotely offers numerous benefits for both mental and physical health. Nurse Alice highlights her favorite aspects, and although the positives surpass the negatives, she also candidly discusses the challenges associated with working remotely as a nurse. >>Read more on nurse.orgJump ahead to listen:[00:01:58] Remote nursing positions. [00:04:37] Flexible schedule. [00:07:12] Saving money working remotely. [00:10:34] Clothing advantages in healthcare. [00:14:39] Customizing my work environment. [00:18:50] Working remotely benefits mental health. [00:23:46] Working remotely pros and cons. [00:27:00] Changes in eating habits. [00:29:28] Lack of physical interaction. [00:33:15] Lack of separation from work. [00:37:41] The need to get out. 

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast talks about a recent situation where she saved a life at the airport baggage claim. Nurse Alice discusses Good Samaritan laws and the challenges healthcare professionals face when providing care outside of their clinical setting. She shares a personal experience of rendering care while off duty and highlights the importance of understanding the legal protections and limitations when providing aid in emergencies. Tune in to learn more about the role of healthcare professionals in helping others and navigating legal responsibilities.Jump ahead to listen:[00:01:30] Rendering care while off duty. [00:05:30] The Good Samaritan Law. [00:14:24] Assessing without proper equipment. [00:15:23] Head injury and bleeding. [00:19:36] Good Samaritan laws in different states. [00:26:36] In-flight medical emergencies. [00:30:25] Saving someone's life. 

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin welcomes nurse Casey Green, BSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, CTRN, CFRN, CEN, TCRN, CPEN, CNRN, NRP. They discuss the importance of nursing certifications and emphasize how they can enhance a nurse's career, increase their knowledge and skills, and how they contribute to better patient outcomes. Casey shares her exceptional personal experience with having five emergency certifications from the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. Tune in to learn more about the significance of nursing certifications and the opportunities they present for nurses. Jump ahead to listen:[00:04:00] Traditional nursing certificates.[00:08:59] Critical care and emergency nursing.[00:12:08] The good part about transport.[00:15:07] Obscure nursing certifications.[00:19:21] Questioning current nursing practices.[00:22:17] The benefits of certification.[00:28:09] Supporting people on their journey.[00:30:30] Failing certification tests and resilience.[00:33:57] Continuing professional development.[00:37:37] Givers of knowledge and support.[00:39:12] Staying current in nursing.

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin welcomes hospice nurse Hadley Vlahos of @nursehadley as a guest. Hadley shares her experiences and insights as a hospice nurse, discussing the importance of providing compassionate end-of-life care and the challenges healthcare professionals face in these situations. Alice and Hadley also touch on the role of hospice nurses in supporting patients and their families, as well as the impact of social media in raising awareness about the death and dying process. Nurse Hadley highlights her book titled "The In-Between: Unforgettable Encounters During Life's Final Moments." It serves as a valuable resource for both healthcare professionals and the general public, aiming to initiate conversations about death. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of hospice care and the value it brings to both patients and healthcare providers.Jump ahead to listen:[00:00:33] Dealing with death as a nurse. [00:04:20] Choosing the specialty of hospice. [00:09:32] Miraculous recoveries and unexplainable events. [00:11:04] Hallucinations and deceased loved ones. [00:17:03] Being prepared for death. [00:19:24] Failing as a hospice nurse. [00:22:44] Starting conversations around death. 

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin is joined by Andrew Lacy, founder & CEO of Prenuvo, a transformative healthcare company growing fast across North America. They discuss their experience using Prenuvo, a comprehensive whole body MRI scan and emphasize the differences of this specialized scan compared to traditional MRIs. They also highlight the challenges patients face in accessing timely imaging and stress the importance of early detection. Tune in to learn more about the Prenuvo full body MRI and its potential impact on healthcare.>>Read about Andrew Lacy and Prenuvo here!Jump ahead to listen:[00:01:09] Pernuvo full body imaging MRI. [00:03:29] Advanced health scanning technology. [00:09:42] Catching cancer at earlier stages. [00:12:30] Late-stage cancer diagnosis. [00:15:07] Preventive health programs and insurance. [00:19:00] Preventative care importance. [00:23:41] Advocating for your own health. [00:28:34] Making healthcare more accessible. [00:30:29] Accessing healthcare challenges before diagnosis. [00:33:04] $300 off promo code.

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin shares her personal experience of firing her employer. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing when an employer is not the right fit, or if the environment does not support your growth & happiness and taking action to find a better opportunity.Nurse Alice discusses the process of getting a job in healthcare, from applying and interviewing to background checks and orientation. She highlights the importance of recognizing when it's necessary to take control of your own career and make the decision to leave a job, providing tips and advice for navigating this process. Overall, the episode underscores the significance of prioritizing personal growth, happiness, and well-being in the workplace. It encourages nurses to evaluate their employers with the same scrutiny that employers evaluate them and to proactively seek a work environment where they can thrive and find happiness.Jump to Listen Ahead:[00:02:38] The probationary period. [00:05:09] Onboarding red flags. [00:09:06] Challenging work environment. [00:12:47] Firing an employer during probation. [00:15:47] Why did you decide to leave? [00:18:13] Exhausting communication for problem-solving. [00:21:04] Questions for HR and obligations. [00:25:12] Always have a plan B. [00:26:41] Evaluating employers with scrutiny. 

In this episode of Ask Nurse Alice, host Alice Benjamin reconnects with Nurse Blake, a nurse and content creator known internationally for his work as a comedian, health advocate, keynote speaker, and best-selling author. The two discuss Nurse Blake's journey and his various roles in healthcare, as well as his advocacy for mental health awareness and self-care for healthcare professionals. The episode offers insight and inspiration for nurses and healthcare workers looking to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others. Nurse Blake also shares information regarding his upcoming comedy tour, Shock Advised, premiering July 25, 2023.Jump to Listen Ahead:[00:01:31] Nurse Blake's amazing journey.[00:04:15] Nurse burnout and panic attacks.[00:06:45] Relatability in Nurse Blake's content.[00:09:20] Teaching kids through humor.[00:12:18] Nursing advocacy and conferences.[00:17:36] Nurse Blake's upcoming tour.[00:25:49] Alternative career paths for nurses.[00:28:36] Comfortable shoes.

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin speaks with Kristine Tuttle, a registered nurse and founder of Nurse In The Making, about her journey into nursing and nursing education. She shares valuable insights and advice for nursing students and those interested in pursuing a career in nursing. She also recommends her work for practicing nurses who may benefit from self-review.>>Read about Nurse Kristine and her journey here!Jump to Listen Ahead:  [00:00:19] Nursing students and education. [00:03:50] Different ways to become a nurse. [00:06:15] Nursing school struggles. [00:09:55] Struggling nurses & effective studying.[00:12:46] Nursing study guides and flashcards. [00:17:29] Challenges for nursing students. [00:18:34] Comparison in nursing school. [00:22:56] Positive feedback for study materials. [00:24:29] Starting a nursing business. [00:28:08] Memory techniques for learning.

Dr. Travis Moore, also known as the Indeed Nurse, is the first nurse to be hired by Indeed. His role involves helping people find jobs in the healthcare industry through innovative thinking and market analysis. Dr. Moore's background in nursing has influenced his approach to this work, as he seeks to challenge the status quo and push boundaries. With a doctorate in nursing and health innovation, he has expertise in nursing administration, team development, quality management, and process improvement. Having traveled to other countries, Dr. Moore has a global perspective on the impact of nurses in healthcare.The episode emphasizes that nurses possess transferable skills that can be applied to various industries and roles beyond traditional bedside nursing. The guest speaker, the first nurse hired by Indeed, discusses her role in collaborating with different teams, including product development, marketing, sales, and incubator teams, to drive product innovation and disrupt the industry from within. She highlights the importance of nurses in healthcare innovation and leadership and encourages nurses to think innovatively and explore new positions in healthcare. Indeed is presented as a partner for nurses in finding and comparing different career opportunities and delivering impactful work in the healthcare industry.>>Read about Dr. Travis Moore and his role as the Indeed Nurse here!Jump to Listen Ahead:  [00:00:35] Indeed employs nurses.[05:31] Indeed, the job site.[00:08:06] Healthcare job market trends.[00:09:47] Nursing skills are transferable.[00:12:59] Post-COVID job opportunities.[00:16:58] Job scams and warnings.[00:19:17] Nursing job requirements and qualifications.[00:23:11] Job offer evaluation.[00:26:00] Scheduling and PTO for nurses.[00:29:34] Career assistance tools by Indeed.[00:33:12] Resume building software.[00:37:14] Pausing your Indeed account.[00:42:23] Health care being reinvented.[00:44:19] Nurses as innovators.

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, invites Virginia Lynn Peterson, founder of Swoop, a company that creates underwear and bras for medical care workers, to discuss the importance of comfortable undergarments for healthcare professionals. They discuss how uncomfortable undergarments can affect the quality of care provided and the benefits of wearing undergarments designed for healthcare workers.Listen Ahead to These Key Moments![00:01:11] Why we need comfortable undergarments for nurses.[00:07:19] Growing an Alaskan lingerie business for healthcare workers[00:16:58] The importance of pursuing passions outside nursing.[00:17:43] How to balance being a nurse entrepreneur and have a work-life balance.[00:21:51] How to delegate and ask for help[00:28:28] How to support Swoop bras for nurses

Leah Helmbrecht a Forensic Nurse and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (FNE/SANE) talks with Nurse Alice to discuss the importance of sexual assault reporting, examination, and how to identify and how victims of human trafficking as a nurse.>>Read about how to care for sexual assault and human trafficking victims as a nurse here!Connect With Leah on social media:Instagram: offtheclocknurseTikTok: offtheclocknurseFB: Off The Clock Nurse TravelsOther Resources: Register for the Walking Wise webinar:https://goafn.thinkific.com/courses/webinar23-011Academy of Forensic Nursing: 20% off membership until July. Use code: SPRING23https://www.goafn.org/Colorado SANE/SAFE program:https://www.uchealth.org/professionals/education-programs/colorado-sexual-assault-program/International Association of Forensic Nurses:https://www.forensicnurses.org/

In this episode, Nurse Alice welcomes special guests Anthony Scarpone-Lambert and Jennifferre Mencillas, the co-founders of Adni, an online marketplace for healthcare workers. Over 70% of the businesses within the marketplace are founded and owned by NURSES! Both Anthony and Jennifferre highlight the versatility of a nursing degree and how nurses can excel in various fields, including technology and entrepreneurship. They discuss their motivation behind starting Adni and how they embraced innovation to create solutions for healthcare workers. Nurse Alice acknowledges their accomplishments in the innovation space, including recognition from prestigious organizations like Johnson & Johnson.Throughout the conversation, Nurse Alice and her guests emphasize the importance of problem-solving and creativity in nursing. They touch on the intersection of nursing and entrepreneurship, showcasing how the skills learned in nursing school can translate to entrepreneurial success. By breaking down preconceived notions and empowering nurses to think outside the box, Anthony and Jennifferr are paving the way for nurse-led innovation in healthcare.Tune in to the Ask Nurse Alice podcast to gain valuable insights from nursing leaders and healthcare entrepreneurs like Anthony and Jennifferre. Discover how their journeys and experiences can inspire and guide aspiring nursepreneurs. Join Nurse Alice as she explores the exciting world of nursing and healthcare in each engaging episode.Shop the Adni marketplace here! 

Today I'm interviewing nurse Raquel Perez, Chief Nursing Officer of Gales Shoes. Raquel shares her journey from a high school nursing volunteer to a Chief Nursing Officer. Her story exemplifies the vast possibilities within the nursing profession. Nursing is not just a career; it's a calling that requires resilience, empathy and a commitment to lifelong growth. Raquel's journey serves as an inspiration to nurses and healthcare professionals, encouraging them to embrace change, seek new opportunities, and make a positive impact in their chosen field.>>Shop Gales Shoes here 

Joining Nurse Alice this week is Sarah Lorenzini, host of the Rapid Response RN podcast and a rapid response nurse and educator, she will shed light on the critical role played by rapid response nurses. In the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, there are moments when patients' conditions deteriorate rapidly, demanding immediate attention and intervention. Nurse Alice sets the stage by highlighting these critical moments and the traditional approach of calling the charge nurse and waiting for physician orders, which could lead to potential delays in care. However, she reveals that things have changed with the emergence of rapid response teams and nurses who are readily available to provide timely interventions.Our guest, Sarah Lorenzini, draws from her nearly two decades of nursing experience to share her personal stories. She recounts her journey into nursing, driven by her passion for helping others. Sarah recalls a formative experience during high school where she witnessed the compassionate care provided by nurses in hospitals. This experience solidified her decision to pursue nursing and make a difference in patients' lives.The podcast delves into the evolution of rapid-response nursing and the transformation of nursing practice over time. Sarah shares her experiences as a rapid response nurse, highlighting the advancements that have empowered bedside nurses with additional resources. The availability of rapid-response nurses ensures that patients receive timely interventions, bridging the gap between identifying deteriorating conditions and initiating appropriate care.In this episode of Ask Nurse Alice, Sarah Lorenzini's insights shine a light on the crucial role of rapid response nurses in today's healthcare landscape. These dedicated professionals bring their expertise, critical thinking skills, and rapid intervention abilities to the bedside, contributing to improved patient care and outcomes. As the healthcare field continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the vital contributions of rapid response nurses in saving lives and enhancing the quality of care provided to patients in critical situations. Tune in and join us on this enlightening journey into the world of rapid-response nursing.

In this episode of the podcast, host Alice (an ER and ICU nurse) dives into the ER nurse and  Floor Nurse relationship. It's a classic feud and, if you're a nurse, you have likely participated in that feud. Alice introduces a special guest, Annie Fulton, a registered nurse with extensive experience in various specialties. Annie is also the host of the Up My Nursing Game podcast. Alice and Annie aim to address this issue head-on and find resolutions through open dialogue. The untold dynamics between emergency room (ER) and floor nurses in healthcare are complicated. This episode uncovers the reasons behind the animosity while highlighting the importance of fostering understanding and collaboration between the two specialties. Gain insights into the lack of perspective, misconceptions, and stereotypes that contribute to the divide. Learn how empathy, improved communication, and collaboration can bridge the gap and enhance patient care. Join Nurse Alice and Annie in their mission to promote understanding and unity among nurses for the benefit of their patients.

Let's Make a Deal game show hosted by Wayne Brady aired their "Hooray For Nurses" episode on May 8, 2023 - ALL contestants were nurses! Nurse.org was pleased to donate a $20,000 prize to one of the lucky contestants. Nurse Tiffany Stewart won the Mega Money Monday prize! In an interview with Nurse Alice, Tiffany Stewart, a labor and delivery nurse and winner of the $20,000 cash prize, shares her experience competing on the show while dressed up in an outrageous costume. Stewart discusses her nursing journey, her passion for women's health, and her excitement about being on the show with other amazing nurses. Nurse Alice and Stewart also discuss the benefits of choosing a career in nursing, including the many opportunities available to nurses in different fields.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Spencer Jones, a nurse innovator who was recently voted by thousands of nurses as Nurse.org's Nurse Innovator of the Year. Spencer is a nurse entrepreneur and the inventor of SafeBreak Vascular, a patented breakaway device for IV catheters that reduces IV complications and preserves IV catheters. His second vascular access invention called BVAD is a dual-lumen peripheral IV catheter that provides patients a pain-free blood sampling solution to eliminate painful needlesticks and finger pricks. Spencer is currently the Chief Technology Officer and VP of Sales at Lapovations, a laparoscopic medical device company. During the interview, Jones discusses his background in nursing, his experience working in various healthcare settings, and the challenges he faced while developing his innovative product. He also shares his insights on the importance of collaboration and teamwork in healthcare, as well as the role of technology in improving patient outcomes.Throughout the episode, Jones's passion for nursing and dedication to improving healthcare shines through, and listeners are sure to come away inspired and motivated to make a difference in their own communities. Whether you are a healthcare professional or simply interested in learning more about innovation in healthcare, this episode is a must-listen.

As a nurse and healthcare provider, how well do you think you take culturally diverse patients? Outside of task-oriented things? In this episode, Nurse Alice speaks with Dr. Raj Sandar, physician and podcast Host of the Healthcare for Humans Podcast about how we can better understand, connect and service our patients of different cultures.The duo encourages you to ask yourself the following questions, - How else do you measure the quality of care that you provide? - How often do you consider social determinants of your patient's health when providing care? - How often do you consider historical, cultural, language, or religious factors and race in the care you provide? If you included those things in your metrics for  “good care” – how would you score yourself now? In this episode, Nurse Alice speaks with Dr. Raj Sandar, physician and podcast Host of Healthcare for Humans Podcast about how we can better understand, connect and service our patients of different cultures.

In this episode, Nurse Alice has the pleasure of interviewing Jonathan Llamas, a nurse practitioner and recipient of the prestigious Nurse Icon Award for 2023. Jonathan shares his inspiring journey of becoming a nurse, the challenges he faced along the way, and his work as a nurse. He also talks about his thoughts on the future of nursing and offers advice for aspiring nurses.Jonathan discusses the following points in this episode, Jonathan's journey of becoming a nurse and the challenges he facedThe impact of his work as a nurse on his patients' livesJonathan's thoughts on the future of nursing and the changes he hopes to see in the professionThe importance of empathy, compassion, and communication in nursingJonathan's involvement in community service and advocacyAdvice for aspiring nurses and the qualities that make a good nurseJonathan Llamas' interview provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of a career in nursing and the impact that nurses can make in the lives of their patients. It is an inspiring conversation for anyone interested in nursing or healthcare.>>Read about the Nurse ICON Awards and all the nominees here!

Are you tired of nursing practice and policy being dictated by non-nurses? And I mean, without nursing input or not enough input from nurses? How can we, as nurses, make our voices heard and become drivers on important issues that impact us and the work we do? While rallying together and voting is important, the truth is we also need nurses to run for office and be strategically placed in leadership positions and in politics to drive the agenda and propositions. But I didn't get that type of training in nursing school, so how do you prepare for that?In this episode, Nurse Alice speaks with Kimberly Gordon, co-founder of Healing Politics, an educational, non-partisan, non-profit 501(c)3 organization. They are on a mission to inspire, motivate, recruit, & train nurses & midwives to run for elected office up & down the ballot while building a culture of civic engagement within the professions.

You walk into work and hit the floor running. It's one big emergency after another. You can't catch a break and it feels like nothing is going right. You're PISSED!  But who are you mad at? And what for? And did you take it out on anyone? You may not realize it, but you just may be displacing anger towards others and things that aren't the cause of your frustrations. As professionals who work in high acuity situations and with different personalities, it's key that we learn to identify when we're upset or angry, why, and how to deal with it in a healthy way, so our patients, the care we provide, and our own mental & physical health aren't negatively impacted. In this episode, Nurse Alice shares six tips on how to identify when you're feeling frustration or anger, how to identify the cause, and how to manage (prevent) displaced anger.

How many times has a friend or family member asked you as a nurse to provide your opinion on a skin rash or ask advice about a medical condition or medication? While the caregiver in you is usually happy to be of assistance because you've done tons of patient education at work, what about when you're NOT at work? Did you know that could possibly ruin a good family or friendly relationship by causing unnecessary worry or giving erroneous advice that could lead to missed care or a lawsuit, especially if it's deemed that you're operating out of your scope of practice?  In this episode Nurse Alice offers advice on how to juggle being a helpful and well intended off duty nurse and friend/family to someone who is asking for medical advice so you avoid any personal and professional trouble. 

Becoming a long-time TV medical contributor as a nurse wasn't easy. In fact, I learned a lot of hard lessons along the way that I'm so eager to share and wish someone had told me.With the growing number of news stories about nurses recently, it appears that more and more negative stories are emerging. As the largest segment of the healthcare workforce and with the power of social media, nurses have the power to educate, empower, do damage control, and change the narrative. With sound bites and clickbait, and the desire to be the first to report on a topic - without doing thorough research, talking to participants, fact-checking, and presenting a well-rounded objective story - the possibility of getting the story wrong is very possible and can be damaging to the nurse and the nursing profession.In this episode Nurse Alice talks about the nurse's growing role in the media and shares some tips on how nurses can protect themselves, the credibility of the profession, and educate their viewership. She also provides different story angles that people can use to help tell the same story from different lenses and to be well-rounded in educating the public, meeting the interest of different segments of the public, and prolonging the story's longevity of interest. 

Have you ever gone to work and your patient assignment was straight bananas so you had every intention of walking up to the charge nurse to give them a piece of your mind?In this episode Nurse Alice addresses Beth's question by first advising her that you can't just tell the charge nurse that they suck but instead provides her some insight into the charge nurse role and provides tips for what nurses should do when their assignment seems overwhelming. 

When inclement weather and natural disasters occur, hospitals and other healthcare facilities are expected to remain operating. And we all know without nurses, hospitals would not be able to keep their doors open. So what do you as a nurse do during inclement weather? When is it safe and not safe to travel to/from work? And how does it impact your schedule?In this episode Nurse Alice responds to a caller and explains inclement weather, where that policy should be, and some fundamental things you should know before, after, and during the weather crisis so you are prepared, can be decisive, and stay informed. 

In this episode Nurse Alice shares her advice on why working as a CNA before nursing school (or your first nursing job) can be to your advantage. Not only will it look great on your application but it will prime and prepare you for what to expect in clinical and give you tons of insight into the profession you'll be joining. Read the article: 3 Reasons To Become a CNA Before Nurse

Have you ever been asked to pick up an extra shift at work? And even though many of us already have a set schedule - we still pick up, and for a variety of reasons. But what happens when the requests are happening more often and you really don't want to work but feel bad about saying no? Do you feel guilty or pressured to still say yes? And if you do pick up the shift, do you negotiate the deal to make it sweeter for you?In this episode Nurse Alice explains why you may feel bad about saying no to an extra shift request, reminds you that picking up an extra shift won't solve the nursing shortage, and provides you with some tips on what you can do or say the next time you're asked to work extra.

Imagine working a long and hard shift with no breaks or lunch relief and just when it's report time you learn that there's no nurse coming to relieve you.In this episode Nurse Alice shares a recent personal experience of having to stay over past the end of her shift until someone could take her patients. Did she have to stay? If she didn't, would that have been patient abandonment? Tune in to learn more about what constitutes patient abandonment and what options you may have if ever in this situation.

Imagine being an experienced nurse and being comfortable in a particular specialty and then one day making a decision to pivot into a different one. It can be scary and exciting at the same time because you're not a new nurse but you are new to a specialty. How can you best prepare for the transition?In this episode Nurse Alice answers a caller's question by offering tips on how she can successfully transition from working in telemetry to ICU. Nurse Alice provides insights and shares observations from the critical care new to the specialty transitional program she used to lead. 

At one point in time, almost every nurse has toyed with the idea of climbing the traditional nursing career ladder of one-day becoming a charge nurse,  unit manager, or nurse director - even if we didn't fully pursue it. Many don't for a variety of reasons but for those that do, the truth is many will try but only a few are chosen. So what would you do if you were trying to advance but were passed up for job promotions in your unit? Would you leave?In this episode Nurse Alice answers a caller's question about getting passed up twice for promotion on her unit. She also shares her personal experience with getting passed up for a manager position and provides some tips for others who are looking to climb the career ladder where they work and what to do if they don't get the job.  

As nurses our job is to take care of other people but what happens when we're the ones that don't feel well? Or perhaps your child, parent, or significant other is sick - who takes care of them when you're supposed to be at work? For many of us this is infrequent and episodic so we're able to manage short-term issues but what if the condition is chronic or becoming more frequent in nature and you're having to call out sick from work more often? Is there anything you can do to protect your job?In this episode Nurse Alice speaks with a nurse who shares her personal experience of how she was able to save her job and reputation as a good nurse after discovering intermittent medical leave to help her manage her chronic migraine flare-ups which sometimes resulted in unexpected, late and frequent sick calls to work which would have normally resulted in the disciplinary process and ultimate termination. 

Have you ever felt nervous, sick, tired, or cried on your way to work? Whether a new nurse or a seasoned professional, you may be trying to cope with anxious feelings and thoughts before (or after) your shift.  Many nurses struggle with fears around rejection, inadequacy, making mistakes, and job dissatisfaction, which can manifest into physical symptoms.In this episode Nurse Alice responds to a caller's question as to why his wife cries on her way to work every night as she leaves for her new night ICU job. She explains pre/post-shift anxiety, what can cause it, and tips on how to combat it. 

Every patient is your patient when it comes to answering call lights. And while the call light system is needed to help us care for patients, it can sometimes feel like it's being overused or not used properly and disrupt us while we're in the middle of patient care... and that's frustrating. So where's the call light for the nurse when this happens?In this episode Nurse Alice talks about how the call light system was intended to use, the different types of call light devices, and provides tips on how you may be able to reduce the number of call lights you get from your patient and on your unit.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the podcast guest and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of nurse.orgKelsay Irby is the ER Charge Nurse who made national headlines for calling 911 desperate for help with unsafe staffing at St. Michael Medical Center. Here's her first-hand story of what really happened on the night of October 8, 2022. By now you've likely heard of the ER charge nurse who called 911 at St. Michael Medical Center in Washington when her staff was overwhelmed with patients and was concerned about their safety. The news sensationalized the story as she really called the non-emergent line. But nevertheless, it was indeed a staffing emergency impacting patient safety. However, in recent news, the hospital's president challenged her story and claimed she didn't follow protocol.In this episode Nurse Alice talks with Kelsay Irby, the ER charge nurse herself, and gets the first account of what happened that night. Kelsay Irby wrote a full article telling her story, read the article here. 

In the most proverbial way, nurses are always fighting for our patients but recently some nurses did literally just that. Recently a man was arrested for assaulting infants at Odessa Regional Medical Hospital in Texas. Fortunately, the nurses there were able to separate the babies from the aggressor's choking death grip. Selfless yes, but dangerous to themselves? Yes! Most ERs staff are required to have training for the management of aggressive patients but shouldn't all nurses? Is calling a code grey or code silver enough? In this episode, Nurse Alice shares examples of patient aggression and tips on identifying potential problems early on and how to best handle yourself to keep you and your patients safe. Read the full article here

What do you do when the emergency is in the emergency room? A Charge Nurse in the ER of St. Michael Medical Center in Washington called 911 when she determined she and her team were unsafely staffed for the over 45 patients in their rooms and waiting areas. It was her plea for help.  Many applauded her but many worried for her job.In this episode Nurse Alice talks about what it's like working in the ER AND being short-staffed, what is ESI and EMTALA, what The Whistle Blower Act is, and how we can protect ourselves and our patients from unsafe conditions without feeling like our jobs are in jeopardy and speculate on why the interim ER Director is no longer there. It's time nurses level up to understand how nursing fits into the larger scheme of the business and politics of healthcare. 

Have you ever felt guilty about calling in sick to work? So much so that you went to work anyways when you didn't feel well, or perhaps you procrastinated calling in until the very last minute? Now ask yourself why?In this episode Nurse Alice shares a recent experience about feeling guilty for calling in sick to a new assignment and how it made her feel. But more importantly, she shares how even seasoned nurses can fall victim to “sick call guilt.”  She explains what it is and why we have it, but more importantly how to not let it rule your life.Read the article here https://nurse.org/articles/when-nurses-call-in-sick/

Did you know that Sept 11-17th was Nephrology Nurses Week? In appreciation of all our nephrology nurses, Nurse Alice speaks with ANNA president-elect Jennifer Payton to discuss nephrology nursing as a specialty, what it takes to become a nephrology nurse, and different career opportunities for nephrology nurses.

A recent decision by the NC Supreme Court overturning a 1932 precedent that once protected nurses from liability now has many nurses worried that they can be sued for following doctor's orders as several news outlets have reported. If following doctors' orders is part of everyday practice how concerned should nurses be?In this episode Nurse Alice discusses the court case that prompted the NC Supreme Court to overturn a 1932 precedent; explains the precedent that was overturned; gives a brief history lesson on the evolution of nursing licensure in North Carolina (spoiler alert - it didn't happen til 1965); and discuss how this impacts you as a nurse in 2022 while sharing some of her own personal experiences with nurses following doctor's orders that resulted in harm. Read the full article and court documents here 

Getting through nursing school and passing the NCLEX is already hard on its own. Now imagine doing it with a disability and experiencing discrimination every step of the way from nursing faculty, clinical sites, and potential employers. More than 1 billion people in the world openly have disabilities, and still, so many more don't publicly acknowledge them. In this episode Nurse Alice talks with Andrea Dalzell aka The Seated Nurse, a registered nurse, healthcare advocate, disability rights influencer, speaker, and most importantly, a survivor. Andrea candidly shares some of the many obstacles she encountered in nursing school, how she got through them, and the 76 interviews she had after graduation before her first clinical position as a registered nurse and wheelchair user. Fast forward to today, Andrea is still on a mission and is now the founder of an organization, The Seated Position, focused on helping those with disabilities have access to education and courses to enter the professional workspace. Read the article here 

Even when you put your best foot forward and do everything you can to take the best care of patients, every once in a while (or more often) you may encounter difficult family members who don't think you're doing enough or who are rude, verbally abusive and unrealistically demanding with you. So what do you do in those situations? In this episode Nurse Alice shares some of her own personal experiences and 6 tips for how you can deal with difficult patient family members. Read the full article here: https://nurse.org/articles/how-to-deal-with-difficult-patient-family/

New York, California, and Illinois have declared State Public Health Emergencies in light of growing cases of Monkeypox. In this episode Nurse Alice talks about Monkeypox. What is it? How and why is it spreading? And what nurses need to know.***Since the original recording the Federal government has issued a national public health emergency for Monkeypox.Read the full article here 

While many of us are aware that the U.S. Supreme Court has officially reversed Roe v. Wade declaring that there is no longer any constitutional right to abortion, did you know that in response to that the federal government established a Reproductive rights task force through the Department of Justice to oversee state abortions laws to ensure they do not violate any federal laws. In this episode Nurse Alice talks about the DOJ's Reproductive Rights task force put into place to oversee state abortion laws and their first legal action against the state of Idaho whose abortion law is set to go into effect on Aug. 25 and imposes a near-total ban on abortion.  The DOJ alleges the Idaho abortion law violates the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) in situations where an abortion is necessary to stabilize treatment for an emergency medical condition.