Opinion could change rural CRNA practices

A recent opinion issued by Kansas Attorney General Steve Six created concern among Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, commonly referred to as CRNAs.

The opinion, which Six released Jan. 26, states that CRNAs are not authorized under Kansas statute to “issue preoperative and postoperative orders for medications and diagnostic tests related to anesthesia or analgesia care.”

Volunteers share time with patients

When Stephanie Pikell, Lenexa, lost a couple of close friends, she saw firsthand the important services Hospice provides – assistance and comfort to terminally ill patients and their families.

Nurses find friendship through mentorship

Yanny Ouk, RN, said she remembers what it is like to struggle in school.

The North Kansas City nurse came to the United States from Cambodia in 1981 as a young child.

“When I started school I had trouble reading,” Ouk said.

Workforce bridges gap

Baby boomers are not babies when it comes to the nursing workforce.

The boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, are one of four generations that comprise the field of nursing. They work alongside the veterans, those born between 1922 and 1945; Generation X nurses, born between 1965 and 1980; and Generation Y nurses, born after 1981.

Nursing need great in rural areas

GREAT BEND — Thirty-three nurses graduated from Barton Community College in May and went right to work.

“All of them were employed before they left,” said Linda Gobin, the college’s director of nursing education. “Some have even changed jobs since then.”

Medical center expands

Shawnee Mission Medical Center celebrated its Critical Care Services Expansion with a ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 21.

Units in the 265,000-square-foot expansion will open to patients Jan. 26.