Category: Current News and Practice Information

Help Us Make This Blog the Best Resource for Nurses in Montana!

Help Us Make This Blog the Best Resource for Nurses in Montana!

Hello Montana Nurses!

Welcome to the Montana Nurses Association (MNA) blog! We’re thrilled to have you here and are committed to making this blog your go-to resource for everything nursing in Montana. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse or just starting your career, we want to ensure that our content meets your needs and provides value to you.

Why Your Input Matters

Your feedback is crucial to us. As frontline healthcare professionals, you have unique insights and experiences that can guide us in creating relevant and helpful content. By sharing your suggestions and ideas, you help shape a blog that truly reflects the needs and interests of Montana’s nursing community.

How Can You Contribute?

We’d love to hear from you on various aspects of this blog, including:

1. Topics to Cover

  • What issues are most pressing in your daily work?

  • Are there specific topics you’d like more information on?

  • What trends or challenges in nursing are you interested in learning about?

2. Types of Content

  • Would you prefer more in-depth articles, quick tips, or multimedia content like videos and infographics?

  • Do you enjoy personal stories from fellow nurses, or do you prefer research-based content and industry news?

3. Engagement and Interactivity

  • What kinds of interactive elements would you like to see? (e.g., Q&A sessions, webinars, live chats)

  • How can we make it easier for you to participate in discussions and share your own experiences?

4. Resources and Tools

  • Are there specific tools or resources that would make your job easier or your professional development more effective?

  • What formats do you find most helpful for guidelines, checklists, or best practice recommendations?

5. Feedback on Design and Usability

  • Is the blog easy to navigate? If not, what improvements would you suggest?

  • How can we make finding information faster and more intuitive?

How to Share Your Ideas

We’ve set up a few ways for you to provide feedback:

  • Comments Section: Leave your thoughts directly below this post on Facebook or Instagram.

  • Email Us: Send your suggestions to [email protected].

Your input will help us tailor our content to better serve you and your colleagues across the state. We’re committed to continuous improvement and innovation, and your contributions are a vital part of this process.

Thank You!

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Together, we can create a blog that supports, informs, and inspires the nursing community in Montana. We look forward to hearing from you and making this blog a valuable resource for all Montana nurses.

Best regards,

 

The MNA Blog Team

Honoring the Sacrifice: A Memorial Day Tribute from the Montana Nurses Association

Honoring the Sacrifice: A Memorial Day Tribute from the Montana Nurses Association

As the warm sun rises over the vast and breathtaking landscapes of Montana, we at the Montana Nurses Association (MNA) pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country. Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend or a marker of the beginning of summer; it is a solemn occasion to reflect on the courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice of our fallen heroes.

Remembering Our Heroes

The essence of Memorial Day lies in its very name – a day of memorials, a day to remember. For us, this includes not only the valiant soldiers who fought on the frontlines but also the countless nurses who served alongside them. Nurses have been an integral part of military history, providing critical care in the most challenging and dangerous conditions.

From the battlefields of World War I and II, through the jungles of Vietnam, to the deserts of the Middle East, nurses have stood as beacons of hope and care. Their contributions often came at great personal risk, and many paid the ultimate price. Today, we honor their memory and the invaluable role they played in safeguarding the lives and well-being of countless soldiers.

The Legacy of Military Nurses

Military nurses have a storied history of resilience and compassion. Figures like Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, and the nurses of World War II, who endured harsh conditions to provide care, are emblematic of this legacy. These individuals not only provided medical care but also brought comfort and humanity to the chaos of war.

Their legacy continues to inspire us today. Modern military nurses carry forward this tradition of excellence and dedication, often serving in conflict zones and disaster areas around the world. Their work exemplifies the highest standards of our profession and reminds us of the profound impact nurses have in every corner of the globe.

A Day of Reflection and Gratitude

As we gather with family and friends this Memorial Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the day. Attend a local memorial service, visit a veterans’ cemetery, or simply take a quiet moment to remember those who have given their lives for our freedom. Let us also extend our gratitude to the families of the fallen, whose sacrifices are immeasurable.

For our nursing community, this day is also a reminder of the profound connection we share with the military. Many of our colleagues are veterans themselves, and many more have family members who have served. Their experiences enrich our community and remind us of the broader context in which we practice.

Moving Forward with Purpose

As we honor the past, we are also inspired to look forward with purpose. The values of courage, dedication, and service that define Memorial Day are the same values that guide our work as nurses. Whether we are providing care in a hospital, a community clinic, or a disaster zone, we carry with us the spirit of those who have served before us.

Let us commit to living these values every day, in every patient interaction, and in every act of care we provide. By doing so, we not only honor the memory of our fallen heroes but also ensure that their legacy of service and sacrifice continues to inspire future generations.

Conclusion

This Memorial Day, the Montana Nurses Association stands in solemn remembrance of all who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. We honor the military nurses who served with unwavering courage and dedication, and we recommit ourselves to the values they embodied. May their memory inspire us to serve with compassion and excellence in all that we do.

In gratitude and remembrance,

Montana Nurses Association

Quick and Delicious Nutrient-Dense Meals for Busy Nurses: 4 Easy Recipes

Quick and Delicious Nutrient-Dense Meals for Busy Nurses: 4 Easy Recipes

Being a nurse is a demanding profession that often leaves little time for meal prep and planning.
However, prioritizing nutritious meals is essential for maintaining energy levels and overall
well-being during long shifts. To make things easier, we’ve curated four quick and delicious
recipes that are packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy nurses on the go.

1. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad:
● Ingredients:
1. 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2. 1 cucumber, diced
3. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
5. 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
6. 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
7. 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
8. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
9. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10. Salt and pepper to taste
● Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red
onion, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt,
and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

2. Quinoa Vegetable Stir-Fry:
● Ingredients:
1. 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2. 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, etc.),
chopped
3. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
6. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
7. 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
8. Sesame seeds for garnish
● Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.

2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced garlic and chopped vegetables to the skillet, and stir-fry for
5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey or
maple syrup.
5. Add cooked quinoa to the skillet along with the sauce, and toss to
combine.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

3. Turkey and Hummus Wrap:
● Ingredients:
1. 4 whole wheat tortillas or wraps
2. 1/2 lb deli turkey slices
3. 1 cup hummus
4. 2 cups mixed salad greens
5. 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
6. 1 medium tomato, sliced
● Instructions:
1. Lay out tortillas on a flat surface.
2. Spread 1/4 cup of hummus evenly over each tortilla.
3. Layer turkey slices, mixed salad greens, cucumber slices, and tomato
slices on top of the hummus.
4. Roll up the tortillas tightly, slice in half if desired, and secure with
toothpicks for easy handling.
4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Buddha Bowl:
● Ingredients:
1. 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
4. 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
5. Salt and pepper to taste
6. 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
7. 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
8. 2 cups baby spinach or kale
9. Avocado slices for topping
10. Lime wedges for garnish
● Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt,
and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and
lightly browned.
4. Assemble bowls with cooked quinoa or brown rice, roasted sweet
potatoes, black beans, baby spinach or kale, and avocado slices.
5. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the bowls before serving.

Conclusion:
With these four simple and nutritious recipes, busy nurses can enjoy delicious meals that fuel
their bodies and keep them energized throughout their demanding shifts. By prepping
ingredients in advance, focusing on nutrient-rich foods, and incorporating a variety of flavors
and textures, nurses can prioritize their health without sacrificing taste or convenience. Here’s to
happy and healthy eating, even on the busiest of days!

Celebrating Our Montana Nurses: National Nurses Week 2024

Celebrating Our Montana Nurses: National Nurses Week May 6-12, 2024

As we commence National Nurses Week, the Montana Nurses Association is honored to celebrate the invaluable contributions of our dedicated nurses across the Treasure State. From the bustling hospitals of Billings to the serene landscapes of Missoula, Montana’s nurses embody compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

To all the nurses in Montana, we extend our deepest gratitude for your tireless dedication and unwavering compassion. Whether you’re working long hours in the emergency room, providing vital support in long-term care facilities, or educating the next generation of nursing professionals, your contributions are truly invaluable.

This National Nurses Week, we encourage everyone to take a moment to thank a nurse for their selfless service and unwavering commitment to healing. Whether it’s a simple thank you note, a kind gesture, or a heartfelt expression of gratitude, let’s show our nurses how much they mean to us.

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, let us also reaffirm our commitment to supporting nurses in Montana. From advocating for violence free work environments to staffing conditions to quality education and training, the Montana Nurses Association remains steadfast in our mission to empower and uplift our nursing community.

To show our appreciation for nurses’ tireless efforts, we have compiled a list of links to companies that are offering freebies!

MeMoi is also offering a pair of free compression socks to all nurses, their socks are designed to alleviate fatigue and promote circulation during long shifts on your feet. If you would like a FREE pair of socks, all you have to do is send an email with your name and address to [email protected].

Chipotle is thanking healthcare workers with more than $1 Million in FREE Chipotle! CLICK HERE

Thrive Market offers a FREE one-year membership for all Nurses! CLICK HERE

Bed Bath and Beyond offers a FREE one-year membership to Club O for all Nurses! CLICK HERE

To all the nurses in Montana, thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. Happy National Nurses Week!

Nurturing the Nurturer: Prioritizing Mental Health Awareness Among Montana Nurses

Nurturing the Nurturer: Prioritizing Mental Health Awareness Among Montana Nurses

In the demanding landscape of healthcare, nurses are the bedrock, tirelessly tending to
the needs of patients with unwavering dedication. Yet, amidst their noble mission, it’s
imperative to recognize that nurses themselves often bear the weight of emotional and
mental strain. In Montana, where nurses serve diverse communities across vast
landscapes, the importance of prioritizing mental health awareness cannot be
overstated. This blog post delves into the significance of self-care strategies for nurses,
highlighting the vital role of nurturing the nurturer.
The Silent Struggle:
Nursing is a demanding profession, requiring round-the-clock attention, empathy, and
critical decision-making. However, behind the scenes, many nurses silently grapple with
stress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. The long hours, high-pressure environments,
and exposure to suffering can take a toll on even the most resilient caregivers.
Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, intensifying
workloads and heightening anxieties.
Why Self-Care Matters:
In the midst of caring for others, nurses must prioritize their own well-being. Just as a
sturdy foundation is essential for a strong structure, self-care forms the cornerstone of
effective nursing practice. When nurses neglect their mental health, it not only
jeopardizes their own wellness but also compromises the quality of patient care.
Recognizing this interconnectedness is the first step towards fostering a culture of self-
care within the nursing community.
Strategies for Resilience:
Empowering nurses to prioritize their mental health is vital for fostering resilience in the
face of demanding healthcare environments. Mindfulness and stress management
techniques can be bolstered through resources such as mindfulness apps like
Headspace or Calm, which offer guided meditation sessions tailored to busy schedules.
Work-life balance initiatives can be supported by organizational policies promoting
flexible scheduling and time-off benefits. Peer support and counseling services,
including Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and online support communities like
NurseGrid Community or the American Nurses Association’s (ANA) online forums,

provide avenues for nurses to connect with colleagues and seek confidential guidance.
Encouraging healthy lifestyle habits can be reinforced through educational workshops
or resources from organizations like the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR)
offering tips on nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene. Lastly, education and training in
stress management and resilience-building skills can be facilitated through professional
development opportunities like webinars offered by nursing associations or specialized
courses from institutions like the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA). By
pairing these strategies with accessible resources, nurses can cultivate resilience and
sustain their well-being while delivering exceptional care.
Additionally, nurses can benefit from targeted programs designed to prevent burnout
and promote resilience. The American Nurses Association (ANA) offers a
comprehensive Burnout Prevention Program, which equips nurses with practical
strategies to navigate the challenges of their profession while safeguarding their mental
well-being. Through this program, nurses gain access to evidence-based resources,
interactive workshops, and peer support networks facilitated by experienced
professionals. ANA’s Burnout Prevention Program empowers nurses to recognize the
signs of burnout, implement self-care practices, and advocate for supportive work
environments.
As advocates for compassionate care, it’s incumbent upon us to ensure that the
caregivers themselves are cared for. By championing mental health awareness and
fostering a culture of self-care, we not only safeguard the well-being of nurses but also
fortify the foundation of our healthcare system. Let us pledge to nurture the nurturer,
recognizing that by prioritizing their mental health, nurses can continue to provide
exceptional care to those in need.
In the vast expanse of Montana, where the spirit of resilience runs deep, let us unite in
our commitment to support the mental health and well-being of our nurses. By fostering
a culture of self-care and compassion, we honor their tireless dedication and ensure
that they can continue to shine as beacons of healing and hope in our communities.
Together, let us nurture the nurturer, for in their well-being lies the strength of our
healthcare system.

Introducing the MNA’s New Biweekly Blog!

Introducing the MNA’s New Biweekly Blog!

Dear Nurses, Healthcare Professionals, and Supporters,

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Montana Nurses Association’s newest endeavor: our biweekly blog! As an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering nurses across the great state of Montana, we understand the importance of providing resources and content that bolster your well-being, advocacy efforts, and overall enjoyment.

In these challenging times, nurses play an indispensable role in our communities, providing compassionate care and unwavering support to those in need. It is our mission to ensure that you have access to the tools, information, and inspiration you need to thrive both personally and professionally.

So, what can you expect from our new blog?

Our blog is a multifaceted platform designed to cater to every aspect of a nurse’s life. From advocating for crucial issues in the nursing profession and healthcare industry, including legislative updates and discussions on patient care standards, to prioritizing your wellness with tips on self-care, stress management, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we’re here to support your holistic journey. But it’s not all serious – we also aim to bring some joy into your day with uplifting stories, spotlights on remarkable nurses, and opportunities to connect with your peers in a lighthearted and enjoyable manner. At the Montana Nurses Association, we’re dedicated to empowering and celebrating the incredible nurses of our state.

Through this blog, we aim to create a space where nurses can find support, inspiration, and camaraderie. We invite you to join us on this journey as we strive to uplift and empower the incredible nurses of Montana.

Stay tuned for our first blog post, coming soon! In the meantime, be sure to follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates from the Montana Nurses Association.

Thank you for all that you do.

Safe Staffing and Workplace Safety for RNs in Montana

In 2023, your Montana Nurses Association passed legislation to report workplace violence. MNA also introduced legislation to establish safe staffing standards in healthcare. Learn about what you can do to help make it safer for nurses to provide high quality patient care in Montana!

You are invited to join MNA and other RNs for a free contact hour and learn about what can be done about safe staffing standards & workplace violence.

*Dec 11th, 2023 at 1400, 1700 & 1930

*Dec 12th, 2023 at 0830 & 1100 

@ Great Falls Holiday Inn-Convention Center

Board of Nursing proposes repeal of Continuing Education requirements

Stay up-to-date with the conversations surrounding the Montana Board of Nursing’s proposed repeal of ALL continuing education requirements for RNs and APRNs.

Listen to the full MT Board of Nursing meeting; includes the final vote that officially repealed CE requirements for RNs and APRNs in Montana, over 100 public comments and the BON’s responses: Recorded minutes from the Montana Board of Nursing meeting 10/18/2023

See the official notice put out by the MT Board of Nursing regarding the CE repeal rule change: Rule Notice published by the Montana Board of Nursing (Source: MT BON Website)

Check out the Daily Montanan’s article on the proposed CE repeal here: Montana considers eliminating continuing education for registered nurses – July 31, 2023

Read MNA’s views on the proposed CE repeal here: Press release BON-DLI CE repeal – 7/10/2023,   MNA position publication regarding MAR 24-159-93 – 07/07/2023, Referenced 2018 MNA Proposal to BON

Watchdog Alleges Pattern of Labor Law Violations by St. Peter’s Union-Busting Consultant

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 27, 2023
Contact: Bob Funk | 406-461-6787

Watchdog Alleges Pattern of Labor Law Violations by St. Peter’s Union-Busting Consultant

(Helena, MT) —This week, St. Peter’s Health hired an anti-union “persuader” consultant, Niles Commer, to directly engage with nurses who are actively seeking to form a union. In light of this development, LaborLab has launched an investigation, leading to the filing of a formal complaint being filed with the U.S. Department of Labor under the Labor Management Relations and Disclosure Act (LMRDA).

The complaint specifically alleges repeated violations of the LMRDA by Niles Commer, who has demonstrated a history of non-compliance with labor laws, particularly those related to transparency and disclosure. The LMRDA is designed to ensure that workers are provided with the critical information they are entitled to, safeguarding their rights in the labor process.

Even since his engagement by St. Peter’s Health, Niles Commer is accused of violating disclosure rules by failing to file necessary reports with the U.S. Department of Labor. As a result, LaborLab has taken the step to formally file a complaint against Mr. Commer to address these alleged violations.

It is worth noting that, as a consequence of hiring Niles Commer, St. Peter’s Health now bears an obligation to disclose the expenditures related to their union-busting activities. This complaint underscores the importance of upholding workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain, emphasizing the need for prompt and decisive action to address these alleged violations.

“Niles Commer, the out-of-state union-buster hired by St. Peter’s, has an egregious history of disregarding transparency laws designed to protect workers,” said Bob Funk, LaborLab Executive Director. “Unfortunately, this is nothing new. Hospitals are some of the largest spenders on union-busting and their consultants, like Commer, often violate disclosure rules in an attempt to stay undetected and hidden in the shadows.”