Montana Nurses - Quarterly
Table of Contents
Announcement by American Nurses Enterprise CEO
CEO Report MNA, A Strong Advocate for the Rights and Interests of Nurses
Legislative Corner 2025 Legislative Reception 2025 Safe Staffing Bill HB 590 APRNs Specific Legislative Advocacy History Safeguarding Public Health: Nursing Associations Advocate for Evidence-Based Leadership at HH
Labor Reports and News Help Us Help YOU! Protect Your Collective Bargaining Rights The Power of Knowledge Organizing with *Armour-Globe* Join Us for the Montana Nurses Association Advocacy Retreat!
Professional Development Certification Updates The Annual APRN Pharmacology Conference Montana Nurses Association Approved Providers
ANA Excerpts
MNA Information and Contacts Contact MNA Voice of Nurses in Montana Professional Development  MNA Staff MNA Board of Directors Council on Practice & Government Affairs (CPGA)   Council on Advanced Practice CAP  Writer's Guidelines
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February 2025

Mission Statement

The Montana Nurses Association promotes professional nursing practice, standards and education; represents professional nurses; and provides nursing leadership in promoting high quality health care.

Announcement by American Nurses Enterprise CEO
Angela Beddoe, American Nurses Enterprise CEO

Jan 23rd, 2025 - We recognize that this week's presidential inauguration and the events and Executive Orders (EOs) during and after the inauguration of the 47th U.S. President are front of mind for everybody. ANA staff are actively reviewing the EOs issued by President Trump over his first days in office. While a range of the EOs may have impact on nursing and public health, we are particularly focused, at least initially, on the EOs related to withdrawing from the World Health Organization and banning DEI related activities within the federal government and from private entities receiving federal funding.
 
ANA has grave concerns about the impact of these EOs but is also assessing the most effective ways to express our concerns and challenge these executive actions. We are analyzing the language within the EOs to determine the best course of action, to not only express our concern, but to act on behalf of nurses and public health.
 
While the WHO EO is very concerning on multiple levels, there are several steps that must be taken to effect a withdrawal that will allow ANA the opportunity to engage in opposition to that proposed action, the EO related to DEI is having immediate effect within the federal government and directly on nurses working to advance diversity, equity and inclusion. Our first order of business is to address the most immediate challenges first while not taking our eyes off the other actions and activities critical to nurses.
 
ANA will reach out to Congress, including members of the Nursing Caucus and career staff within federal agencies to express our concern and support for efforts to mitigate the impact of the orders immediately and also over the course of the next few weeks as more information becomes available about their legality and any practical mechanisms to protect programs that are so important to the nursing profession, patients and our public health system as a whole.
 
ANA will not abandon our principles, nor our members directly and indirectly impacted by these orders. We will continue to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion and the foundational as well as practical pillars of public health because of how fundamentally important they are to us and our country.

Angela Beddoe
Chief Executive Officer

CEO Report
MNA, A Strong Advocate for the Rights and Interests of Nurses
Vicky Byrd, MSN, RN

Dear Professional Nurse Members,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address a matter of great concern regarding recent actions taken by the Montana Citizens for Right to Work. You may have received a mailing from this group noting a Randy Pope as executive director.

It has come to our attention that this organization has a long history of misrepresentation, and they have recently included our president in their mailing without her permission. This was done as a political decoy to make members think that the Montana Nurses Association (MNA) leadership is opposed to collective bargaining. Let me assure you, nothing could be further from the truth.

These tactics are designed to serve employers by giving them more power while diminishing the power of nurses. The resources used for these misleading tactics would be much better spent investing in the workers of Montana, including our registered nurses.

MNA remains steadfast in our commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of nurses. We believe in the power of collective bargaining to improve working conditions, wages, and benefits for all nurses. We will continue to stand strong against any attempts to undermine our efforts and mislead our members.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our profession. Together, we can ensure that the voices of nurses are heard and respected.

Sincerely,

Vicky Byrd, MSN, RN

President-Montana Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF)

CEO-Montana Nurses Association (MNA)

Legislative Corner
2025 Legislative Reception

The Montana Nurses Association (MNA) had a productive and engaging 2025 Legislative Reception in Helena. This type of event demonstrates the importance of connecting policymakers with professionals who are directly impacted by the laws and policies they shape.

Key Highlights:

  • Event Details: Held at a local brewery, the reception provided a welcoming environment with food and non-alcoholic beverages.

  • Outreach Efforts: Invitations were sent to every state Senator and Representative via email and postcards, ensuring broad awareness.

  • Support for Attendance: The MNA covered travel expenses for members of the State Workforce Advocacy Team (SWAT), making the event accessible to all invited.

  • Purpose: MNA staff, SWAT nurses, and other leaders used the opportunity to educate lawmakers about pressing issues affecting nursing and patient care.

  • Impact: The presence of 15 Montana lawmakers highlights the event's success in fostering dialogue and engagement.

The Montana Nurses Association graciously thanks the 15 Montana lawmakers who joined us at our 2025 Legislative Reception. We are truly grateful for their time, engagement, and willingness to learn about the legislative priorities that impact our profession and the patients we serve.

Lawmakers Who Joined the 2025 Legislative Reception:

Rep. Ken Walsh - HD 69 Twin Bridges

Rep. Bob Carter - HD 96 Missoula

Rep. Jennifer Lynch -- HD 73 Butte

Rep. Scott DeMarois -- HD 71 Anaconda

Sen. Sara Novak -- SD 36 Anaconda

Rep. Marc Lee -- HD 74 Butte

Sen. Derek Harvey -- SD 37 Butte

Rep. Stevie Kelly -- HD 9 Kalispell

Sen. Chris Pope -- SD 33 Bozeman

Rep. Scott Rosenzweig -- HD 57 Bozeman

Rep. Pete Elverum -- HD 82 Helena

Sen. Dr. Cora Neumann -- SD 30 Bozeman

Sen. Russ Tempel -- SD 14 Chester

Rep. Gary W. Parry -- HD 35 Colstrip

Rep. Ed Stafman -- HD 59 Bozeman

If one of these lawmakers (listed above) represents your district or area, please take a moment to reach out and thank them personally. A quick note of appreciation can go a long way in building relationships and reinforcing the importance of nursing advocacy.

2025 Safe Staffing Bill
Protect and enhance safe quality patient care

A bill for an act entitled:

"Safe Staffing Standards for Registered Professional Nurses and Patients, establishing minimum nurse staffing standards and nurse staffing committees in Hospitals to protect and enhance safe quality patient care."

Safe Staffing Standards will:

  • Protects patients.

  • Safe nurse-to-patient ratios help prevent nurse burnout.

  • Minimum nurse-to-patient ratios helps to recruit and retain nurses.

  • Unsafe nurse-to-patient ratios*, is associated with a 7% increase in hospital mortality!

  • Creates Nurse Staffing Committees-joint collaboration with hospital and nurses to provide the best standard of high-quality patient care.

Proposed Bill Language will:

  • Not include critical access hospitals.

  • Not include long-term care facilities.

  • Provide annual reporting to DPHHS that can be posted on their website for public access.

Please support MNA nurses in their efforts to recruit and retain registered nurses in Montana. This bill is a critical step in ensuring our communities receive safe high-quality healthcare.

Article references 

*Unsafe Nurse-to-Patient Ratios

HB 590
Violence Against Healthcare Workers Data Gathering and Report Tool

In the 2023 Legislative Session, MNA worked with Representative Edward Buttrey to bring HB 590 forward and it established in law a Violence Against Healthcare Workers Data Gathering and Report Tool. It requires Healthcare Employers to document and report incidents of violence in healthcare facilities within 24 hours of occurrence.

This is increasingly being recognized as a nationwide issue -- Indiana, Vermont, Georgia, and Massachusetts have implemented similar legislation. Wyoming is currently using our HB 590 language to address violence in healthcare in their 2025 session.

The first year of data collection was October 1, 2023 to October 1, 2024.

Initial findings from the DOJ's Annual Report are highlighted below:

The full report can be found on the MT DOJ website (https://app.doj.mt.gov/apps/HB590/)

APRNs Specific Legislative Advocacy History

APRNs Specific Legislative Advocacy History

2019-

  • Signature Authority for APRNs- Signature authority of certified registered nurse practitioners. -- When a provision of law or administrative rule requires a signature, certification, stamp, verification, affidavit, or endorsement by a physician, the requirement may be fulfilled by an advanced practice registered nurse practicing within the scope of the advance practice registered nurse's certification.; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall be construed to expand the scope of practice of nurse practitioners.---Passed into law

  • Advocated for APRNs to be able to supervise/delegate to community EMTs as often they are sole provider in a community.

2021-

  • APRN clean up bill- legislative bill drafter found over 277 statues that need clear consistent definitions of healthcare provider and healthcare terms. APRN full practice authority updates, per the Board of Nursing, reported that some statutes were last changed in 1995, then some in 2005, however, the statutes have not been clarified/updated since, driving and supporting this need to update statues and documents to reflect current practice and for consistent definitions throughout to eliminate confusion for patients, caregivers, and payers.---Passed into law

  • Again Advocated for APRNs to be able to supervise/delegate to community EMTs as often they are sole provider in a community.

2023-

  • Opposed APRN compact-handout provided to explain why from AANP

  • Opposed APRN bill that would be AN ACT ESTABLISHING SUPERVISION REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES; REQUIRING COLLABORATIVE AGREEMENTS WITH SPECIFIED PROVIDERS FOR THE FIRST 2 YEARS OF PRACTICE---MNA was able to get the bill withdrawn prior to introduction (this would have been devastating to full practice authority).

ONGOING EACH SESSION

  • Support Workplace violence legislation for all healthcare providers.

  • Oppose any legislation that impairs APRN full practice and prescriptive authority.

  • Oppose all Right to Work legislation.

  • Oppose any legislation that invades patient/provider relationship!

  • Advocate for Safe Nurse Staffing.

Safeguarding Public Health: Nursing Associations Advocate for Evidence-Based Leadership at HH

The American Nurses Association\California, Washington State Nurses Association, Montana 
Nurses Association, Oregon Nurses Association, Minnesota Organization of Registered Nurses, 
American Nurses Association Illinois, Hawai’i American Nurses Association, American Nurses 
Association Vermont, American Nurses Association Ohio, and Colorado Nurses Association join 
together in emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public health and prioritizing evidence-based practices within all levels of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which 
oversees critical divisions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food 
and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

We express deep concerns regarding nominations that have recently been announced by the 
incoming administration, and we share the need to take a clear stand at this moment to clarify 
our profession’s priorities. The HHS must inspire trust across the political spectrum while 
demonstrating an unwavering commitment to science, public health, and the diverse needs of 
our nation.

While we respect the right to differing opinions and recognize the importance of personal choice 
in healthcare decisions, our nursing role compels us to advocate for evidence-based practices. 
Decades of research and experience confirm that vaccines are among the most effective tools 
for preventing illness, reducing mortality, decreasing healthcare costs, and protecting vulnerable 
populations.

Nurses are at the forefront of healthcare delivery. We deliver high-quality, timely, and 
appropriate care and advocate for our patients by promoting vaccination as a vital tool for public 
health. We educate patients and communities using evidence and data, guided by trusted 
organizations like the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
To ensure the effectiveness of our nation's public health strategy, leaders in nursing, health, 
medicine and science must possess a deep understanding of evidence-based practices that 
align with the ANA Code of Ethics. To effectively protect the health of all humankind, we need 
leaders who base their decisions on rigorous evidence and who prioritize collaboration with 
healthcare professionals to foster trust and accountability. We take a bold stand against any 
current or future nominees that aim to sow distrust in evidence-based recommendations, 
vaccines, or our public health institutions.

This coalition of state nurses associations urges policymakers to safeguard our commitment to 
science, public health, and the diverse needs of our communities. Our patients - and the public 
at large - deserve leadership that works collaboratively to uphold the principles of science, 
promote and protect equity and inclusion, and embody evidence-based decision-making.

Labor Reports and News
Help Us Help YOU!
Amy Hauschild, BSN, RN Labor Representative

It's all about timing, this is true in many things! Timing related to raising issues in the workplace is no different and it's really important. One of the most frustrating things for a labor representative is to receive a call from an RN with a legitimate complaint, maybe even an issue that would rise to the level of a grievance, only to dig a little deeper to find the issue is an old complaint and is no longer subject to the grievance procedure in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

CBAs generally contain language about how to raise an issue; whether that issue is a contract violation, staffing concern, or other provisions of the CBA. The key is to really be on top of these matters and to seek assistance ASAP. If we are not timely with concerns, sometimes they are not remedied or don't get the attention the matter deserves.

Please, please, please, have the name and contact information of your union representatives and your CBA handy, both at work and at home. When something happens at work that seems odd or makes you feel off, if you notice a contract violation or simply have a question, check your contract and reach out to a local unit representative or your MNA Labor Representative.

Some facilities are large and there may be one or more unit reps in each nursing unit. Some facilities are small and nurses may go right to their union president with questions. In some cases, a nurse will reach out directly to the MNA Labor Representative. It is always better to seek assistance earlier rather than later. No question is too small to ask, your union is here to help you.

HELP US HELP YOU!

Protect Your Collective Bargaining Rights
Robin Haux, BS - Labor Program Director

As many of you may know, Montana's rights to collectively bargain are being targeted again this 2025 legislative session. The proposed laws targeting collective bargaining rights in Montana represent a significant issue for workers and our professional nursing unions and directly attack the Blue Eyed Nurses Bill of 1967, championed by the late Mary Munger, RN, and MNA member. At 96 years old and just weeks before her passing in 2019, she spoke to nursing students at Carroll College and said "You have to be at the (bargaining) table" and elaborated why the collective voice remains so vital.

MNA's collaboration with Montana Unified exemplifies the strength of solidarity across Montana's labor unions. Through this collective effort, we have successfully defeated similar anti-worker bills in the past. However, this fight is far from over---and we need your help!

What do Right to Work (RTW) Laws Mean for You (Or more accurately, NO RIGHTS at Work)? Despite the misleading name, Right to Work (RTW) laws do NOT guarantee anyone a job or protect against wrongful termination. Instead, they aim to:

  • Weaken your nurses' union by undermining your collective voice and collective bargaining rights. In 2024 alone, MNA labor staff and nurse bargaining teams achieved remarkable success, securing the highest wage increases in MNA history---some as high as 40% over a three-year term!
  • Limit your ability to advocate for yourself, your patients, and your colleagues.

  • Erode fair wages, benefits, respect, and safe working conditions that unions have fought hard to secure.

In reality, RTW laws are better described as a "Right to Work for Less."

WHAT YOU CAN DO to PROTECT the BLUE EYED NURSE BILL??

  • Stay UP-TO-DATE on all legislative issues by visiting www.mtnurses.org

  • Join the MNA SWAT Team (State Workforce Advocacy Team) by signing up at: https://mtnurses.wufoo.com/forms/m1u73m6e008ggj2/

  • TAKE ACTION: Attend rallies, write to your legislators, and share information about why your collective bargaining rights are important to YOU!

Together, we can ensure that Montana's workers continue to have a seat at the table. Are you ready to join the fight? Let us know how you'd like to get involved!

The Power of Knowledge
Emily Peterson, Labor Representative

The Power of Knowledge

Nurse Unions are built on the basic principle of solidarity, where each nurse member's voice contributes to the collective strength of the workforce. This strength is not just a result of membership numbers, it is also the result of effective, informed local unit officers/leaders. Understanding the roles of union officers and representatives is crucial for nurse members to fully benefit from their union.

Local Unit Union Officer positions are not just titles, they are pivotal roles that ensure the successful operation of the union, enforcement of nurse workers' rights, and the representation of nurse members' and their interests. All nurse members should be aware of what union officers/leaders do on a state and local level and how their decisions impact the day-to-day work life of employees. Understanding the responsibilities and functions of union leadership enables and empowers members to make informed decisions, participate effectively in union activities, and hold leaders accountable.

In this article, we'll explore why it's important for nurse union members to understand these roles and how being an active, informed participant can enhance the union's power to protect and advance nurse workers' rights.

When nurses understand the roles of officers and representatives, they can make more informed decisions about officer/leader and union actions. It allows nurse members to advocate for themselves and the larger workforce more effectively.

Local Unit Union Presidents, Co-Presidents, and Vice Presidents

The Local Unit president is the primary representative of the union and its members. They often serve as the face of the union in meetings, negotiations, and public statements. Presidents may delegate authority but not the responsibilities of the President. The vice president acts as the deputy to the president and assumes their duties in the absence of the president.

Normal duties of the president and/or vice president include but are not limited to the following:

  • Broad agenda items identified by members for surveys, meeting agendas, PCC/LMC

  • Mentor and support less experienced nurses and help to educate on any union representation

  • Negotiate and help enforce your contract

  • Assist with nurse member lists and list maintenance

  • Help create and maintain open communication with unit reps and union leaders

  • Assist in effectively distributing internal communications

  • Assist and maintain the New Nurse Outreach Program to welcome newly hired nurses

  • Oversee local unit meetings

Local Unit Union Treasurer

The Local Unit Treasurer is responsible for overseeing all financial matters of the union. This includes budgeting, tracking expenses, and ensuring proper financial record-keeping.

Normal duties of the Treasurer include but are not limited to the following:

  • The treasurer has direct fiduciary responsibility for managing the local unit bank account and its expenditures honestly. Treasurer's duties may include:

  • Maintaining possession of local unit checkbook and banking records

  • Serves as co-signatory with the president on all financial instruments and checks

  • Filing necessary LM reports with the Department of Labor, if required.

  • Reporting at membership meetings and making information available to all members

Local Unit Union Secretary, Communications Officer, or Media Officer

The Local Unit secretary is responsible for maintaining records of all union meetings, including minutes, agendas, and any official correspondence. They often handle internal communications, including notifying nurse members about meetings, events, and important decisions.

Normal duties of the Treasurer include but are not limited to the following:

  • The secretary is responsible for taking minutes that accurately record all actions of membership and executive board meetings.

  • At meetings, the secretary should provide access to minutes from the previous meeting and report on any official correspondence the union has received.

  • Assist in creating and maintaining member lists and all communications with members

  • The secretary may enlist assistance from individual department representatives to help convey messaging.

Local Unit Union Department Representative

The Local Unit Department Representative is responsible for being the voice and liaison between the nurses in their specific unit and the Local Unit Officers and MNA Labor Representative.

MNA Union Labor Representative

The Labor Representative is the primary liaison between union nurse members, officers and the facility leadership. The labor representative is often the first point of contact for nurses with issues or grievances in the workplace. Labor representatives help resolve disputes by representing members in informal or formal grievance procedures and often assist in resolving workplace conflicts. The primary concern for labor representatives is to help ensure that the terms of the collective bargaining agreement are upheld by management and that nurses are not being exploited or mistreated. They are regularly present in the facilities and local units they represent, meeting with members, listening to concerns, and maintaining a presence to ensure that nurse worker's rights are respected.

MNA Union Legal Counsel

MNA legal counsel Provides legal advice to the MNA and its' staff on a variety of issues, such as labor law, contract interpretation, and grievance procedures.

Understanding local unit union leadership positions is more than just learning about job descriptions, it's about recognizing the impact these roles have on shaping the future of nurse workers' rights. When union nurses are informed and actively engaged, the union itself becomes a more powerful, accountable, and effective force for change! Being educated regarding leadership roles helps nurse members navigate the union structure, participate in decision-making processes, and hold leaders accountable. This helps ensure that the needs and voices of the workforce are prioritized.

Responsibility does not fall solely on the shoulders of local unit union leaders; every nurse plays an integral role in strengthening their union through active involvement. Educating ourselves on the duties and responsibilities of local unit union officers and representatives greatly contributes to building a more dynamic, transparent, and unified locals.

So, I challenge all nurses to take the next step, attend a union meeting, ask questions, get to know your leadership team, and stay informed about the issues that affect you. When union nurses understand the power within the roles in union leadership, they unlock the potential for greater solidarity and collective action! This ensures that your local unit union and your association continue to serve their core purpose: protecting the rights and improving the lives of its nurses!

Organizing with *Armour-Globe*
Kate Sheridan, Labor Organizer

Organizing with Armour-Globe

This winter, we proudly welcomed two new groups of MNA members into Local 17: the International Heart Institute (IHI) and the Montana Cancer Center (MCC)! These clinics, located within St. Patrick's Hospital in Missoula, had not previously been part of Local 17. Following the ratification of Local 17's historic contract last spring, nurses from these clinics expressed concerns about losing experienced colleagues to the hospital due to higher pay. Clinic nurses also named concerns about challenging working conditions and policies. Thanks to successful advocacy, these nurses were given the option to vote for MNA representation through an Armour-Globe election.

What is an Armour-Globe Election?

When I first heard this term, I pictured a knight in shining armor. In reality, it refers to two legal cases that established the precedent for allowing workers to join an already existing union. When our Labor Department receives a call from a nurse interested in organizing their workplace, one of our first steps is to determine the size and scope of the unit. For IHI and MCC, although they were distinct entities, their preference was to join Local 17 rather than create separate unions.

To facilitate this, we petitioned the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) separately for each clinic, requesting their inclusion in Local 17 pending successful votes for MNA representation. While Providence agreed to allow IHI to vote to join Local 17, they initially resisted the inclusion of MCC. In November, we participated in a hearing to discuss whether MCC should be included in the hospital's bargaining unit. Two of our nurse leaders testified, highlighting the similarities and overlap in duties, hospital policies, shared resources, and systems.

Successful Outcomes

In December, we received two pieces of excellent news. First, IHI nurses voted by an overwhelming majority to join Local 17 through a mail-in ballot. Second, the NLRB granted MCC nurses the opportunity to hold their own election. On January 27th, MCC nurses also voted to join Local 17.

Currently, two additional Armour-Globe elections are underway to join another local in Western Montana. This process strengthens existing locals by increasing membership and ensuring that nurses working alongside each other enjoy the same protections and benefits that union representation provides. While there's no guarantee of success with an Armour-Globe petition, it remains a valuable tool in our organizing efforts, one that we continue to refine.

If you or a colleague have questions about Armour-Globe elections or are interested in organizing your workplace, please don't hesitate to contact us. Together, we can build stronger, more unified representation for nurses across Montana.

Join Us for the Montana Nurses Association Advocacy Retreat!
Nurses: Your Voice, Your Power, Your Union
Leslie Shepherd, BSN, RN - Labor Representative

Nurses are the backbone of healthcare, advocating for patients every day. But who advocates for nurses? MNA does---led by Montana nurses. Your union does---unions led by empowered, educated, and engaged nurses.

The Montana Nurses Association (MNA) Advocacy Retreat, happening May 18-20 in Missoula, Montana, is an opportunity you won't want to miss. This retreat is designed to equip union members and leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen your collective power, protect your rights, and advocate effectively for your profession and your patients.

Advocacy Retreat is more than just a gathering---it's an educational experience that will prepare you to be a stronger voice in your workplace and your union. Whether you're a seasoned union leader or new to union activism, this event is designed for you. You'll leave feeling empowered, connected, and ready to take action in your workplace.

Nurses in Montana are facing increasing challenges---short staffing, unsafe working conditions, and corporate healthcare policies that put profits over patient care. And unions in Montana continue to face increasing obstacles in collective bargaining, organizing, and advocacy work Now more than ever, we must stand together to be a force for positive change. A strong, well-organized union is the best defense and our greatest tool for advocacy.

Now is the time to request your days off so you can join us this year in Missoula to gain the knowledge and confidence to be a leader in the fight for fair wages, safe staffing, and to strengthen your ability to advocate for yourself, your coworkers, and your patients. When we stand together, we win!

Professional Development
Certification Updates
Kelly Hunt, MN, RN, CNL - Director of Professional Development

As many of you are aware, certification in your nursing specialty is an excellent way to advance your professional development. MNA is committed to supporting Montana nurses on their journey to successful certification in their specialty. We have a longstanding partnership with ANCC in the SuccessPays program. 

In 2025, we are excited to offer an in-person Certification Review Course for the Certified Medical-Surgical Nurse (CMSRN) credentials. This two-day course features a comprehensive review of body systems as well as strategies for successful test-taking. There is also an opportunity for nurses who attend to earn a total of 14.0 contact hours. If you are hoping to get certified in Med-Surg, this is a great option as you prepare to sit for your exam. If you are early in your career and would like a comprehensive body systems review from a nationally recognized expert in Med-Surg nursing, this is a great opportunity to grow your knowledge. If you've been practicing for a while but would love a refresher of best practices, clinical guidelines, and updates to standards of care, this is for you as well. I attended this course in Chicago for Med-Surg Nurses week in November and I learned so much.  I have been a nurse for 18 years with much of that time spent in the Med-Surg specialty.

 There are so many great clinical pearls and takeaways for any nurse working in the Med-Surg space along with the excellent preparation for the certification exam. Check out the save the date here and mark your calendars. Registration information coming soon!

The Annual APRN Pharmacology Conference
Brenda Donaldson, BAN, RN, NPD-BC

Join Us at the 2025 APRN Pharmacology Conference!

We are excited to announce the 2025 APRN Pharmacology Conference, taking place on March 28-29, 2025, in beautiful Helena, MT. This year's conference promises to be an enriching experience, offering up to 11.25 contact hours and RX contact hours. Take time to network with colleagues from across the state while engaging in meaningful professional development.

Conference Highlights:

  • CKD- Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment: Stay current with the latest guidelines for managing chronic kidney disease.

  • Practical Approaches to Prescribing for Obesity: A Guide for Primary Care Providers: Learn effective strategies for addressing obesity in primary care settings.

  • Survivorship Care: Explore best practices for providing comprehensive care to cancer survivors.

  • Buprenorphine Wears Many Hats: For Pain Management, Not Just Addiction: Discover the versatile uses of buprenorphine beyond addiction treatment.

  • When Medications Add Pounds: A Key Factor in Chronic Disease Treatment: Understand the impact of medications on weight and chronic disease management.

  • The "Hot" Topic of HRT: Delve into the latest developments in hormone replacement therapy.

  • Embracing Personal Accountability: The Key to Mentally Managing Self During Challenging Times: Gain insights into maintaining mental resilience and personal accountability.

  • Metabolism Mayhem: Adventures in Thyroid Disease: Navigate the complexities of thyroid disease and its impact on metabolism.

  • I've Had a Heart Attack- What comes next: Enhance your knowledge on post-myocardial infarction and congestive heart failure care.

  • Incretin Therapy in T2DM and Beyond: Explore the benefits of incretin therapy in managing type 2 diabetes and other conditions.

  • Infectious Disease Update: Stay informed about the latest trends and treatments in infectious diseases.

For the full agenda, registration link, hotel reservation information, and details on speakers and sessions, please scan the QR code or visit https://cnebymna.com/aprn/

Political Skill is Not Just for Capitol Hill...

...But as the Montana Legislature in back in session, now is the time to explore how nurses can engage and have a voice in this arena on issues impacting patients, nursing practice and healthcare. CNEbyMNA is offering a FREE on demand 4-part Political Skill Series.

  • Part 1: What's Your Political Skill - Discover your unique strengths and how to leverage them effectively.

  • Part 2: What's Your Political Skill in Advocacy - Learn how to apply your political skills in advocacy to make a meaningful impact.

  • Part 3: Legislative Primer - Understanding the Legislative Process - Gain a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process to navigate it with confidence.

  • Part 4: Using Political Skill on Capitol Hill - Pearls to Engage Panel Discussion- Join an engaging panel discussion to learn practical tips and strategies for using your political skills on Capitol Hill.

Click on the link to access this FREE series. CE is awarded for completion of each series session.

Montana Nurses Association Approved Providers

ANA Excerpts

The impact of child and household food insecurity on children can vary, as adults may restrict their own food intake to ensure that their children receive enough food.  Low-income households with young children who have special needs are particularly susceptible to experiencing food insecurity compared to their peers without such needs. Adverse health outcomes in children experiencing food insecurity include the risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities, asthma, depressive symptoms, and poor academic performance.

Schools serve as invaluable support for families facing financial difficulties. Collaborating with food banks and schools ensures that children have access to free or affordable meals and that families can find essential groceries.  When children have access to nutritious quality food, they gain the vitality and concentration necessary for their educational and personal development. In the hospital setting, nurses can offer a referral for nutritional evaluation by a dietitian. This ensures the assessment of a child's food security even in emergency situations.

Nurses can request a social service consultation to help families navigate assistance programs and provide family education about healthy food choices. Nurses also can connect families with and advocate for local resources or governmental assistance programs as well as local community organizations that address the root causes of food insecurity.

When nurses implement screening, referrals, and advocacy, they help mitigate the impact of food insecurity and promote positive health outcomes for infants and young children.

American Nurse Journal; January 2025, Vol 20, Number 1


Hospital nurse educators at the University Medical Center in Paterson/Wayne, NJ, members of St. Joseph's Health, know their primary role: Efficiently transition new graduate nurses and promote safe practice from classroom orientation to clinical units.  Onboarding new nurses via recently trained preceptors can prove a daunting task for nurse educators. St. Joseph's Health developed the Phases of Orientation Checklist to help educators set practical clinical goals and assign tasks, skills, and competencies for new nurses.

The checklist takes a progressive tiered approach divided into three phases of clinical orientation and moving from low-level to high-level skills and goals. Written in simple language, the checklist helps to ease new nurse graduates into practice and also provides new preceptors with clear orientation goals and objectives.

New nurses spend months on clinical orientation. Periodic scheduled orientation meetings with the new nurse, preceptor, educator, and unit manager can prove difficult to organize in an acute care clinical setting. The practical progressive checklist establishes the expectation that each meeting will focus on the new nurse's current clinical skill set and the next goal on the checklist.

All participants have access to the checklist, and it remains visible for reference throughout each meeting. This visibility allows the anxious new nurse and preceptor to understand what's guiding the educator's questions about performance and helps move the nurse through orientation.

According to the Association of Nursing Professional Development standards, nurse educators can advocate for themselves and new nurses by communicating with leaders about new clinical orientation processes that promote staff retention. In addition, a checklist supports a partnership among the manager, preceptor, and new nurse. The nurse educators' goal, bridging the preparation-practice gap, as described by Hickerson and colleagues, creates an environment that supports new nurses as they transition to clinical units.

American Nurse Journal: December 2024, Vol 19, Number 12

MNA Information and Contacts

CONTACT MNA 

Montana Nurses Association 

20 Old Montana State Highway, Clancy, MT 59634 

Phone (406) 442-6710 

Fax (406) 442-1841 

Email: info@mtnurses.org 

Website: www.mtnurses.org 

Office Hours: 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.  

Monday through Friday 

VOICE OF NURSES IN MONTANA 

MNA is a non-profit membership organization that advocates for nurse competency, scope of practice, patient safety, continuing education, and improved healthcare delivery and access. MNA members serve on the following Councils and other committees to achieve our mission: 

•    Council on Practice & Government Affairs (CPGA) 

•    Council on Economic & General Welfare (E&GW) 

•    Council on Professional Development (CPD) 

•    Council on Advanced Practice (CAP) 

Professional Development 

Montana Nurses Association is accredited with distinction as an approver of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation. 

 Montana Nurses Association is accredited with distinction as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation. 

MNA Staff

Vicky Byrd, MSN, RN, Chief Executive Officer 

Brandi Dearing, AA, Chief Financial Officer 

Kelly Hunt, MN, RN, CNL, NPD-BC, Director of Professional Development 

Jennifer Hamilton, Professional Development Associate 

Brenda Donaldson, BAN, RN, NPD-BC, RN Professional Development Specialist

Robin Haux, BS, Labor Program Director 

Amy Hauschild, BSN, RN, Labor Representative 

Leslie Shepherd, BSN, RN, Labor Representative 

Emily Peterson, Labor Representative 

Kate Sheridan, MS, Labor Organizer 

Savanah Mader, Administrative Assistant/Event Specialist

MNA Board of Directors    

Position:

Board of Directors President

Board of Directors Vice President

Board of Directors Secretary

Board of Directors Treasurer

Board of Directors Member at Large

Board of Directors CPGA

Board of Directors PD

Board of Directors CAP

Board of Directors EGW

Name:

Anna Svendson Ammons, BSN, RN, PCCN 

Lauri McKinny, BSN, RN

Lori Van Donsel, BSN, RN, PCCN

Elisabeth Frandrich-Tyson, BSN, RN-BC

Jen McElroy, BSN, RN, CNOR

Michelle Daly, RN, BSN, CAPA

Carrie Miller, PhD, RN, CNE, CHSE-A, IBCLC, FAAN

Deanna Babb, DNP, APRN, FNP, FAANP 

Adrianne Harrison, RN

Council on Practice & Government Affairs (CPGA)  

Tricia Johnson, RN, CCRN

Lauri McKinney, BSN, RN

Lauri Hunton, RN

Heidi Hittner, RN

Gwyn Palchak, BSN, RN-BC, ACM 

Council on Professional Development (PD) 

Carrie Miller, PhD, RN, CNE, CHSE-A, IBCLC, FAAN

Mary Clague, RN, CNOR

Debby Lee,  BSN, RN-BC, CCRP 

Gina Geise, BSN, RN

Janet Smith, MN, MSHS-MIH, RN

Beth Eldridge, BSN, RN, CMSRN

Gwyn Palchak, BSN, RN-BC, ACM 

Stephanie Corder, RN, ND, CHCP 

Brenda Rider, BSN, RN, CCRN 

Bethany Eide, BSN, RN

Council on Advanced Practice CAP 

Terry Dutro, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC

Deanna Babb, APRN, DNP, FAANP

Council on Economic & General Welfare (E&GW)

Kayla Harvey, BSN, RN

Bee Bowman, RN

Gina Geise, BSN, RN

Angela Lovato, RN, CCRN

Adrianne Harrison, RN

Writer's Guidelines

MNA welcomes the submission of articles and editorials related to nursing or about Montana nurses for publication in the PULSE. Please limit word size between 500--1000 words and provide resources and references. MNA has the Right to accept, edit or reject proposed material. Please send articles to: info@mtnurses.org 

Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement or approval by the Montana Nurses Association of products advertised, the advertisers, or the claims made. Rejection of an advertisement does not imply a product offered for advertising is without merit, or that the manufacturer lacks integrity, or that this association disapproves of the product or its use. MNA shall not be held liable for any consequences resulting from purchase or use of an advertiser’s product. Articles appearing in this publication express the opinions of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect views of the staff, board, or membership of MNA or those of the national or local associations. 

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Visit the Career Center on our MNA homepage or follow the link below to gain access to nearly 14,000 job listings by over 150 different employers; all catered specifically to healthcare workers like you! Get hired at https://careers.mtnurses.org/ 

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Membership reminders....
Brandi Dearing, AA, CFO

Membership reminders....

Can't Find MNA's Membership Application?

MNA now has an electronic application on our website. Please visit https://www.mtnurses.org/about/join/. 

Please check your membership status.

If you fall into any of the below categories, you could qualify for the 'Professional Reduced Rate' $38.65/month.  Your rate will not automatically change.  You must let us know.

  • You are a new graduate.  You must apply within the first six months after receiving your initial RN licensure and this rate is good for one year.

  • You are an RN in a full-time study program working towards a higher degree.  You will need to provide proof of enrollment, and you could receive this rate for up to 3 years.

  • You are an RN 65+ year of age who is licensed and working.  You could receive this rate for the remainder of your employment.

If you are working in a collective bargaining position and move into a non-collective bargaining position, please contact the Montana Nurses Association to let us know.  Your membership dues will continue to be paid until you authorize them to be discontinued.  Please remember, only you can cancel your membership and membership payments.

To provide MNA with information on your status or to receive additional information on MNA membership please e-mail Brandi Dearing, Brandi@mtnurses.org

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