What if a small change in your electronic health record could save lives?

In this episode of Nursing Insights, we dive into a quiet revolution in geriatric care: the Geriatric Prescribing Context (GPC). Host Stephanie Olaso, MHCI, BSN, RN  is joined by:

• Dr. Katie Drago, geriatrician and lead researcher behind the GPC
• Jean Stoerger, PharmD and clinical geriatric pharmacist
• Mary Jo Phillips, DNP and geriatric program director

Together, they unpack how the GPC came to life after a tragic medical error, how it functions invisibly within Epic to nudge safer prescribing decisions, and what the real-world results look like – like a 50% reduction in dose-related adverse drug events.

Whether you’re a nurse, pharmacist, or physician, this episode will challenge the way you think about clinical decision support, EHR design, and the hidden power of tiny nudges in patient care.

Key Takeaways:

• A tragic overdose case involving haloperidol in a 90-year-old patient became the catalyst for the GPC.
• The GPC adjusts default medication doses in Epic for patients aged 65+, making them more age-appropriate – without pop-ups or hard stops.
• Implementation led to a 50% reduction in dose-related adverse drug events, with sustained results over 4 years.
• Most clinicians didn’t even realize it was active – meaning no alert fatigue and seamless workflow.
• Nurses play a powerful, often overlooked role in influencing prescribing decisions.
• The GPC is now part of Epic’s foundations package (post-Nov 2023) and available to others via the Community Library.

Relevant Links:

• New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing: https://njccn.org
• Safer prescribing for hospitalized older adults with an electronic-health record based prescribing context: https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jgs.16640
• Long term impact of a geriatric prescribing context: https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jgs.17799
• In pursuit of the quadruple aim: A geriatric prescribing context’s impact on clinician workflows and alert fatigue: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/07334648221079103
• Improving dose related adverse drug events among hospitalized older adults using a geriatric prescribing context: https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jgs.18754
• IHI Age Friendly Health Systems, main page, including overview of the movement and how to join: https://www.ihi.org/partner/initiatives/age-friendly-health-systems
• Getting started on an Age Friendly journey: 

In this powerful installment of New Jersey Nursing Insights, we delve into the often-overlooked emotional toll on healthcare providers known as the Second Victim Phenomenon. Through a candid conversation with Dr. Marthe Leveille, MSN, RN, CPHQ, we explore the internal struggles nurses experience after adverse patient events – ranging from guilt and anxiety to moral injury and burnout.

In this episode, Dr. Leveille shares the ground-breaking pilot of a peer-support program in adult ICUs, inspired by the Scott Three-Tiered Interventional Model. Learn how 24/7 support lines, monthly debriefing sessions, and structured leadership involvement resulted in meaningful improvements in staff well‑being, retention, and organizational culture. We also discuss how these strategies bolster resilience – not just surviving the trauma, but transforming it into an opportunity for collective growth and stronger patient care.

This conversation is essential for nurses, healthcare leaders, and educators aiming to build sustainable support systems that safeguard both the caregivers and the cared‑for.

You should listen if you’re a nurse or healthcare leader seeking evidence-based ways to support staff emotionally after traumatic events. Or simply just interested in building resilient healthcare teams through structured peer-support and debriefing systems.

Key Takeaways

• Recognizing "Second Victims"
  Understanding how healthcare staff – even those not directly at fault – can suffer deep emotional wounds after clinical events.
• Peer-Support in Action
  Launching a Tier‑1 peer-support system led to measurable improvements in emotional recovery and workforce retention in ICUs.
• The Power of Debriefing
  Monthly, structured group sessions offer a safe space for emotional processing, moral clarity, and team solidarity.
• Leadership Is Crucial
  Nurse leaders play a critical role in embedding a "just culture" and championing emotional resilience infrastructure.
• Evidence-Based Outcomes
  Programs like this not only uplift staff morale but also show real value – enhancing culture, reducing absenteeism, and supporting retention.

Links & Further Reading

• “Implementation of a Second Victim Program”  
  Poster by Marthe Leveille et al., illustrating the ICU pilot peer‑support initiative nursing.rutgers.edu
• “Reflective Debriefing to Address Moral Distress among ICU Nurses”
  A study on structured debriefing protocols that align with Dr. Leveille’s approach researchgate.net
• Learn more about the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing
  https://www.njccn.org
• Attend NJNew Virtual Schwartz Rounds
  https://njnew.org/programs/virtual-schwartz-rounds/
• Learn more about Healthy Nurse Healthy Nation.
  https://www.healthynursehealthynation.org/

In this enlightening episode of Nursing Insights, host Stephanie Olaso sits down with Dr. Maryann Alexander, visiting professor at Vanderbilt University and former Chief Officer of Nursing Regulation at the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Together, they explore the current state, challenges, and future of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) workforce in the United States.

With a wealth of data and decades of insight, Dr. Alexander discusses the vital role LPNs play in healthcare – particularly in long-term care – and the pressing need to recognize, support, and expand their contributions. From shifting demographics to burnout and barriers to career progression, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the nursing profession and the future of patient care.

Key Takeaways:

• The LPN workforce is aging and shrinking – but more essential than ever.
• LPNs bring diversity and depth to nursing, especially in long-term care.
• Emotional burnout, stress, and inadequate staffing remain significant issues.
• Regulations on assessment vary by state, and in NJ RNs cannot delegate assessment of the patient.
• A new RN–LPN partnership model could revolutionize patient care delivery.
• We must expand and better support educational and career advancement pathways for LPNs.
• If LPNs disappear, many long-term care facilities simply won’t function.

Relevant Links:

• Learn more about the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing. https://www.njccn.org
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): https://www.ncsbn.org
• Journal of Nursing Regulation: https://www.journalofnursingregulation.com
• Vanderbilt University School of Nursing: https://nursing.vanderbilt.edu

The transition from student to advanced practice provider (APP) can be exciting, but also overwhelming. In this episode, host Stephanie speaks with two trailblazers who are shaping the future of nurse practitioner and physician assistant onboarding: Dr. Dodi Iannaco of Virtua Health and Cedar Wang of Holy Name Medical Center.

Together, they explore:

• The New Jersey APP Transition to Practice Program
• What effective onboarding looks like for new NPs and PAs
• The evolving roles of APPs in diverse healthcare settings
• How structured support can boost confidence, competence, and retention
• The impact of clinical and non-clinical education (via ThriveAP and Vizient)
• Why strong peer cohorts and mentorship matter

Whether you're a nurse leader, educator, or new APP, this episode offers practical insights into building a better beginning for the next generation of healthcare providers.

Key Takeaways:

• Onboarding programs significantly improve retention and job satisfaction among APPs.
• Role clarity and speciality-specific training are crucial for APP success.
• Structured programs like ThriveAP and Vizient provide a framework for clinical excellence and peer support.
• APPs are expected to grow by 66% (NPs) and 37% (PAs) in the next decade – highlighting the urgent need for scalable support programs.
• A collaborative, well-defined transition process benefits both the provider and the patients they serve.

Relevant Links:

• Learn more about the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing. https://www.njccn.org
• More on ThriveAP. https://www.thriveap.com
• Explore Vizient. https://www.vizientinc.com

The nursing profession is facing a critical shortage, and today’s episode of Nursing Insights dives deep into the latest New Jersey Nursing Data and Analysis Report for 2025. Dr. Edna Cadmus, Executive Director of the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN), and Dr. Daria Waszak, Assistant Director, join us to discuss the state of the nursing workforce, the shortages we’re facing nationally and in New Jersey, and the strategies in place to address them.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Projected Nursing Shortage: By 2036, the U.S. is expected to face a 9% shortage of RNs and 12% shortage of LPNs, creating a significant workforce challenge.
✔️ New Jersey’s Nursing Landscape: The state is among the top 10 most affected by nursing shortages, with faculty shortages and stagnant graduation rates making it difficult to fill the gap.
✔️ Retention & Turnover Rates: Nurse turnover remains high – LPN turnover at 44%, RN turnover at 25%, and NP turnover at 21% – highlighting the need for better workforce stabilization.
✔️ Residency & Transition Programs: The NJCCN’s RN Residency Program and Advanced Practice Provider Transition Program are working to improve new nurse retention and competency across specialties.
✔️ Legislative Efforts & Funding: Several bills are in motion to expand nurse education, provide loan forgiveness for faculty, and improve access to advanced practice roles.
✔️ Well-Being & Job Satisfaction: Despite workforce challenges, job satisfaction among nurses is improving, with increased salaries and support programs making a difference.

Listen now to get an in-depth look at the nursing workforce crisis and the initiatives shaping the future of healthcare.

Relevant Links:

New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN) Website: https://njccn.org
Access the Full 2025 Nursing Data Report & Dashboard: https://njccn.org/reports
Follow NJCCN on LinkedIn for Updates: https://linkedin.com/company/njccn

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In this episode of the Nursing Insights Podcast, host Stephanie Olaso speaks with Kathleen McCarthy, a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse and educator, about the pressing issue of workplace violence in healthcare. With over 50 years of experience in nursing, Kathleen sheds light on the growing concerns of aggression and violence that nurses face from patients, visitors, and even colleagues, particularly in the post-COVID era.

Kathleen discusses the findings of a multi-hospital study on workplace violence, which examined how stress, aggression, and workplace incidents affect nurses' well-being, job satisfaction, and retention. She highlights how underreportingcan hinder systemic change and emphasizes the importance of de-escalation training, leadership involvement, and clear reporting mechanisms.

The conversation also explores the New Jersey Healthcare Heroes Violence Prevention Act, a new law aiming to protect healthcare professionals from violence and ensure accountability. Kathleen shares personal stories that illustrate the real-life dangers nurses face and provides practical strategies to create a safer work environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Workplace violence includes verbal threats, intimidation, and physical assault, affecting nurses' mental and physical health.
• Post-pandemic aggression in hospitals has increased, with many nurses experiencing PTSD and burnout due to workplace violence.
• Many violent incidents go unreported, preventing leadership from making necessary safety improvements.
• De-escalation training and crisis intervention techniques can help prevent incidents and improve safety.
• The New Jersey Healthcare Heroes Act reinforces that assaulting a healthcare worker is a criminal offense, encouraging stronger legal protections.
• Leadership support and policy changes—such as restricted visitor access, increased security, and name badge privacy—can help improve nurse safety.

Relevant Links:

• ANA Position Paper on Workplace Violence in Healthcare
• The Impact of Patient Assaults and Aggressive Behaviors on Nursing Personnel's Stress, Well-being, and Intention to Leave Post–COVID-19 Pandemic
• New Jersey Healthcare Heroes Violence Prevention Act - Official Legislation

Listen to the episode to learn how nurses and healthcare organizations can take action to prevent violence and advocate for a safer workplace.

In this episode of the Nursing Insights Podcast, host Stephanie Olaso continues her discussion with Dr. Carol Ash about the critical issue of sleep deprivation among nurses, particularly those working night shifts. Dr. Ash sheds light on the historical and cultural factors that contribute to a healthcare environment where fatigue and drowsy driving are common risks. They discuss the importance of addressing these issues, not just to improve nurse wellbeing, but to enhance patient safety and healthcare outcomes.

You will learn about actionable strategies that healthcare organizations can adopt to help combat fatigue among nurses, including flexible scheduling, providing nap spaces, and potentially incorporating AI and virtual nursing support. Dr. Ash also shares insights into how a shift in mindset, treating sleep as an essential component of nurse safety, can lead to a healthier, more resilient workforce.

Key Takeaways

• The historical culture in healthcare has contributed to the stigma around sleep and rest for nurses.
• Sleep deprivation in nurses increases the risk of patient errors, drowsy driving, and long-term health issues.
• Implementing drowsiness mitigation strategies, such as nap spaces and flexible schedules, can help reduce fatigue.
• Emerging technologies like AI and virtual nursing can support nurses working night shifts by monitoring and adjusting schedules to optimize alertness.
• Changing attitudes toward sleep as a fundamental component of healthcare safety is essential to improve nurse wellbeing and patient care.

Relevant Links

• American Journal of Nursing - Mitigating Drowsy Driving Risk for Night Shift Nurses
• National Sleep Foundation’s Drowsy Driving Prevention Week

In this eye-opening episode of the Nursing Insights Podcast, host Stephanie Olaso talks to Dr. Carol Ash, a sleep medicine specialist, about the dangerous effects of sleep deprivation on nurses, particularly those working night shifts. From micro-sleeps that can occur on the drive home to long-term health risks, Dr. Ash highlights why sleep health is essential in nursing. 

Special guest Ashley Martino shares a personal story of a night shift accident caused by extreme drowsiness. 

In this episode, we explore practical tips to combat drowsy driving, create healthier shift schedules, and avoid the serious risks associated with lack of sleep.

This is such an important topic, so Stephanie Olaso will continue the conversation with Dr. Carol Ash in the next episode.

Key Takeaways:

• Drowsy driving and its life-threatening risks for healthcare workers
• The physical and mental toll of night shifts on nurses’ health
• Practical sleep strategies and the role of workplace support in ensuring nurse safety

Listen to learn how sleep plays a vital role in the well-being of nurses and how small changes can make a significant difference.

Articles:

• Geiger-Brown, J., & McDonald, A. (2021). Mitigating Drowsy Driving Risk for Night Shift Nurses. American Journal of Nursing, 121(10), 11. DOI: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000794192.75580.70
• Boyle, D. (2024). Being a Thick-Skinned Angel. American Journal of Nursing, 124(10), 64. DOI: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0001069556.42600.7c
  
  

Other Relevant Links:

• New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing
• National Sleep Foundation’s Drowsy Driving Prevention Week

In this episode of Nursing Insights, we dive into the world of nurse advocacy and explore how it plays a crucial role in protecting and advancing the nursing profession. Judy Schmidt, CEO of the New Jersey State Nurses Association (NJSNA), returns to share her insights on how nurses can influence legislation, advocate for their profession, and the vital laws that have been passed to protect both nurses and patients. 

From the Nurse Licensure Compact to the Alternative to Discipline Act, Judy explains the legislative victories that have shaped nursing in New Jersey. We also discuss how nurses can get involved in advocacy at various levels, whether it’s getting informed, contacting legislators, or even running for office.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of nurse advocacy in shaping healthcare policy.
• How New Jersey nurses have fought for key legislation that supports their work and patients' well-being.
• Opportunities for nurses to get involved in legislative efforts and influence change in their profession.

Tune in to learn about the power of nurse advocacy and how it can impact healthcare.