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Professor Nancy Reese, director of nursing, participated in a collaborative presentation at the Wisconsin Organization of Nurse Leaders (WONL) Conference on Sept. 28 on behalf of the Administrators of Nursing Education in Wisconsin (ANEW).

WONL membership includes nurse leaders across healthcare systems in Wisconsin. The title of the presentation was “Partnership: The Key to a Qualified Nursing Workforce.” The presentation focused on how academic and clinical partnerships are key to the future of nursing.

The current state of nursing in Wisconsin is concerning. An estimated 9,600 nurses are needed this year to join the nursing workforce. Wisconsin colleges are only graduating 3,800.

Each participant presented nursing education data on future partnerships: Terri Kaul, Carroll University, presented the new guidelines from the nursing accrediting body, American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Christine Vandenhouten, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, presented trends in the nursing workforce in Wisconsin and a faculty/clinical partnership at UW. Brian Krogh, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, presented on virtual reality simulation and other teaching strategies. And Prof. Reese presented data outcomes of dedicated education units (DEUs) on decreasing infection rates, improving retention/recruitment of nurses, and improving patient satisfaction. The moderator was Dennise Lavrenz, the WONL president-elect.

Prof. Nancy Reese (left) with a group of presenters at the Wisconsin Organization of Nurse Leaders Conference.

Prof. Reese’s presentation additionally focused on the value of nursing students in clinical practice as they are vital members of the clinical team when included in setting strategy and goals. Nursing students provide more touch points for patients and families, thus decreasing risks of infection, injury, and dissatisfaction. This is important as nurses are being overwhelmed with the nursing shortage and lack of staff. Nursing students are able to gain vital experience in achieving the nursing goals prior to graduation.

The team shared the common message that we achieve the best outcomes for patients, families, and communities together. The future of healthcare looks bright because of the bridges that Carthage nursing is building in the healthcare field across the state and beyond.

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Nursing Department

For more information, contact:

Nancy Reese, Director of Nursing