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When faced with chronic pain, that agonizing feeling of dread can be overwhelming to anyone, let alone a cancer survivor.   Take Renown Patient Access Representative (PAR) Jodee Elder, for example. As she was receiving radiation treatments while Fighting the Good Fight against cancer, she started to experience pain at the base of her spine that ended up progressing to lower spine arthritis. On top of trying to beat cancer, the last thing she needed to deal with was the intense pain that was affecting her everyday life – and she deserved a solution that was going to provide her with the relief she needed for the long term. That’s where the Special Procedures – Pain Management department at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital – a part of Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management – stepped in.  But the team of doctors, nurses and imaging technologists Special Procedures had more on their minds for Jodee beyond pain relief. As a Renown employee, they knew what a best-in-class PAR Jodee was in her unit at the time, and they wanted that level of passion as the face of their department.  Little did they know that Jodee shared the exact same sentiments.  From Patient... As a skilled Patient Access team member since 2018, Jodee knows first-hand how important it is to set patients up for success before, during and after an intimidating procedure. She began her Renown career as a Pre-Registration PAR, eventually taking her expertise to Surgical Preadmission. During her years on those two teams, she honed her craft as a personable, patient-facing guide, continually going above and beyond for every patient and employee.  But there was one problem: the chronic pain in her lower back that happened as a result of her radiation treatments. This pain ended up being diagnosed as lumbar spondylosis, a degenerative spinal condition that causes arthritis in the back. And when you work a desk job, back pain can be especially excruciating. When 2023 rolled in, Jodee knew she needed to try something new for her pain, something that would give her relief once and for all. After some research and advice from her doctor, she learned about Special Procedures, a team at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital offering pain management options that she wasn’t previously familiar with. Eventually, her care teams discovered that a bilateral radiofrequency nerve ablation may give her the relief she needed.  Throughout the entire process, Jodee recalls feeling supported every step of the way with an experience personalized just for her. Despite being nervous at first, she was quickly put at ease by the caring nature of her pain management team. “From scheduling and the pre-operative process to the procedure and recovery experience, I often think about the amazing care I received from the entire team,” said Jodee. “Dr. Casey Keating and the nurses were with me at every point of my procedure. This was such a personal experience. I was treated like I was their only patient for the day, and everyone tried hard to alleviate any anxiety, stress or worries I had by comforting me with things like music, rubbing my leg and one-on-one conversations throughout the process.”  Since her procedure, Jodee has been virtually pain-free, happily noting that she hasn’t taken any pain relievers from that day on. She gained a lot of coping skills from her care team that, as fate would have it, would inspire her to help other patients who are preparing for their own procedures.  ...To Pain Management Patient Access... Before her first procedure even began, Dr. Keating was already told all about Jodee by a former coworker, who applauded her organizational skills. He very quickly was impressed by her work ethic and experience as a PAR.  While she was undergoing her procedure, Jodee couldn’t help but notice how the nurses went above-and-beyond for her and treated her like she was a part of the team – even before they knew her. She immediately felt at home in Special Procedures, not only because of the level of care the team provided but also because of how much her life changed after receiving the much-needed relief for her back pain.  “When I came for my first injection, Dr. Keating introduced me to the nurses as ‘the PAR we want over here,’” said Jodee. “I was on the fence regarding leaving my current PAR role, but after my experience with Special Procedures, the team really sold me on the opportunity. I immediately thought, ‘I want to be a part of this.' They were so appreciative of me from the start."  And the rest is history. On Nov. 17, 2023, Jodee began her journey as the PAR dedicated solely to Special Procedures.  On a typical day, you can find Jodee interacting with patients ahead of time to make checking in more enjoyable, helping patients through the pre-registration process, scheduling our Renown-employed and community providers for each procedure, checking up on authorizations, and of course, leaving a positive impact on everyone she connects with. In addition, she is known as the Special Procedures “chart master” as the main employee organizing each patient’s chart.  But her duties as a PAR go beyond the desk. As a former patient herself, she has the unique ability to relate to Special Procedures patients who are worried and anxious about the road ahead.  “When nervous patients come in, I can connect with them on a personal level and support them with suggestions that helped me out when I was going through my procedure,” said Jodee. “I love being patient-facing. You wouldn’t believe how many patients we’ve helped enter their procedures calmer than they were before and get the relief they need. I enjoy taking care of these patients – that's why I got into healthcare. I wanted to make a difference.”  ...And Beyond Today, Jodee has been a proud PAR in Special Procedures for almost a year. She has thoroughly enjoyed her time with her fellow team members, who have been nothing short of a family to her in more ways than one.  “This team is incredibly supportive of me both at work and in my personal life,” said Jodee. “When my mother passed away, they sent me a beautiful flower arrangement and a card that they all signed. The day I came back to work, they all hugged me and said they were always there for me if I wanted to talk. It’s like a big family here.”  In her experience as a patient and a PAR, Jodee lives by one main motto: start a chain reaction. As she emphasizes, it only takes one of us to start a chain reaction to affect patients and the community. In Special Procedures, it starts with Jodee. And in life, she tells her kids to be that chain reaction starter.  Outside of work, Jodee enjoys spending time with her kids and is happily anticipating the arrival of her grandson, who was conceived very close to the day that her mother passed away. She always makes time to create new memories with her family, including “tattoo roulettes,” where they each put a few tattoo ideas in a hat and pick one at random; they then go out and each get matching tattoos as a testament to their love for one another.  “When one life ends, another life blooms,” said Jodee.  If you are interested in receiving care with Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management, speak with your provider about a referral to our specialized team. In the meantime, we encourage you to learn more about navigating your pain management care with Renown Health.

Read More About From Patient to PAR: Jodee’s Road to Renown

Cancer affects millions of lives worldwide. Though medical advancement has done a great deal to increase the human lifespan, proper nutrition has also been proven to help in the prevention of cancer. As researchers continue their hunt for a cure, there is a lot of information out there to support the argument that nutrition is an essential component in disease prevention and management. Nutrition Services: To learn more, call us at 775-982-4000 Linking Diet and Cancer Risk Evidence shows that our diets impact our vulnerability to cancer – and our ability to fight it. The American Cancer Society states that at least 18% of all cancers in the United States are related to excess body weight, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and/or poor nutrition. (American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity | American Cancer Society). Sure, genetics can contribute, but research continues to support the belief that following a healthy diet can reduce the likelihood of developing cancer in the first place. Renown Health’s Jessica Blauenstein, MS, RDN, LDN, CSO, Registered Dietitian and Board-Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition confirms the importance of a nutritious diet consisting of: Fruits and Vegetables: Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables provides large amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Nutrient-rich, they help in fighting off oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are factors for developing cancer. Whole Grains: A diet rich in grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats, contains substantial amounts of fiber that helps in digestion. A few studies have shown that whole grains might offer some protection against colorectal cancer. Lean Proteins: Reducing the amount of red and processed meats in the diet by substituting lean proteins, such as poultry, fish, beans and lentils may lower the risk of developing cancer. Red and processed meats have been associated with colorectal and other cancers when consumed in large amounts. Healthy Fats: Begin focusing on healthy fats from foods like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats are anti-inflammatory, which may play a beneficial role in disease prevention. Avoidance of Sugar and Processed Foods: Sugar and foods high in processed ingredients have been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It's important to limit the intake of sugary drinks, candy and snacks in the battle against cancer. A Role of Nutrition in Cancer Recovery Nutrition becomes even more critical for individuals who receive treatment and are in recovery. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery can take a lot out of a body, affecting appetite, digestion and nutrient absorption. Proper nutrition during and after treatment can help: Support Immune Function: A good, balanced diet will provide the essential nutrients that support a resilient immune system, which is important in fighting off infections and supporting overall health during cancer treatment. Maintain Strength and Energy Levels: Proper caloric intake, protein and micronutrients prevent muscle wasting and fatigue, allowing patients to sustain their strength and energy. Address Side Effects: Certain foods and diets can help reduce or alleviate some common side effects associated with cancer treatment, including nausea, vomiting and mucositis. Eating small, frequent meals, maintaining good hydration, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can all ease treatment-related discomfort associated with the GI tract. Facilitate Healing and Recovery: Nutrient-rich foods promote healing and the repair of tissues that may be damaged after surgery or other medical interventions. Foods high in proteins, vitamins and minerals play a significant role in repairing and replacing damaged tissues and cells. Correct Nutritional Deficiencies: Cancer and its treatment cause vitamin D, vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies in the diet. Nutrition therapy through a registered dietitian or nutritionist can identify those deficiencies and help manage them through dietary changes or supplementary means. Related information: Nourishing Your Loved One Through Cancer Treatment

Read More About How Diet Can Affect Cancer Risk and Recovery

Chances are you or someone you know will deal with chronic pain at some point in life. In fact, in the U.S. alone, one in five adults have experienced chronic pain in recent years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The road to relief is a frequently traveled one that can be filled with twists and turns, so it’s important for patients to have a trusted provider by their side navigating that journey.  We interviewed Dr. Sharlene Su, a pain management physician with Renown Medical Group, who told us what patients can expect when seeking care with Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management (RSSPM) and all about the variety of pain relief options available to patients.  What pain management treatment options are available outside of painkillers? This depends on someone’s root cause of pain. For example, for pain from arthritis of the spine or major joints, radiofrequency ablation can relieve most of the pain for six months to two years, which can be life changing. If someone is suffering from a pinched nerve in the neck or back, an epidural can be useful. Nerve stimulators can also be a great option to relieve pain for years. One of the advantages of the procedures we perform at RSSPM is that they reduce the need for painkillers, which are notorious for having side effects of their own. Physical therapy can also be a very helpful tool to treat pain.  It is an exciting time in the field of pain medicine right now because new advances are -constantly being made. At Renown, we pride ourselves on staying current with the most cutting-edge treatments to ensure our patients always have the best available to them.  What are some at-home tips and tricks that patients experiencing pain can do on their own for some relief? If pain is related to posture or physical activity, consider doing stretching and strengthening exercises. YouTube can be a great (and free) resource for this. In terms of medications, over the counter topical pain creams can be great. Tylenol is one of the safest pain medications for those without preexisting liver conditions. On a short-term basis, anti-inflammatory medications can often be used safely depending on one’s overall health. Ice and heat can both be useful for treating muscle pain.  Can you tell us more about the services Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management offers? Our team specializes in identifying the root cause of each patient’s pain and partnering with them to develop a custom plan tailored to their individual needs, which can involve injections, physical therapy and medications. We treat patients ranging from top-level athletes, to weekend warriors, to grandparents who’d like to be able to keep up with their grandkids. Once we relieve a patient’s pain, our role then transforms into a coach, educating and guiding our patients on how to prevent their pain from coming back.  At RSSPM, you’ll see the same doctor every time, which means that your provider will get to know you very well, and you’ll receive the same high-quality consistent care whenever you come for a visit.  Renown has a unique pain management team called “Special Procedures” that not many people may realize is a great option for care. How does this team treat pain? Our Special Procedures team is crucial to the high-quality pain management care that we provide. We have an amazing staff that assists with X-ray guided procedures including epidurals, radiofrequency ablations, joint injections and nerve stimulators. Dr. Casey Keating, our division chief, and I work with this team to ensure that every procedure is done with the same precision, attention to detail and quality. The Special Procedures team regularly receives feedback from patients on how well taken care of they felt during their procedure.  If someone is experiencing pain from an injury or even an unknown reason, what should they do to get care for their concerns? Contact your primary care provider for a referral to have an evaluation with us! RSSPM accepts most insurance plans and are proud that our wait times are averaging less than one week to be seen as a new patient. Two more doctors will be joining us in the next few months, which should reduce our wait times even more.  There are so many targeted and effective ways to treat pain nowadays, and it is worth addressing to live the life you want to live.

Read More About Navigating Pain with Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management

When Jeromy Hughes became one of the 29 nursing students accepted into the first Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership cohort, he almost couldn’t believe it. Life as both an Orvis School of Nursing student and a future nurse in our community was about to change. Not only was he about to receive full tuition support, but he also was set up for a guaranteed start to his career as a nurse at Renown Health.   The Academic-Practice Partnership was named in honor of Jerry Smith of the Nell J. Redfield Foundation. Supported by a generous gift from the Redfield Foundation and Stephanie Kruse, Foundation Board Director, the goal of this partnership is to help foster a lasting nursing workforce in northern Nevada, with nurses like Jeromy leading the charge.  From the Courtside to the Bedside Jeromy grew up playing basketball in his hometown of Las Vegas and was on the team at Bishop Gorman High School. His talent resulted in a scholarship to play basketball for Wenatchee Valley College in Washington, which would put him on a trajectory to play professionally – even though nursing was always in the back of his mind. Jeromy received a unique opportunity to play for De La Salle University in the Philippines, and with much excitement, he set off across the world.  Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit.  When the world shut down, Jeromy had no choice but to stay in the Philippines, waiting to return to the Silver State. Three months later, he flew home to Las Vegas.  In those moments, Jeromy’s entire mindset shifted. A career in nursing was no longer in the back of his mind; it came right to the forefront. With a plan to now stay in-state, he set off to attend the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR).  “My whole family is involved in the healthcare field, and I’ve always been surrounded by healthcare in some way,” said Jeromy. “My parents own an elder care facility, my dad is a respiratory therapist in Las Vegas and my grandparents own a hospice facility down in southern California. My grandma was also a nurse for more than 50 years, and throughout her career, she worked in labor and delivery, psychiatry and medical-surgical units. I’ve always wanted to help people like my family has, and nursing resonated with me the most out of every option.”

Read More About Meet Future Renown Nurse Jeromy Hughes

Entering the emergency room (ER) is intimidating for any person, let alone when you’re unsure what condition or illness you might have. Many may also spend their time in the ER wondering if they will need to be admitted to the hospital.  Now, let’s say you don’t need to be admitted. That’s great news! But in order to figure out what’s going on in your body, you may need to stay a little longer – say, under 24 hours – for observation, tests or further treatment. This work is done swiftly by a specific team at the hospital to get you home sooner.  That team at Renown Health is the Clinical Decision Unit (CDU). These nursing and acute care professionals seamlessly fill in the gaps between inpatient and outpatient care, helping patients return home sooner through rapid tests and treatment.  Quick Interventions for Efficient Care The key goal at the forefront of the CDU’s patient care philosophy lies in their name: decisions. The team makes quick decisions in order to deliver timely, accurate assessments so they can treat patients efficiently and get them home. Not only do these efforts help reduce the amount of time patients have to stay in the hospital, but they also achieve cost savings for both the patient and our health system. And in cases where patients do end up needing to be admitted, the CDU walks them through everything they can expect during their stay.  The main duties of our CDU team include:  Observation and monitoring, where patients with conditions that are not immediately life-threatening but need closer monitoring Diagnostic testing, including blood work and imaging, to help providers gather critical information quickly Treatment and stabilization to receive treatments like IV fluids, medications or other therapies to prevent the need for inpatient admission Decision-making to determine whether the patient should be admitted for further care or discharged with follow-up plans  Think of the CDU as the ER and inpatient admission go-between. By diverting patients who don’t necessarily need emergency intervention away from the ER, the CDU helps relieve high patient volumes and reduce wait times.  “The CDU offloads patients from the emergency room who require slightly longer observation status to complete more complex testing or exams,” said Kristine Barnes, RN. “You could consider us a ‘limbo’ unit between the ER and admission to the hospital, if required.”  As with many other teams at Renown, every day is different for this team. They enjoy the variety of cases they see and solving the puzzles that present with patient care.  "The CDU is always fast moving, with discharges and admissions all day,” said Tyler Cathcart, Acute Care Technician-Advanced. “As an observation unit, we function as both an extension of the ED and PACU, with Medical, Telemetry and post-op patients. We have a wide range of patients and responsibilities to keep the unit moving quickly.”  “We see a variety of patients and enjoy the variety each day brings,” added Angie Marrale, Acute Care Technician-Basic. “A day in the life as a tech on CDU is full of surprises because we have such a wide variety of patients. It requires all team members to be attentive, hardworking and communicative in order to provide our patients with the care they need.”  If you’re ever looking for an example of a team that moves and acts quickly, the CDU is a shining example of that. Due to their hyper-focused attention, patients are able to embrace better outcomes and higher satisfaction.  “We move quickly to get today's group of patients comfortable, complete the tests ordered, make the appropriate interventions and get them discharged back home or transferred in less than 24 hours; then, we refill the unit, and each patient receives excellent, expedited care,” said Tyler Cathcart. “Efficient patient care within 24 hours is our goal, and we strive to meet that goal daily.”  A place to get extra care and attention without needing to stay for a long time while also having a team of professionals solely dedicated to figuring out what is going on in your body? Sign us up!

Read More About Department Spotlight: Clinical Decision Unit

Say Hello to Summer in a Bowl If you've wanted to add a heart-healthy dish to your recipe repertoire, now's the time. This tasty vegan bowl loaded with turmeric chickpeas, marinated tofu and quinoa offers essential nutrients and beneficial fats to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Read More About Summer Buddha Bowl

Do you have a picky eater in your household? Or maybe you've got a snack monster who’s all about chips and candy? We're here to share a few fun strategies to motivate your little superheroes to snack on healthy foods instead! Rainbow Power-Up Eating a rainbow isn't just for unicorns! Different colors mean different powers: Red foods like strawberries and tomatoes help your heart. Orange foods like carrots and sweet potatoes help your eyes spot things like an eagle! Green foods like spinach and broccoli help you grow super strong bones. So, create a plate with as many colors as possible. The more colors, the more powers! Super Smoothies Blend your favorite fruits, such as bananas, berries and mangoes. Add some milk or yogurt and a handful of spinach. Your kids won't taste the spinach, and they'll drink a supercharged smoothie that gives them the energy to tackle any challenge. Create a Parfait Packed with Delicious Layers! Veggie Villans Who said veggies can't be fun? Turn them into heroes by giving them cool names and fun shapes. Make carrot sticks "Captain Crunch" or broccoli florets "Broc the Rock." Dip them in hummus or peanut butter for an extra flavor kick. Snack Attack Plates Create snack plates that are as fun as they are nutritious. Combine: Cheese cubes Grapes or apple slices Nuts or seeds Whole-grain crackers Mix and match these for your perfect plate! Make Your Own Trail Mix  Fuel-Up Challenges Challenge your kids to eat three different healthy foods each day. Turn it into a family game to see who can eat the most colors or try the most fruits and veggies. You can even draw up a "super snacks" chart to keep track of your progress. Final Super Tip! Even superheroes have cheat days. Don't worry if your family doesn't eat healthy every meal. Just aim to eat more of the good stuff than the not-so-great stuff. Your kid's bodies will reward them with tremendous energy, focus and strength.

Read More About Motivating Kids to Eat Healthy Foods

Craving a crunchy, sweet, and nutritious snack? Try making your own trail mix! Perfect blends of nuts, dried fruits, and a touch of chocolate can be whipped up using bulk bin ingredients or pantry staples. Enjoy this delicious, healthy snack on a hike, at the office, or on your next road trip through Nevada's scenic deserts.

Read More About Make Your Own Trail Mix: 4 Quick and Easy Recipes

Eating healthy is a daily challenge for many, but for those with cancer, it is an even harder struggle. A cancer diagnosis affects not only those diagnosed but family members and friends, too. One key area of concern is making sure your loved one stays well by eating healthy food every day. Here are some vital cancer nutrition tips from Jessica Blauenstein, a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition and Registered Dietitian at Renown Health. Help to Prepare Meals and Snacks for Daily Cancer Nutrition Make it grab and go. Easy-to-make meals help reduce the burden of having to cook and prepare food. Having easy to grab snacks on the counter or in the fridge can help ensure your loved one has access to those nutrients when needed. Sit outside of the kitchen. This allows your loved one to avoid cooking smells which can make them feel sick as a side effect of cancer treatments. Also try serving them cold foods such as sandwiches, cheese and crackers, or shakes which have a mild scent. Try drinkable meals. Some people with cancer find it easier to sip their calories over the course of 30 minutes to an hour. Consider smoothies or supplemental shakes such as Ensure Complete, Fairlife shakes, Orgain shakes, or Boost Plus to name a few. A great foundation for a smoothie is a protein source (Greek yogurt, protein powder, nut butters or milk) with a carbohydrate (fruits, juice or berries). Add other ingredients as desired, such as spinach, kale, and ground flaxseed or chia seeds to give it more vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Snack Ideas for Those Undergoing Cancer Treatment The following ideas are both quick and easy to make for your loved one. Chicken or tuna salad with whole grain crackers or as a sandwich on whole grain bread Greek yogurt mixed with cereal, fruit and/or nuts Cottage cheese with banana, cinnamon and/or peanut butter Favorite fruit with 100% natural peanut or almond butter spread - Try peanut butter with bananas, apples, or even celery Their favorite veggies dipped in a salad dressing of your choice - For example, carrots with hummus, tahini, or ranch dressing Cheese and whole grain crackers - Add tomato slices with a small amount of avocado, and a dash of oregano on top for more flavor Eggs scrambled with cheese, vegetables and/or salsa Peanut butter and jelly sandwich on whole grain bread A baked sweet potato with some favorite toppings Hard boiled eggs and/or egg salad with whole grain crackers, or as a sandwich on whole grain bread Oatmeal or cream of wheat prepared with milk, fruit and/or nuts Sometimes your loved one may not feel like eating or refuse to eat. If treatment side effects are impacting your loved one’s ability to eat, please visit the websites below containing recipes tailored to treat side effects. Cook for Your Life ELLICSR Of course, you may also consult a registered dietitian and/or the patients care team, if you have more cancer nutrition concerns.

Read More About Nourishing Your Loved One Through Cancer Treatment

Chronic pain can be one of the most distressing feelings someone may encounter – and more likely than not, you know someone who is managing their pain as a part of their healthcare journey. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 5 U.S. adults have experienced chronic pain in recent years. One of the most common methods of treating pain is through prescription pain medications; however, with the rise of the opioid epidemic across the country, leveraging other interventions to help patients manage their chronic pain has become increasingly more important. What if there was a way to treat pain directly without the automatic need for pain medication? Luckily for patients in northern Nevada, our Special Procedures department at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital specializes in exactly that: interventional pain mitigation sans painkillers. With nearly 95% of their patients who come in with pain-related mobility issues being able to physically walk out of the hospital after their treatment, much-needed relief is clearly in store. Tight-knit and forever-caring, the Special Procedures team knows how to transform the purpose of pain management. A Penchant for Pain Alleviation Renown's Special Procedures team offers a wide variety of pain management solutions that are uniquely tailored to each individual patient’s needs. With the help of a team of 14 attentive nurses, interventional radiology technologists and a surgical technician – plus a dedicated patient access representative ensuring everything goes smoothly behind-the-scenes – these lifechanging interventions include: Epidurals (including steroid epidurals) Nerve blocks Ablations Tenotomies Spinal cord stimulator trials Peripheral nerve stimulator trials The nurses on this specialized team guide patients before, during and after their procedures, making sure they are at ease throughout the entire process. Each nurse emulates both expertise and empathy to help light the path towards healing.  “Before each procedure, we get the patient’s vitals, health history and work with the doctor to answer any questions they may have about what is going to happen in the procedure room,” said Michon Edgington, RN. “After they’re all done, they come back to me, and I make sure they are ready to go home by educating them on their discharge. Our goal is to get them back to their families very quickly.”  “In the actual procedure room, we perform safety checks, do charting, prepare the sterile tray for the doctor and give medication for conscious sedations, all while consistently monitoring the patient and helping the doctor out along the way to help the procedure go well,” added Shannon Boelow, RN.  This team’s dedicated imaging professionals harness expertise that goes beyond capturing images. Their skillful utilization of X-ray technology serves as a guide for doctors administering treatments for pain – and according to our own physicians, our imaging technologists are some of the best in the business.  “Our X-ray skills here are specialized,” said Julie Smith, Imaging Lead. “Visually, the doctor needs to see what’s going on inside the body so they can accurately place needles and steroids. We all work together collectively and work with each doctor to accommodate their preferences, helping the treatments go much faster and minimizing the patient’s exposure to radiation.”  Serving as the ideal representation of both precision and support, the surgical technician on this team is an important collaborator in the procedure room, helping to ensure the success of every interventional procedure with a meticulous eye for detail.  “As the Special Procedures surgical technician, I get the room ready with all the necessary instruments, including making sure everything is sterile,” said Carrie Crow, Surgical Technician. “I enjoy keeping the team organized.”  Overseeing it all are the physicians, who are eternally grateful for the team for the life-changing interventions they offer every day.  “Our physicians are so phenomenal,” said Brittney Summerfield, Manager of Nursing. “They are very supportive and collaborative, and they always do the right thing. They have total confidence in us.”  Seeing patients walk out of the hospital happy and healthy is a driving motivator for this team. Whether they had significant experience in pain management or were ready for a completely new challenge, each team member comes to work every day inspired to move mountains.  “I had worked in pain management in other facilities, and I was extremely excited to come here and solely focus on pain,” said Jodi Eldridge, Supervisor of Special Procedures. “I enjoy seeing the patients so happy when they leave no longer in pain. I feel immediate gratification, because you truly feel like you’re doing something big for the patient. It’s very rewarding.”  “I decided to come work here because I worked in the inpatient setting for a long time, and I was ready to see a different side of healthcare and provide a different type of care to our community; plus, my coworkers are the best,” added Lisa Dunnivant, RN.  There’s no question that the realm of pain management is a delicate one – and there is no team better suited to take on that challenge than Special Procedures, working harmoniously to bring relief and a renewed sense of livelihood for every patient they serve.  “Some people believe pain management is just all about pills, and that is simply not true,” said Carrie Crow. “Our procedures are yet another way to help them manage their pain and find relief.”

Read More About Department Spotlight: Special Procedures

Ring in the New Year and the rest of the holiday season by celebrating Renown’s Float Pool team!  After coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's no mystery that healthcare across the country has shifted and adapted to the growing needs and new demands of our patient populations. Renown Health is no different. As the largest not-for-profit health system in the region, we are no stranger to change, even when change presents challenges. Who do we call on when a unit needs more team members in the eleventh hour? Who can help when our patient volume spikes up with seconds to spare?  This is where the Float Pool at Renown comes to the rescue. Skilled in a wide variety of healthcare specialties, from acute care nursing and critical care to care aiding and patient safety, this is the team that can seamlessly step in to provide crucial patient care to the units that need it most, whether a team is understaffed for the day or needs extra all-hands-on-deck for a specific patient or procedure. Float Pool team members are equipped to work in virtually any clinical area at Renown, making a genuine difference with every patient they encounter.  A Pool of Relief Teams across Renown can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Float Pool has their back in times of need. As the backbone of our health system, these dedicated team members possess a wealth of clinical knowledge and the ability to navigate diverse medical environments. Their flexibility allows them to fill staffing gaps and provide essential support to many different units.  “We fill in the gaps of staffing to make everyone's day better,” said Patti Crepps, Critical Care Float Pool RN. “A float nurse has to be flexible and able to adapt to different situations and places – basically, ‘go with the flow.’ Patient care is basically the same all over; we make patient care possible by being familiar with all the various specialties and providing the specific care needed depending on the population we are taking care of on that shift.”  “Float Pool staff members are like healthcare chameleons, transitioning between different departments,” added Shelby Riach, Acute Float Pool RN. “We incorporate flexibility, teamwork and a commitment to ensuring patients receive the best care, regardless of the setting or circumstances.”  This team thrives in uncertainty; in fact, no workday is the same in Float Pool – and that’s exactly the way they like it. Working with many different teams across a multitude of specialties, these Care Aides, RNs, Critical Care Techs, Patient Safety Assistants (PSAs), Certified Nurses Assistants (CNAs) and more enjoy facing change, while they all share a goal of providing the best patient care possible.  “No day looks the same; since we are the Float Pool, we are assigned a different assignment on Smart Square every day, whether it be as a care aide, a patient safety assistant, a unit clerk or patient transport,” said Melina Castenada, Care Aide. “If we are assigned as a care aide on the floor, we help assist with call lights and help with whatever nurses and CNAs may need, including feeding, transporting, walking, helping patients use the restroom, etc. When we are assigned as a PSA ‘sitter,’ we sit for the patient to help keep them safe. If we are assigned as unit clerk, we help answer phones and direct patients appropriately, file paperwork, answer call lights if needed and assist with office work.”  “I love that every day is a different floor with different tasks and a different atmosphere,” added Julia Chappell, Critical Care Technician. “I find out which floor that I will be on right before my shift starts and head to the floor to find out my assignment for the day. Depending on the specialty, such as the medical-surgical floor versus an intensive care unit (ICU), my daily job tasks can vary.”  When it comes to high-risk patients, who require special attention, PSAs within Float Pool step in to help.  “The PSA role within Float Pool largely consists of adverse event prevention for our high-risk patients, and being a Float Pool employee allows us to work wherever we are needed,” said Dimitri Macouin, Patient Safety Assistant. “Whether it be in the emergency department, neurology or pediatrics, the PSA will be the eyes and ears for the nurses working with this patient population.”  “Great strides have been made to ensure that PSAs remain vigilant and are recognized as an integral part of the patients' care team rather than 'just a sitter,’” added Karla Phillips, Patient Safety Assistant.  Float Pool also oversees our Discharge Lounge, which offers patients and their families a dedicated space to reconnect and prepare for their discharge from the hospital.  “The increase in utilization of the Discharge Lounge is something we are very proud of,” said Kara Abshier, Care Aide. “We assist in discharging patients from all over the hospital to help the floor and get new patients into rooms.”  Every day brings a new challenge for Float Pool. As these team members wake up with uncertainty, they are ready to embrace the diverse demands of caring for patients of all ages.  “The fact that Float Pool exists is amazing,” said Hannah Luccshesi, Acute Float Pool RN. “We wake up with no clue as to whether we will be working with babies, children or adults and then fill in the needs of the hospital.”

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When you meet Poeth Kilonzo, Director of Oncology Nursing at Renown Health, you are immediately greeted with a warm smile that puts your mind at ease. Within the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, Poeth enjoys a strong reputation among her employees and patients as someone they can always rely on, no matter how rough the tides may flow.   As an incredibly humble oncology professional, you may not realize that behind that smile is the power of a best-in-class nurse and leader holding a 20+ year career of diverse nursing experience and leadership excellence – dedicating the majority of her service to Renown Health.  Join us as we dive into Poeth’s unique journey through Renown.  Finding Her Passion  Ever since she could remember, Poeth has been a “people person.” Above all else, she cared for people – and she cared a lot. What better place for her to be than healthcare?  After moving to northern Nevada from Kenya, she began working in private patient care working with home health and dementia patients while taking classes at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) in 2000. One day, a patient asked her a question that would change the course of her career journey: Did you ever think about becoming a nurse?  Driven by not only the words of encouragement of her patients and supervisors in home health but also the rallying support from her family and friends, including her husband and high school friend, who both have decades of experience interacting with nurses in healthcare (with her husband spending many of those years at Renown), Poeth knew this was the path she was meant to take.  “That was it; it was like a light switch had flipped,” said Poeth. “I switched to nursing overnight.”  According to Poeth, TMCC’s nursing program offered her an incredibly supportive environment, which was especially important as she was a young mom at the time. Working in healthcare, going to nursing school and raising a family all at the same time is no easy task, but to Poeth, this was her calling.  “Regardless of my path, I knew I wanted to be a nurse that was close to patients, sitting with them and holding their hand throughout their treatment,” said Poeth.  During nursing school, Poeth completed clinicals at several hospitals in Reno – three of them were at Renown Health (known as Washoe Medical Center at the time). What immediately stood out to her was the passion of the pediatrics unit, especially in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).  “While I knew that pediatrics wasn’t going to be my arena, some of the best times in my life were during my pediatrics clinical,” said Poeth. “It opened me up to how welcoming Renown is.”  While doing her rotations, nursing leaders helped Poeth and her fellow classmates discover Renown’s Nurse Apprentice program, an apprenticeship designed exclusively for local northern Nevada nursing students. One of those leaders asked her, “have you considered doing a rotation in oncology?”  And another light switch flipped.  “Bingo. I am becoming an oncology nurse apprentice,” Poeth recalls. And that’s exactly what she did.   After her four-month apprenticeship ended in February 2002, she walked into her interview with Joanna Gold, who would end up being her supervisor and one of her greatest mentors until she passed away in recent years. With her experience and enthusiastic spirit on her side, Poeth fervently expressed her passion and interest in working in oncology. And Joanna saw all of that and more.  In June 2002, Poeth was presented with a two-year oncology RN contract, which she easily signed – however, she knew right then and there but she was not going anywhere. Renown was her home, and oncology ignited the fire within her.  “The nurses in this unit are part of what kept me here,” Poeth remembers. “These nurses would really do anything for their patients. The commitment and love they all had for one another truly was like family. It inspired me to learn more and give even better care to my patients."  To Poeth, it didn’t feel like she was coming to work just to do a job – she was following her dreams.  “You don’t think about the work you do; you think about the service,” said Poeth.  From there, Poeth spent three years on the floor as an oncology RN and became a night shift supervisor in 2005. She was thriving.  But this part of her journey was only the beginning.  When Opportunity Arises, Take It  In March 2007, Poeth and her husband welcomed their third child – and for her, working a day shift position would serve her the best at her current stage of life. This revelation led her down to Renown South Meadows Medical Center, where she became a staff nurse in Medical Telemetry.  It was in the telemetry unit where Poeth contributed to one of the largest digital transformations Renown would ever go through: transitioning from paper records to electronic records on EPIC.  From there, Poeth was inspired to get back into leadership in 2012 as the Supervisor of Clinical Nursing overseeing nurses, clinical outcomes and payroll in the medical/telemetry unit and intensive care unit (ICU). The timing of her leadership role lined up perfectly with her decision to take her skills to the next level, achieving a bachelor’s degree from Nevada State College in 2016. The timing of her degree lined up perfectly with what was about to come; she embarked on her first leadership role at Renown  This is where she would happily stay for 11 years, eventually becoming the Manager of Nursing in telemetry and the ICU, noting that Renown South Meadows felt like a second home to her.  “I wore many hats at South Meadows,” Poeth recalls. “From piloting back coding and handling compliance work to being on the patient floor and heading up South Meadows’ first high school hospital volunteer program, I got very involved. We had seven years without having a single nurse traveler in our unit."  It wasn’t long before Poeth was inspired to expand her education even further, and she graduated in January 2018 with a master’s degree in nursing clinical leadership from Western Governors University. Thanks to Renown’s educational assistance programs, our health system invested directly in Poeth’s education with tuition reimbursement and a $1,000 nursing scholarship.  Soon after celebrating her achievement, Jennifer Allen Fleiner – who was the Director of Nursing at Renown South Meadows at the time – asked Poeth yet another question that would bring her to the precipice of another career detour: “Have you ever considered transferring from South Meadows to Renown Regional?”   Moments later, Alicia Glassco, Director of Nursing for Renown Regional, asked her the same question, noting that the hospital’s neurosurgery unit needed the leadership of someone just like Poeth.  “It took me a whole week to make a decision, because this was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever made in my life,” said Poeth. “I truly loved South Meadows. After that week, my leader told me, ‘you know what, Poeth? You’ve reached your pinnacle. You need and deserve a new challenge. Learn from this new team and teach them something. I think you have a huge opportunity for growth.”  So, Poeth decided to apply for the position and shadow the neurosurgery team, where unlike her unit, the majority of the team at the time were travelers. But this was a challenge Poeth was up to – so she was accepted into the role.  “At the end of the day, these patients deserved consistent care,” Poeth emphasized. “I knew I had to take this position for the patients – they were the ones who sold me on this job. They are the reason why we are all here. It was important for me to be an advocate for them.”  The big hills to climb didn’t slow down Poeth; in fact, the exact opposite happened. Within her first year in the neurosurgery unit, her team onboarded 18 new graduates and replaced travelers.  “We were hiring like crazy,” said Poeth. “My standing agenda at all section meetings focused on hiring and our quality metrics. I started having a relationship with our doctors. Once we created a strong doctor/nurse collaboration, our nurses started staying with us longer.”  Everything on the unit was going great.  Then, COVID-19 hit.   “Since we had private patient rooms, our unit became the first COVID unit at Renown Regional,” Poeth recalls. “My whole staff that I had built up had to be distributed elsewhere. I started caring for COVID patients. We relied on our Infection Prevention team a lot. And at the same time, I was worried about my family in Africa.”  Despite the stressful nature that the pandemic brought upon health systems everywhere, according to Poeth, she knew she had to continue on.  “The neurosurgery team ended up merging with orthopedic trauma, which was very difficult,” said Poeth. “We went from 28 beds to 58 beds. The key to success here was training. Nurses are very resilient, and through training, we were able to stabilize the unit.”  Noticing the opportunity for virtual demonstrations that were previously offered only in-person, Poeth spearheaded online trainings for nursing, physical therapy, mobility, head injuries and more, allowing teams across Renown to upskill in safe spaces.  These programs continued throughout the pandemic, and Poeth was proud to be a figurehead through it all, helping to stabilize the unit while creating strong relationships with the entire team, many of whom followed her from Renown South Meadows to Renown Regional.  Then, she gets another visitor – her Chief Nursing Executive – in her office with yet another opportunity.  Have You Considered...  In September 2022, Chief Nursing Executive Melodie Osborn walked into Poeth’s office with those three words that Poeth has heard for decades: “Have you considered...”  “Before Melodie could even finish, I thought, ‘I have considered A LOT in my career!’” said Poeth.  Melodie told Poeth that the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute was looking for a Director of Oncology Nursing, noting that this could be yet another growth opportunity for her and a chance for her to go back to her roots.  “I had just celebrated my twentieth year at Renown; I knew this was going to be a decision I really had to think about,” said Poeth. “Everyone believed in me. Alicia Glassco told me, ‘Poeth, you are ready for this. Go for it.’ Once I applied for the position and started getting my updated chemotherapy certifications, I thought, ‘they are right; I got this.’”  At this point in her career, Poeth had been hyper-focused on inpatient care, and this role would be her first time caring for patients in the outpatient setting. After going through the interview process, however, Poeth knew that this was where she was meant to be yet again – and colleagues she hadn’t seen in years reaffirmed that commitment.  “I felt the most excited about the job when I toured the facility,” Poeth recalls. “I’ll never forget what one of the infusion nurses told me on my tour. She told me, ‘I don’t know if you remember me, but I remember you; I came from Renown South Meadows, and you were so nice to me as I was precepting as a new nurse. Your kindness was unforgettable to me.’ The fact that people like her wanted me in the unit so badly inspired me to come back.”  Soon enough, Poeth became the Director of Oncology Nursing, a position she still proudly holds to this day. Once she was hired, she immediately went into deep learning mode, mastering skills such as revenue integrity, credentialing and the insurance process. She attributes Supervisor of Infusion Kaitlin Hildebrand and Director of Radiation Oncology Services Susan Cox for helping her succeed.  Shortly after assuming the position, Poeth noticed yet another opportunity for cross-training within the organization to combat short staffing – training nurses from the Float Pool to care for patients in Infusion Services.  “Between May and July of this year, we trained six nurses from Float Pool to do infusion therapy services, which offered so much relief to my team; I am so thankful to Rendee Perry, the Manager of Nursing in our Float Pool unit, and her team for their support,” said Poeth. “My mission in outpatient oncology is to serve the staff and patient population and create those strong relationships."  Poeth's efforts to circumvent nurse burnout go beyond cross-training – as a director, she is always there for her team members no matter what, leading with kindness every step of the way.  “I never miss a 7:45 a.m. huddle unless I am in a ‘cannot miss’ commitment; I want my employees to always know that I am there for them and that they are cared for both on and off the job,” Poeth emphasizes. “I want them to feel like they are valued, their families are valued and their mental health is valued; after all, without my team, we cannot care for patients. It’s important for them to know that I am here to be a security blanket and that there is always something we can do to solve a problem."  Today, Poeth enjoys a full team of core Renown staff members whom patients look forward to seeing – and the high patient satisfaction scores to prove it.  “Our team is so established that patients feel comfort in knowing they are always going to know exactly who they are being treated by,” said Poeth. “We will always work to maintain that consistency.”  Staying True to the Mission  Renown’s mission of making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of our community resonates closely with Poeth. Before she arrives at the infusion unit every day, she asks herself: What can I do to make it easier for my team to deliver care?  “It takes a village to deliver the care we do,” said Poeth. “Our nurses are priceless. You can’t place a monetary value on dealing with life and death every day. This is what inspires me. It’s all about helping each other out and keeping those relationships strong.”  Maintaining those relationships on the floor, according to Poeth, requires one main ingredient: work-life balance.  “I want my nurses to be able to balance sending their kids to kindergarten and giving their patients their first chemotherapy treatments,” Poeth emphasizes. “I genuinely care about their lives. It’s nice when you get to know your team’s children, grandkids, spouse and hobbies. I’m grateful that Renown has given us the autonomy to foster that flexible environment within our teams. It is so rewarding to have such a strong impact on these employees.”  To Poeth, it’s all about doing and then duplicating. Luckily for her team and infusion patients in northern Nevada, a new infusion center at Renown South Meadows is planned to open in the coming years as part of our commitment to expanding care. Her team is excited to grow their expertise down to south Reno – Poeth's original home hospital.  “I strongly believe that as nurses, we are meant to be where we are meant to be at the time,” said Poeth. “Be kind to yourself and remember your ‘why.’ Take advantage of the opportunity you have.”  To all nurses (and future nurses) out there, Poeth wants you to know that you are welcomed and valued. You are saving lives every day, and to her, that is worth everything.  “Always remain focused, even throughout all the challenges. Never forget why you got into nursing. And lastly, always stay true to your own mission,” closes Poeth.

Read More About 20 Years of Compassion and Dedication