Research at East Carolina University is shedding light on how patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) recover physically in the months following surgery, and specifically, tracks a surprising early plateau in activity levels.
The findings were published this year in the Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention.
The study analyzed data from 294 patients and found that while activity increases steadily after implant surgery initially, it levels off after about two months and remains unchanged for the next four.
Clinical health psychology doctoral candidate Elizabeth Jordan, the study’s first author, says the project began as a deep curiosity about how patients in different places and with different resources and backgrounds regain mobility after receiving a life‑saving device.
“I became involved with this study as my master’s thesis, when I developed an interest in physical activity patterns in CIED patients, particularly the period immediately following implantation,” Jordan said. “These devices contain accelerometers, which give us a wealth of objective activity data. That opened the door for me to really explore my research interests.”
Working alongside Dr. Samuel Sears, a psychologist known nationally and internationally for his work with cardiac device patients, Jordan helped design a study that captured 180 days of physical activity for each patient. The findings revealed that patients showed the most dramatic increase in movement between the first and second month post‑implantation. After that, a profound and unsatisfactory plateau set in for a statistically significant number of the patients studied.
According to Sears, this plateau highlights a critical moment in recovery.
“Clinically, we’ve always known patients have to restrict movement in the first several weeks to protect the implanted leads,” Sears said. “What this study shows is that the habits formed during that period might persist long after restrictions are lifted. The two‑month point may be a key moment for re‑engaging patients and helping them rebuild an active lifestyle.”
ECU’s Research Sample — From the East, For the East
The research sample reflected the demographics of the university’s largely rural region. Two thirds of patients studied live in rural communities, and 52% identify as Black, two demographic populations often underrepresented in cardiac device research.
Jordan said that seeing those numbers was one of the most striking parts of her work.
“Understanding physical activity in these groups is critically important because they face higher burdens of chronic illness and more limited access to specialty care,” she said.
Maeve Sargeant, another doctoral student who supported the analyses for the research, said what deserves special attention is the real-world data.
“Device-based activity data gives us a good look into how patients are really functioning in their daily lives,” Sargeant said. “Analyzing these patterns alongside the realities of work, caregiving and other responsibilities helps contextualize what recovery actually looks like for these patients.”
Different Hometowns, Different Outcomes
One remaining methodological challenge is that while CIED technology offers rich data into patient movement, it does not distinguish the intensity or type of activity.
Still, the findings point to a therapeutic direction for clinical psychologists, Sears said.
“These devices are with patients 24/7,” he said. “With a study like this, we have the research backing we need to leverage new data collected to better tailor rehab programs, and do so with limited patient facetime. We can identify struggling patients and improve long‑term outcomes.”
Jordan hopes to build on this work as she continues her doctoral training.
“If I could continue with this line of research, I’d like to examine differences in activity outcomes across geographical areas,” she said. “Comparing long‑term engagement and health outcomes between clinics across the United States could tell us so much about how environment and location shapes recovery.”
Jordan, who earned her undergraduate degrees in psychology and human development and family studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, plans to graduate with her doctorate in 2028. Her long‑term goal is to stay close to the populations highlighted in the study.
“In the future, I hope to continue providing psychological care to patients with chronic illness or those facing health disparities,” she said. “This research has only strengthened that commitment.”
Roanoke Rapids, NC – ECU Health is excited to announce the opening of two clinics in Roanoke Rapids following the acquisition of Halifax Gastroenterology. The newly established ECU Health Gastroenterology – Roanoke Rapids and ECU Health Endoscopy Center – Roanoke Rapids, both located at 1007 Gregory Drive, will expand access to specialized digestive health services for patients across the region.
“ECU Health is proud to expand access to care in the Roanoke Valley, building on a longstanding foundation of trusted health care services in the region,” said Todd Hickey, president of ECU Health North Hospital. “By adding new services, we are strengthening our commitment to this community and ensuring patients have access to high‑quality specialty care close to home. This investment reflects our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of rural communities and the patients and families who rely on us.”
ECU Health Gastroenterology – Roanoke Rapids began seeing patients on Feb. 4, followed by the opening of ECU Health Endoscopy Center – Roanoke Rapids on March 3. Dr. Nagarjuna Yerra, who has long provided gastroenterology care in the community, will continue practicing at the clinic. His continued presence ensures continuity of care for existing patients while supporting the growth of gastroenterology services under the ECU Health umbrella.
The two clinics will offer comprehensive gastroenterology and endoscopy services, supported by ECU Health’s integrated network of providers and resources. The expansion reflects ECU Health’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural health care and ensure patients can receive expert, compassionate care without traveling long distances.
To schedule an appointment, ECU Health Gastroenterology – Roanoke Rapids can be reached at 252-535-8950.
Washington, NC – ECU Health Beaufort Hospital is proud to recognize Leslie Alston, RCP, RRT, as the 2025 Pulmonary Health and Illness of the Lung (PHIL) Award recipient for ECU Health regional hospitals. The PHIL Award, established by the FACES Foundation in honor of Philip C. Lamka who passed away from Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), honors respiratory therapists who demonstrate exceptional compassion and patient-centered care.
“Leslie represents everything the PHIL Award stands for,” said Dr. Dennis Campbell II, DHA, RN, FACHE, president of ECU Health Beaufort Hospital. “Her compassion and professionalism make a lasting difference for patients, families and our care teams. Leslie is widely respected by patients, families and colleagues for her clinical expertise, calm leadership and ability to provide comfort and guidance during life’s most critical moments.”
Alston, who has been a respiratory therapist for 28 years – 20 of those spent at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital – is equally respected by nursing leadership and educators. New graduate nurses and code teams rely on her expertise during training and emergency situations. Known as a natural coach, she provides guidance in a supportive and encouraging way while maintaining a strong focus on patient care. She also assists with nursing and CNA skills fairs and represents respiratory therapy at local middle and high schools, emphasizing safe, high-quality, person-centered care.
“I am truly humbled by this recognition, but the greatest reward comes from caring for my patients. Every day, they remind me why I am passionate about being a respiratory therapist. It is an honor and a privilege to support them, and their gratitude and trust are the motivation that keeps me dedicated to this profession,” said Alston
Alston’s impact is reflected in the many calls and handwritten notes from patients and families following discharge. These messages consistently highlight Alston’s personalized care and the genuine concern she shows for each patient. Families often share how Alston took time to listen, explain and provide comfort during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Physicians throughout the hospital also recognize her excellence and frequently request her by name to care for their patients. Medical and physician assistant students regularly shadow her to gain a better understanding of respiratory therapy.
FACES Foundation recognizes two PHIL Award recipients each year — one from ECU Health Medical Center and one representing ECU Health regional hospitals. Alston was named the regional recipient.
Greenville, NC – ECU Health is excited to announce the Academic Loan Scholarship Program, a new workforce investment designed to support students pursuing high need health sciences degrees across eastern North Carolina. The program provides $5,000 in financial assistance to eligible students and includes a one year, full time work commitment with ECU Health upon graduation, helping ensure a strong homegrown pipeline of skilled professionals for the region’s hospitals and clinics.
“Eastern North Carolina depends on a strong, well trained health care workforce, and this program is an important investment in that future,” said Brian Floyd, chief operating officer, ECU Health. “By reducing financial barriers for students and creating clear pathways into our system, we’re able to recruit and retain the talent our communities rely on. Supporting local learners early in their training strengthens both ECU Health and the long term stability of care across the region, and this commitment ensures we are preparing the next generation of caregivers who take care of the communities we serve.”
Created to address the need for allied health and nursing roles, the Academic Loan Scholarship represents a significant commitment to expanding access to education while meeting the health care needs of rural and underserved communities. A total of $165,000 has been allocated for the program, allowing for 33 scholarships of $5,000 each. Eligible students must be enrolled in or accepted into one of several high need programs at regional community colleges, including nursing (ADN), respiratory therapy, surgical technology, medical laboratory technology, radiography, sonography, cardiovascular sonography, CT, MRI, diagnostic technology, OTA and PTA. Students in the Nursing Ribbon Program are also eligible.
“At ECU Health, we believe that supporting the next generation of caregivers is essential to building a healthier eastern North Carolina,” said Josh Crocker, vice president, HR Centers of Excellence, ECU Health. “Our Academic Loan Scholarship Program is designed to ease the financial burden for students in high demand health disciplines while creating clear pathways into vital clinical roles across our region. This initiative reflects our commitment to growing local talent, expanding access to care and advancing our mission of improving the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina.”
Applications close May 22, 2026. To learn more about the Academic Loan Scholarship Program, including eligibility, FAQs and application requirements, please contact Brynn Schiller at [email protected].
Carteret Health Care, ECU Health and the James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center are pleased to announce a new partnership that brings Newborn and Pediatric Hospitalist services directly to families in Carteret County. This collaboration highlights both organizations’ shared commitment to ensuring children have access to high-quality care, as Carteret Health Care becomes the only hospital outside of the ECU Health system to host ECU Health Newborn and Pediatric Hospitalists on-site.
The partnership expands access to specialized newborn and pediatric inpatient care close to home—an important priority for families in the community. Through this collaboration, Carteret Health Care is helping ensure children who require hospitalization can receive high-quality, expert care locally, reducing the need for families to travel outside the county whenever possible.
“Our partnership with ECU Health to bring dedicated Newborn and Pediatric Hospitalists to Carteret County represents a significant leap forward in our mission to provide specialized care close to home,” said Dr. Clyde Brooks, VP of Medical Affairs. “By having these specialists on-site 24/7, we are ensuring that local families have immediate access to high-quality inpatient pediatric care. This collaboration not only supports our local pediatricians but also provides parents the peace of mind that comes with knowing advanced medical support is available right here in our community.”
ECU Health Newborn and Pediatric Hospitalists will provide dedicated inpatient care for infants and children admitted to Carteret Health Care. This approach allows local pediatricians to continue focusing on outpatient care and long-term relationships with their patients, while Hospitalists manage inpatient needs, ensuring seamless coordination and continuity of care.
“ECU Health and Maynard Children’s Hospital are committed to improving the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina—that’s our mission, which extends to supporting other health systems who also serve patients in the region, said Dr. Matthew Ledoux, pediatrician in chief, ECU Health, chair of pediatrics, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. “We’re delighted to partner with Carteret Health Care to offer our expertise, provide alignment with the highest standards of clinical care and help ensure patients and families receive the right level of care and support.”
For Carteret County families, the impact of this partnership is significant. More children can remain in the community for care, staying close to family, school, and support systems during hospitalization. When higher-acuity care is required, transfers to ECU Health and Maynard Children’s Hospital can be streamlined, helping ensure timely access to advanced pediatric services.
Chris Mintz, an RN with ECU Health’s Enterprise Resource Team (ERT), has always felt drawn to community health rather than inpatient bedside care.
“I’ve worked in a pediatric clinic, same-day surgery, home health and hospice care, and inpatient and outpatient case management,” Chris said. “I was a supervisor and manager in case management and hospice care, and then director of nursing for mental health and substance abuse treatment.”
When the priorities for integrated health care shifted, she needed a new path.
“I decided I wasn’t too old to learn something new, so I joined the Beaufort Hospital emergency department (ED) to work at the bedside,” she said. “The rest is history.”
That serendipitous job change led Chris to meet Randy Mintz, her now husband and fellow nurse.
“Much of the work in the ED is community health,” Chris said. “The ED is full of people without access to care. It is all some people have, and we take care of them the best way we can.”
Meant to be
Randy was working night shift in the ED when he received a call.
“The manager asked me if I could precept someone new to the ED who needed extra help,” he recalled. “Funny enough, I really didn’t want to do it.”
“Originally, I was assigned to another seasoned nurse as a preceptor,” Chris added. “But she didn’t feel like she wanted to do it at the time, so they asked Randy for a favor. Now we thank that nurse all the time for putting us together.”
Randy took the time Chris needed to help her learn the ropes.
“It meant a lot to me. I was nervous and wanted to be sure I had the skills I needed to take care of our patients,” Chris said.
From there, Chris and Randy said they discovered they shared a higher level of compatibility.
“We laughed at the same jokes, and she got my dark sense of humor,” Randy said.
But even better, they found they made each other better nurses.
“I had worked in the ED for a while and was a little hardened. She was like a marshmallow. She oriented me on how to interact with people and to look at things differently. As much as I taught her about the ED, she taught me how to be better with people,” Randy said.
“I am 100% positive that had she not come to the ED, and if that other nurse had agreed to be her preceptor, all the good things that have come my way would not have happened. It’s all her doing.”
“The only way I have been able to work at this level is because of him,” Chris said.
Love takes flight
“Four years went by like a flash, and we got engaged. But I was hesitant about getting remarried,” Chris shared. “One day, I saw there was a hot air balloon festival in Statesville, and I said to Randy, ‘You want to get married in a hot air balloon?’ He said, ‘absolutely!’ and that’s what we did.”
Randy and Chris married at sunrise on Oct. 19, 2025.
“We found a company that marries people all over the world, with real officiants. We had a small, very personalized ceremony right there in the balloon. Then we got to enjoy the rest of the festival and our wedding funnel cake,” Chris said.
Now they get to work together on the same team.
“After my interim assistant nurse manager role in the ED at Beaufort, I heard about the Enterprise Resource Team, and it was an easy transition,” Randy said. Chris joined shortly thereafter.
The Enterprise Resource Team meets staffing needs at ECU Health Medical Center and ECU Health Community Hospitals based on census and staffing.
“The Resource Management team assesses needs based on feedback from the medical center and our community hospitals, where they find out about staffing deficits and prioritize who needs what. That’s not an easy job,” Chris said.
“You can choose the region and specific department or specialty you want to serve,” Randy added. “Then you get a text at 5 a.m. or 5 p.m. to tell you where you need to go.”
Randy and Chris said it is nice to be able to work in the area they chose, but at different locations where they are needed.
“Our goal is to lighten the load for the staff where we are assigned and to take great care of their patients,” Chris said.
It’s an added bonus to work together.
“There are some days we might be able to grab a coffee together or only say hello as we’re walking by, but we always know the other one is there,” Randy said. “Other days, we’re working side by side, and those days are the best. You have a person you know and trust, and you know their strengths, and they know yours. It makes it nice.”
On Jan. 28, 2026, ECU Health and East Carolina University hosted the 10th Annual ECU Health Quality Improvement Symposium in person and virtually. A total of 198 people registered for the event, with 171 attendees participating, including 21 who joined virtually.
Dr. Jennifer Sutter, chief of division of pediatric endocrinology and physician director of the Quality Improvement Symposium, welcomed attendees. Dr. Michael Waldrum, dean of the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University and chief executive officer of ECU Health, kicked off the day with opening remarks.
Quality improvement across the system
The symposium showcased quality improvement initiatives across ECU Health and East Carolina University’s Health Sciences Campus, with a focus on patient safety, population health and interprofessional practice.
The event provides academic and community physicians, health professionals, health care teams, residents, fellows and students an opportunity to present work in systems improvement and practice redesign to peers and health system leaders.
A culture of collaboration
A recurring theme throughout the presentations was collaboration. Many projects emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork and cross-departmental partnerships, with several project champions recognized for their leadership.
“We have great people delivering great care,” said Dr. Herbert Garrison, event podium moderator and professor of emergency medicine emeritus at the Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University. “We truly have a culture of excellence.”
Waldrum echoed that sentiment, noting collaboration as a defining characteristic of the work presented. “Culture of excellence is what I kept thinking about,” he said. “I stopped counting how many times collaboration was mentioned. These projects sit at the intersection of quality improvement, experience and cost. Thank you for building the culture of ECU Health.”
In closing remarks, Waldrum thanked presenters for their dedication. “Thank you for inspiring me to continue sharing the message of the dedicated people doing this important work,” he said.
Dr. Jason Higginson, executive dean of the Brody School of Medicine and chief health officer of ECU Health, also thanked participants at the conclusion of the symposium.
“Quality improvement is an ongoing process that continues to evolve over time,” Higginson said. “You can see the level of engagement and the meaningful impact being made. Anyone who receives care at ECU Health will benefit from that work. Thank you to everyone who presented and participated.”
Awards for the top podium and poster presentations were announced following the showcase.
Podium presentation
Outstanding Podium Presentation: Kayla Ausbon – “NICU CLABSI Reduction through Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Innovation”
Honorable Mention Podium Presentation: Lori Goodwin, Paula Linville and Gail Scheller – “Closing the Gap: Improving Hypertension Control in Eastern North Carolina”
Quick shot podium presentation
First Place Quick Shot Podium Presentation: Saba Ijaz (3rd year Medical Student, TQA Project, Drs. Jessica Eubanks and Jessica Gancar) – “Improving Neurodevelopmental Evaluations in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit”
Second Place Quick Shot Podium Presentation: Laurie Etheridge – “Bye-Bye Opioids: Revolutionizing Pediatric Post-Surgery Care”
Third Place Quick Shot Podium Presentation: Valentine Okafor (4th year medical student, LINC Scholar) – “Improving Influenza Vaccination Rates in Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Patients: A Quality Improvement Initiative at ECU Pediatric Specialty Clinic”
Poster presentation
First Place Poster Presentation: Katherine Taylor (TQA Project, Drs. Katie Taylor and Jessica Scheller) – “Increasing Kangaroo Care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for Very Preterm Neonates”
Second Place Poster Presentation: Michael McFayden (3rd Year Medical Student, LINC Scholar) – “Increasing Timely Discharges in the NICU”
Third Place Poster Presentation: Ranee Pender – “Reducing Patient Falls Through Standardized Toileting and Call Bell Protocols on a Medical Surgical Unit”
Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health is proud to announce that Trish Baise, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, FAONL, chief nursing executive, has been named to the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) 2025 class of fellows (FAONL). The honor recognizes exceptional contributions to nursing leadership and will be celebrated at AONL’s annual conference in Chicago this March.
“Nursing leadership has shaped my career and my sense of purpose, and this recognition reflects the mentors, colleagues and teams who have supported and challenged me along the way,” Baise said. “Being named an AONL fellow underscores that high-quality leadership and forward-thinking care are thriving here in eastern North Carolina, even in a complex and rapidly changing health care environment. It strengthens my commitment to advancing nursing practice, developing future leaders and contributing to the broader dialogue about how nursing can lead meaningful change in health care.”
AONL is the national professional organization of more than 12,000 nurse leaders and is the voice of nursing leadership across the nation. AONL advances the professional development of nurse leaders through innovative and competency-based learning experiences as well as advocates for the perspective and needs of nurse leaders are addressed in public policy issues related to nursing and patient care. Nurse leaders who attain AONL Fellow Designation are committed to shaping the future of nursing leadership through expert leadership practice, mentoring developing leaders and contributing to AONL at the regional and national levels.
Baise, who joined ECU Health in 2023, brings more than 30 years of health care experience to her role, overseeing all nursing functions across the health system. Under her leadership, ECU Health achieved its third Magnet recognition, underscoring the system’s commitment to nursing excellence. She also championed the Advancing Nursing Practice and Excellence (APEX) initiative, which focuses on innovation, research and collaboration to advance nursing in rural health care. Through partnerships with East Carolina University and regional colleges, ECU Health invests in the future of nursing by offering residency programs that equip new nurses with essential skills.
“ECU Health is proud to have Trish as a nursing leader whose commitment to excellence reflects the collective work happening across our organization,” said Brian Floyd, chief operating officer, ECU Health. “Our nurses and leaders consistently demonstrate innovation, compassion and a deep dedication to serving our communities while also caring for one another, which is why ECU Health continues to be recognized as a national model for rural health care. Under Trish’s leadership, nursing at ECU Health has thrived, advanced and continued to innovate in ways that strengthen the future of care for eastern North Carolina.”
Baise’s achievement reflects not only her personal dedication but also the collective efforts of ECU Health to define a new standard for nursing in eastern North Carolina and beyond.
“This recognition sends an important message that nursing leadership excellence is not limited by geography,” Baise said. “Rural communities face unique challenges, but they are also places of innovation, deep relationships and meaningful impact. I hope this inspires nurses in rural communities to see themselves as leaders and change agents and reinforces the importance of continuing to advocate for resources, education and opportunities that strengthen rural health care.”
Greenville, N.C. — ECU Health, the James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center and EastCare today announced the arrival of North Carolina’s first medical transport helicopter dedicated solely to pediatric patients. This milestone investment ensures that children across eastern North Carolina—especially those in rural and underserved communities—have rapid, safe access to the highly specialized, critical care they need.
Designed as a fully equipped mobile intensive care unit (ICU), the new aircraft brings advanced subspecialty expertise directly to the region’s sickest and most vulnerable children. Its capabilities allow care to begin the moment transport starts, reducing critical time to treatment for patients who often live far from specialty services.
“One third of the children we transport are premature or neonatal infants, many of whom need highly-specialized care,” said Dr. Matthew Ledoux, pediatrician in chief at Maynard Children’s Hospital and chair of pediatrics at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University.
“This new helicopter gives us the ability to reach these babies faster, stabilize them sooner and deliver ICU level care from the very first moments of transport. It is truly a game changer for pediatric and neonatal outcomes in eastern North Carolina.”
The helicopter carries specialized neonatal and pediatric equipment—including ventilators designed for the smallest patients—and features a spacious, child friendly interior. The environment allows clinical teams to deliver both intensive medical treatment and developmentally supportive care in a space where children can feel safe and comforted. Much of the equipment in the aircraft was funded by generous donors through the ECU Health Foundation.
Used exclusively for hospital to hospital transfers, the helicopter expands regional capacity and strengthens resource allocation across ECU Health’s service area. The aircraft also enables providers to fly out to support deliveries and neonatal resuscitations, bringing critical expertise directly to local hospitals when seconds matter.
“This investment reflects ECU Health’s commitment to access and exceptional care for every child in our region,” said Brian Floyd, chief operating officer, ECU Health. “Families should not have to travel long distances or face barriers to receive specialized pediatric services just because they live in a rural community. By placing this resource in eastern North Carolina, we’re bringing life-saving care closer to home and advancing our mission to improve the health and well-being of those we serve.”
This new helicopter builds on a decade long legacy of life-saving care provided by EastCare and Maynard Children’s Hospital as this year marks the 10-year anniversary of ECU Health’s children’s transport team. By significantly reducing transport times and increasing access to advanced care, the new helicopter is poised to improve outcomes for thousands of children across eastern North Carolina.
To learn more about the new helicopter and access images and video, please visit: go.ecuhealth.org/helicopter
Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health is proud to announce Trish Baise, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, FAONL, ECU Health chief nursing executive, was recently named one of Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2025 Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) to know. The annual recognition highlights exceptional nursing executives who are shaping the future of patient care through strategic leadership, innovation and a deep commitment to supporting the nursing workforce.
“I am honored to be included in this recognition, which reflects the incredible work of ECU Health nurses who are driving creative solutions that strengthen our workforce and expand access to high quality care in rural communities,” said Baise. “I am fortunate to lead a team who is actively shaping the future of nursing across our region. Their unwavering commitment to our patients continues to elevate the standard of care in eastern North Carolina, and I’m grateful to work alongside them as we serve our community.”
Baise brings more than 30 years of experience in both urban and rural nursing environments. She leads a systemwide nursing workforce spanning nine hospitals and more than 100 clinics. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing ECU Health’s Advancing Nursing Practice and Excellence (APEX) initiative, which focuses on innovation, research and collaboration to elevate nursing practice in rural communities. Under her guidance, ECU Health earned its third Magnet recognition, underscoring the system’s commitment to nursing excellence. Baise is also a strong advocate for non‑traditional pathways into nursing, reflecting her own journey, which began as a fire department dispatcher before she became a paramedic, flight paramedic, flight nurse, emergency department and ICU nurse, and later director of a flight program before advancing into senior nursing leadership.
“ECU Health is proud to have Trish as our nursing leader – who has strengthened the culture and elevated the standard of care across eastern North Carolina,” said Brian Floyd, chief operating officer, ECU Health. “As the region’s leading health care provider and educator, we carry a responsibility to shape the future of rural health care, and Trish recognizes that our success depends on attracting and supporting exceptional nurses and care teams. Her commitment to our mission is helping ECU Health advance the model for rural academic health care and set the standard for nursing in our region.”
The nursing leaders recognized by Becker’s play a crucial role in shaping the future of nursing, tasked with addressing nurse staffing shortages, managing budgets and fostering growth opportunities for emerging nurses. Beyond leading nursing departments, CNOs drive innovative initiatives that uphold high patient care standards. Their roles demand a unique blend of clinical expertise and executive leadership.