As an expert in nursing professional development and education, Rinka is dedicated to improving nursing practice, supporting and training other nurses to provide the best care possible. Though she specializes in neuro and spinal surgery care, this broader aim means she has a remarkable impact on the entire nursing workforce. She truly believes in every nurse’s vast potential and is dedicated to supporting them to reach that potential.
When there was a troubling rise in workplace violence from patients against nurses and other staff, Rinka proposed a system: Each patient would be evaluated for aggressiveness and if they might be a risk to staff, a purple hand sign on that door would alert anyone entering that they should be aware and take steps to protect themselves. Rinka proactively initiated the use of the patient aggression screening tool and effectively engaged the team in understanding its purpose and application. This resulted in an incredible 58 percent decrease in workplace violence incidents. What this means practically is that nurses are safer on the job, and better able to care for all patients.
Rinka thinks creatively about how to make the best use of nursing expertise and time. After volunteering for a task force on patient mobility, Rinka strongly advocated for an innovative solution: Developing a group of trained “walking buddy” volunteers to take walks with stable patients. This then frees up nurses to focus on sicker patients who need more acute care. At first, some nurses wondered if the volunteers would be up to the task, but Rinka persisted, ensuring the program was safe and prosperous and helping her colleagues see the benefits.
Rinka has demonstrated exceptional skill in advancing nursing practice while providing steadfast support to her colleagues. She has successfully led the development and implementation of impactful action plans, created an engaging and highly effective EKG training program embraced by staff, and played a key role in standardizing evidence-based nursing practices across the system. Her composed demeanor, unwavering commitment, and readiness to contribute wherever needed underscore her natural leadership and consistent ability to drive positive change. Rinka’s never-give-up attitude further strengthens her role as a trusted leader. She consistently steps in wherever she is needed, improving nursing practice and outcomes in every environment she serves.