Living with heart disease can be daunting, but there is hope. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, individuals can take control of their well-being and improve their quality of life. Key practices can help people with heart disease effectively manage their condition and promote long-term heart health.

In the realm of cardiac health care, a member of the Vol nurse family stands at the forefront, showcasing exceptional compassion, expertise, and commitment. Robin Harris, clinical associate professor and chair of the RN to BSN program, has been caring for patients with cardiovascular disease for over 30 years. 

With a background rooted in clinical experience, Harris began her journey in health care when she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Tennessee State University. Building upon her foundational knowledge, she pursued a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on critical care nursing from the University of Virginia. Driven by a passion for advancing patient care, she further honed her expertise through a post-master’s certificate in adult health and ultimately earned her PhD in nursing from the University of Tennessee.

Harris’s area of interest lies in the comprehensive care of patients with cardiovascular disease, particularly those with difficult-to-manage lipid disorders that place them at increased risk. 

“I worked as a nurse practitioner in a private cardiology practice and served as the clinical director of a heart failure clinic,” said Harris. “It was during that time caring for patients with advanced cardiovascular conditions that my focus expanded beyond treatment alone.”

Deeply intrigued by the potential of preventive interventions, Harris delved into researching the benefits of physical activity in patients with heart failure and the positive impact of exercise on older adults. 

“Through my studies, I discovered that lifestyle changes are not overnight miracles but a journey that individuals must undertake to incorporate better dietary choices and increased physical activity into their lives,” she said. 

She recalls impactful stories of patients who successfully made important lifestyle changes. 

“Witnessing their progress brought me immense joy,” said Harris. “Patients who embraced physical activity found themselves less fatigued, sleeping better, and often required less medication due to improvements in blood pressure and lab values resulting from weight loss.”

Those stories reinforced the understanding that lifestyle changes are a powerful tool in managing heart disease.

Harris envisions a future in health care that begins with fostering healthy habits early in life. 

“Efforts toward better cardiovascular health should not begin at age 50 but rather should be well established by age 50,” said Harris. “By educating and partnering with young people, children, and young adults, I hope to promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle for overall well-being and cardiovascular disease prevention.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Junior nursing student Lila York has an appetite for exploration and a heart overflowing with compassion. Originally from Chantilly, Virginia, York chose UT because of her desire to make a difference. 

“As soon as I stepped foot on UT’s campus and felt the energy, I knew this was the place for me,” she said.

An adventurer at heart, York has immersed herself in travel, extracurriculars, and academics. From traversing the landscapes of Europe to embarking on an epic road trip through 11 national parks, she has collected memories and experiences that have broadened her horizons. 

“These adventures have nurtured my appreciation for diversity, cultivating a deep understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity in providing holistic patient care,” she said. 

Beyond her academic pursuits, York finds fulfillment in her involvement with various extracurricular activities on campus. As a member of the Nursing Ambassadors program, she proudly represents the university and serves as a mentor to her fellow students. She is also involved in the UT Ambassadors program and theatre productions on campus. York participates in the women’s ministry Delight and in her sorority. Through these avenues, she contributes to causes close to her heart and forges lasting relationships.

York’s eyes light up with passion when she’s asked why she chose to become a nurse. 

“It’s not just about helping others,” she replied. “It is about creating personal connections with patients during their most vulnerable moments.”

Inspired by the nurses who have touched her own life, York recognizes the profound impact a nurse can have. She envisions herself as a beacon of support and encouragement, guiding her patients through challenging times with unwavering empathy and understanding.

Drawing inspiration from the stories of the nurses she encounters, York is driven to explore the endless possibilities within her chosen profession. 

“With nursing, I know I can help people from diverse backgrounds, travel to new places, and connect with extraordinary individuals along the way,” she said. “The potential for growth and the promise of making a positive impact are what motivate me to pursue my dreams. Nurses can truly make a positive and lasting impact on people’s lives, and I think that is something so special and incredible about the profession.”

Reflecting on her time at UT, York recalls the moments that have made up her college experience. Storming the field at Neyland Stadium after an exhilarating victory against Alabama remains etched in her memory as an electrifying celebration. But it’s the little moments of joy—lounging in hammocks with friends, belting out favorite tunes during karaoke nights, and sharing laughter-filled lunches—that truly define her UT journey and reinforce her deep appreciation for the connections she has forged.

Looking to the future, York envisions herself as a travel nurse, merging her passion for nursing with her love of exploration. She hopes to specialize in oncology with placements near national parks, where she can immerse herself in the serenity of nature while caring for patients. 

As she navigates her nursing education at UT, York acknowledges the profound impact of her peers in shaping her growth. 

“The culture of collaboration and support within the nursing program has fostered an environment of shared success, where we uplift one another and celebrate collective achievements,” said York. “Late-night study sessions, heartfelt conversations, and the unwavering support of my cohort have made my journey as a Vol nurse all the more meaningful.”

As she continues her path at UT and beyond, York remains grateful for the remarkable individuals she has encountered and the invaluable experiences that have shaped her into the caring and dedicated nurse she aspires to be.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Winter 2023 Update

Concrete Structure Update: The construction of the concrete structure is progressing well, and we anticipate its completion by the end of 2023. This significant milestone brings us one step closer to realizing our vision for a state-of-the-art facility.

Upcoming Focus on Exterior Envelope: Following the completion of the concrete structure, the contractor will shift their efforts to the exterior envelope of the building. This phase marks another crucial step in creating a modern and functional space for our nursing community.

Interior Progress: While exterior work is underway, efforts are being made inside the building. The layout and early rough-in are in progress, ensuring that the interior space is efficiently utilized and ready for the next phases of development.

Technology and Design Enhancements: We are excited to share that the audiovisual package, which includes support for high-fidelity simulation and sim-capture, is currently in the bidding process. This cutting-edge technology will significantly enhance the learning experience for our nursing students. Additionally, the theming and graphics design are progressing seamlessly, adding a touch of innovation and creativity to the overall aesthetics of the building.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

When Autumn Fuselier became a mother at the young age of 15, she knew she needed to find a career that would help provide a stable home for her son.

“I was a teen mom and needed a reliable and respected profession that I could count on to provide a stable home for him,” said Fuselier. “However, that drive became much bigger over the course of my career.”

Fuselier took a leap in 2011 after being accepted to the University of Tennessee, College of Nursing’s BSN program.

“Thankfully I was not alone in raising my son during this time,” said Fuselier. “I have amazing parents that helped me while I was completing my degree.”

The BSN program provided her with a strong foundation and a comprehensive understanding of various specialties. She found the experience challenging yet rewarding, preparing her for the dynamic nature of the nursing profession.

“I learned many clinical skills, but I also felt challenged and grew so much in knowledge of all the specialties,” said Fuselier. “It was such a well-rounded program and truly set the foundation for my future as an advanced practice nurse.”

Her time at UT did not come without challenges though. She raised her son on her own until her now husband moved to Knoxville during her junior year. She had to learn how to be her own person and care for a young child all while attending nursing school.

“Knoxville is where I really grew up,” said Fuselier.

After graduating in 2015, Fuselier started working in the intensive care unit. However, she soon discovered her passion for maternal healthcare.

“I fell in love with maternal health care and became passionate about improving maternal and neonatal health care outcomes,” Fuselier said. “I eventually transitioned to Labor and Delivery and never looked back.”

Fuselier obtained a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialty in Certified Nurse-Midwifery and later a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP).

Fuselier’s most cherished moments in her career are not defined by singular events but by the collective experiences gained through daily clinical practice. These experiences have been the cornerstone of her professional growth and success.

“One of my greatest career accomplishments was earning the Kitty Ernst Nurse-Midwifery Award upon graduating with my MSN,” said Fuselier. “Back then I didn’t see my potential to be a true leader and educator in the field. The reason this means so much to me is that faculty saw in me back then when I couldn’t have yet seen in myself. I aspire every day to have the passion, dedication, intelligence, and wisdom to earn this award every day of my career in both clinical practice, advocacy, and education.”

Reflecting on her journey, Fuselier advises current students to embrace the challenges and opportunities presented to them.

“Understand that nothing worth having comes easy,” said Fuselier. “You will need to put your head down and do the work. Also understand that nursing and especially advanced practice comes from not just book knowledge, but soaking in all these experiences and friendships and allowing all of this to shape who you are as a practitioner.”

Today, Fuselier serves as the co-owner and Chief Midwifery Director at The Starting Place Birth and Wellness. Additionally, she serves as clinical faculty for Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) and Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) students. Her commitment to advocacy is reflected in her efforts to expand full practice authority for Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) and her work in legislative advocacy aimed at improving maternal health outcomes.

She is a wife and mom of four, two of which are determined to join the Volunteer family.

“I am proud of many things, but mostly I am so proud to be a Vol Nurse,” said Fuselier. “UT gave me my start in more ways than one and I will always hold UT Nursing and what it gave me near and dear.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, health care and social service workers are five times as likely to suffer a workplace violence injury. One in four nurses reported being physically assaulted, according to a 2019 American Nurses Association Survey.

“These statistics are alarming,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the College of Nursing. “We need to make sure we are preparing nurses for this.”

During the summer months, nursing faculty member Robin Hicks brainstormed ways to help nursing students learn self-defense.

“One of our students was physically assaulted by a patient during the clinical shift,” said Hicks. “We were already preparing for and focusing on student safety prior to this incident due to the increase in violence against healthcare workers. We added both de-escalation and self-defense courses into our ABSN curriculum to assist in providing our students the resources needed for their personal safety.” 

Hicks approached Darren Gilbert, the IT technologist for the college and a karate instructor for the UT Martial Arts club and asked if he would be interested in teaching a self-defense course for nursing students. Gilbert saw the need and agreed.

Fifty-seven College of Nursing students took part in a four-hour self-defense class taught by Gilbert.

“I found it very helpful that we were able to practice the skills on each other after each demonstration,” said a student participant. “Not only did this help us put the skill into practice, but it also allowed us to be put into these vulnerable positions of being attacked. Without these conversations and practice, I would not have had any preparation and probably would be in complete shock if a patient attacked me. I now feel a little more prepared to react if a situation like this did arise.”

 “I was very pleased to be able to teach this class, it holds a special and personal interest for me,” said Gilbert. “After high school, my mother was accepted into the nursing program at the Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York. She was also pregnant with me. During her clinical time in the program, she was assigned to the psychiatric ward in the medical center where a patient assaulted her, and she could not get the patient off. The orderlies eventually got the patient pulled off just short of too late, and I came just that close to not ever being born. So, being asked to teach this class was very meaningful to me.”

Learning these techniques provide students with knowledge they wouldn’t have had otherwise.

 One student said, “I liked the class because it’s not what I’m normally used to since I’ve trained at gyms that teach you to fight as opposed to getting away from a patient. I really enjoyed the fact that the instructor was teaching us defense techniques specifically designed to protect us from an attacker.”

“Every situation will come with different escape methods, and having both self-defense courses has prepared me for a, hopefully, avoidable situation. I will continue to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid reaching over patients. I will also refrain from keeping my stethoscope around my neck. I appreciated these two self-defense courses and hope they continue,” said another student.

Gilbert and the College of Nursing are optimistic about offering these free classes throughout the year.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Holly Hauck (865-974-8263, [email protected])

The College of Nursing has established itself as a global leader in advancing health care and nursing education. With a vision of improving health outcomes worldwide, the college has embarked on numerous initiatives that have made a significant impact.

International opportunities hold immense potential for students and faculty alike. They provide a gateway to acquiring a global perspective, delving into cutting-edge nursing research, and rendering hands-on care to diverse populations across the world. The College of Nursing, committed to nurturing global health care leaders, offers an array of enriching programs in destinations such as Panama, Kenya, Peru, and Belize. 

Associate Dean of Practice and Global Affairs Nan Gaylord says, “Nurses play a vital role in positively impacting health outcomes of communities. The opportunity to study abroad gives student nurses and faculty members the chance to witness firsthand how health care systems operate on a global scale. It not only expands horizons but also fosters collaborative partnerships to enhance patient experiences and deliver education to nursing professionals worldwide. It is an empowering experience while at the same time developing empathy for people not able to access the same care that we expect in the United States.”

Not Just Vitamins 

Carrie Bailey, a dedicated clinical associate professor, understands the immense value of international experiences in shaping competent nurses. Bailey has made numerous journeys to Belize leading undergraduate nursing students. At Unitedville, a tight-knit agriculturally rich village in the Cayo district, Bailey and her team embark on missions that encompass home visits, medical clinics, and compassionate care provision. 

“During home visits, we collaborate closely with community health nurses specially trained to conduct health assessments, ensuring that no one is overlooked in terms of medical attention,” Bailey explains. Appointment cards for upcoming clinics are distributed during the visits, enabling effective organization and preparation for the clinic days.

Armed with insights from these home visits, students and faculty unite their expertise to establish health clinics that cater to the specific needs of the community. Whether it’s conducting blood pressure checks, monitoring blood sugar levels, or addressing pressing health concerns, students and faculty collaborate to deliver impactful interventions. 

Bailey recalls an encounter that unfolded during one clinic. An elderly woman from a remote Mayan village traveled for hours to Unitedville to visit the clinic. She initially presented with a persistent cough, and her condition seemed ordinary at first glance. As a student nurse delved into her medical history, however, a series of alarming symptoms unfolded—unexplained weight loss, bloody sputum, and debilitating night sweats. The health care team diagnosed the woman with tuberculosis—an uncommon ailment in Belize, with only five documented cases in 2022. Thanks to the students’ unwavering commitment and expertise, the patient’s affliction was identified, and she was referred to a local clinic for comprehensive treatment.

Bailey emotionally reflects, “In the absence of any other tales to share, witnessing the transformation of this one patient made the entire trip worthwhile. She journeyed for over six hours, determined to seek solace in a makeshift clinic staffed by volunteers. Our mission extends far beyond the mere distribution of vitamins; we are unequivocally making a tangible impact on the lives of patients worldwide. It is this profound purpose that compels me to return time and again.”

The Impact of Water

In January, UT’s One Health initiative facilitated an interdisciplinary engagement opportunity for students to address global public health issues, with a focus on water and sanitation. 

“The impact of water on health, its transport, and storage were all evaluated by nursing students,” says Gaylord. “A water testing project revealed to students that water storage in any container increases contamination.”

Nursing student Hailey Benner found many aspects of the trip inspirational, but learning about medicine in the indigenous village really interested her. 

“Learning about medicine in Panama was very impactful to me. The people in the village taught us how they use what’s around them in the rain forest as medicine,” she says. “I thought that was interesting because there are so many herbal remedies that they use where we just throw pills or other medicines at patients. It will be something that I take back and think about when I am practicing and see what other options are available for people that are sick.”

Worldwide Partnerships

The College of Nursing has forged long-term partnerships with nursing schools and health care institutions worldwide. These collaborations focus on faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects, and curriculum development. Through the partnerships, the college has facilitated the transfer of knowledge, skills, and best practices, nurturing a global community of nurses committed to delivering quality care.

One example of this collaborative work is a program with a nursing school in Kenya. Through regular video conferences, faculty members share teaching strategies, discuss case studies, and engage in research partnerships. The exchanges have enriched the educational experience for students and resulted in innovative approaches to health care delivery in both countries.

“All of the hard work came to fruition in July when we sent the first group of nursing students to Kenya,” says Gaylord. “Students worked alongside the WAKA School of Nursing students in the local public hospital to provide care. They also assisted in a health fair in a rural health clinic in Ndathi.”

Recognizing the power of technology in bridging geographical boundaries, the college has embraced electronic learning platforms to deliver specialized courses to international students. Nurses from around the world can now access high-quality education and training modules, empowering them to make a difference in their communities.

“The impact of the college’s global efforts reverberates across borders, touching the lives of countless individuals,” says Dean Victoria Niederhauser. “By nurturing global partnerships, promoting cultural understanding, and leveraging technology, the college continues to expand its reach and transform health care outcomes on a global scale. We are paving the way for a healthier and more equitable world where nursing plays a central role in building resilient health care systems.”

Looking into the Future

“Through comprehensive education and hands-on experiences, nursing students are equipped with the knowledge and understanding of the social determinants of health, particularly in low-resourced countries,” says Gaylord.

The impact of these determinants on the well-being of individuals becomes evident, emphasizing the importance of economic stability, a predictable environment, infrastructure, access to education, and health care. 

By immersing themselves in communities with limited resources, nurses gain firsthand experience on the significance of factors such as water, air, shelter, energy, and health care services. 

“Our nurses play a crucial role in filling gaps in care within these communities, striving to improve their overall health and leaving a lasting positive impact,” says Gaylord. “The overarching goals of our international programs encompass education, clinical care, and fostering a deep sense of compassion and dedication in the hearts of our nursing students, reflecting the spirit of a Vol nurse.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974 9498, [email protected])