Professor Awarded for Excellence in Nursing by Sigma Theta Tau

In a notable achievement, Moira Kendra, D.N.P. '17, assistant professor in the College of Nursing, has been awarded the Helen Henry Excellence in Interprofessional Care Award. This honor was bestowed upon her and a pulmonary interdisciplinary team from Atlantic Health System at the Sigma Theta Tau International’s 47th Biennial Convention, recognizing their contributions to the nursing profession.

The team’s work originated from Kendra’s research during her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project. Focused on an Advanced Practice Nurse-led Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) discharge education program, her initiative aimed to significantly decrease readmission rates for COPD patients. This endeavor sought to address the disparities affecting patients who required rehospitalization within 30 days post-discharge, often in worsened health conditions.

After four years of rigorous research involving over 221 patients, Kendra developed and implemented a re-admission prevention strategy. This strategy included key interventions such as scheduling follow-up appointments within seven days of discharge and providing patients with comprehensive pulmonary education packets. These packets contained vital information on preemptive self-care measures, which effectively reduced the re-admission rate by an impressive 25% during the first 60 days after discharge. Kendra's work has been hailed as a "game changer" for both patients and hospitals, demonstrating a sustainable approach to improving patient outcomes.

In addition to her academic role, Kendra also serves as an Acute Care Pulmonary APN at Morristown Medical Center. Her exemplary work in this capacity, alongside her research, led to Kendra and Morristown Medical Center receiving an Excellence in Quality Improvement Award, further highlighting the impact of her contributions to the field.

"Dr. Kendra’s is a true example of a nurse leader who identified a problem and sought a solution that can and will make a difference in her patients’ lives. We are so proud of her and for all of that she does – a true inspiration to her patients and her nurse colleagues," said Dean of Nursing Kristi Stinson, Ph.D., R.N., A.P.N.-B.C.

Associate Professor Mary Ellen Roberts, D.N.P., R.N., A.P.N.C., who also serves as chair of the graduate nursing department, added, "Dr. Kendra's receipt of this award not only celebrates her individual accomplishments but also underscores the high caliber of education and training provided by Seton Hall's College of Nursing. This accolade illustrates the university's commitment to fostering leaders who make significant contributions to healthcare and patient well-being."

Sigma Theta Tau is an international honor society of nurses with 135,000 active members. Its Helen Henry Excellence in Interprofessional Care Award recognizes nurses and their collaborative partners who demonstrate exemplary patient-centered care, critical thinking, continuous learning, and outstanding collaboration. 

Categories: Health and Medicine