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In a proactive effort to enhance disaster preparedness, a collaborative team from Kaiser Vallejo’s Emergency Department (ED) identified critical gaps in readiness for mass casualty incidents (MCIs). The group, including Joey Driscoll, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager; Marly Luna, BSN, RN, Staff Nurse III; Krishna Chandra, ER Tech; and Leslee Curtola, Equipment Tech, initiated a project to build specialized disaster carts to ensure efficient triage and treatment during emergencies. 

The project involved creating three zone-specific carts—Green (minor injuries), Yellow (stable but requiring timely care), and Red (critical patients needing immediate intervention)—alongside a triage disaster cart for immediate deployment. Each cart was designed to address the unique needs of patients based on acuity, streamlining care and optimizing the use of resources. The team collaborated with the disaster committee to finalize designs, secure approval, and determine optimal storage locations near the ED for quick accessibility. 

Building the carts was a hands-on, meticulous process. Leslee procured the necessary components, and the team measured and organized shelves to accommodate specific supplies for each zone. The anteroom chosen for storage required significant decluttering, a task undertaken by the team to ensure readiness. Assembly of each cart took an average of eight hours, with careful attention to detail in stocking and organizing supplies. 

The disaster carts are now fully assembled and ready for use, providing a robust system for MCI response. This nurse-led initiative highlights the critical role of collaboration in addressing gaps and improving emergency preparedness. The team’s efforts ensure that the ED is well-equipped to respond efficiently and effectively to crises, safeguarding the community and enhancing patient outcomes during MCIs. 

The air buzzed with energy on October 16, 2024, as the Safe Patient Handling (SPH) Fair unfolded in alongside Rachel Grigg and Crystal Goff, showcased the perfect blend of innovation, collaboration, and education, all in the name of patient and staff safety. 

The fair featured hands-on demonstrations and practical skills training. Joanna Nielson, RN, a dedicated safety officer, worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success, while Raul Valderrama, BSN, RN, led engaging sessions on mobile lift usage. Attendees explored advanced equipment, including patient transfer aids, and practiced ergonomic techniques to prevent injuries. Engineering demonstrated evacuation chair functionality, while Bio-Med educated staff on equipment tagging. Security introduced safety initiatives and their new teams, promoting a secure workplace environment. 

This year, Chief Nurse Executive Juanita Jularbal-Walton DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC elevated the event by introducing a strategic initiative aimed at reinforcing safety in the workplace. Her commitment created a unified sense of purpose that transcended the day’s activities. 

With interactive learning, staff were empowered to improve their safe patient handling practices. The SPH Fair 2024 was more than an event; it was a collective movement toward safer, smarter patient care. 

On October 29, 2024, Kaiser Permanente nurses Poonam Singh BSN, RN PHN and Jica Naval BSN, RN SNIV participated in the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano’s Second Annual Staff Health and Wellness Fair in Fairfield. This event brought together diverse vendors and resources aimed at promoting holistic well-being for Food Bank employees, emphasizing physical, mental, emotional, and social health. 

The involvement of clinical nurses reflected Kaiser Permanente’s deep commitment to community health. Representing the Voice of Nursing (VON), their participation extended beyond a simple outreach effort—it fostered meaningful connections with shared values and initiatives central to both organizations. Their dedicated table served as a hub for engagement, where attendees gained insights into health resources and received answers to health-related questions. Poonam noted, “This opportunity allowed me to better understand the community’s needs and how nurses can provide essential resources. It also deepened my understanding of the positive experiences KP members have with our services.” 

For Jica, the fair was equally impactful. “I was inspired by the thoughtful initiatives the Food Bank showcased, such as their Workplace Safety and Equity Committees, which closely align with our own programs at Kaiser Permanente Vallejo. Seeing these shared commitments to care and compassion was truly energizing.” 

As a member of the Food Bank’s Board of Directors, our Chief Nurse Executive Juanita Jularbal-Walton DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC exemplifies the shared mission of advancing health equity and wellness. Together, Kaiser Permanente and the Food Bank continue to build bridges between healthcare and the community it serves. 

Behind every successful hospital lies a team of dedicated professionals whose tireless work ensures smooth operations and exceptional patient care. Recently, the Campus Support Nurses (CSNs) were honored with the prestigious Victory Award for their contributions to the hospital’s 5 Star Discharge Information composite in Patient Experience, recognizing their remarkable contributions to teamwork, safety, and outcomes. This accolade shines a spotlight on the pivotal role CSNs play in facilitating seamless patient transitions and hospital efficiency. 

CSNs are the backbone of throughput, supporting discharges, admissions, and transfers. They do not carry assigned patient loads, allowing them to focus on creating admittable beds, assisting with clinical procedures, and addressing critical needs. They are collaborators, problem-solvers, and patient safety advocates. 

Their impact is deeply personal. Angelica Ojascastro, BSN, RN, SNIII, flagged a prescription for ibuprofen for a patient on blood thinners, recognizing the risk of bleeding and coordinating with pharmacy staff to ensure a safer alternative. Jica Naval, BSN, RN, SNIV, stepped in during a discharge to provide more detailed dietary guidance. By collaborating with a dietitian and social worker, Jica ensured the patient and caregiver felt fully prepared for recovery at home. 

Patricia Solis, ADN, RN, considers CSNs as the last set of eyes on patients before discharge, they take extra moments to address concerns, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and reassure patients with the information that matters most. 

For the CSNs, the Victory Award is more than recognition. “This award reminds us that the work we do matters,” Angelica shared. Patricia added, “Knowing I’ve made a difference gives me immense pride in the quality of care I provide.”