Candidate for Vice President/President-Elect

Barbara Struthers, BSN, RN, CPAN, CAPA

Professional Experience:

Barb has been a nurse for over 22 years, with 19 years in the perianesthesia arena. She is currently the Manager for Ambulatory Services at Mercy Hospital-Cadillac, in Cadillac, MI.  Barb maintains dual certification in Post Anesthesia Nursing (CPAN) and Ambulatory Perianesthesia (CAPA).  She is an active member of both the Michigan Association of Perianesthesia Nurses (MAPAN) and ASPAN. In 2006, she completed 2 terms as ASPAN Secretary and is current chair of Standard Operations for MAPAN. Other MAPAN/ASPAN involvements include:  Clinical Practice, Standards, Credentials, Bylaws, Policy and Procedure, Education Provider and Approver, and Membership & Marketing.  Barb lectures nationally on perianesthesia and ambulatory nursing topics. 

Membership and Organizational Affiliations:

ASPAN, MAPAN, AORN

Upon review of ASPAN’s Strategic Plan and our B.A.G., describe your vision as a national leader to keep the organization current and relevant in the existing healthcare environment to meet the needs of the membership. How will you assure ASPAN is strategically positioned to accomplish our goals and objectives?

My vision is that ASPAN starts the discussion, not just sits at the table.  As President, I will serve you as a leader and mentor.  I will guide our organizational activities forward. I see EBP as our foundation.  I believe research validates excellence for our patients.  We are the authority on perianesthesia education, and our educational offerings should be available 24/7/365.  I will improve communication and assure you receive current, relevant information.  I am committed to you and ASPAN.  I will encourage you to discover and achieve your dreams, to be and do more.  I will challenge our leaders to excel.  I will assure that our strategic plan reflects your needs.  I will champion our cause worldwide.  I will be the voice for you and your patients.  We are the experts and should be recognized as such. As ASPAN President, you and I will strengthen the passion that is ASPAN!