University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing Assistant Professor Edwin Aroke, PhD, CRNA, has received the 2021 Mary Hanna Memorial Journalism Award from the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses (ASPAN).
This annual award recognizes researchers whose articles show journalistic style, originality, clarity of expression, relevance of content and overall contribution to nursing knowledge. Aroke’s work received first and second place for this year’s Award.
“As a researcher I am keenly aware of the importance of dissemination in the research process, and I am greatly honored to be recognized for passing on vital information to other researchers, practitioners and public,” Aroke said. “Simply put, receiving one award is great, receiving both first and second place awards is awesome.”
Aroke’s first place article, "Perioperative Considerations for Patients With Major Depressive Disorder Undergoing Surgery," reviews the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder, the impact of antidepressants and perioperative considerations for patients on antidepressant medications. It was co-authored by UAB School of Nursing Assistant Professor and alumnus Bryan Wilbanks, PhD, DNP, CRNA (DNP 2012, PhD 2016), and alumna Alexis Robinson, CRNA (MSN 2018).
The second-place article, entitled "A Practical Approach to Acute Postoperative Pain Management in Chronic Pain Patients," summarizes practical considerations for acute postoperative pain management in patients who have pre-existing chronic pain, including an emphasis on patient-centered care plans. It was co-authored by UAB School of Nursing Associate Professor Susan McMullan, PhD, CRNA, CNE, CHSE, Instructor and alumna Katie Woodfin, MSN, CRNA (MSN 2014), Instructor and alumnus Ryan Richey, MSN, CRNA (MSN 2005), Children’s of Alabama CRNA and alumnus Jordan Doss, MSN, CRNA (MSN 2018), and Wilbanks.
“At the end of the day, research and best practices are of no use unless your share it with the people who can use it and communicate in the way that they will understand,” Aroke said. “I really enjoy collaborating with fellow UAB faculty members because it enhances the quality of the work while giving me an opportunity to mentor junior faculty.”
