de Souza Institute Welcomes its Historic 20^th Designate. Windsor Nurse Symbolizes Nursing Excellence

Windsor Regional Hospital and the de Souza Institute jointly celebrate the accomplishments of Oncology nurse Erikka Johnson who becomes the first nurse in Windsor to obtain the de Souza Nurse Designation and just the 20^th nurse in all of Ontario to reach this extraordinary milestone.

The de Souza Institute is an innovative learning centre dedicated to cancer care excellence and since 2008 has provided ongoing educational support and professional development to more than 9,000 clinicians.  In order to obtain the prestigious de Souza Nurse Designation, candidates must complete extensive course work as well as a clinical fellowship.

“The needs of cancer patients and their families are physical, spiritual and psychological.  Erikka is leading by example and making sure that she has the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond to these needs,” said Dr. Mary Jane Esplen, Executive Director of the de Souza Institute. “Erikka’s determination to become a de Souza Nurse Designate is a testament of her commitment to nursing excellence and lifelong learning.”

“Cancer affects the entire family and not just the patient.  You need to be capable, confident and empathetic to treat the patient and support their family,” said de Souza Nurse Designate Erikka Johnson. “The de Souza Institute has given me an opportunity to be a better nurse, especially when dealing with end of life care.  I am very proud to apply this advanced knowledge and expertise to improve the quality of life for my patients and their families.”

The demand for nurses with specialized skills in cancer care is continuing to grow. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, 2 in 5 Canadians will develop cancer within their lifetime and 1 in 4 Canadians will die of cancer.

“Erikka is a shining example our commitment to high quality patient care, professional development and outstanding nursing practice,” said Monica Staley, Vice President, Regional Cancer Services, Windsor Regional Hospital.  “Our patients are receiving first-rate cancer care by an exceptional staff, who daily do extraordinary things for their patients, their families and one another.”