OLEAN, NY – Clinical team members at Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health Facility, were recently recognized on a larger stage through publications into national journals. An occupational therapist as well as members of the clinical education team had two articles published showcasing their dedication to advancing practice and improving patient care.

Bethany Pendl, OTR, occupational therapist, had an article titled “Dancing Stars” published in the July edition of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) magazine, OT Practice. In the article, Pendl shares her inspiring journey in developing and launching a unique special needs dance class that was inclusive to students of all abilities. The class has embraced individuals with autism, down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, hydrocephalus, and a range of other diagnoses.

As Pendl states in her article, “Dancing Stars allowed students to interact with the environment and grow in their roles as dancers,” demonstrating the powerful impact of inclusive, therapeutic movement. This achievement highlights Pendl’s commitment to creating accessible and empowering opportunities for individuals with diverse needs.

Additionally, Suzanne Soltysik, DNP, RN-BC, CNE, nurse educator, and Daniel Robinson, BA, EMT-A, clinical education coordinator, published an article titled, “Evidence You Can Use,” in the September edition of the American Nurses Association New York (ANA-NY) journal. Their article presents an evidence-based practice project aimed at improving the compliance, competence, and confidence of bedside nurses in performing CPR through the use of the Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) Program, the system that employees use at OGH to complete their required CPR training. Their work exemplifies the importance of ongoing education and evidence-based strategies to enhance patient outcomes, particularly in critical care situations.

“Being recognized on such a large stage is a commendable honor. These publications reflect a shared commitment to advancing healthcare practices, promoting inclusivity, and enhancing patient and community care,” said Cheryl Klass, BSN, MBA, RN, interim president, BRMC, OGH. “We want to celebrate our staff’s achievement and their contributions to their field of study as well as the impact they have on local health care.”

Photo Caption: (From Left) Daniel Robinson and Suzanne Soltysik, DNP, presented their evidence-based project at the American Nurses Association-New York conference.