A recent Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) graduate, Emmanuel Fatona (‘22), was selected to present his poster submission at the spring 2023 Pennsylvania Higher Education Nursing Schools Association (PHENSA) meeting held Tuesday, April 4, in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania. His poster titled, “Preventing Coagulation of Extracorporeal System in Hemodialysis,” was part of an original capstone project completed within the MSN program at Waynesburg.
Being selected to present is an opportunity for me to show what I learned during my graduate studies at Waynesburg University. Hard work, resilience, ability to pay attention to detail(s) and setting personal goals are surely rewarding.”
“Being selected to present is an opportunity for me to show what I learned during my graduate studies at Waynesburg University,” said Fatona, a senior professional RN II at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “Hard work, resilience, ability to pay attention to detail(s) and setting personal goals are surely rewarding.”
Within his research poster, Fatona examines the thrombophilic risk factors (TRFs) found frequently in hemodialysis (HD) patients. These TRFs and other complications, such as acute kidney injury (AKI), can cause an increase in mortality and morbidity in HD patients due to clotting risks. Coagulation during HD also presents problems such as an interruption in treatment for patients and supply waste.
“Anticoagulation with heparin is an effective approach in HD, but this is problematic in inpatients at risk of bleeding,” explained Fatona. “Despite improvements in scientific reasoning, questions are still being asked on how to effectively prevent coagulation of extracorporeal system during dialysis.”
The research conducted within his capstone project included extensive literature review seeking additional forms of clotting prevention during HD.
Fatona said he is grateful for the academic preparation provided by the University for this achievement as well as the guidance and encouragement received from faculty members while completing his capstone experience, specifically Dr. Lina Hixson and Dr. Amanda Machesky.
“Waynesburg’s MSN program helped prepare me for this achievement by creating opportunities for active personal/student participation and well-being,” said Fatona. “The program structure made it possible for me to continue with my job and family commitments. Deeply rooted in the AACN essentials, the University contributes to lifelong learning, supports the acquisition of nursing expertise and the assertion of leadership.”
Within a written presentation achievement response, Fatona gave thanks to all who contributed to his professional nursing journey and to his capstone preceptor, Dr. Courtney Nyoh (‘22), advanced clinical education specialist at UPMC Presbyterian. Doubly important has been the support from his family throughout the years, including his wife, Maria Orton; daughter, Olivia Fatona; mother, Florence Fatona; late father, Prince Olujimi Fatona and sister, Mary Fatona (Parker).
Master of Science in Nursing at Waynesburg University
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Waynesburg University prepares professional nurses for the highest level of quality healthcare delivery and nursing education. Focus your studies in one of three concentration areas or a dual-degree program.
