New Mexico State University
Nursing
2521 N. Main
Unit A #178
Las Cruces, NM
USA 88001
Biographical Sketch: Irene Hurst is a doctorally prepared neonatal intensive care nurse with an extensive background in community based organizing in culturally diverse communities. Her national reputation as an expert in the care of mothers and babies reflects a solid committment to active collaboration between health care clients and health care providers. She works closely with special needs family advocacy and interdisciplinary groups to inform her research, as well as to facilitate and form coalitions to address their health care needs. In 2006, AWHONN presented Dr. Hurst with the Hill-Rom, Celeste Phillips Family-Centered Maternity Care research award. The award supported her research into the experiences of Mexican American women whose babies require care in newborn intensive care nurseries. Her presentation will share some of the findings from this research.