Misty Bowman, RN, CPNP

Misty received her Batchelor of Science in Nursing from McNeese State University in 1999.  In 2007, she received her MSN from University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston.  She is certified by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). 

Before joining the Children's Clinic, she worked at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital in Pediatrics, PICU, NICU, and at Women and Children's Hospital in Pediatrics and NICU. Misty started at the Children's Clinic in 2007.

What is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)?

A PNP is a Registered Nurse with advanced education and specialized clinical training in the care of children and adolescents from birth to young adulthood (age 21). Generally, a PNP has received a master's degree in nursing, and in Louisiana is required to receive certification from a nationally accepted organization as well as licensure as an advance practice nurse.  PNPs work according to the rules of the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.

What services will you receive from a PNP?

PNPs provide services for both well and sick children. They provide comprehensive health exams and necessary immunizations for the well child and assess, diagnose, and treat the sick child. Assessment and treatment includes ordering and interpreting appropriate lab tests and x-rays, prescribing medication in accordance with state rules, and providing teaching to families. PNPs consult with pediatricians and refer to appropriate physicians or other health care providers when necessary.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Patti Brame, RN, MSN, CPN is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and manages the Acute Care Center. Patti is a BSN graduate of McNeese State University and an MSN graduate of the University of Texas Medical Branch.  She is certified by the National Certification Board of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and Nurses.  Patti has worked as a pediatric nurse and nurse manager for 11 years at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and has been with the Children's Clinic since 1991 as Nursing Supervisor. 

Patti has also been a part-time clinical instructor in the BSN program for   McNeese State University School of Nursing from 1992-1999 and visiting lecturer at MSU in Department of Special Education 1994 to present.  Special interests are Type 1 diabetes and other chronic conditions in childhood.

What is a Clinical Nurse Specialist?

A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is a registered nurse with advanced education and experience in a specialized area of nursing. The CNS serves as a role model in nursing knowledge and clinical practice.

What does the Clinical Nurse Specialist do?

The Clinical Nurse Specialist has multiple roles and responsibilities. Clinical activities include:

• Providing direct care to high-risk or complicated patients in the acute care area, as well as monitoring and assessing diabetic patients.
• The Clinical Nurse Specialist also participates with local academic institutions in the education of healthcare professionals.
• She also participates in consultation with others in the healthcare field to share information and skills, and functions as a nurse manager setting policies and procedures, managing personnel and developing new programs.