Pat Berry, Ph.D., R.N., A.C.H.P.N., F.P.C.N., F.A.A.N.

  • Professor, School of Nursing

Biography

It is well known that the US population -- and the population world-wide -- is aging. We in health care and the social sciences are unprepared for the needs of this "silver tsunami," especially given their cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic diversity and wide range of needs. I care deeply about the care of older adults, in particular, those with life-limiting illness and are frail, vulnerable and marginalized. I firmly believe a “good death” is an important part of “healthy” aging. My passion is translated into two of the missions of the University, research and teaching with interdisciplinary collaboration as a foundation.

My program of research centers on hospice, palliative, and end of life care, pain and symptom management, including organizational change and quality improvement, family caregivers and hospice care in prison. All of the research I have participated in in the past several years has been conducted in interdisciplinary teams, which I strongly feel is essential in any research endeavor. I work best in a team environment where ideas can be freely exchanged, discussed and challenged.

Educating the next generation of nurses and other professionals, including advanced practice nurses and researchers is essential to address the needs of the aging population. Assuring that all nurses are competent to care for older adults, including facilitating advance care planning and end of life care is an important first step. Encouraging nurses and other healthcare providers to specialize in care of older adults is challenging, but wholly possible. Mentoring, supporting, and launching the next generation of scholars and researcher is critical as is helping our students learn how to work and lead interdisciplinary teams.

Education and training

    • B.S., 1910, College of St. Teresa
    • M.S., 1910, University of Utah College of Nursing
    • Ph.D., 1910, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Publications

Publications

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