Karla received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in Psychology degree from Purdue University. She has more than 21 years of experience in caring for burn patients at three different regional burn centers. Since joining the University of Michigan Trauma Burn Center staff in 1993, Karla's work has included critical care nursing, clinical research, professional education/training, policy and process improvement, program development, clinical practice advancement, and Level 1 Trauma and Burn Center Verification. She currently manages the Trauma Burn Center's family-centered prevention programs which focus on mitigating high-risk behaviors to reduce the occurrence of tragic burn and trauma injuries. Karla has held multiple specialty certifications in CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse), ABLS (Advanced Burn Life Support), ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support), PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support), ATCN (Advanced Trauma Care for Nurses), CCRP (Certified Clinical Research Professional), and as a national instructor of BCLS and ABLS. She is a member of several professional and honorary organizations and a national reviewer of continuing education articles and manuals. Karla has been appointed to the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee Executive Board, as well as the national American Burn Association's TRACS Database Committee and Burn Prevention Committee. Currently writing her third textbook chapter, Karla has also published over 20 articles in peer-reviewed medical and advanced practice nursing professional journals. Karla speaks throughout the state and nation on burn and trauma injuries, safety, and prevention. Her educational programs are highly acclaimed by emergency responders, healthcare and legal professionals, fire service personnel, law enforcement, parents, youth, teachers, and community groups. Audiences commend Karla's ability to dynamically present cutting-edge information with clarity, humor, and insight into everyday application. Trauma Burn Center Prevention Programs |
