Vebs Dominguez is the state’s representative in an organization geared toward those in her field
By Lisa Dahm
Hawaii Catholic Herald
Nursing is a difficult profession. For Catholic nurses, the challenges are even more complex as they grapple with ethical and moral issues that arise in their everyday work.
Vebs Dominguez hopes to change that. As the first Hawaii representative in the National Association of Catholic Nurses, USA, Dominguez’s goal is to create a board of five nurses, one from each island, to build a thriving community throughout the state.
“My vocation to care for others has always been deeply intertwined with my Catholic faith,” said Dominguez, who is a registered nurse with a master of science in nursing. She is also enrolled in an online health care bioethics graduate certificate program at the University of Mary, based in North Dakota.
NACN-USA has members throughout the country as well as an international arm. Founded in 1909, it’s been known as NACN-USA since 1993.
Dominguez has been a member of NACN-USA for several years. She learned of the organization through her auntie, and in 2022 she attended the International Catholic Committee of Nurses and Medico-Social Assistants’ (CICIAMS) global meeting in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.
“It is a privilege to have local representation in this incredible national organization,” she said. “Catholic nurses, nursing students and health care professionals looking to nourish their calling and integrate their faith into their daily practice are highly encouraged to join.
“Together, health care professionals in Hawaii can continue to bring the healing ministry of Christ to their communities.”
Dominguez said that whether they are working at the bedside or remotely, or are still in nursing school, every Catholic nursing professional has a place in NACN-USA. It offers members spiritual and ethical guidance for navigating complex issues, professional networking, education and resources.
According to Vicky Pebsworth, director of NACN-USA’s Region 9 which includes Hawaii, the organization and its companion international group, CICIAMS, are important resources for Catholic nurses facing many ethically challenging situations.
“These two groups are a rich repository of information and a community for nurses who are seeking to render patient care that is consistent with Catholic moral teachings and ethical principles,” Pebsworth said in an email.
Pebsworth said that because the challenges that nurses face vary by state, it is important for all regions to have strong local representation.
“Hawaii has unique circumstances that require it to have a representative who understands how its differences result in differences in needs for care,” Pebsworth said. “NACN can provide the bridges Catholic nurses need to address these variations in ways that best address the needs of patients.”
Dedicated to Christ
Dominguez considers her work in nursing as a vocation. Her grandmother, for whom she was named, helped her learn the importance of prayer and serving others.
“She’s really very influential when it comes to nurturing of my faith,” Dominguez said.
She said she watched her grandmother pray the Divine Mercy chaplet, which influenced her understanding of mercy toward others, but it was her father who suggested nursing as a profession.
A pivotal moment in her life came when her grandfather was dying in the hospital, and she and her brother were praying outside his hospital room. She saw the importance of nurses in health care.
“That one (moment) solidified my desire to become a nurse because (I learned) I wanted to help,” she said. “I want to be there for other people.”
Dominguez and her husband are active parishioners at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Pearl City. They have also served as volunteer presenters and hosts for Hawaii Catholic Engaged Encounter for the past two years.
In 2023, she co-authored the book “Letters to a Future Nurse: Real Life Struggles, Heartwarming Stories and Practical Tips.”
Pebsworth said that Dominguez has “demonstrated leadership skills, professional competencies and a deep commitment to faith and sharing the Gospel message of love and mercy for others.”
“She clearly understands the needs of Hawaiians and has demonstrated resourcefulness and a willingness to work hard and creatively to improve the lives of Hawaiian nurses and patients,” Pebsworth added. “As the Pacific region director, I recognize that the NACN is blessed to have Ms. Dominguez as a member and young leader.”
Dominguez said taking on the role of NACN-USA state representative is “a true blessing.”
“Health care can be an incredibly demanding and morally complex field,” Dominguez said. “My primary responsibility is to serve as a local touchpoint and advocate for Catholic nurses across the islands.”
For more information or to join NACN-USA, go to nacn-usa.org. Nursing students are eligible for free membership, and scholarships are also available.