Katrina Baren, APRN

Katrina Baren received a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Nevada, Reno, (UNR) in 2006. After years of critical care experience, she went on to receive her Master of Science in Nursing, Education degree in 2012 followed by her post-master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2014 at UNR. Katrina is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Nursing Credentialing Center. With her many years of experience in the medical field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the clinic. Katrina is passionate about helping her patients live more productive and meaningful lives. She believes in providing comprehensive and compassionate care for her patients. In addition, Katrina is a strong advocate of providing clear, understandable patient education. She works hard to ensure each patient receives the best possible interventions, utilizing a combination of evidence-based treatments and lifestyle modifications. Katrina believes in a holistic approach to healing and strives to empower her patients to take an active role in their healthcare.

Joseph Benton, APRN

Joseph Benton  served in the United States Navy during the first gulf war as a Navy photographer.  After his service in the military, Joseph moved to Las Vegas and pursued a career as a personal trainer.  Joseph’s interest in health and fitness led him to UNR in pursuit of a bachelor of science in nursing.  As a nurse, he primarily worked in cardiology for many years before returning to UNR to complete a master’s degree and become a nurse practitioner. He has worked in pain management as a nurse practitioner for several years and has extensive knowledge of the specialty.

In his free time Joseph enjoys spending time with his family, skiing, hiking, lying in his hammock, and traveling.

Shiela Jacobson, APRN

Maria “Shiela” Jacobson embarked on her nursing career 29 years ago, garnering invaluable experience in the emergency department and ICU at a government hospital in the Philippines. Upon her arrival in the United States in 2002, she broadened her expertise by working in diverse settings, including the emergency room, orthopedics, neurology, medical-surgical wards, and clinical documentation. In 2015, Shiela added to her professional qualifications by becoming a board-certified nurse practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Afterwards, she primarily worked in a hospital setting in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Illinois. Before relocating to Reno, her focus shifted towards post-acute hospital care and more recently, as a primary care provider specializing in geriatric care. With her extensive experience, Shiela is committed to making a positive impact and improve the quality of life for each patient seeking pain relief in our clinic; we are fortunate to have her on our team at Sweetwater Pain & Spine. 

In her spare time, she loves to travel and explore different culture and spend time with her family.

Arlo Schenk, APRN

Arlo Schenk received a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Nevada, Reno, (UNR) in 2008. He later went on to receive his Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Degree in 2014, also from UNR. Prior to receiving his degree, Arlo worked as a Firefighter on the Ruby Mountain Hotshots. For over six years, he served as a crew medic who administered care for traumatic injuries for his fellow firefighters and patrons throughout the area.

During his professional career, Arlo has trained in a variety of settings ranging from mental health and acute psychology to Pediatrics and Intensive Care.  While working in a number of intensive care units, Arlo acquired advanced critical care skills. Arlo continued to magnify this advanced training by becoming a Professor of Nursing at the Orvis School of Nursing. As a professor, he taught Critical Care Skills to the undergraduate nursing students.

Today, Arlo works as a Nurse Practitioner at Sweetwater Pain and Spine. He is an strong asset to our collaborative team of providers.

In his free time, Arlo enjoys being outdoors and spending time with his growing family. He loves to hike and explore the Northern Nevada area. He is also a beekeeper and sells his own local honey.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Fluent in Spanish and English
• Certified in “Basic Life Support” through American Heart Association.
• Basic Training in the Introduction to Basic ECG Interpretation
• Certified Training in 12-lead ECG Interpretation
• Certified Basic Training in the Care of the Cardiovascular Surgical Patient
• Certified in the use and general function of a balloon pump

ACTIVITIES

• Served on the “Core Measures” committee at Northern Nevada Medical Center. While serving, NNMC improved its core measure compliance by over 30%, based on the ideas and programs rolled out by him and his fellow committee members.
• Arlo was elected by fellow students to the Admission, Progression, Student Affairs committee, and served for four semesters. This committee reviews student appeals in regards to the school of nursing. Such items include, but are not limited to, admittance, resume education after missed time, requests to exempt classes from the requirements, and so on.
• Volunteer for the Orvis Nursing Clinic’s immunization day, giving immunizations to patients ranging in age 6 months to 81 years old.

AWARDS/HONORS

• Nominated for a Northern Nevada Nurses of Achievement Award in Critical Care 2/2012 and 2/2013.
• Nominated for Employee of the Year 12/2011 at Northern Nevada Medical Center.
• Given the “Silver Star” Employee of the Quarter at Northern Nevada Medical Center 3/2011.
• Voted to receive “US Air Force Outstanding Student Salute Award” by fellow nursing students 12/2008.
• Won the Nevada State High School Photography Competition in 1999, placing 5th nationally.