Nurses Week spotlight: Allison Conklin, RN
In celebration of Nurses Week, we are proud to highlight Allison Conklin—one of the incredible nurses at AGH who goes above and beyond every day to provide compassionate, expert care. Her dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to patients and families embody the very heart of our organization. Throughout this week, we’ll be sharing stories like Allison’s and recognizing the vital role our nurses play in keeping our community healthy and supported.
The Right Care Starts with the Right Nurse
At the Bone & Joint Center, delivering exceptional orthopedic care isn’t just about advanced technology or expert surgeons—it’s also about the care that happens before and after the procedure. That’s where Allison Conklin, RN, steps in.
As the Bone and Joint Coordinator, Allison plays a critical role in guiding patients through the surgical journey—from the first consultation to post-op recovery. Her leadership helps ensure that every patient has a personalized, efficient, and supportive experience throughout their time at AGH.
“For many of our patients, this is their first major surgery—and it can be overwhelming,” says Conklin, “My role as Bone and Joint Coordinator is to make sure they never feel alone in the process. From the first screening to the last follow-up, I’m here to guide, support, and advocate for them every step of the way.”
What Does a Bone & Joint Coordinator Do?
Allison’s role is much more than clinical. As Coordinator, she acts as a patient navigator, clinical resource, and surgical liaison, all rolled into one. Her responsibilities include:
- Educating patients about what to expect before, during, and after surgery
- Facilitating communication between surgeons, nurses, therapists, and discharge planners
- Ensuring patients have access to post-surgical equipment, physical therapy, and follow-up care
Allison works closely with AGH’s surgical and orthopedic teams—including providers using advanced Mako robotic-arm technology—to ensure patients are physically and emotionally prepared for surgery and recovery. “Allison is the first and last face many of our joint surgery patients see. Allison visits patients on the floor after surgery and even brings them a care basket.” says Shawna Beasley CMA. “Her presence gives them confidence and peace of mind.”
A Career Built on Compassion and Experience
Allison’s nursing career spans over a decade and includes experience in labor and delivery, outpatient care, PACU, and anesthesia screening. She began her journey after earning her Associate Degree in Nursing from NMSU-Carlsbad (Now SENMC) and has since become a trusted healthcare professional in southeastern New Mexico.
After five years in surgical services at AGH, she returned in a new capacity to lead the Bone & Joint program—bringing her organizational skill, warm bedside manner, and local insight to a role that directly improves outcomes for joint replacement patients.
Supporting the Region’s Orthopedic Needs
As demand grows for joint replacements and orthopedic services in Artesia, Carlsbad, Roswell, and beyond, Allison’s role is more important than ever. With rural patients often facing barriers to specialty care, her coordination ensures a smooth, accessible experience that helps eliminate confusion and reduce complications.
“She’s the glue that keeps the process moving,” said Rebecca Nesse, Director of Perioperative Services at AGH. “From the minute patients enter the program to the moment they leave walking stronger, Allison is there.”
Learn More About the Bone & Joint Center
If you’re considering hip or knee replacement surgery, AGH’s Bone & Joint Center offers advanced surgical options, personalized care plans, and a dedicated coordinator who’s with you every step of the way.
Learn more about AGH’s orthopedic services
Meet our Mako-certified orthopedic team