Speaker: Beyond the Chart: Understanding and Providing Care for the LGBTQ Population

Kristen M. Vargo, DNP, RN, NE-BC, is the Director of Nursing (DNO) for the Neurological Institute and Orthopaedics & Rheumatology at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus. In her role, she brings extensive experience in healthcare management, including finance, unit operations, clinical management, compliance, employee relations, and staffing. Previously, Dr. Vargo served as the Nurse Manager of Same Day Surgery and Pediatric Post-Anesthesia Care at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus.

Dr. Vargo joined the Cleveland Clinic in 2007, in the Heart and Vascular Institute as a staff nurse, then Assistant Nurse Manager. She obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Gannon University, a Master’s of Science in Nursing from Walden University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chamberlain University College of Nursing. She holds a board certification as a nurse executive and is a 2023 graduate of the AHA Next Gen Leadership Fellowship.

An avid speaker, Dr. Vargo has presented locally and nationally on a variety of clinical and professional topics, including perioperative nursing, music listening, cultural competency in nursing, and workforce strategies. In addition, she has severed as an author, contributor and reviewer for national nursing journals and publications.