University Health emergency nurses recognized for excellence in care
The award showcases our emergency departments’ accomplishments incorporating evidence-based practices and innovation into emergency care. The detailed applications of more than 65 pages for each hospital highlighted examples of a commitment to patients, as well as the well-being of nurses.
“We are thrilled to receive the Lantern Award, which reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional emergency care for both pediatric and adult patients,” said Dina Perez-Graham, chief nurse executive at University Health. “As the first points of contact for patients requiring immediate medical attention, University Health’s emergency nurses exemplify a commitment to excellence through their extensive training and skilled management of diverse medical situations.”
Only 15 emergency departments in Texas and just three health care organizations in San Antonio received the 2024 Lantern designation.
What makes our emergency nurses exceptional
In applying, University Health emergency nurses documented exceptional efforts that include proactively screening mothers of newborn babies for postpartum depression when they come to the children’s emergency department. A special team has been trained to decontaminate patients in the event of a biological or chemical release. The nurses have developed a protocol to accurately identify stroke symptoms that has led to effective, timely care when seconds count.
“We are seeing more patients than ever before,” said Rhiannon Rasmussen, assistant director of emergency services. “This award demonstrates to our community that we have top-ranking emergency departments at our hospitals.”
Serving two busy emergency departments
University Health’s 61-bed adult emergency department treats more than 117,000 patients annually. The Harvey E. Najim Children’s Emergency Department in the University Health Women’s & Children’s Hospital is a 15-bed dedicated pediatric emergency department that treats more than 20,000 patients annually.
“It’s a huge deal,” said Emergency Nursing Services Coordinator Julyssa Rodriquez. “This award validates the work we do for our patients both at the bedside and behind the scenes. It recognizes a level of excellence demonstrated by our team that only a few emergency departments in Texas have attained.”
