Conyers, Ga. (July, 25, 2023) – Piedmont Rockdale Hospital’s Emergency Department has been selected as a recipient of the Emergency Nurses Association’s 2023 Lantern Award for demonstrating exceptional and innovation in leadership, practice, education, advocacy and research performance.
The Lantern Award showcases the emergency department’s accomplishments in incorporating evidence-based practice and innovation into emergency care. As part of the application, emergency departments are encouraged to share stories that highlight a commitment to the care of patients, as well as the well-being of nursing staff. The award serves as a visible symbol of our commitment to quality, safety and a healthy work environment.
“We are grateful to receive this award and be the first ED in the Piedmont system to do so,” said Jaime Doan, Piedmont Rockdale’s Emergency Department Manager. “This great achievement shows our team’s dedication and commitment to our patients and of fulfilling Piedmont’s promise in making a positive difference in every life we touch.”
Doan takes pride in how the entire team has tackled departmental challenges to increase greater outcomes. “As we moved away from the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2022, an external nurse satisfaction survey in the ED revealed a top concern for staff was the lack of engagement and low morale,” said Doan.
In response, ED leadership set aside time to allow each employee to discuss how this could be improved. The department made operational changes and also reinstated the ED Fun Committee.
“Bringing our ED Fun Committee back and giving staff the opportunity to build relationships outside of work has led to a greater sense of camaraderie and improved morale,” said Doan.
Piedmont Rockdale is one of just 53 emergency departments nationwide to receive the Lantern Award.
Piedmont Rockdale’s Lantern Award will be on display in the emergency department. As a recipient, Piedmont Rockdale will be recognized in upcoming ENA publications, on the ENA website and during Emergency Nursing 2023, the association’s annual conference in San Diego Sept. 21-23.
Visit ena.org for more information on this year’s Lantern Award recipients.