AUSTIN, TX - (March 25, 2010) - Seton Edgar B. Davis Hospital (SEBD) and Seton Highland Lakes Hospital, members of the Seton Family of Hospitals, were recently recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) with the Pathway to Excellence® designation. Nationwide just over 50 hospitals have received this award.
The Pathway to Excellence program identifies health care organizations that are best places to work for nurses. Granted based on the essential elements of an optimal nursing practice environment, this designation reflects a superior commitment to nurses and their contributions in the workplace.
"Our goal is to provide a safe and encouraging environment for nurses to advocate for their patients," said Apryl Haynes, senior director of nursing at SEBD. "We are honored to be designated a Pathway to Excellence hospital as it represents our commitment to ensuring a voice for nurses in practices, education, leadership, work environment and career paths."
Both hospitals underwent an extensive review process to determine that it created a positive work environment represented by hospital policies, procedures and culture. Nurses in the organization verify the presence of the criteria through confidential online surveys.
"Our nursing team plays a key role in our patient care process," stated Arie Dejong, vice president and chief operating officer of Seton Highland Lakes Hospital. "Providing a positive work environment for our team encourages them professionally and personally, which leads to even a higher level of compassionate care for our patients."
In addition to SEBD and Seton Highland Lakes, Seton Southwest Hospital also holds the designation. Pathway to Excellence is ideally suited to small and medium-sized health care organizations.
The ANCC also recognizes successful nursing practices with the Magnet Recognition Program®, a demanding set of criteria which measures the strength and quality of nursing and the interdisciplinary approach to patient care. Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, Seton Medical Center Austin, Seton Northwest Hospital and University Medical Center Brackenridge have achieved Magnet status.
Seton is proud to have four hospitals – the only hospitals in Central Texas - that have earned the