LeConte Medical Center Celebrates Certified Nurses Day

LeConte Medical Center observed Certified Nurses Day on Tuesday, by honoring seven board-certified nurses who work at the hospital.

Board certification of nurses plays an important role in assuring high standards of patient care. “Nursing, like health care in general, has become increasingly complex,” said Janice McKinley, senior vice president and chief nursing officer for Covenant Health, parent company of Methodist Medical Center. “Board certification means that a nurse has successfully completed extensive specialized education, and has made a strong personal and professional commitment to excellence. These are the expert nurses who work throughout our health system.”

There are many nursing certifications in specialties such as medical-surgical, cardiac/vascular, oncology, hospice, emergency care, critical care, obstetrical care, stroke care, rehabilitation, and others.

Pictured from left to right: Ethelene Morgan, Jessica Pace, Cassie Smith, Dana McIlwain, and Paul Waite. Not pictured: Jena Miller and Martin Bundy.

LeConte Medical Center recognized these board-certified nurses on Certified Nurses Day with a luncheon at the hospital:

Martin Bundy, RN, CEN, Emergency Department

Dana McIlwain, RN, BC, Float Pool

Jena Miller, RN, CNOR, Dolly Parton Birthing Unit

Ethelene Morgan, RN, C., Fort Sanders Sevier Nursing Home

Jessica Pace, RN, CPN, Emergency Department

Cassie Smith, RN, CNOR, Surgery

Paul Waite, RN, CNOR, Surgery

“Covenant Health is committed to excellence and we want to recognize it at all levels,” McKinley said. “This event allows us to acknowledge and celebrate our nurses’ professional development.”