Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital recognizes nurses for clinical excellence

ALBANY — More than 20 nurses were recognized last week for completing the Nursing Clinical Advancement Program at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital.

NCAP is a national program designed by nurses to recognize and reward clinical expertise, contribution and excellence of the bedside registered nurse – meant to benefit patients, themselves as professionals, the practice of nursing and the community.

During a Wednesday ceremony, Evelyn Olenick, senior vice president and chief nursing officer at Phoebe, spoke to the 23 nurses about the difference they make every day and the impact they have on everyone in clinical areas – not just colleagues, but patients as well.

“This is a career-altering decision to participate in NCAP. It’s a drive to move forward and implement the best practices in your daily duties,” Olenick said.

NCAP was started in 2009 with the first group of nurses completing the program the following year. Each year bedside nurses who wish to participant must apply for the program and meet certain criteria. During the yearlong program, nurses must meet performance expectations and complete individual studies within six standards: clinical competency, leadership, professional development, professional membership, evidence-based practice and community service.

Also, nurses have the opportunity to reach fours NCAP levels, which include Level 1 – Advanced Beginner, Level 2 – Competent, Level 3 – Proficient and Level 4 – Expert.

Over the years, nurses who participate in NCAP have reached many professional milestones due to the program. Some of the accomplishments include:

— 10 receiving professional certifications;

— Eight serving as clinical resource nurses, six as team leaders and eight as charge nurses for their units;

— 37 having professional memberships on the Southwest Georgia, state and national levels;

— 23 holding specialty certifications;

— Completion of more than 1,100 hours of education.

Jennifer Parks