Eight OMC employees honored for excellent work

Olympic Medical Center’s Chief Nursing Officer Ralph Parker honored two surgical staff members for identifying cost-saving updates for supply orders as well as six nursing unit staff for teamwork and excellent patient care at a recent board of commissioners meeting.

During a review of supplies, endoscopy nurse Rachel Baar endoscopy and certified surgical technologist Jim Rayeach identified ordering changes that resulted in significant cost savings, OMC officials said.

“We appreciate our team looking for and assisting with financial stewardship efforts,” wrote Vickie Swanson, director of surgical services.

Catalina Gonzalez, an intensive care/telemetry unit nurse, was honored for compassionate nursing, positivity and calming demeanor.

According to Intensive Care/Telemetry Director Katrin Junghanns-Royack, “Catalina has been a valuable member of the ICU/Tele Unit-based council, assists with patient and employee-centered projects, and helps orient new resident nurses.”

In addition to providing excellent and compassionate patient care, nurse Megan Larrechea chairs the unit-based council and is a nurse instructor.

Nurse Cheryl Mingee is cross-trained in the obstetrics department and is training to be an Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and Basic Life Support instructor for OMC.

In her role as charge nurse, Nan Mulholland shows compassion for nursing, dedication for excellent patient care and shares her experience and knowledge with her team, OMC officials said.

Hospital officials say licensed practical nurse Ken Reynolds is an enthusiastic teacher, particularly with new staff members, and is an example of exceptional patient care and teamwork.

Also, “Certified Nurse Assistant Bret Hensley is a true team player, supports change, consistently improves patient care and the employee experience,” Parker said.