Two Cuyuna Regional Medical Center Surgical Services Registered Nurses were recently recognized by the Minnesota Hospital Association with Good Catch for Patient Safety awards. The awards are presented to Minnesota hospital staff who demonstrate their commitment to keeping patients safe by speaking up to prevent potential harm to a patient.  

While admitting a patient for surgery, Admitting Nurse Kristen Christensen, R.N., of Deerwood noticed a discrepancy between the side scheduled and the side intended for surgery.  She alerted the entire team so the correct side was operated on. Christensen has been a member of CRMC’s staff the past 15 years.

When speaking with a patient over the phone before surgery, Pre-Op Surgery Nurse Vicki Rathbun, R.N., of Palisade discovered that the patient was supposed to be having two procedures, and only one was scheduled.  Rathbun communicated with multiple departments to verify and have the oversight corrected, so the patient would receive the appropriate care the day of surgery. She has been a member of CRMC’s staff for seven years.

The nurses were nominated by CRMC for the award.  “We appreciate having these caring nurses on our staff and are pleased to recognize them for their “Good Catch,” stated Director of Surgical Services Joni Gutknecht, R.N.

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