The KHA Quality Team proudly presented the KHA Patient Safety Hero Award today to Lisa Lockhart, Nursing Quality Manager/Patient Safety Officer of Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center.
Lisa Lockhart was nominated by a few colleagues who noted her exemplary “qualities of a Patient Safety Officer with her exceptional contributions to improving patient outcomes and fostering a culture of safety for patients, visitors and associates. While holding many titles within the organization she has been a driving force for transparency of safety issues and a leading force in changing policies and education. Her dedication to ensuring the wellbeing and care of patients and associates is evident on a daily basis. She has worked tirelessly to find training programs that fit their employees’ needs as well as their organization’s values that train and teach staff how to take the utmost care and concern for safety for all. Lockhart’s ability to facilitate open communication has helped foster a culture of safety where associates feel empowered to voice their concerns on patient care issues without fear of repercussions. Her efforts have not only improved patient outcomes but have inspired others to prioritize safety in their daily practices. Since her hire with this organization, Lockhart has spearheaded a new de-escalation program with plans to extend to the creation of Behavioral Response Teams to keep both staff and patients safe in times of crisis. She also led the way to the adaptation of safety huddles on each unit twice a day for staff to utilize and communicate any safety concerns they are having for each shift. She reintroduced open round table discussions with associates when outcomes of care are not what they expected without fear of retaliation for the associates. She has been able to take those associate concerns to several leadership committees to advance communications towards finding quality improvements in patient care. Lockhart whole heartedly embodies the values of excellence in patient care and safety.”
KHA is grateful to Lisa Lockhart and other patient safety leaders whose commitment to the care they provide makes a difference for their patients and their communities!
