Riddle Hospital’s ICU achieves third consecutive AACN Beacon Award for Excellence

The Intensive Care Unit at Riddle Hospital, part of Main Line Health, was recently awarded a Silver-level Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Academy of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) for its significant contributions in achieving optimal outcomes in patient care. This recognition caps a rigorous re-designation process led by the Riddle ICU team amidst the challenges of COVID-19 and is the team’s third consecutive Beacon Award.

“We are so proud to receive this three-time achievement from the AACN that recognizes the resiliency and commitment of our Riddle ICU team. They continue to put the care of patients and their families first that support our guiding principles of Main Line Health’s mission in advancing human care,” says Liz Menschner DNP, RN, interim Campus Nurse Executive at Riddle Hospital.

Recipients of a Silver Beacon Award demonstrate excellence in sustained unit performance and patient outcomes that exceed national benchmarks. Initially receiving its first Beacon recognition in 2014, the Riddle ICU team embarked on a lengthy, three-year re-designation process that culminated in its Silver-level distinction. The Riddle ICU team earned their award by meeting the following evidence-based criteria:

• Leadership structures and systems
• Appropriate staffing and staff engagement
• Effective communication, knowledge management, learning and development
• Evidence-based practice and processes
• Outcome measurement

Shelly Buck, DNP, MBA, President of Riddle Hospital, says the designation is timely and part of a larger initiative focused on expanding patient care and services. “The Beacon Award demonstrates our ongoing commitment to excellence for our patients as we continue to invest in resources that support better patient outcomes and deliver the quality of care that is the hallmark of Main Line Health. Thank you to the team who undertook and completed the award’s application and to the entire ICU. We could not have achieved this recognition without your tireless efforts, teamwork and dedication.”

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