Southern Utah nurse honored with Impact Award for quality of care

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) awarded Nicole Ramirez with an Impact Award. A nurse educator and informatics specialist at Kane County Hospital, Nicole takes initiative in her work to make sure every patient she sees receives quality care.

Nicole noticed that many patients were not being followed up with after leaving the hospital. To address this, she began personally calling them to make sure they were able to get their medications and follow their care plans.

“One great example of her care occurred during a recent follow-up call. The patient told her some things that raised her concern,” says Kurt Loveless, CEO of the hospital. “Nicole asked additional questions and recommended that the patient come back to the ER. When the patient came back, they were experiencing a life-threatening emergency. Her call saved this patient’s life.”

Nicole is committed to ongoing learning and her own quality of care. She often shares her knowledge with her coworkers to make sure that everyone is informed on best practices. Her passion for healthcare and dedication to her patients make her an obvious choice for an Impact Award. The Utah DHHS is excited to recognize her excellent work.

About the Impact Award winner: Nicole Ramirez - Nurse Educator and Informatics Specialist Kane County Hospital, Kanab, Utah. Ramirez recently saved a patient’s life because she calls every patient who leaves the hospital. She found out a patient was at risk during one of her calls. The patient returned for care and was spared further complications, thanks to Ramirez.