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Bothwell names nurse of the year
Comments 0 | Recommend 0Ja Hickman receives honor
She may be behind the scenes at Bothwell Regional Health Center, but Ja Hickman was front and center Friday.
Hickman, a registered nurse in Bothwell’s continuous quality improvement department, was named the 2008 Nurse of the Year at a reception Friday as part of National Nurses Week.
Hickman, 37, said she was overwhelmed by the honor.
“Right now, I’m very surprised and speechless,” she said, after receiving a bouquet of roses and a standing ovation from more a hundred of her peers.
In 1993, Hickman started as a graduate practical nurse at the hospital and later became a registered nurse, working in the emergency department. She transferred to the nursing administration department in 2005, where she has helped implement a new computer system and works with departments throughout the hospital to prevent infections.
The hospital also recently named Hickman as employee of the year.
“It’s been a very busy year,” she said.
Hickman was among 22 nurses nominated by folks throughout the hospital. That was the most nominations since the award started in 2002. A committee selected Hickman as the winner.
“I think it just speaks very well for the level of nurses here,” said Debra Howser, vice president and chief of nursing.
Hickman is humble about the recognition and admits she likes to avoid the spotlight. Howser said Hickman strives for excellence.
“Regardless of what I ask Ja to do, she does it. ... When something good happens, and Ja’s behind it, she gives the credit to other people,” Howser said.
The reception also recognized all the nurses for their work. David Lake, president of Bothwell’s board of trustees, said many times families are not in the right frame of mind to thank the nurses who help them.
“I hope you’ll let me take this opportunity to say thank you ... on behalf of all families,” he said.
Several other nurses received scholarships from Bothwell’s Foundation. Registered nurses receiving Pat Gaunt Scholarships were: Jeanette Reisenger, $500; Dee Dee Gilmore, $1,250; and Robin Wollard, $1,250.
