In recognition of nurses whose extraordinary efforts stand out, recently the March of Dimes Washington Chapter held its tenth annual Western Washington Nurse of the Year Awards honoring nurses throughout the region. Four nurses from Harrison Medical Center were nominated among the 13 categories awarded at the November 15th event, held at Meydenbauer Conference Center in Bellevue. At the event, Patty Cochrell, RN, Senior Vice President of Quality, Operations and Chief Nursing Officer for Harrison Medical Center was recognized as the Distinguished Nurse of the Year.

The Distinguished Nurse of the Year Award is awarded to RNs who have demonstrated leadership and expertise throughout their career in the areas of patient care, community service and advocacy. “Patty is an exceptional nursing leader with great vision and broad regional influence, and this recognition exemplifies her passion for nursing and her significant, genuine contributions to our patients and community,” said Scott Bosch, Harrison’s President and CEO.

An excerpt from Patty’s nomination underscores her commitment to excellence in nursing and her commitment to community service: “Patty is a champion for nursing development…she has been instrumental for bringing advanced education to the peninsula. …She loves being a nurse. She makes a difference through her commitment beyond the work environment and community.”

Harrison nominees and the categories in which they were nominated:

• Patty Cochrell – Distinguished Nurse of the Year
• Rebekah Mawrence – Leadership
• Denise Yager – Leadership
• Donna Rodger – Patient/Clinical Care

“Our congratulations to Patty, Rebekah, Denise and Donna for this well-deserved recognition,” said Bosch. “Harrison is truly fortunate to have such an outstanding team of nursing professionals who provide outstanding clinical & compassionate care.”

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