CHESTER– Memorial Hospital recognized Patient Safety Awareness Week, earlier this month led by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI).
This annual observance serves as an opportunity for healthcare providers, patients, and families to reflect on progress, learn from one another, and renew commitments to reducing preventable harm and strengthening the culture of safety.
This year’s national theme, “Team Up for Patient Safety”, highlights the power of collaboration: within care teams, between departments and organizations, and in partnership with patients and families.
“Patient safety is everyone’s responsibility and together, we continue to build a culture where every patient, visitor, and staff member feels protected and supported,” said Martha Wingerter, Director Safety, Risk Management & Professional Services. In celebration of Patient Safety Week, Memorial Hospital employees were invited to nominate peers who exemplify extraordinary dedication to safety. Fourteen employees across the health system were recognized as Patient Safety Advocates, reflecting the diverse roles and teamwork required to protect patients every day.
Among those honored were nurses who led implementation of the new FALLS T.I.P.S. program, staff who identified safety risks before they caused harm, and team members who strengthened reporting, safe staffing, and emergency preparedness.
Several nominees were acknowledged for developing new patient-safety programs, improving handoff communication, enhancing behavioral-health safety measures, and ensuring clear public messaging during facility changes.
L-R Back Row: Zach Dunker, Leah Freytag, Amanda Johnson, Ryan Petrowske, Sara Harris, Sarah Rathert, Laurie Treece. L-R Front Row: Maribeth Golding, Mariah Bargman, Martha Wingerter, Chris Goetz. Not Pictured: Angie Schoenbeck, Marci Klein, Brittany Casarez, and Amy Kirkland.
The nominations highlighted a common theme: each employee demonstrated exceptional teamwork, vigilance, and dedication to creating a safer environment for patients, visitors, and fellow staff members. Memorial Hospital celebrates these dedicated team members for embodying the spirit of Patient Safety Awareness Week. Their vigilance, compassion, problem-solving, and teamwork drive safer outcomes and support the hospital’s mission of providing high-quality, patient-centered care.