The Compass Winter 2020 | Page 2

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Year of the Nurse

innovation , lifelong learning and unwavering compassion .
Baylor Scott & White ’ s legacy of excellence in nursing makes a difference for patients every day . Many Baylor Scott & White hospitals have achieved — or are on their way to earning — prestigious honors from the American Nurses Credentialing Center . The Magnet ® and the Pathway to Excellence ® designations both recognize organizations for establishing an environment where nurses can excel , with shared decision-making , professional development , nursing research , innovation , and evidencebased practice . These honors are held by only a fraction of hospitals worldwide .
79 % of Baylor Scott & White nurses have earned a Bachelors of Science in Nursing or higher degree .
More than 33 % of Baylor Scott & White nurses have earned certifications in their respective specialties .
“ Our nurses have embraced the concept of being ever present , speaking up with any concerns and consistently following evidence-based practice to navigate patients away from potential risks ,” Dr . Walker says . “ They are the driving force behind the exceptional patient experience Baylor Scott & White is known for .”
Supporting nurses Throughout this difficult year , our nurses and other front-line caregivers have risen to meet the numerous challenges presented by the pandemic , continuing to provide excellent care to all our patients . Please join us in thanking them for their tireless efforts and enduring compassion .

Furthering knowledge , furthering quality

At Baylor Scott & White , we know that excellent care requires excellent training . To continue to develop strong nurses and nursing leaders , Baylor Scott & White offers programs including :
Scholarships Each year , scholarships are awarded to college students and current employees who are pursuing nursing degrees . In 2019 , the Baylor Scott & White Central Texas Foundation awarded 71 scholarships totaling more than $ 406,000 .
Nurse Residency Program This accredited practice transition program provides new professionals with the knowledge , skills and support to confidently fulfill their expanding roles in the everevolving healthcare industry , and reduces turnover rates for first-year nurses by providing extra education and mentorship to help new hires through the challenges of nursing .
Support for nurses pursuing advanced certifications . Patients benefit from nurses with advanced or specialty certifications who have a higher level of expertise , are skilled in patient education ,
and are better equipped to recognize unexpected symptoms and develop a plan of care . Advanced certifications also enhance patient satisfaction , reassuring patients and families that the nurses caring for them have demonstrated experience and knowledge that exceeds requirements of entry level licensure examinations .
To learn more about how you can show your support and appreciation for nurses , please contact your local Foundation representative .
You might be surprised how easy it can be to make a larger impact than you ever thought possible through a bequest or planned gift . Click here to learn more .
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THE COMPASS / BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE CENTRAL TEXAS FOUNDATION NEWS / WINTER 2020