Nursing - Our Work Environment

Baptist Health Lexington Hospital Nursing: Our Mission and Environment

The Role of the Nurse at Baptist Health Lexington

The role of the nurse at Baptist Health Lexington has changed with time. In addition to providing vital bedside care in partnership with the patient's physician and ancillary staff, today’s nurses have pushed the boundaries of their profession to make a difference through the implementation of evidence-based practice, unit-based shared governance, research, educational initiatives and leadership roles. Baptist Health Lexington nurses have also extended their roles beyond the hospital campus, delivering health and wellness information to the community through hundreds of screenings and health fairs throughout the year, as well as home health visits. Every initiative has a goal of "nursing excellence."

“I believe that the mission of the hospital sets the tone for the nursing care given here,” said Karen S. Hill, R.N., M.S.N., C.N.A.A., vice president/nurse executive. “We’re a Christ-centered environment, and that helps guide our decisions. I have asked the nursing staff here to treat our patients like they would want their family treated. With this philosophy, we will always do the right thing.”

Baptist Health Lexington was recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center with Magnet Status in 2005. Magnet facilities are recognized through research as having a lower nursing turnover rate and higher patient satisfaction. Magnet status is regarded as the "seal of approval" for quality nursing care.

“I think Baptist Health Lexington nurses have always been respected by patients, the physicians and the community for their expertise and commitment to patients and quality care,” Hill said. “I am extremely proud of the way our nurses take care of our patients. There are great stories of caring and compassion that go on here every day. I continue to be amazed by the level of commitment and dedication of our professional nursing staff.