PULLMAN, WA — In the first year of participation with “Get With the Guidelines,” a quality improvement outcomes-based program through the American Heart Association, Pullman Regional Hospital earned three Silver achievement awards in the categories of Heart Failure, Stroke and Coronary Artery Disease care. This is the highest distinction for the first year of participation.
Pullman Regional also earned the American Heart Association Commitment to Quality award, which recognizes hospitals that have reached the achievement in three or more Get with the Guidelines programs. It was one of 158 sites in the nation that met this criteria.
“What this means for patients is we are consistently meeting high benchmarks and goals to provide care quickly, accurately, and safely,” said Verna Yockey, Director of Pullman Regional Hospital’s Intensive Care and Medical-Surgical Unit. “This is especially important for stroke and heart-related events when time means brain or heart damage.”
“Several metrics we celebrate are consistent transfer times, under 90 minutes for stroke patients,” said Stephanie Knewbow, Director of Pullman Regional Hospital’s Emergency Department. “We also look at the administration of TNKase for acute ischemic stroke treatment. Our most recent time was 38 minutes, which is quicker than our goal of 45 minutes or less.”
“Our teams choose to participate in these quality improvement programs,” said Tammy Needham, Pullman Regional Hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer. “It really speaks to the commitment to their leadership and commitment to being the best place to receive care.”
Pullman Regional Hospital earned Acute Stroke Ready Certification from DNV—an international accrediting body for healthcare organizations in 2022. To earn certification, a hospital must meet or exceed evidence-based standards set forth by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and Brain Attack Coalition.
Media Contact
Alison Weigley, Director of External Relations
Pullman Regional Hospital
Office: (509) 332-2041 / Cell: (509) 330-0242
