The Respiratory Care Services Department at Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) has received an elite honor from the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), which named it a recipient of the 2019-2020 Apex Recognition Award. Arkansas Children’s Hospital is the only hospital in the state and one of only two children’s hospitals across the nation to receive this year’s designation. Only 12 awards were given to acute care hospitals nationally.
“Families frequently comment that they experience outstanding respiratory care when they visit Arkansas Children’s Hospital, so we are honored that this award confirms their observations,” said Mary Salassi-Scotter, MNSc, RN, BC-NE, vice president of Patient Care Services at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. “We are very proud of our dedicated, uniquely qualified respiratory care team who works hard to use and create national best practices to deliver excellent care and help Arkansas infants and children breathe easier.”
The AARC Apex Recognition Award was developed in 2017 as a way for the AARC Board to recognize respiratory care departments that demonstrate high-quality care. The award promotes patient safety by highlighting organizations that provide access to respiratory therapists who utilize evidence-based best practices. ACH’s Respiratory Care Services Department is a frequent podium and poster presenter at the annual AARC national meetings and has active membership in the national organization.
“As a vital component of a well-rounded healthcare team, respiratory therapists work hard each day to deliver quality patient care,” said Thomas Kallstrom, MBA, RRT, FAARC, AARC executive director/CEO. “The specialized services and skills unique to respiratory care departments provide the necessary foundation for the total patient experience. We are thrilled to honor these organizations as Apex Recognition Award recipients.”