TIPTON, Ind. – Charlene Powell, registered nurse on the medical/surgical unit at Indiana University Health Tipton Hospital, has been honored with the Nurse Excellence Award. The Nurse Excellence Award is given to nurses that demonstrate exemplary leadership in advancing patient centered care through nursing practice, developing innovative solutions to patient-care problems, and advancing the profession of nursing.

Powell was nominated by her supervisor, Debbie Bennett, manager of medical/surgical and ICU units at IU Health Tipton Hospital, who said in part, “Charlene strives for excellence in patient care outcomes. During patient rounding, her patients recognize her compassion in patient care delivery, the time she spends with them and the extra care she gives in her discharge instructions, clarifying and making sure the patients and their families understand how to care for themselves at home.”

The nomination adds that Powell values her team and actively contributes to a healthy work environment.

“Charlene noticed our staff was feeling very disconnected and discouraged during the COVID-19 surge,” Bennett wrote. “She talked with me about the need for a relaxation room so staff could disconnect and regenerate during their lunch and break times. She collaborated with Supply Chain to find approved vendors.  She worked with her manager to apply for grant monies for financial support in redesigning a report room into a relaxation room with a heated massage lounger chair, ear buds with relaxing music and a small lamp table.  She promoted our team commitment to a healthy work environment, demonstrated to our employees they are valued, and validated we are listening to what matters most to them.”  

The selection criteria for the award are centered on clinical nurse attributes and how the attributes are demonstrated through professional nursing practice. The award also takes into consideration the degree to which the nurse models the IU Health values and works to achieve the organization’s promise and vision. All clinical nurses are eligible. 

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About Indiana University Health Tipton Hospital Foundation The Indiana University Health Tipton Hospital Foundation is dedicated to providing financial support to Indiana University Health Tipton Hospital in the collective mission to improve the health of patients, their caregivers and our community through innovation and excellence in care, education, research and service. For more information, visit iuhealth.org/tipton/giving.

About Indiana University Health Tipton Hospital IU Health Tipton Hospital, a part of Indiana University Health, has provided leading care to Tipton County and the surrounding communities for more than 60 years. IU Health Tipton Hospital is an acute care hospital offering personalized nursing care and a wide range of medical specialties and services. The medical staff is comprised of more than 50 highly skilled physicians providing unmatched experience in over 20 specialties. IU Health Tipton Hospital is fully accredited by The Joint Commission and is also a member of the American Hospital Association, the Indiana Hospital Association, and the Indiana Health Care Association. To learn more about IU Health Tipton Hospital, visit iuhealth.org/tipton. IU Health Medical Offices at Cicero, 317.984.3162.

About Indiana University Health A private, nonprofit organization, Indiana University Health is Indiana’s largest comprehensive health system and is comprised of hospitals, physicians and allied services dedicated to providing preeminent care throughout Indiana and beyond. Our unique partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine gives our highly skilled physicians access to innovative treatments using the latest research and technology. Discover the strength at iuhealth.org.