The Washington Regional Emergency Department has once again demonstrated its commitment to exceptional care, earning the prestigious Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award for the second time. This achievement places Washington Regional among an elite group, as it is the only emergency department in Arkansas and one of just 126 worldwide to receive this honor.
This recognition underscores the department’s dedication to providing high-quality, compassionate care during some of the most critical moments in patients’ lives. With over 57,000 visits last year, the Washington Regional Emergency Department continues to be a beacon of excellence in emergency care.
Washington Regional’s Commitment to Excellence
Washington Regional Chief Nursing Officer Rebecca Cowie expressed pride in the department’s achievement, stating, “The Washington Regional Emergency Department provides lifesaving care each day. We are honored to achieve this prestigious designation for a second time. This honor reflects the high-quality, compassionate care our team members provide each day during some of the most critical moments in our patients’ lives.”
The Lantern Award is not just a recognition of individual or institutional achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of the entire emergency department team. Dustin Bass President of the Emergency Nurses Association, highlighted the significance of this award, noting that it recognizes “something incredibly special” and is earned by the team that powers the department every day.
The Significance of the Lantern Award
The Lantern Award is a symbol of excellence in emergency nursing care. It is awarded to emergency departments that demonstrate exceptional performance in various areas, including leadership, practice, and innovation. For Washington Regional, this award is a reflection of their unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes and providing compassionate care.
Being recognized with the Lantern Award for the second time is a testament to Washington Regional’s consistent dedication to excellence. It highlights the department’s ability to maintain high standards of care and adapt to the evolving needs of their patients. This achievement also serves as an inspiration to other emergency departments, setting a benchmark for quality care.
The Washington Regional Emergency Department’s second Lantern Award is a celebration of their team’s hard work, dedication, and compassion. It is a recognition that goes beyond individual achievements, highlighting the collective efforts of a team that strives to make a difference in the lives of their patients every day.



