BENNINGTON >> Southwestern Vermont Medical Center Renal Dialysis has received the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission for outstanding performance in advancing the nephrology nursing certification.

"Because of the frequency patients visit and the relationships they develop with staff, SVMC Renal Dialysis is a really special place at the hospital," said Thomas A. Dee, FACHE, president and CEO of Southwestern Vermont Health Care. "We are proud that the entire staff there is certified and received this national recognition."

The award, launched by NNCC in 2014, highlights organizations that demonstrate the value of nephrology nursing certification to promote safety and improve quality patient care. To be eligible for the award, an organization must provide patient care to people with kidney disease and employ certified nurses and technicians. Such facilities include, but are not limited to, free-standing outpatient dialysis units, hospitals, and ambulatory care clinics. Units or divisions of larger organizations are also eligible.

SVMC Renal Dialysis provides outpatient chronic hemodialysis at nine stations for approximately 40 patients six days a week. All 11 staff members are certified, showing the facility's commitment to quality care. The 100-percent-certified staff was a primary factor in SVMC being chosen for this year's award, according to NNCC officers.

"Certification is an excellent way for us to stay sharp and keep learning," said Ruth Rudnick, Renal Dialysis nurse manager. "And becoming certified is a signal to our patients that we feel they deserve the best."

SVMC Renal Dialysis also received excellent scores in each of the other criteria used for determining the award, including making the certification a priority as a way to promote safety and improve care, initiating relationships at the state and regional levels, educating the public, and leading change in nephrology standards.

In addition, the facility's leadership supports staff as they achieve certification. The leadership provides continuing education, reimburses staff for exam fees, and allows time off to prepare for exams.

SVMC's honor will be listed on the NNCC website and displayed at every NCC exhibit throughout 2015.

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