Rapides Regional CNO Named Nursing Administrator of the Year

Diane Fulton, MSN, RN, Rapides Regional Medical Center's chief nursing officer was recently named 2014 Nursing Administrator of the Year by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation at the 13th Annual Nightingale Awards Gala in Baton Rouge.

A nurse for 39 years and Rapides' CNO since 2011, Diane was among 40 registered nurses nominated in individual award categories.

The staff at RRMC nominated her, listing Diane's high ethical standards, drive for perfection, an open mind and leadership skills as characteristics making her deserving of this award.

Her selection as Nursing Administrator of the Year was based on outstanding achievement in five areas:

1. Evidence in excellence in nursing practice within their healthcare agency.
2. Use of leadership skills, quality measures and evidence-based initiatives to improve nursing practice.
3. Demonstration of mentoring and nursing development.
4. Demonstration of personal and organizational commitment to lifelong learning.
5. Participation in LSNA/ANA and other professional organizations.

Diane is a member of the American Organization for Nurse Executives, American Nurses Association, Louisiana State Nurses Association, and Sigma Theta Tau National Honor Society for Nursing. She earned both her bachelor's and master's in nursing.

Congratulations, Diane.