Rachel Wyatt, DNP, MHA, RN, NEA-BC, has led Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento to become one of only 11 hospitals nationwide — and the only one in California — to earn the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet Recognition® with Distinction. As chief nurse executive and interim chief operating officer, Wyatt implements regional Kaiser Permanente programs that have positioned the South Sacramento hospital for this national honor.
“Our nursing programs are key to such achievements,” says Wyatt. “Our Nurse Scholars Academy enables our nurses to pursue advanced degrees and certifications, building their skill set and professional practice, and our Nursing Professional Governance brings our nurses to the table in an innovative framework that engages and empowers them to make decisions that impact their practice. Both programs are now foundational to our strong culture of nursing excellence and influence.”
Wyatt creates an environment where her teams of nurses work to their highest capabilities, which translates to improved outcomes for patients. “It’s vital for me to be physically present, working closely with my staff and really getting to know them as people,” she says. “Getting to know our patients is a top priority, too. I round on patients daily to stay connected to what’s happening bedside.”
“Our nurses will continue rising to meet the region’s increasing health and wellbeing demands.” — Rachel Wyatt, RN, Chief Nurse Executive
In addition to providing outstanding care at the hospital, Kaiser Permanente nurses also volunteer their time to support various community events, providing blood pressure checks, administering vaccinations and many other services. “Supporting a healthier community aligns with our mission as an organization,” notes Wyatt. “Beyond our hospital patients, we care for the health and wellbeing of our whole community.”
Kaiser Permanente nurses never rest on their laurels but keep working to stay at the top. “Our nurses will continue rising to meet the region’s increasing health and wellbeing demands,” confirms Wyatt. “They are furthering their education, becoming certified in their specialty field of practice, doing research and publishing their work, and Kaiser Permanente is continuing to help them expand their excellence within our hospital, into our community and across the entire nursing profession.”
