Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC) recently announced Karen Tahran as its most recent Legend Award recipient.

The Legend Award is the most prestigious distinction for a JRMC employee. The Legend Award recognizes employees who exceed expectations and make THE difference in the lives of those they serve.

Dr. W. Thomas Coombe, Ear, Nose & Throat specialist, nominated Tahran, an ENT nurse, because of her willingness to be THE difference by providing above and beyond quality care for patients with enthusiasm.

“Karen arrived each morning with cheerful enthusiasm and worked tirelessly to establish and hone the clinic processes, policies and procedures,” Dr. Coombe said. “Quickly, the clinic was functioning smoothly but, Karen did not stop there. She continued to work on improvements and work flows, evident in the efficient smooth operation of the JRMC ENT clinic today. Over the past four years I never observed anything other than complete commitment from Karen. She is the best ENT nurse I have ever worked with in my long career.”

“Karen’s patient education is superb. She takes the time and care to clearly explain and answer all questions, preparing patients for upcoming care,” Dr. Coombe said.

JRMC’s 350 employees cast anonymous votes to select each Legend Award winner.

The purpose of the Legend Award is to inspire, motivate and capture the moments that define JRMC. The goal is to help employees and volunteers connect to the sense of purpose that brought them to the organization. This award is for employees who’ve made extreme efforts to benefit their patients and colleagues.

“The nominations inspire staff members to continually be the best, exceed expectations and make THE difference in the lives of those we serve,” said JRMC President & CEO, Mike Delfs.

Once nominated, both JRMC administration and employees vote on their favorite nominees and their stories.

“JRMC Specialty Clinic is able to provide the great care we do having Karen being a difference maker,” said Patricia Kline, Specialty Clinic Manager. “She’s a reliable and experienced RN that we are grateful to have part of our team.”

The Legend Award first began in 2012. Since then, more than 35 individuals have been named Legends and more than 110 employees were nominated.

OUTSTANDING ENT NURSE

“Karen is also an excellent administrator and teacher,” Dr. Coombe said. “Staff new to ENT quickly improved because of her efforts and encouragement. Karen worked with each co-worker to help them perform their duties with the same level of expertise and efficiency she demanded of herself. Patients also benefited from these skills as well.  When patients understand and participate in the healthcare process, outcomes are better.”

“As good a nurse as Karen is, she is an even better person. I must say, she is the kindest person I have ever met,” Dr. Coombe said. “Her compassion and concern for patients, both young and old alike, is truly magical. She soothes the child that is fearful of the unknown and comforts others unsure of the direction of their care. It is routine to see anxiety give way to calm and concerns meld into understanding. Tending the body and the soul is a gift. This is Karen Tahran.”

“People make an organization’s character for better and for worse,” Dr. Coombe said. “Karen Tahran certainly has contributed greatly to the success of the ENT clinic and to JRMC. We are all so fortunate. I know Karen does not seek recognition but certainly deserves it. Isn’t that what recognition awards are all about? Recognizing extraordinary service. Please join me to recognize an outstanding nurse and an even better person.

Karen Tahran, you inspire us to be better individuals. Thank you for being THE difference.

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