(Peoria, IL / August 13, 2013) –The Emergency Department at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center has been named a recipient of the Lantern Award presented by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA). The award recognizes emergency departments that exemplify exceptional practice and innovative performance in the core areas of leadership, practice, education, advocacy and research.

OSF Saint Francis is one of only nine hospitals nationwide, and the only one in Illinois, to earn the prestigious honor this year. Only 37 hospitals nationwide have earned the designation since its inception.

The Lantern Award designation exemplifies a culture of excellence in emergency care and recognizes an emergency department’s commitment to quality, safety, a healthy work environment, and innovation in nursing practice and emergency care.

“Receiving the Lantern Award from ENA is an illustration of the depth of commitment the Emergency Department staff has for its patients and families,” says Sue Behrens, Director of the OSF Saint Francis Emergency Department. “Our staff is empowered to create a work environment that is innovative using best practices in emergency care. The ultimate outcome is a positive experience for our patients and families.”

The Lantern recognition is good for three years. The emergency team will receive the award at the 2013 ENA Annual Conference in Nashville in September.

The Lantern Award is named in honor of Florence Nightingale, who is credited with changing nursing from an untrained job to a skilled, science-based profession. She is referred to as the “Lady of the Lamp” for her actions during the Crimean War when she worked deep into the night, bringing a lantern with her as she tended to wounded British soldiers as they slept.