RPH nurse receives the ‘Great 100’ award

Published 12:00 am Saturday, January 25, 2014

River Parishes Hospital recognized Brandi Millet LeBoeuf, a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Room, for being selected a “Great 100” Nurse by the Great 100 Nurses Foundation.

Each year, 100 top nurses in Louisiana are recognized by the Great 100 Nurses Foundation for their contributions to the community and to the nursing profession. A vision of PK Shirley, an RN and entrepreneur in her own right, this award recognizes professional nurses in the state of Louisiana who have served their profession and their community in an exceptional manner. The award, created in 1986, judges nominees on three crucial components: what has the candidate contributed to the nursing profession, what has the person done for humanity, and how has the nominee served as a mentor or role model for other nurses?

LeBoeuf has been an ER nurse at River Parishes Hospital for approximately five years and serves as a charge nurse when needed. She has oriented and mentored many new nurses in the emergency room and assesses their clinical competence before they function independently in the department.

“Emergency room nurses see patients at every stage of life,” explained Kathy Bruce, emergency room director at River Parishes Hospital. “Whether she is assisting with the care of a neonate or comforting a family following the death of a loved one, Brandi treats her patients with dignity and respect.”

Although LeBoeuf is a young nurse, she is a leader in her department and a valuable resource for her coworkers. “Brandi knows how to stay calm and focused, even in the midst of chaos, said her coworker and fellow ER Nurse, Heather Gamble Champagne. “She approaches each new situation as an opportunity to learn something new.”

In addition to her nursing responsibilities at River Parishes Hospital, LeBoeuf is a member of the hospital’s Employee Activity Committee where she has spearheaded several activities, including the hospital’s annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and Trunk or Treat. She volunteers her time providing health screenings and information at health fairs in the River Parishes area and participates in job fairs to assist in recruiting new nurses to River Parishes Hospital. LeBoeuf is also an active member of the Emergency Nurses Association and networks with other professionals to keep River Parishes Hospital’s Emergency Room up to date with best practices in emergency nursing. Through the ENA, LeBoeuf has volunteered to participate in community outreach events. She is currently assisting the organization in providing concussion training for local coaches, parents and athletes.

When asked how she feels being named a “Great 100,” LeBoeuf said, “I was surprised and honored. It is a humbling experience to be named as one of Louisiana’s top 100 nurses.”

Bruce commented, “59,407 individuals in Louisiana hold an RN license. Of those Brandi was chosen as a top 100. This is such an accomplishment. I am proud to work with her on a daily basis. Her kindness and professionalism are to be admired.”

LeBoeuf was honored at the Great 100 Nurses Celebration, which was held at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. She was also recognized and honored along with River Parishes Hospital’s 23 past recipients at a Great 100 Nurses Breakfast that was held at the hospital.