News

Pardee's Richardson honored as PeriAnesthesia Nurse of the Year

Barb Richardson

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 8, 2021

Registered nurse Barb Richardson has been named PeriAnesthesia Nurse of the Year by the North Carolina Association of PeriAnesthesia Nurses, Pardee UNC Health Care announced.

The award recognizes a nurse who demonstrates excellence in the practice, management and teaching of PeriAnesthesia nursing, and promotes high standards in the profession.
Richardson has been a nurse for more than 44 years and worked in five hospitals.

“This award is long overdue, as Barb is a true example of professionalism, as exemplified in her daily work, knowledgebase, and the care and time she gives her patients to ensure a safe surgical experience,” said Chris O’Donnell, Pardee's administrative director for nursing services. “As she wraps up her career in nursing in December, we are proud that she will have this accolade as a reminder of her dedication and compassion to perianesthesia nursing.”
Richardson began her nursing career in 1992 and has worked in a variety of departments including Post-Anesthesia Care Unit, nurse clinician and clinical support, patient education and PeriAnesthesia testing. She currently serves as a navigator to patients prior to surgery.

Richardson was a founding member of the Mountain Area Perianesthesia Nursing district, in 1990. Richardson was instrumental in forming the district by creating bylaws and policies and establishing a bank account. She has served in several executive roles including president, secretary and treasurer, in addition to serving as a member at large for NCAPAN. Richardson has worked and organized civic projects such as the “Adopt a Highway” in 1996 and has been recognized as one of NC Great 100 Nurses.