Desiree McDonough, RN, Named One of the 2026 Great Iowa Nurses

OTTUMWA, IOWA– February 19, 2026– The Great Iowa Nurses organization has announced its list of honorees for 2026, and Desiree “Desi” McDonough, Cardiopulmonary Rehab nurse at Ottumwa Regional Health Center (ORHC) has been named one of this year’s recognized professionals. 

Desi was chosen for demonstrating an exceptional commitment to the nursing profession, passion for patient care, and leadership within the Iowa healthcare community. This peer-nominated award honors nurses who go above and beyond in their roles. 

 “It is truly an honor to be recognized in this category among so many exceptional nurses. I am honestly still in shock, and deeply grateful for the opportunity to provide compassionate, high-quality care to my patients each and every day,” said Desi.

 Desi brings more than 20 years of nursing experience, including a specialization in cardiopulmonary care, to her role at Ottumwa Regional Health Center. During her time at ORHC, she has been recognized as Employee of the Month and is known for mentoring fellow staff members and supporting team development. Desi also plays a key role in overseeing Cardiac Rehabilitation graduation celebrations, helping recognize patients as they reach important milestones in their recovery and wellness journeys.

 "We are incredibly proud of Desi for this well-deserved recognition," said Jessica Kendrick, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Ottumwa Regional Health Center. “Desi’s dedication to patient-centered care, combined with her warmth, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, has had a lasting impact on ORHC. She exemplifies the values of compassion, service, and teamwork that define our organization and enhance the care we provide for our community." 

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About Ottumwa Regional Health Center (ORHC) 

Ottumwa Regional Health Center is a 217-bed hospital that has served Ottumwa, Wapello County and surrounding southeast Iowa communities for more than 125 years. The hospital provides a broad range of services, including emergency care, medical and surgical care, critical care, acute rehabilitation, obstetrics, pediatrics and specialty services. These include cardiac catheterization, diagnostic and therapeutic imaging, wound care, pain management, sleep studies and pathology.

Ottumwa Regional Health Center is committed to its mission of making communities healthier. For more information, call 641.684.2300 or visit ottumwaregionalhealth.com.