May 22, 2019
On May 6th a new Nurse of the Year and Friend of Nursing were named during National Nurses Week.
Each year, Sheridan Memorial Hospital celebrates nurse’s week with several traditions. One of them is presenting two awards to outstanding staff: Nurse of the Year Award and Friend of Nursing Award. On May sixth an award ceremony was held in SMH and Chief Nursing Officer, Barbara Hespen presented the awards. These awards are given with the intent of recognizing outstanding professionals.
Nominations for the Friend of Nursing award are submitted by employees who want to recognize a non-nursing peer for their work in communication, attitude, responsiveness, and engagement as it relates to nursing.
Individuals Nominated for the Friend of Nursing Award were:
• Nancy Rexroat
• Bryan Opitz
• Megan Sexton
• Stephanie Williams
• Amber Clearwater
• Peri Sorensen
• Anthony Aiello
The winning nominee’s application read, “This person is incredibly kind and easy to work with. Never has a “not my Job” attitude, working on many tasks that are not listed in their job description. Works very well with nursing professionals; checks in with nursing staff and “has their back” always done with kindness and respect. Every time a new employee is toured through the unit, and this person is present; they always greet them with a welcoming attitude and speak highly of the hospital and staff. It is amazing how the efforts of one individual can truly make a difference in how the unit runs. I think that we would all be lost without this person on our team.”
The 2019 winner of Friend of Nursing is Pharmacist Bryan Opitz.
Nominations for the Nurse of the Year Award are submitted by employees who want to acknowledge a peer for their excellence in the areas of quality, service, and compassion.
Individuals Nominated for the Nurse of the Year were:
• Mary Hanft
• Kasey Hansen
• Alaina Dunn
• Kourtney McRann
This winning nominee’s application read, “This person demonstrates service excellence because she is a very knowledgeable nurse who wears many hats. She works tirelessly to ensure patients have an excellent experience. She is seen as a resource for all staff. She owns the role of ensuring patient safety, she does what is right for the right reasons. She is meticulous in her work, making sure everything is just right. She shows compassion to her patients and co-workers every day.
The 2019 Nurse of the Year is Alaina Dunn, Cath. Lab RN.
These award winners deserve every ounce of recognition that they have received from these awards. They set the standard for medical excellence – right here at home, and they make Sheridan Memorial Hospital the best it can be for patients, employees, and community members.
Do you see yourself working with a team of outstanding nurses and friends of nursing? Consider applying for a nursing position by clicking here.