Excellence in Clinical Nursing Awards Presented to GVMH Staff

Left to Right: Randy S. Wertz, CEO; Mark Mattes, Assistant Administrator/Patient Care Services; Sheri Stewart, EMT; Patty Richey, RN, Assistant Director of Emergency Services.

Left to Right: Randy S. Wertz, CEO; Connie Williams, RN, ICU Director; Christy Cunningham, RN; Jane Klinksick, RN, ICU Director; Mark Mattes, Assistant Administrator/Patient Care Services.

GVMH recently presented two “Excellence in Clinical Nursing Practice” awards. The purpose of this award is to recognize outstanding staff in the division of nursing: To honor a staff member providing direct care to patients, in any nursing setting - someone who is “Making A Difference “ every day.

This award is presented annually during Nurses Week to two staff members. One award is given to a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. One award is presented to a non-licensed staff member in the nursing department. There are rigorous criteria one has to meet to be nominated for this award and an individual has to be nominated by more than one person.

The 2008 “Excellence in Clinical Nursing” award winners are Christy Cunningham, RN in the ICU department, and Sheri Stewart, EMT in emergency services.

Christy is well respected by physicians and her peers. She possesses a wide variety of skills and knowledge. Christy is a problem solver, able to quickly analyze situations and develop solutions. She creates an environment of comradely and high morale and is one of our best preceptors possessing a great attitude, strong knowledge base and organizational skills. The profession and image of nursing is reflected through Christy’s everyday actions.

Sheri is able to care for all critically ill patients, assessing them quickly, identifying their care needs and responding efficiently and effectively. She is able to function independently in the pre-hospital setting as well as the Emergency Department. Sheri is a hard worker, always willing to go the extra mile for her patients and families. Her peers state “Sheri is a huge asset to the emergency department; she handles every situation in a professional manner, she arrives to work everyday ready to accept the challenges handed to her, will to “Be The One” to make her patients have a remarkable experience.

These two staff members truly reflect the theme of Nurses Week this year. They not only “Make a Difference” every day in the health and wellness of each life they touch, but also in the life of the people they work with.