Beginning Practitioner of the Year Award

Purpose of Recognition:

• To recognize an outstanding new nurse, practicing less than 18 months.

Eligibility:

• RN Clinician 1, RN Clinician 2
• Nominees must have started as a RN Clinician 1 at University Medical Center in the last 18 months at time of nomination submission.
• Nominees must have completed their area orientation by the time of nomination submission.
• The nominee’s manager/direct supervisor must support the nomination.
• Any individual who works with the nominee may submit a nomination for this award.

Criteria:

• Nomination exemplars must have a minimum of 2000 characters with spaces and include specific examples for each criterion to be eligible. 
• These examples should have occurred within the last 12 months and be written as narratives or stories consistent with the award criteria. 
• Any clinical acts referenced must be consistent with policies and procedures outlined by UVA Health University Medical Center.
• Any language that disparages other individuals, teams, or departments will not be considered. 

Written nominations should demonstrate:

• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Takes accountability to develop basic knowledge and skills related to the practice setting. Consistent solicitation and integration of feedback and peer review into practice. Independently seeks opportunities for continued growth and development.
• CLINICAL BEHAVIORS: Organization and prioritization based upon patient needs / practice area activities. Incorporates evidence-based practice into care.
• EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION: Emerging communication skills with the health care team. Engages in active listening and delegates appropriately and respectfully.