Exemplary Clinical Practice Award

Purpose of Recognition:

• To recognize a nurse who demonstrates superlative clinical skills and knowledge.

Eligibility:

• Direct care nurses
• Nominees must have been employed by University Medical Center for at least 12 months at time of nomination submission.
• Nominees must have completed their area orientation by time of nomination submission.
• Nominees 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:

• CLINICAL KNOWLEDGE: Demonstrates expert clinical knowledge and expertise in professional nursing practice. Assumes responsibility for own actions, commitments, and opportunities for improvement.
• CRITICAL THINKING: Demonstrates the ability to use critical thinking skills on a routine basis. Displays initiative and leadership in clinical problem-solving.
• EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION: Utilizes effective communication skills and techniques with the healthcare team to promote teamwork and positive patient outcomes. Proficient at determining and communicating the appropriate delegation of tasks.
• NURSING PROFESSIONAL GOVERNANCE INVOLVEMENT: Active participant or leader in local, regional, or central Nursing Professional Governance activities.