Preceptor of the Year Award

Purpose of Recognition: To recognize an outstanding nurse preceptor. 

Who is Eligible: Direct care and non-direct care nurses

Eligibility:

• Nominees must have been employed by University Medical Center for at least 12 months.
• Nominees must have completed their area orientation by time of submission.
• The nominee’s manager/direct supervisor must support the nomination.
• Any University Medical Center employee or UVA School of Nursing student may nominate an RN for this award.
• Nominees must meet preceptor requirements as defined by the RN Preceptor SOP, including completing the Preceptor Essentials class.

Eligibility category definitions:

• Direct care nurses: Unit based or SRO Wage, RN Clinician 2/3/4, Designated Charge Nurses, RN Navigator, RN Care Coordinator

• Non-direct care nurses: Positions that require a RN license but are non-direct care and not in management/formal leadership positions. These include but are not limited to roles such as Case Manager, CNL, Clinical Program Coordinator, RN Administrative Coordinators, etc.

Criteria:

A specific example must be submitted for each criterion to be considered complete. 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. 

Written nominations should demonstrate:

• ROLE MODEL: Role models professional nursing behaviors. Provides orientees with a safe learning experience, allowing opportunity for questions and carefully explaining opportunities for improvement. Abides by and explains policies and procedures clearly and thoroughly. 
• LEARNING NEEDS ASSESSMENT: Demonstrates expert ability to assess the learning needs of others and tailor the orientation process to meet individual needs. Actively seeks out learning opportunities and experiences for teaching.
• PROMOTES PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Consistent use of practice opportunities to foster the development of individual staff. Facilitates transition into practice for both new and experienced nurses.
• EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION: Demonstrates respectful and exemplary communication skills with patients, families, and other members of the health care team. Provides skilled feedback and demonstrates an ability to have crucial conversations.

NOMINATIONS OPEN 1.5.26