Megan Akacsos
May 2025
Megan
Akacsos
,
DNP, RN
Critical Care Services-ICU/Stroke/STEMI/Respiratory Therapy/Wound Care
Stanford Health Care Tri-Valley
Pleasanton
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

She understands the emotional and psychological toll that serious health conditions can take, and she approaches each situation with a genuine sense of care and respect. Her ability to connect with patients on a personal level while maintaining professionalism is a trait that sets her apart as an exemplary leader.
Megan Akascos consistently goes above and beyond in her role, demonstrating an exceptional level of professionalism, skills and compassion in delivering the best safe patient care practices. This truly exemplifies the spirit of Nursing. 

Under Megan’s leadership, the Critical Care Units have improved collaboration, not only with our Intensivists but also with other service specialties. Through collaboration with our doctors and members of the multi-disciplinary team, we continue to eliminate gaps in practices. These initiatives have greatly improved patient outcomes. 

Despite her busy schedule, Megan makes it a point to check in with her team regularly. During my work days, Megan frequently checks in to make sure I am supported. She never fails to offer help. Additionally, Megan rounds frequently in the Critical Care Units, checking in with bedside staff. Megan is always willing to share the load and offers to help without being asked. She truly looks out for the well-being of her team members. 

I am truly honored and humbled to be a part of Megan’s team. She is an inspiration, not just to me but to the whole CCU team. Megan pushes and encourages everybody to reach their full potential. 

Megan Akascos is dedicated to the well-being of our patients. She is truly a vital member of our healthcare team. Her passion for nursing and her commitment to making a positive difference is an inspiration to all who work with her.

For these reasons, I am pleased to nominate Megan Akascos for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. 

***

I am writing to nominate Megan Akacsos, our Nursing Director, for the DAISY Award. Her leadership and dedication to nursing excellence have left an indelible impact on our team and the patients we serve in the ICU, Respiratory Therapy, Wound Care, Stroke, and STEMI departments.

Megan Akacsos has consistently demonstrated exceptional clinical skills and compassion, embodying the spirit of nursing. Her extensive knowledge and expertise across multiple specialties have not only advanced the quality of care provided but have also inspired both staff and patients alike. She has an incredible ability to remain calm and focused during high-pressure situations, especially in the ICU, where every moment counts. Her presence fosters a sense of support and reassurance among both staff and patients, effectively turning challenging experiences into opportunities for healing and growth.

Under her guidance, the collaboration among departments such as Respiratory Therapy and Wound Care has significantly improved. Megan has facilitated enhanced communication and teamwork, leading to impressive improvements in patient outcomes. Her vision has been particularly evident in our approach to Stroke and STEMI protocols, where she has championed best practices and continuously advocates for innovative treatments to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of care.

But what truly sets Megan apart is her unwavering commitment to the professional development of her team. She actively encourages ongoing education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, understanding that a strong nursing staff directly translates to better patient care. Her open-door policy creates an environment where nurses feel valued, heard, and empowered to voice their ideas and concerns.

In addition to her remarkable clinical leadership, Megan has continually prioritized compassion and empathy in her interactions with patients and their families. She understands the emotional and psychological toll that serious health conditions can take, and she approaches each situation with a genuine sense of care and respect. Her ability to connect with patients on a personal level while maintaining professionalism is a trait that sets her apart as an exemplary leader.

In summary, Megan is not only an outstanding Nursing Director but also a true advocate for her staff and patients. Her exceptional commitment to excellence in nursing care, her unwavering support of her team, and her compassionate demeanor make her a deserving candidate for the DAISY Award. I wholeheartedly believe that her contributions have not only improved the lives of countless patients but have also set a benchmark for nursing excellence in our institution.

***

It is with profound admiration and unwavering respect that the Stroke Team collectively nominates our exemplary Nurse Leader, Dr. Megan Akacsos, for the prestigious DAISY Nurse Leader Award. 

Megan epitomizes the essence of transformative leadership in nursing. She stands as a beacon of excellence, illuminating the path for all fortunate enough to work alongside her. Through her inspiring presence and motivational spirit, she cultivates an environment where excellence thrives and dedication flourishes—a gift for which we are immeasurably grateful.

What truly distinguishes Megan is her remarkable ability to forge meaningful connections—her veritable superpower. She builds bridges across departments, between colleagues, and with patients, creating an intricate tapestry of professional relationships that strengthen our entire SHC Tri-Valley community. This exceptional talent for connection manifests in countless ways throughout her leadership journey.

When Megan assumed leadership of our Stroke Team, few could have anticipated the transformative impact she would have. As her responsibilities expanded to encompass multiple departments—each presenting its own complex challenges—she has demonstrated extraordinary versatility and vision. Despite this broadened scope, her commitment to each team member remains steadfast and personal. She listens with genuine intent, advocates with passionate conviction for both patients and staff, and ensures that every voice under her leadership is not merely heard but valued.

Megan often extends her support and guidance not only to her assigned staff but to anyone seeking her perspective. When challenges arise, she doesn't simply direct from afar; she steps into the trenches alongside us, offering thoughtful solutions and unwavering support. Her signature phrase—"Let me know how I can help you"—is no mere pleasantry but a heartfelt promise that reflects the essence of her leadership philosophy.

Megan’s innovative spirit has revolutionized our approach to patient care. She has masterfully crafted new positions and pioneered programs that have elevated patient outcomes, satisfaction, and safety to unprecedented heights. She has an extraordinary talent for recognizing the unique strengths within each member of her team, which stands as a testament to her visionary thinking. Her work perfectly aligns with our capabilities and helps our talents shine.

Her commitment to intellectual growth and professional development—evidenced by her recently earned doctoral degree—inspires everyone around her to reach higher and delve deeper. She generously shares her knowledge and supports the professional growth of her entire team.

The profound impact of Megan’s leadership echoes in the heartfelt testimonials from her team. Her compassionate approach and unwavering dedication to excellence have created ripples of positive change throughout the departments she oversees.

In essence, Dr. Megan Akacsos represents the very pinnacle of nursing leadership. Her resilience in the face of challenges, adaptability in an evolving healthcare landscape, and her unwavering support establish a gold standard to which we all aspire. We unanimously and enthusiastically endorse her nomination for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award, for she not only embodies the spirit of nursing but elevates it, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of patients, families, and colleagues fortunate enough to experience her remarkable leadership.