June 2021
Rebecca
Hawkins
,
APRN
Day Hospital Program
VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System
Cleveland
,
OH
United States
APRN Hawkins’s calm demeanor and reassuring presence allowed her to keep the veterans safe while she smoothly transitioned them to the appropriate resources.
The staff of the Day Hospital Program would like to nominate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Rebecca Hawkins for the DAISY Award for demonstrating excellence in nursing and for commitment to her patients and the ICARE Values. APRN Hawkins demonstrates persistent commitment to her veterans, coworkers and the VA mission. Her commitment was pivotal during the Day Hospital Program’s transition to virtual format during the COID-19 pandemic. Overnight the Day Hospital went from an inhouse residential program to a virtual program providing care for veterans with severe mental illness. The change was all encompassing and required dedication and innovation to manage the challenges crated by the pandemic. APRN Hawkins went above and beyond on all accounts putting in countless hours that kept her well beyond her tour of duty. One of her most notable and long-lasting contributions resulted from hours spent developing and refining the Day Hospitals mailing process that ensured 100% of veterans received nine group manuals and an orientation packet for the program. The system has been in effect for nearly a year and has served over 120 veterans, and continues to serve over 86 veterans. Her individual commitment was noted on several occasions to include managing multiple veterans at high risk for suicide. She helped four veterans experiencing intense thoughts of self-harm virtually and on separate occasions. APRN Hawkins’s calm demeanor and reassuring presence allowed her to keep the veterans safe while she smoothly transitioned them to the appropriate resources. Two of the veterans publicly thanked her for her support and caring at their graduations. APRN Hawkins commitment continues to contribute the high quality care to our nations veterans and the success of the Louis Stokes Cleveland VAMC.