What makes an exceptional leader? So many answers can come with that question, but I have a story about one person who is our exceptional leader. I remember when this leader was first hired and was introduced to during orientation on dayshift. This teammate presented self in a very professional manner, and I knew at that moment this teammate will be making a difference at our unit. The teammate decided to become a part of our team on the night shift and exhibited the enthusiasm of a nurse who wants to learn more about everything. The teammate would jump into any situation and contribute in a level-headed professional manner. I would observe patient interaction and care that showed true compassion for patients. The teammate would finish the medication pass, and if other nurses were not done, the leader would always ask if they needed help. Then would also check on all the nursing assistants to make sure if they needed anything. I could see the greatness in this young nurse, teammate, and leader. When the opportunity came for a nurse leader position, I encouraged this teammate to apply, who I knew would be a great addition to our management team. During the Teammate’s interview process, this Leader was voted unanimously by the nightshift teammates. This teammate accepted the position ironically during the Epic transition. This nurse leader gave 120% in helping us with this unfamiliar area and reduced the level of anxiety by being present and willing to assist at all times. Shows commitment to educational leadership by finishing a master’s degree. Has promised to night shift 100% and proved just that and so much more. This nurse is a leader, teammate, educator, skills builder, and has a proven performance track record. In my entire nursing career, I have never seen such a Leader. This nomination is from all of us on night shift. We respect and love this nurse Leader. Who well deserving of this award. 
 
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Meets the following criteria: Commitment, Integrity, Caring, Safety, Teamwork, Communication, Leadership Skills. 
This Leader is an exceptional Nurse Leader. Who is very knowledgeable and also willing to help. Goes out of the way to make sure our shift runs smoothly without problems. A great problem solver, who always goes above and beyond for the patients and teammates. It is always a pleasure working with this Leader. Who is committed to the role and has great leadership skills. 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Professionalism, Team Player, Approachable, Dedicated, Detail Oriented  
The nurse Leader has intervened with patients and nurses on numerous occasions to diffuse misunderstandings and to promote clarity and peace. One who defends company policies. 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Communication, Safety, Recovery, Teamwork 
Our nurse Leader is extremely attentive and caring at work. Who constantly comes out to check on patients. A team player. 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork. 
Consistently helps everyone with anything and everything, from helping techs with vitals to assisting with taking out trash- everything. Best boss! 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork. 
I'm a new employee, and I find that this nurse leader is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, caring, and a team player! Not only for patients, but for staff as well. 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork.  
This nurse leader goes above and beyond for teammates and establishes a great rapport with everyone. He is compassionate for patient care and creates an environment where teamwork and communication are key! Provides support to BOTH shifts and always offers to help! This attention to detail is ideal to leadership. We are very grateful for this Leader’s love for our department! Thank you! 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork. 
The Leader is always willing to jump in and assist all staff from nursing, to environmental, and taking on any task that is needed. Who also goes out of way to get to know patients and families as well as staff. This nurse is a wonderful Leader and an excellent nurse. 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork. 
This Nurse is the most extraordinary Leader that I have ever had the honor of working with in my 28 years of nursing. The nurse leader goes far beyond duties and helps not only nightshift but helps on days as well. Is smart, thoughtful, kind, and funny. Who can figure out any problem that arises. Approaches everything with positivity and knowledge as a leader. I, along with other staff, feel that this Leader should be honored for ALL great deeds, to the staff and patients at the facility! From the bottom of my heart, thank you! 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork  
I am nominating this Leader simply because this nurse Leader stands out to me as the best nurse Leader I have ever had. Who always goes above and beyond for each of us team members as well as our patients. Is committed to making each shift better than the one before, always looking for ways to improve things on the unit. Always seems to be a phone call away no matter the day or time. I couldn't imagine a better person, much less, a better Nurse Leader. 
 
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"Do you need help with anything?" is this Leader’s catch phrase. Is always looking to lend a helping hand to Nurses and Techs. Even when I've been pulled to another unit, this Leader will message me and ask if I'm okay and reminds me to ask if I need anything. It's been great working with someone who can be counted on to have your back! 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork  
When I first started with Atrium a year ago, this nurse Leader made me feel like I was already a part of the team, always going out of way to ask if I was okay or if I needed help and just by doing so, I knew I was at the right place. I love this Nurse Leader, the BEST! 
 
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Meets all of the following criteria: Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Communication, Safety, Service Recovery, Teamwork 
Anytime, I need help with anything, our nurse Leader always helps me, and always helps when I'm behind. 
 
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Ever since I started with Atrium a year ago, the Nurse Leader has always been quick to help me with any issue that arises. Whether it is with a patient or with a scheduling conflict, this leader is quick to resolve the issue, or be able to find the resource/ person that can. A team player and is always looking for ways on how to help those around. This nurse Leader takes the time to understand patients so that the proper care will be provided. This Leader goes out of way to make sure that the shift runs smoothly and that the patients and their safety are top priority. This Leader embodies all of the qualities that not only a Nurse should have, but a Leader. This nurse Leader is the best I have ever had the pleasure of working with, and I believe should be recognized for all. Thank you for being a part of the team!