Trio of Aspirus Nurses Receive Nightingale Nominations for Nursing Excellence
(Medford and Stanley, WI)- Three nurses from the Northwest Wisconsin Division of Aspirus Health have been recognized for their outstanding service by the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh College of Nursing and Board of Visitors.
The Nightingale Awards event took place in Oshkosh on Thursday, April 25 to honor the 2024 nominees who exemplify the highest standards of nursing practice as well as the nurse leaders who facilitate that care.
Natalie Hazuga from Aspirus Stanley Hospital and Autumn Marcis from Aspirus Medford Hospital were among 15 nominees in Wisconsin for Nightingale Nursing Excellence awards. Nicole Dekan from Aspirus Stanley Hospital was one of 12 nominated for a Nightingale Nurse Leader award.
“This is a tremendous honor for these dedicated nurses who work tirelessly caring for the communities we are blessed to serve, said Jessica Faude, MSN, RN-BC, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Northwest WI Division of Aspirus Health. “We are grateful for and humbled by their compassion and commitment to serve others.”
Some highlights from their nominations:
Hazuga currently serves as a staff and charge nurse in the Medical/Surgical Unit and Emergency Department. Her leadership extends beyond the bedside as chair of the Nurse Practice Council driving positive change and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Natalie’s contributions to the community include fundraisers for local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers and educational initiatives.
A seasoned nurse, Marcis shines as a clinical educator and emergency room caregiver. Her dedication extends beyond patient care as she actively contributes to nursing professional development. She chairs committees, facilitates education with a commitment to evidence-based practice and patient safety.
Dekan has had a 19-year tenure at Aspirus Stanley with devotion to patient care and nursing leadership. As the Emergency Department Supervisor and Trauma Coordinator, her leadership extends beyond her department, as she actively participates in hospital committees and community events, championing evidence-based practices and educational initiatives. Her nomination for the Nightingale Nurse Leader Award is a testament to her enduring dedication, exceptional leadership and profound impact on rural healthcare excellence.
“It is heartwarming to have our organization represented by these dedicated nurses who represent the best of the best for Aspirus Health.” added Faude.
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About Aspirus: Aspirus Health is a nonprofit, community-directed health system based in Wausau, Wisconsin, serving northeastern Minnesota, northern and central Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The health system operates 18 hospitals and 130 outpatient locations with nearly 14,000 team members, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice clinicians. Learn more at aspirus.org.