Registered nurse Shawn Gould, an oncology nurse at Olympic Medical Cancer Center Oncology Nurse Manager Shawn Gould, was recently honored with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award.
The award, presented annually, was created by the DAISY Foundation and recognizes “the compassionate leadership provided by nurse leaders, creating an environment of care that makes a difference in the lives of their staff, patients and families,” OMC representatives said.
Gould was nominated for recognition by a colleague, who highlighted Gould’s inspiration and example as a leader. Additional highlights of the nomination include his consistent guidance and kindness, the quickness with which he notices good work and recognizes it, his willingness to step in and help where needed and, the commitment he shows to patients each day.
Chief Nursing Officer Vickie Swanson, Chief Operating Officer Ryan Combs and OMC board president Thom Hightower presented the award to Gould in front of a packed room of colleagues showing support.
The full nomination can be read below:
“A transformational leader is one who has an approach that causes change in individuals and social systems. This person inspires others to strive beyond required expectations in order to achieve a shared vision. It is my opinion that Shawn Gould, RN exemplifies this definition.
“Working with Shawn is wonderful! He is always approachable and willing to go out of his way to provide coworkers and patients information and guidance in order to make their day better. Shawn definitely leads by example and there is no doubt in my mind that his career as an Army Ranger helped shape Shawn into the leader in Nursing that he is.
“Shawn is consistent in his intentions working at Olympic Medical Cancer Center (OMCC). He is visibly present each and every day at work. It is not uncommon to encounter Shawn walking to each department of the Cancer Center to make sure staff is able to meet the needs of the patients.
“Shawn exudes kindness. His background as an Infusion Nurse makes him the perfect example of how to interact with patients in their most vulnerable moments when dealing with a significant diagnosis of cancer. Although he is no longer administering chemotherapy, his mere presence chairside to discuss issues with patients has a calming effect.
“Shawn is quick to congratulate the staff at OMCC for a job well done and makes sure to recognize those he works with by sending a handwritten message of gratitude when a coworker receives a Kudos. Shawn’s very demeanor is engaging. He makes it a point to be present and listen to concerns of patients and staff.
“To say that Shawn has made a difference in the way OMCC is run is an understatement. Shawn has streamlined the day-to-day processes in the clinic. He was instrumental in the formation of teams for the oncology providers which has been so valuable. As an Infusion Nurse, I know who to go to specifically for my patients.
“I believe that Shawn is on a trajectory to a much bigger role at OMCC. His calm and systematic approach is inspirational to me as his coworker. Shawn is a shining example of how building a foundation for a career that leads to success as a leader in nursing.”
Olympic Medical nurses, teams and leaders may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues. Each honoree receives a certificate commending her or him as an “Extraordinary Nurse.” Honorees also receive a DAISY Award pin and a hand-carved sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch.”
The certificate reads: “In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people.”
A cross-functional committee of healthcare workers reviews the nominations and selects the final nominee.
To nominate a nurse or for more information, go to olympicmedical.org/thank-a-nurse.
