South Texas surgical unit honored for quality care to Veterans

The Academy of Medical Surgical Nursing gives an award to recognize outstanding medical-surgical units demonstrating excellence in patient care, leadership and a healthy work environment.

They recently awarded that PRISM Award to the 5A Medical Surgical Unit at South Texas VA. PRISM stands for “Premier Recognition In the Specialty of Med-Surg.”

The academy was impressed by 5A’s incorporation of Evidence-Based Practice and process improvements, including oxygen utilization among COVID patients referred to as “Happy Hypoxia.”

Excellence in the “Lifelong Learning” category was also noted with 5A receiving a perfect score for the category. These initiatives contribute to ongoing nursing excellence.

The 5A Medical-Surgical Unit has come a long way from being the designated COVID unit and overcoming the weight of treating what was new to them. Today, 5A is the team of the future, with thoughtful consideration of improvement that inspires others to go beyond their best.

Commended for achievement in delivering high-quality care

Texas VA leaders praised the 5A nursing team for their accomplishment and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the quality care they provide every day to our nation’s Veterans.

“It is my absolute honor and privilege to congratulate the 5A Medical-Surgical Team on their recent selection by the Academy of Medical Surgical Nursing to receive the PRISM Award,” said Dr. Valerie Rodriguez-Yu, associate director for Patient Care Services.

South Texas VA extends congratulations to the 5A Medical-Surgical unit for this distinguished award and expresses gratitude for their continued support towards the mission of caring for our South Texas Veterans.