The Milwaukee VA Medical Center’s Progressive Care Unit has been awarded the silver Beacon Award for Excellence by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). This recognition is notable as it places the unit among a select group of healthcare providers worldwide, with only a few VA systems having achieved this distinction. The unit is also the only non-ICU in Wisconsin currently holding an active Beacon Award.
Courtney Wilson, the nurse manager of the Progressive Care Unit, expressed pride in her team’s accomplishments. “The PCU has fostered a safe, healing, and caring environment where respect, compassion and dignity direct the care we deliver,” she stated. “This award is a testament to our team’s commitment and dedication to providing the best care possible for the Veterans we serve. I am beyond proud of this team.”
The Beacon Award for Excellence acknowledges units that utilize evidence-based practices to enhance patient outcomes and improve work environments. It offers gold, silver, and bronze levels of recognition to hospital units demonstrating excellence in professional practice and patient care. The award criteria align with national standards such as those set by the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program and other quality awards.
To earn its silver-level award, the Progressive Care Unit met specific criteria across several modules using both quantitative metrics and qualitative examples. These modules included Patient Outcomes, Work Environment, Nursing Workforce, and Healthy Work Environment Survey results.
Jennifer Adamski, AACN President, commended those who received the Beacon Award for Excellence. “The Beacon Award recognizes the commitment to providing safe, patient-centered and evidence-based care to patients and their families,” she said. “Achieving this award is a testament to creating healthy work environments that empower nurses and other team members to make their optimal contributions.”
Since February 2014, Milwaukee VA Medical Center’s Progressive Care Unit has been dedicated to serving veterans.
