Nick Dubravcic, a veteran charge nurse in the Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital (PPMH) emergency center, was named the hospital’s Nurse of the Year during a Celebrating Nursing Ceremony marking National Nurses Week.  Forty-four PPMH nurses were nominated for the award by their peers, with Dubravcic receiving an astounding 13 nominations.

“As the strongest ER nurse in our health system, Nick’s profound impact on the lives of those he serves is unparalleled.  Through his tireless efforts and boundless compassion, he not only heals wounds but also nurtures spirits, embodying the very essence of our mission and setting a shining example for all,” one nominator wrote.

Another said, “Nick communicates in a professional and kind manner, devoting as much time and energy as he needs to help explain or educate patients and visitors.  He facilitates healing, he prioritizes safety of his patients and staff, and is kind to every person he encounters.”

Dubravcic said he was very honored that so many people took time to nominate him for the award.  “It means a lot.  I’m just amazed by all the kind words from everybody.  There are so many deserving nurses.  I’m just speechless that they chose me,” he said.

During the Celebrating Nursing event, hospital chaplain Rev. Joey Holland performed a Blessing of the Hands for nurses and the Southwest Georgia Nurse Honor Guard conducted a special tribute to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing whose birthday (May 12) coincides with the last day of Nurses Week. 

“This is a week I look forward to every year because it gives us a chance to honor our nurses.  You make a difference.  It’s not just the clinical care you provide, it’s the compassion and kindness you offer our patients and their families,” PPMH Chief Nursing Officer Maureen Jackson told the nurses in attendance.  “This hospital would not be what it is without you.”

Activities honoring Phoebe nurses this week included an International Nurses Night.  Nurses and their families representing a dozen countries gathered in the Phoebe Simulation & Innovation Center to enjoy fun simulation activities, trivia games and a potluck dinner.  Each family was invited to bring one of their favorite dishes from their home country.

“Phoebe’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths.  Our international nurses are vital members of the Phoebe Family who bring unique backgrounds and high levels of commitment and compassion to their work.  We welcome the opportunity to help them get connected to each other and to our community,” Jackson said.

Currently, Phoebe Putney Health System employs nearly 1,300 nurses throughout its hospitals and clinics.