The Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital (PPMH) received the 2025 Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). This national recognition honors hospital units that demonstrate exceptional patient care, a supportive work environment, and a sustained commitment to professional development and evidence‑based practice.

“Achieving Beacon status reflects our MICU’s dedication and commitment to excellence. We are exceptionally proud of our team and grateful for the positive impact they make on our community,” said Deb Angerami, PPMH President.

The Beacon Award for Excellence is one of the highest distinctions in critical care nursing. Its selection process evaluates units on leadership, staffing, performance improvement, patient outcomes, and the overall health of the work environment. The PPMH MICU earned distinction across all three evaluation areas outlined by AACN.

In the Patient Outcomes category, initiatives led by Registered Nurse Madison Kilgo highlighted efforts in Spontaneous Awakening and Spontaneous Breathing Trials (SAT/SBT) and the ICU Progressive Early Mobility program, key practices that improve recovery trajectories and reduce complications.

In the Nursing Workforce category, Registered Nurse Bill Mensching oversaw continued investment in staff development, including ongoing education and helping nurses prepare for Critical Care Registered Nurse certification and other specialty certifications.

In the Work Environment category, under the guidance of Nurse Shift Supervisor Janet Van Meter, the MICU strengthened its unit culture through the Nursing Mentor Program, the Belonging and Inclusion Seminar, and collaborative efforts supporting early mobility.

Van Meter said, “This recognition reflects the heart of our team. We have built a space where nurses feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow. When our staff thrives, our patients benefit. This award speaks to the dedication and compassion our team brings to every moment of care.”

The 2025 Beacon Award highlights Phoebe’s ongoing commitment to elevating patient outcomes and fostering a resilient, collaborative workplace culture, and it marks an important milestone in the MICU’s continuous effort to deliver exceptional critical care to every patient every day.