University Hospital Intensive Care Unit receives another gold designation for the Beacon Award for Excellence
The University Health University Hospital Sky Tower 5th Floor Medicine Intensive Care Unit has received its fourth gold designation Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. The Beacon Award for Excellence is a distinguished nursing award given at the unit level, bringing special attention to teams.
The medicine intensive care unit (MICU) consists of a dedicated team of doctors, nurses and specialists that provide critically ill or injured patients with round-the-clock care and life-saving treatment. Patients with organ failure, sepsis, respiratory failure, or internal bleeding rely on MICU teams for the care they need. As patients and their families become well-acquainted with staff during their stay, it is important that they receive compassionate care during a time of crisis. The MICU team goes above and beyond to make sure their patients receive the best daily care.
“Achieving the gold Beacon Award reflects the dedication of our nurses as forward thinkers who continue to evolve with the changing healthcare environment,” said Valerie Gomez, the MICU’s patient care coordinator. “Regardless of their workload or challenges, they never lose sight of what matters most; providing safe, high-quality care to every patient. This recognition honors the ongoing effort and commitment of our nurses and demonstrates that their work has an impact far beyond the bedside.”
According to the Beacon Award Report, the team excelled in patient outcomes, nursing workforce, and work environment, scoring well above the minimum for a gold designation in each category. Most notably, the team earned top marks when it came to supporting professional development and continuing education for their employees, nurse well-being, appropriate staffing, as well as patient quality and safety.
Ronald Estrella, executive director of Patient Care Services, received top marks as the unit leader and was described as a present and visible leader who consistently communicated meaningfully with his team, according to the 2025 Beacon Award Report.
Estrella said the Beacon Award was never about earning another designation. It was and continues to be about our patients.
“As we look to the future, we remain committed to advancing evidence-based practice, strengthening our nursing workforce, and creating the safest environment possible,” said Estrella. “Excellence is not a destination, it is our responsibility to every patient and family who entrusts us with their care, every day.”
The association is the world’s largest specialty nursing organization recognizing healthcare organizations that uphold their values of integrity, inclusion, improving the lives of patients and healthcare workers alike, advocating for healthy work environments, and strengthening partnerships. The Beacon Award for Excellence evaluates through three pillars; patient outcomes, nursing workforce, and work environment. Of these modules, an average score is calculated to determine designation. A gold designation requires a minimum of 76 out of 100 overall points; this MICU received 85 points.
You can learn more about The Beacon Award for Excellence here.
