Bay Pines VA Nurse Recognized for Excellence During National Nurses Month 2023

Arnold was recognized for her efforts toward improving the wellbeing of Veterans who rely on assisted living. Her receipt of this award marks the second consecutive year that a member of the Bay Pines VA team was recognized with a Secretary of VA’s Award for Excellence. Executive Director and CEO, Mr. Paul M. Russo, earned honors as the VA’s executive director in 2022. Mr. Russo was recognized for his servant leadership; for tirelessly advocating for his nurses and their role in Veteran care; and for his commitment to excellence and quality.

“We are proud of the quality care our nurses provide at VA facilities across the country each and every day,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “During this COVID-19 pandemic, when VA has relied so much upon its dedicated nursing professionals, we are particularly in their debt. Our nurses have not only cared for enrolled Veterans this past year, but have supported our 4th Mission efforts, caring for civilian patients in community health care facilities nationwide.”

The award program was established in 1984, and annually honors a Medical Center Director, a Nurse Executive, a Registered Nurse (RN) in a Staff Role, an RN in an Expanded Role, a Health Care Technician, and a Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse.

“I am honored to be nominated and selected for the Secretary’s Nursing Excellence Award,” Arnold shared. “I hope this inspires other nurses to strive for excellence, as I believe excellence is the VA way!”

Arnold was nominated because she successfully led the implementation of multiple nursing-driven Performance Improvement/Quality Improvement projects. Specifically, one of her endeavors resulted in the residents’ oral care compliance increasing to greater than 90% while also decreasing pneumonia cases to zero during quarter three of FY22.

Under her passionate and dedicated leadership, Bay Pines VA’s Community Living Center (CLC) went from a two-star quality rating to a five-star quality rating, the Caregiver Support program grew, and the CLC went below the national average in falls with major injuries.

“In line with VA’s vision of quality care and service, Sonya works tirelessly to ensure our team and the Veterans who depend upon us for care have the very best experience,” said Bay Pines VA’s Associate Director for Patient Care Services Carrie Hawkins. “Her efforts have had a direct impact on the improved quality of life for our CLC Veterans and their caregivers. We are so proud of her and the team who has performed with selfless dedication.”

Arnold will be honored at an in-person award ceremony on May 3 at 11 a.m. EST. To tune into the event, visit https://site-60997560.bcvp0rtal.com/.