American Association of Critical-Care Nurses honors HCA Florida North Florida Hospital CVICU APRN with 2025 Circle of Excellence Award
The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) has honored Jeffrey Schultz, who works as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital’s Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit in Gainesville, Florida with its 2025 Circle of Excellence Award.
The award is bestowed annually to up to 25 outstanding nurses nationwide for achieving excellent outcomes in the care of acutely and critically ill patients and their families. Recipients are nominated by colleagues for leading by example to improve patient outcomes and the work environment.
“Jeffrey exemplifies the dedication, compassion, and expertise that are the hallmarks of exceptional nursing care,” said Michelle Farris, chief nursing officer of HCA Florida North Florida Hospital. “Jeffrey’s commitment to patient-centered care and his leadership within the unit have not only elevated the standards of care we provide but have also inspired his colleagues and enriched the lives of countless patients. This award is a testament to Jeffrey's unwavering dedication to excellence and his profound impact on our healthcare community.”
This year’s 15 honorees were recognized at AACN’s National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition, in New Orleans May 19-21.
“Circle of Excellence recipients are relentless in their efforts to ensure that every patient gets the excellent care they deserve and that every nurse has the tools and skills they need to provide that care,” said AACN President Jennifer Adamski. “Leading by example, they give others the courage to soar, as we work together to shape the future of nursing practice and transform healthcare.”
Criteria used to evaluate the Circle of Excellence Award candidates include relentless promotion of patient-driven excellence; communication skills; true collaboration; effective decision making; meaningful recognition of others; ability to transform thinking, structures and processes; and ability to address challenges and remove barriers to excellent patient care and achieve visible results through leadership.
AACN’s Circle of Excellence Awards align with the association’s mission of creating a healthcare system driven by the needs of patients and their families in which acute and critical care nurses make their optimal contribution.
Awardees receive a plaque and a $1,000 honorarium and become members of the Circle of Excellence Society.