Optim Health System is pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards, a peer-driven recognition program that honors nurses who demonstrate exceptional dedication to patient care, clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion. The awards were established to acknowledge nurses who consistently go above and beyond in their roles, making a significant impact on patient outcomes and the healthcare experience across all of Optim Health System’s facilities

The winners of this year’s Nursing Excellence Award are:

• Optim Medical Center-Screven: Michelle Harrell, RN

• Optim Medical Center-Tattnall: Sandy Woodle, RN

• Optim Surgery Center: Misty Ruiz, RN

• Premier Surgery Center: Denise Carter, RN

Each of these nurses was selected by their peers for their exemplary work in providing high-quality care, demonstrating compassion, and contributing to a positive and collaborative team environment. The nominations were submitted by fellow nurses, and the winners were chosen based on their consistent efforts to exceed the expectations of their role, enhance patient care, and promote a culture of excellence within their teams.

In addition to the winners, Optim Health System recognizes the following nurses who were also nominated by their colleagues for their outstanding contributions to patient care:

• Optim Medical Center-Screven: Heather Thompson, RN and Christi Guhl, LPN

• Optim Medical Center-Tattnall: Adam Lawson, RN and Sandra Rice, RN

“We are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work demonstrated by our nurses across all of our facilities,” said Lora Duncan, System Chief Nursing Clinical Operations at Optim Health System. “The Nursing Excellence Awards are a way to recognize those who truly make a difference in the lives of our patients. These nurses not only provide exceptional care, but they also inspire their peers with their leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes.”

The Nursing Excellence Awards are an important part of Optim Health System’s commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation and continuous improvement in healthcare. The awards celebrate the nurses who exemplify the values of Optim Health System, ensuring that high standards of care and patient-centered practices remain at the forefront of all operations.

For more information about Optim Health System, visit OptimHealthSystem.com.