Rachel Nauman, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, is a transformational healthcare leader, seamlessly applying evidence-based practices to quality improvement, program evaluation, and daily management systems. Transitioning to the role of Administrator Ambulatory Nursing for UVA Health in 2022, Rachel's leadership has been marked by her ability to build and lead cross-functional teams, optimizing care quality, operational efficiency, and fiscal integrity.
Below are examples of her leadership, influence and impact supporting her nomination:
- Living the ASPIRE Values: Amidst the global pandemic, Rachel showcased exceptional leadership by managing many disparate activities across multiple clinic settings. Her collaborative approach ensured timely patient access to care, operational efficiency, and effective and safe delivery of patient care. She also created a strong partnership with UVA HR that expedited the recruitment and hiring process, and provided the framework for interdisciplinary teams of caregivers to design and deliver comprehensive solutions to address the needs of struggling clinics. Rachel’s dedication to advancing care across the continuum has resulted in improved patient outcomes and a more seamless healthcare experience for patients.
- Providing Stable Leadership and Retention: In her role, Rachel has provided stable leadership, resulting in a commendable voluntary nursing turnover rate of 13.5%, showcasing an improvement from the previous year of over 17%. Her accountable organizational expertise, leadership, and continuous improvement have contributed to the stability and success of patient care delivery.
- Mentoring Nurses: Serving as a formal and informal mentor, Rachel actively guides aspiring nurses, promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workplace, and advocates for nursing leadership to drive positive change. Her efforts include initiatives like the Ambulatory Charge Nurse Fundamentals Course, advancing frontline nursing leadership.
- Communication and Practice Improvement: Rachel's exemplary communication skills bridge gaps between healthcare professionals, ensuring team alignment and understand. Creating an Ambulatory Power Huddle is an excellent example of how Rachel provides guidance, advice and support daily, bringing together representatives from inside and outside UVA to share learning and problem solve in real time. Her involvement in initiatives such as the Ambulatory Nurse Professional Governance and the Ambulatory Role Delineation project showcases her commitment to shared decision-making, patient outcomes, and innovative staffing frameworks and care delivery models.
Rachel Nauman's exemplary leadership at UVA Health is characterized by transformative initiatives, unwavering dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Her influence reaches far beyond administrative responsibilities, encompassing mentoring, diversity advocacy, effective communication, and innovative practice improvement. She has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and leadership throughout her career. These qualities exemplify the Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award.