A Filipino nurse who initiated wellness programs for fellow nurses and focused on their skill development has been named one of the top ten finalists for the third edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. Nelson Bautista, 49, who is employed at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, was chosen from a pool of over 78,000 nurses from more than 202 countries worldwide, following a rigorous selection process.
"Being nominated for an award always motivates me to strive for better," he told Khaleej Times. "This recognition is not just for me but for all nurses globally. I hope to inspire others to give their best." The award, established in 2022, aims to highlight nurses who make a significant impact through their work.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, stated, "Each of these nurses has demonstrated exceptional performance, going beyond their duties for the welfare of patients and the community. The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award was created to honor, celebrate, and reward the outstanding contributions of nurses, establishing them as role models in nursing."
Having worked in the UAE for over 16 years, Nelson noticed many nurses struggling with their jobs. "I observed burnout and staffing problems," he said. "Many were leaving due to the heavy workloads, so we aimed to make nurses more resilient. Drawing from my bedside nursing experience, I understood these challenges."
He launched a holistic wellness program in 2019, continuing it even during the Covid-19 pandemic. "We distributed healthy sandwiches and juice to Covid nurses who couldn't leave their rooms," he recalled. "One nurse was so touched by this small gesture that she cried. Covid was a dark period for the healthcare industry." He also introduced a wellbeing calendar with monthly themes, such as focusing on nutritious eating in January, to remind nurses of activities that enhance their overall wellbeing.
In addition, Nelson established a program that designated champions in each unit to advocate for and conduct activities based on the needs of their fellow nurses. He also initiated a preceptorship program pairing experienced nurses with new recruits to help them adapt to the profession's challenges. Furthermore, he led the digital transformation in nursing education, revamping the department's practices, including the onboarding process for new nurses.
The other nine finalists for the 2024 award include Archimedes Motari from Kenya, Johnsy Inni from Papua New Guinea, Laarni Conlu Florencio from the USA, Lilian Nuwabaine from Uganda, Nilima Pradeepkumar Rane from India, Maria Victoria Juan from the Philippines, Martin Schiavenato from the USA, Hoi Shu Yin from Singapore, and English nurse Sylvia May Hampton. The winner will be announced at a gala event in India in December, receiving a $250,000 award, with the other finalists also receiving rewards.
