Lawrence + Memorial Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has received the silver-level Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), becoming the first NICU in Connecticut to earn this distinction.
The AACN established the Beacon Award for Excellence in 2003 to recognize hospital units that demonstrate high standards in several areas, including recruitment and retention, education, patient outcomes, leadership, and a healthy work environment. The award aligns with national quality benchmarks such as those set by the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. Units receiving silver-level status are noted for their ongoing learning and systems designed to support optimal patient care.
Shannon Christian, chief nursing officer at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, commented on the recognition: "This recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our nursing team to evidence-based, patient-centered care. Their expertise and compassion create an environment where healing truly happens."
She continued: "Our NICU nurses consistently demonstrate excellence in every interaction. This achievement is a testament to their dedication and the profound impact they have on patient outcomes."
Richard Lisitano, president of Lawrence + Memorial Hospital (L+M), also acknowledged the accomplishment: "This honor underscores the exceptional quality of care delivered by our critical care nursing staff. Patients and families can trust that they are receiving the highest standard of care from a team deeply committed to safety and excellence. We are proud of our nurses for setting the benchmark in critical care. Their professionalism and empathy make a real difference in the lives of those we serve."
Other hospitals within Yale New Haven Health have also earned Beacon Award recognition for various inpatient units at both Bridgeport Hospital campuses and Yale New Haven Hospital.
Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is part of Yale New Haven Health. It operates as a non-profit general hospital with 308 beds serving southeastern Connecticut and southern Rhode Island since 1912. The hospital provides medical, surgical, pediatric, psychiatric, obstetrical services as well as cardiac acute care programs. It remains unique among eastern Connecticut hospitals as it performs both emergency and elective angioplasty procedures.
