David Rivera, Registered Nurse Unit Manager at Conway Lakes Health and Rehabilitation Center in Orlando, was recently honored as the Florida Health Care Association’s Registered Nurse of the Year. The award was presented during FHCA’s 2019 Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Awards presentation held in St. Pete Beach.
Rivera, who has been a registered nurse for three years, draws his inspiration for care and compassion for his residents from his mother, who also worked as a nurse. Rivera began his career as a nurse in Puerto Rico and moved to Conway Lakes shortly thereafter, where he was quickly promoted to RN Unit Manager over the Rehab Unit due to his drive for constant improvement. Rivera excels in his field due to his caring attitude, exceptional work ethic, and his ability to personify the center’s mission. Rivera is known for his sense of humor and an infamous med-pass split which results in a fun and positive environment for both residents and staff at Conway Lakes.
Administrator Josh Wagoner said, “David possesses an effervescent personality and brightens the day of [those] he comes in contact with. His gregarious nature and sense of humor reflect in the interactions between David and those in his care… [He] always acts with compassion and is frequently seen going out of his way for his patients… his empathetic disposition makes him receptive to needs of patients and ensures they are fulfilled.”
“Mr. Rivera is an inspiration to other caregivers in the long term care profession, and we’re proud to honor him for going above and beyond to enhance his resident’s care and quality of life,” said Emmett Reed, executive director of FHCA.
FHCA’s Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Award honorees reflect the dedication, professionalism, and expanded skill sets of the long term care nursing profession. The annual FHCA awards recognize individuals for their important roles in helping centers achieve continuous quality improvement by improving their national Quality Measures and demonstrating a person-centered care approach to residents and patients.