Past Nurse of the Year Winners

2010 Nurse of the Year: Brian Piatkowski

Brian has a dedicated nursing spirit for critical care, patient partnerships and professional nursing. Brian’s knowledge and skills assert both the science and art of nursing. He is an expert on high tech treatment options. The more complex the technology, the more excited and happier Brian is – he loves bringing “Star Wars” to the 5th floor. He developed and implemented a computer based orientation program for burns – adult and pediatric. The prestigious American Burn Association Verification Team said “It is as good as it gets” and were impressed by the innovation and multimedia components. He is the first author of a manuscript being edited for submission to The Journal of Burn Care and Research Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Syndrome and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

Brian is also a Dean’s List graduate student at the University of San Diego Nurse Practitioner and Doctoral program. He frequently shares his new knowledge with novice practitioners and provides impromptu lectures. Brian is a unique preceptor insofar as he has the courage to assign homework; some say it is quite comprehensive. More important, Brian has the strength of character to scrutinize if it was done. Everyone does their “Brian” homework.

As to the art of nursing: humor, speaking truth quietly and clearly and listening are the essence of patient/family partnerships. Brian has a very special relationship with pediatric and adolescent patients. He teaches the little ones words such as popsicle, cookie, soda, ice cream. He then teaches the meaning of “share”. The adolescent patients adore him. No one can quite tell the Hollywood horror story of what happens if you are non-compliant with therapy. The impression is immediate and a lifelong learning event. Even the most belligerent and non-cooperative teenager becomes respectful and cooperative. They consider Brian their soul mate.

Brian has worked multiple places, in many states. He came to UCSD as a traveler, became staff, and worked multiple critical care areas, Lifesharing and then left to travel again. Four years ago he returned home to the Burn Center and we are so pleased he chose UCSD. Congratulations 2010 Nurse of the Year Brian Piatkowski!

Please congratulate Brian on his many accomplishments and this prestigious honor!