Texas Children’s Bestows Two Top Nursing Honors

Texas Children’s Hospital recently honored two nurses for their outstanding patient care and leadership abilities in shaping the next generation of caregivers.

Susie Castillo and Mary Sally Jusa were named Nurse of the Year and Preceptor of the Year, respectively.

The Nurse of the Year award, made possible by an anonymous donor through the Junior League of Houston, has been awarded to bedside nurses since 1985. The award recognizes an outstanding nurse who exemplifies excellence in a staff nurse/bedside caregiver role based on professional development efforts, being a team player and delivering family-centered care.

“It’s teamwork that really sets Texas Children’s apart,” Castillo said. “I really feel like my co-workers are my second family.”

A registered nurse who is certified in pediatrics and serves as a mentor to other nurses, Castillo has been at Texas Children’s since 1993. She serves on several unit-based committees at Texas Children’s. She also is a member of the parish nurse ministry at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in League City and a member of the Clear Lake Independent School District Health Advisory Board.

The Preceptor of the Year award, established in 2001, recognizes an experienced role model and learning facilitator who assists employees in mastering skills required for successful job performance and satisfaction.

Jusa, a nurse in Texas Children’s outpatient, same-day surgery suite, has been with the hospital since 1992. She precepts RN-interns during their ophthalmology rotations.

“You have to have a good attitude and a good system to make it work,” said Jusa. “Everything else will adjust into place.”

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