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"Liz Sites is proactive, dependable, and genuinely invested in both patient comfort and team support." 

UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and BEE Award Committee Chair Samantha Shifflett surprised Liz Sites, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Nerancy Neuro Intensive Care Unit (NNICU), with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award. Only six months into her role — Sites earned not just one, but two, nominations for being a "great asset to the team" and much more!

Baylee Slagle: BSN, RN, NREMT: "I would like to nominate this PCT for the BEE Award because she consistently goes above and beyond her role and is someone I trust completely in patient care. Liz Sites is proactive, dependable, and genuinely invested in both patient comfort and team support.

"She regularly anticipates patient needs before being asked. For example, when I had a patient on an insulin drip requiring frequent blood sugar checks, she was often already in the room getting the glucose just before [an alarm] went off and updating me as I walked in, allowing for quicker insulin adjustments and safer care.

"She also communicates critical changes right away, such as fevers or concerning blood glucose values, ensuring nothing is missed. Her teamwork truly stands out. While I am doubled and tied up in one patient’s room, she consistently checks on my other patients and keeps me informed of their needs or anything that occurs while I am busy.

"Specifically, while I had been assisting another nurse with an intubation, she made sure my other patients were well cared for and communicated updates to me, allowing me to safely focus on urgent patient care. She is extremely reliable and professional. I trust her to complete tasks thoroughly and correctly, and she consistently follows through without needing reminders. Despite being only about six months into her role, she already has taken the initiative to help orient another team member, which speaks volumes about her competence, confidence, and leadership potential.

"She makes a meaningful difference in patient safety, patient experience, and unit workflow every shift she works. I am very grateful to work alongside her and believe she truly embodies the compassion, professionalism, and teamwork that the BEE Award represents."

Leah Eick, BSN, RN, SCRN: "Liz took care of a patient for a few days in a row. She took the time to schedule a 'spa day' with the patient and nurse. I came into the room smelling fresh and clean and the patient had the biggest smile on her face that I had not seen all day!

"Liz was very gently washing her hair and brushing it out after she had done a full soap and water bath, even keeping in mind to use [antiseptic] wipes where they needed to be used. She was very lovingly giving the patient the time she needed to feel clean and to have a peaceful chat."

"Liz is very kind and gentle with patients and clearly cares for them very much. She's also diligent with her tasks and in assisting the nurses. She is a great asset to the team!"

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award. Submit a nomination.