The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) gave the nationally recognized Gold Beacon Award for Excellence to the Intensive Care Unit at St. Louise Regional Hospital in Gilroy, according to Santa Clara Valley Healthcare officials.
The three-year award was presented during AACN’s annual National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition in San Diego this month.
The Beacon Award for Excellence highlights hospital units who prioritize AACN’s six standards for a healthy work environment, using evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes, patient and staff satisfaction and credibility within the communities served, says a press release from Valley Healthcare.
The gold level achievement is significant, as SLRH’s ICU was one of more than 575 units from across the country that applied for the designation in 2025.
“Working in an Intensive Care Unit can be especially challenging, and receiving the AACN’s Gold Beacon Award for Excellence is a testament to the compassionate and high-quality care delivered by St. Louise Regional Hospital nurses, doctors, and staff,” said Paul E. Lorenz, chief executive officer for Santa Clara Valley Healthcare.
Demonstrating continual learning and implementing effective systems to achieve optimal patient care was a critical factor in moving from silver to gold this year, says the press release. The SLRH ICU was also recognized for its strength in ensuring that policies, procedures and protocols are current, relevant and based on nationally recognized evidence and standards.
“As a registered nurse, I am extremely proud of our physicians, nurses and staff who provide excellent care, earning the trust of our patients and their families while in the ICU,” said Gloria Dela Merced, hospital executive for St. Louise Regional Hospital. “Extensive planning and dedication go into earning the AACN’s Gold Beacon of Excellence Award.”
The AACN reviewers highlighted SLRH ICU leaders and staff’s strong focus on communication and collaboration, hospital officials said. They noted that these team dynamics are a direct result of unifying nurse-led process and quality improvement initiatives.
St. Louise Regional Hospital is a 93-bed public hospital located in Gilroy and part of the Santa Clara Valley Healthcare system. The eight-bed Intensive Care Unit provides specialized medical and nursing care for patients with life-threatening illnesses or injuries.
