A Dedication that Yields Significant Impact
The University Hospital Freiburg recently honoured seven exceptional nursing professionals with the PflegeStar award, an accolade given to recognise outstanding commitment and exceptional performance in patient care. These dedicated individuals were chosen for their demonstration of compassion, professionalism, and innovative approaches in nursing, significantly contributing to the quality and safety of healthcare services at the hospital.
The PflegeStar award, initiated in 2020, is a testament to the hospital's commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing the nursing profession within its walls. It is part of the Magnet4Europe program at the University Hospital Freiburg, a prestigious recognition of high-quality nursing care.
Among the honourees was Petra Demel, a nurse in the Department of Internal Medicine I. Demel is recognised for her calm demeanour, patience, and tact, even under high stress. A patient wrote, "Petra Demel takes time for the individual needs of the patients." Her nomination for the PflegeStar award came from patients, relatives, and employees alike.
Sandra Audehm, a health and nursing nurse in the Department of General and Visceral Surgery, was also honoured. A patient described Audehm as their "light in their darkest moments." Her empathetic, clear, and competent manner in difficult situations earned her the recognition.
Iris Danberg, a nurse in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, was honoured for her work as a bereavement counsellor after miscarriages or stillbirths. Danberg creates a safe framework for patients through her professional competence and empathy.
Stefanie Bieberstein, deputy director of nursing at the University Hospital Freiburg, stated that all three honourees show what good nursing is. Bieberstein emphasised that caring means more than just providing care; it means attention, responsibility, and daily dedication to the well-being of patients.
Anyone can nominate a person for the PflegeStar award - patients, their relatives, and colleagues from all areas. The committee of employees of the hospital selects the honoured nurses and midwives from the submitted experience reports.
The PflegeStar award is not just a recognition of the personal impact of each individual in nursing, but also a way to show how important and valuable they are. The University Hospital Freiburg's 2025 PflegeStar award recipients are shining examples of dedication, compassion, and professionalism in nursing.
The PflegeStar award, honoring exceptional nursing professionals, is part of the Magnet4Europe program at the University Hospital Freiburg, a testament to their commitment to healthcare and science. Among the recipients, Sandra Audehm from the Department of General and Viswellness Surgery demonstrates exceptional empathy and competence in challenging situations.
