Autumn Richardson
Erika Morales
Jared Henderson
Molly Mormon
Erlanger Neurology has announced the recipients for the Stroke Nurse Champion recognition. The Stroke Nurse Champion recognizes nurses who go above and beyond to take excellent care of stroke patients.
"Stroke Nurse Champions are considered team players and experts in stroke nursing care," officials said. "They provide a resource for other nursing staff and maintain a key role in our ongoing Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification."
Erlanger recognizes Stroke Champion Nurses each quarter. So far in 2025, four nurses have been chosen by their peers and/or management team as they exemplify the Stroke Champion characteristics. In the first quarter of 2025 and peer-nominated by nursing staff at Erlanger, are Jared Henderson, RN, NNICU, and Erika Morales, RN, NW7. The second quarter recipients are Autumn Richardson, BSN, Erlanger ED and Molly Mormon, BSN, NW7.
Officials said, "Jared Henderson is the most recent Stroke Nurse Champion recipient from the Neuro Intensive Care Unit.
He was matched with the NNICU through the 2023 summer nurse residency and has proven to be an exceptional team member and incredible patient advocate. Recently, Jared was presented with a new patient in his unit and responded quickly to the patient, who had new neuro deficits. As he jumped into action, Jared notified the neurologist to get new imaging and rapid treatment quickly.
"Erika Morales was the first quarter’s second Stroke Nurse Champion recipient. Erika is a clinical staff leader on NW7 who works hard and goes above and beyond every shift, ensuring stroke patients receive the best care. In caring for patients, Erika spends an extreme amount of time educating our new nurses on all things stroke, which is invaluable to their training and the development of our team. Her attention to detail, leadership and patient care are unmatched."
“Being recognized as a stroke nurse champion is meaningful because it reflects my dedication to my patients, this unit, Erlanger, and myself,” Ms. Morales said. “It symbolizes a milestone in my nursing career, inspires continued growth, and leadership in stroke care. It acknowledges my role in educating others and advocating for the best stroke prevention, treatment and recovery.”