Two-Time Nurse of the Year: Tristton A.

From Canada to Nurse of the Year

For internationally educated nurses pursuing their dreams in the United States, Tristton's story is a powerful example of what can be achieved through dedication, perseverance, and the right support system.

A Canadian nurse with more than a decade of experience, Tristton has always been driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others while finding personal and professional fulfillment through nursing. Throughout his career, he has consistently sought opportunities to grow, challenge himself, and strive for excellence.

“Moving to the United States was the next step in my journey,” Tristton shared. “PassportUSA has been instrumental in helping me achieve my goal of working in the USA.”

Today, his contributions have earned widespread recognition from colleagues, leadership, and the broader healthcare community in the facility he works at.

A Historic Achievement

In 2025, Tristton became the first international nurse at his facility to receive the organization's prestigious Nurse of the Year Award. In 2026, he made history again by earning the award for a second consecutive year.

Receiving the honor two years in a row is a testament not only to his clinical excellence but also to the positive impact he has on those around him.

“I am honored to have been recognized as the Nurse of the Year for two consecutive years,” he said. “This recognition exemplifies my ongoing commitment to the nursing profession. It also demonstrates that my positive outlook, caring attitude, and great sense of humor are well received and appreciated by staff.”

Tristton believes that fostering a positive work environment benefits both patients and healthcare teams. He credits much of his success to the support he has received throughout his journey.

“I would also like to acknowledge the unwavering support of my family, colleagues, and IES, whose encouragement has played a key role in my achievements,” he said.

Earning the Trust of Leadership

Beyond his award-winning performance, Tristton achieved another significant milestone when he was selected to serve as Interim Vascular Clinician in Cardiovascular Operating Room (CVOR).

According to hospital leadership, this role is not typically offered to international or contract healthcare professionals. However, Tristton’s accomplishments, leadership qualities, and commitment to excellence made him the clear choice.

In the role, he provides both clinical and administrative leadership, helping ensure the success of the vascular surgical service.

“As an Interim Vascular Clinician, I understand the importance of meeting the objectives of the vascular surgical team,” Tristton explained. “My role includes both administrative and clinical leadership.”

Tristton believes his transparency, accountability, and commitment to patient safety helped him earn the trust of both leadership and his colleagues.

Improving Processes and Patient Safety

One of Tristton’s most impactful contributions has been the development of a Frozen Specimen Logbook process within the CVOR.

While working in the operating room, he identified a patient safety concern involving the lack of a formal tracking system for frozen specimens being transported to the pathology department. Because surgical decisions can depend on the timely processing and reporting of these specimens, accountability and documentation were critical.

Recognizing an opportunity for improvement, Tristton took the initiative to create a process that would enhance tracking and communication.

Inspiring Other International Nurses

As the first international nurse at his work location to win  Nurse of the Year Award—and now a back-to-back recipient—Tristton hopes his story encourages other internationally educated nurses to pursue their goals with confidence.

“I am grateful to be in a position where I can inspire others,” he said. “It is great to have aspirations; however, turning those dreams into reality requires dedication and action.”

He also emphasizes the importance of partnering with organizations that support nurses throughout their international career journey.

“PassportUSA has helped me achieve this monumental feat,” he said. “Through hard work, consistency, and perseverance, I have been able to add value not only to myself but also to my workplace and those around me.”

For him, his accomplishments represent more than personal success. They serve as a reminder that internationally educated nurses can make meaningful contributions, lead teams, improve patient outcomes, and achieve extraordinary professional milestones.

His journey stands as a testament to what is possible when determination, excellence, and opportunity come together.