​GBMC Forensic Nurse Named “America's Most Amazing Nurse”

Earlier today, Laura Clary, BSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A, CFN, CPEN, clinical program manager of the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) & Domestic Violence Programs at Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) was named the winner of Prevention magazine’s nationwide search to find America’s Most Amazing Nurse.

Clary, 32, who has been with GBMC’s SAFE and Domestic Violence programs since 2010, is a SAFE Nurse who cares for victims of sexual assault, child abuse, rape, human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and domestic violence. She also manages a team of 13 forensic nurses and five victim advocates who collectively see more than 400 patient cases a year at GBMC.

“I am truly honored and humbled with this recognition. In my eyes, all of my fellow finalists were worthy of this award, “said Clary. “'I've got a fantastic team behind me and work with fantastic people. Our nurses exemplify what it means to put our patients first, providing care with empathy and expertise.”

In addition to her leadership role, Laura also spearheads efforts to raise money to fund the SAFE program, whose services are provided at no charge to patients. She has also conducted several lectures and presentations to local schools in the Baltimore area to raise awareness of sexual assault, rape and domestic violence. Laura is also the chair of the Baltimore County Sexual Assault Response Team and a member of the Child Abuse Medical Providers of Maryland (CHAMP).

“Caring for victims of violence can be emotionally demanding but also rewarding, knowing that we play a part in our patients’ recovery,” added Clary. “I especially want someone to be there for our most vulnerable patients: children.”

Since November, Prevention magazine and The Doctors have joined efforts in a search across the country to find America’s Most Amazing Nurse. Each entrant or nominee was required to have an active registered nursing license or advanced nursing credential and must currently be working in the nursing field. Other qualifications included: exceeds the standards for excellence in nursing care, education, or research; viewed as a role model; and/or mentor in their workplace or community.

“We are all truly proud of her and it’s no secret that we all think she is an amazing nurse,” says JoAnn Z. Ioannou, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer. “She is a teacher, mentor, clinical resource and nurse who really advocates for her patients and their families.”

As part of her selection, over hundreds of applicants and four other finalists according to Prevention magazine, Laura had a $1,000 donation made in her name to the Baltimore County Child Advocacy Center.

"Laura's extraordinary work embodies the true spirit of nursing," said Barbara O'Dair, editor-in-chief, Prevention. "Nurses are powerful—they're strong advocates in addition to being devoted and comforting caregivers. We hope this honor inspires people across the country to acknowledge and appreciate the incredible contributions nurses make in our communities every single day."

Clary was nominated by her husband and selected because of her compassion, commitment and expert care. As the winner of America’s Most Amazing Nurse, Clary will be featured in the June 2017 issue of Prevention magazine and was also featured on The Doctors television show this morning to correspond with National Nurses Week (May 6 – 12).

Dr. Travis Stork, host of The Doctors says, “Nurses are truly the backbone of the health care industry. As we often say on our show, “nurses play a crucial role in providing the ‘care’ in health care.” Laura is an extraordinary example, as are all the nominees, and we are proud to honor her and the entire nursing profession with viewers.”

Clary will also receive a grand prize trip to Iceland, including two round-trip tickets on WOW Air from the United States to Reykjavik, Iceland, where she will stay for five nights at Silica Hotel Blue Lagoon and experience their world-renowned geothermal waters and a VIP spa experience.