- Awards and Honours, Nursing and Midwifery
- 3 min read
Nurse Manager, Adrienne Pendrey has been named Monash Health’s 2026 Nurse of the Year and recognised for Exemplary Leadership in Nursing at this year’s Nursing and Midwifery Awards and Scholarships (NAMAS).
Since joining Monash Health as a Registered Nurse in 2004, Adrienne has become a highly respected critical care leader whose work has strengthened patient care, employee capability and service responsiveness.
Adrienne was always drawn to science and realised her strengths were in building relationships and connecting with people, making nursing a great fit.
‘I completed my degree, joined Monash Health and haven’t looked back – I love it. It’s incredibly rewarding and that’s why I’ve been here for over 20 years.’
Leading with purpose
Under Adrienne’s leadership, ICU Outreach has grown from a daytime service to a 24/7 model, improving the escalation process for inpatient deterioration and strengthening support for patients needing critical care input. She says the Outreach nurses continue to inspire her with their depth of knowledge, skill and dedication.
Her impact can be seen across quality, workforce and patient experience. She has helped maintain accreditation readiness, supported education and governance, and fosters a positive team culture where people feel supported, valued and empowered to deliver excellent care.
‘I heard at a conference that a leader’s job is to set their team up for success, then let them do their job. I liked that and that’s how I see my role. Empowering my team, giving them the skills and supporting them to be their best, and leading with kindness.’
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Leading in critical care
Critical care capability has grown significantly during Adrienne’s time as NM. Employee retention is strong, and feedback from patients and families reflects the high standard of care and compassion shown by the team.
‘Working in critical care can be mentally and physically demanding, but it is so incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.’
‘We call it a team sport because it truly is. You work closely with medical and Allied Health teams, and your knowledge and opinions are valued and trusted.’
Adrienne is also recognised for leading complex clinical work, supporting after-hours care and providing calm, clear leadership during periods of high demand.
‘Working in the ICU gives you such a strong foundation in critical thinking skills and opens opportunities, whether that is staying in an ICU environment, moving to another area or into leadership. There are so many skills that transcend clinical care.’
Admired for the way she brings together clinical excellence, compassion and humility, Adrienne has created an environment where both patients and employees can thrive.
‘You are with people at the worst time of their lives, they are going through something and are vulnerable, so it is a real privilege to have such an impact on their experience, their outcomes and provide support and care during that intense period.’
She is regarded as steady, humble and deeply trustworthy - a leader whose quiet strength and emotional intelligence have helped shape a service that is both clinically strong and deeply compassionate.
‘Many people have played an important role in my growth as a nurse and leader. They helped me build my capability, trusted me and challenged me to become a better leader and manager.’
Congratulations to Adrienne and our other 2026 NAMAS award winners and nominees.
