In his role as blood conservation manager, Nixon educates the public about ways medical and surgical procedures can be performed to minimize the use of blood products.  Some patients choose this option due to religious reasons, while others may want to reduce the risk of complications that may occur following blood transfusions.  He serves as an advocate for patients who choose blood conservation and works with physicians to facilitate their treatment.

            “Our Tenet Hero winners represent the best of who we are at Tenet and what we do as health care providers in the communities we serve,” said Trevor Fetter, Tenet’s president and chief executive officer.  “The passion and quality of care provided by dedicated professionals like Michael serve as an inspiration to us all.”

            Nixon was one of seven employees inducted into the 2009 Tenet Heroes Hall of Fame.  This year’s recipients were chosen from more than 100 compelling nominations. Tenet Heroes are nominated by their hospital’s leadership team and selected based on their dedication to their patients, co-workers and communities. The Tenet Heroes Hall of Fame recognizes exceptional employees for their dedication and hard work.

            In introducing Nixon at the awards ceremony in Dallas, Gary Sloan, CEO of San Ramon Regional Medical Center, said: “Michael Nixon is more than a colleague and a friend.  He is my hero whom I admire. He brought together nurses, physicians, local police, pharmaceutical company, and transportation authorities to save a patient’s life. What more could we ask for in an employee … and a human being.”