Recognize the work of nurses by thanking them
Recently, the American Nurses Association and Community Behavior Health Hospital of Bemidji celebrated National Nurses Week, which is held every year. The purpose of National Nurses Week is to raise public awareness of the value of nursing and to help educate the public about the vital roles registered nurses play in meeting the health care needs of the American people.
To celebrate National Nurses Week and all of this month, I urge everyone to think about the work that area nurses do to improve the lives of the people they serve. These nurses may work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living, hospice, home care, clinics, industries, schools, public health, etc.
According to the Minnesota Board of Nursing, there are 103,210 licensed nurses in our state. These women and men provide highly skilled, safe and quality care in a variety of settings, and encounter increased challenges to their professional and ethical commitment to deliver essential health care.
You may want to especially thank a nurse who cared for you or a family member. Please recognize our area's nurses and give an encouraging word. Simply saying thank you and expressing to the nurse what her/his actions meant to you can be one of the best gifts in the world.
Barb Durham
Nursing Supervisor
Community Behavior Health Hospital
Bemidji