In Celebration of National Nurses Week
May 9, 2013Dedicated members of the nursing profession are recognized every year during National Nurses Week. The celebration begins on May 6th National Nurses Day and commences on May 12th, Florence Nightingales birthday.
The dates for National Nurses Week are permanent and were chosen to honor Florence Nightingale, the celebrated English nurse who laid the foundation of professional nursing. This week allows health care providers and patients to celebrate the professional contributions made by nurses. The American Nurses Association (ANA) supports and encourages National Nurses Week.
At Helen Hayes Hospital, we celebrate and appreciate our nurses each and every day! During National Nurses Week, however, a day is designated for a special celebration in their honor. The program begins with a guest speaker, followed by the announcement of the Helen Hayes Hospital Nurse of Distinction Award. Each year a nurse who has demonstrated clinical excellence, compassion, leadership and dedication as a rehabilitation nurse is selected to receive the award. Additionally we recognize retirees, educational achievements, certifications, perfect attendance and years of service. The culmination of the event is most exciting with a raffle of beautiful baskets created for and by the staff.
Additionally, Helen Hayes Hospital participates in the Rockland County Nurse Recognition Day Celebration each year. This celebration honors all Nurses in Rockland County. Local hospitals, nursing homes, educational institutions, home care agencies and rehabilitation facilities participate in this wonderful event. Nurses are nominated by their health care facility for the Rockland County Excellence in Practice Award. The committee then reviews the applications, and winners are selected. Proudly, many nurses from Helen Hayes Hospital have received this prestigious award!
Happy Nurse Recognition Day to all of my colleagues!
Patricia LeGeyt, RN
Director of Nursing
