When the ANA Enterprise began planning the Year of the Nurse, including expanding the traditional National Nurses Week to a month-long celebration, we didn’t anticipate the different world we’re living and working in today.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, news reports every day tell stories of how nurses rise to the occasion, as they always do, to provide high-level and compassionate care for individuals, families, and communities affected by the virus, often placing themselves at risk.
Whether responding to the coronavirus threat or continuing to provide essential care in all settings, it’s more important now than ever recognize, honor, and appreciate the work you and all nurses do. Nurses make an incredible difference in quality of care by educating communities, advocating for patients’ rights, offering emotional support, and helping change lives. That is why ANA selected the theme for May as “Nurses Month: You Make a Difference.”
Honoring you and the nursing profession
Nurses Month in May is a reminder to give and also receive appreciation, whether a thank you note, a word of encouragement, or a kind gesture to the nurses you know. Also, take the time this month for self- care to focus on your emotional and physical well-be- ing. Help yourself and others recognize and address the symptoms of stress, mental fatigue, and burnout, so that you can maintain your health and passion for nursing and continue to make a difference.
Nurse stories
A free Nurses Month webinar “Magnify your voice— Use storytelling to advance nursing,” led by award-winning filmmaker Carolyn Jones, is being held on May 20 at 1 pm ET and will be available on demand. Register for the webinar at here.
ANA is sharing nurses’ authentic stories (edited for length) that they contributed here.
Steven D. Powell, MSN, RN-BC, Texas Nurses Association member
The greatest pride I take as a nurse is in the world of advocacy. While I live and work at the bedside in Houston, I can frequently be found in Washington, D.C., meeting with lawmakers in Congress. People understand the importance of nurses; however, few are aware of legislation specific to nursing that can bene- fit healthcare overall. Every nurse needs to reach out to their local, state, and federal level representatives. Let them know what you do and how we as nurses are part of the solution in improving healthcare. There is no better time than now.
Lisa Gordon-Greer, RN, Waterbury, CT
Becoming a nurse is one of the greatest accomplishments in my life. I have been a nurse for over 20 years and still learn something new on a daily basis. I love that nursing provides continuous education. Recently I embarked on the journey to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. I love being able to care for others in their time of need.
Trenee Maechling, RN, New Orleans, LA
I have been a nurse for most of my life. Not a day goes by that I do not learn new things. I stayed in med-surg and we get every illness under the sun. My mentor and teacher who got me started was an RN named Velma Anderson. She taught me guiding principles of genuine care for all. I have learned from wonderful nurses along my career and hope I have shown the love and respect they have given me for our career. God bless all nurses for the kinship and care we provide.
