Nurses Week 2012 (May 6th - 12th)

Happy Nurses Week 2012 This year, nurse’s week is celebrated from May 6th to 12th. It’s hard to believe that I have been a nurse now for over 22 years. The most important part is that I have loved every minute of it. I decided to be a nurse because I wanted to make a difference in the life of others. As an emergency department registered nurse I contributed in maintaining and sometimes even saving lives. As a nurse leader I have influenced the practice of nursing and contributed to the wellbeing and development of bedside and nursing leaders alike.

I am very proud to be part of this incredible profession. During this week of celebration, I wish all my fellow nurses a wonderful week of celebration. Celebrate the difference you have made in the life of so many people in time of needs. Take the time to encourage others to join our profession. As equally important revisit the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) landmark report on the Future of Nursing. The report includes four key messages:

• Nurses should practice to the full extent of their education and training.
• Nurses should achieve higher levels of education and training through an improved education system that promotes seamless academic progression.
• Nurses should be full partners, with physicians and other health care professionals, in redesigning health care in the United States.
• Effective workforce planning and policy making require better data collection and an improved information infrastructure.

As you revisit the report what actions will you take to ensure a bright future for our profession? How can you make a difference and implement any of the key messages listed above? Thank you to all the nurses. If you know a nurse, share this link with them and remember to thank them for his or her contribution in improving the health of the world.

Dr. Syl Trepanier, RN, DNP, CENP
Doctor in Nursing Practice / Executive Leadership