PANAJI
It’s International Nurses Day! Celebrated on May 12th, the day honours the pivotal role of nurses in healthcare. Nurses are in acute shortage, worldwide. This need must be addressed ad hoc, to divert a global health-care crisis. Nurses walk 4-5 miles during a 12-hour shift! Let’s honour their dedication.
The day is a momentous occasion dedicated to recognising and celebrating the invaluable contributions of nurses worldwide. Serving as the backbone of the healthcare system, nurses play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for millions of individuals. The significance of this day is deeply rooted in history, as it coincides with the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, a pioneer in modern nursing.
The day aims to shape perceptions of nursing, demonstrating how strategic investment in nursing can bring considerable economic and societal benefits. The economic power of care which creates healthy people and societies and drives healthy economies will be highlighted by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) on International Nurses’ Day (IND) 2024 under the theme: ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care’. A theme is chosen by ICN – a federation of more than 130 national nursing associations around the world, representing the over 28 million nurses working worldwide.
The origins of International Nurses Day trace back to 1953 when Dorothy Sutherland, an official with the US Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, first proposed the idea of celebrating ‘Nurses Day’. Despite initial setbacks, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) persisted in advocating for the establishment of this day. Finally, in 1974, the ICN officially declared May 12 as International Nurses Day, with the primary objective of honouring Florence Nightingale and acknowledging the profound impact of nurses on global healthcare.
The significance of International Nurses Day extends beyond mere recognition; it serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role nurses play in safeguarding public health and well-being. Nurses possess a wealth of knowledge and skills, acquired through rigorous training and experience, enabling them to address diverse healthcare needs with precision and empathy. Their commitment to patient care and advocacy epitomizes the essence of compassionate healthcare delivery.
In observance of International Nurses Day 2024, various activities and initiatives are organised worldwide to honour and support nursing professionals. Expressing gratitude towards nurses for their tireless efforts and sacrifices is paramount. Simple gestures such as sending thank-you notes, organising appreciation events, or offering small tokens of appreciation can go a long way in uplifting spirits and fostering a sense of recognition. Moreover, fostering creativity and camaraderie within healthcare settings can amplify the celebration. Crafting handmade cards, organising sing-alongs, or arranging wellness activities such as foot massages or spa treatments can provide much-needed respite to nurses amidst their demanding schedules.
Social media platforms serve as powerful tools for amplifying the message of appreciation and recognition for nurses. By sharing personal anecdotes, photos, or messages of gratitude, individuals can contribute to raising awareness and fostering a culture of appreciation for nursing professionals. Furthermore, International Nurses Day presents an opportune moment to inspire the next generation of healthcare providers. Encouraging aspiring individuals to pursue careers in nursing, characterised by a unique blend of intellect and compassion, ensures a steady continuum of exemplary care in the future.
2024 theme: ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care’
The theme for International Nurses Day 2024 is ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care.’ This theme underscores the crucial role nurses play in fostering not just individual health, but also societal and economic well-being.The ICN emphasizes that nurses are the bedrock of healthcare systems worldwide. Their dedication and expertise are vital in delivering preventive, curative, and palliative care. The theme highlights the economic benefits of investing in the nursing workforce. Studies demonstrate that well-resourced and well-staffed nursing teams contribute significantly to positive health outcomes, reduced hospital readmission rates, and lower overall healthcare costs.
