Nurses: Unsung heroes and the backbone of health care

Health Sciences North is celebrating National Nursing Week by celebrating its complement of dedicated nurses for their hard work and commitment to patients being cared for at hospital.

“Nurses are the unsung heroes of health care,” said David McNeil, Health Sciences North's vice-president of patient services, clinical transformation and chief nursing executive, in a press release. “Our nurses provide the essential bedside care that patients and families rely on in their time of need. They really are the backbone of the health-care system.”

This year’s theme — Nurses: With you every step of the way — recognizes the many vital functions nurses play at Health Sciences North and at all hospitals. Not only do they provide direct patient care, they also conduct research, develop new models of care, teach learners and help patients navigate the health care system.

Celebrating Nurses Week reminds staff, volunteers, patients and the public that our nurses work hard and are committed to each and every one of their patients.

National Nursing Week begins on May 12 in honour of Florence Nightingale’s birthday. She was well known for the care she provided to the British soldiers in the Crimean War and is considered the founder of modern nursing.