Celebrating Our Incredibly Wonderful Nurses! National Nurses Week: May 6-12

National Nurses Week is a wonderful opportunity to honor the “Mother of Nursing,” Florence Nightingale, and all the dedicated, compassionate nurses who have followed in her footsteps.

Florence was a British citizen and social reformer. In 1854, she and a group of nurses provided care to wounded soldiers during the Crimean War. After the war she established nursing education programs. In 1873, the United States began their own nursing programs at three New England hospitals, dubbed “Nightingale Schools.” These programs were affiliated with area hospitals, and gave nursing students an easy access to learn and hone their skills.

Nurses have always been involved in patient care, and this is especially evident during times of crisis.

Only about 20,000 men and women nurses served during the Civil War, but each successive war created greater demand for nurses. By the end of WWII, more than 78,000 nurses had served. Today, all nurses are once again on the front line to serve and protect their communities in the current COVID-19 healthcare crisis.

In recognition of the heroic efforts of our caring, compassionate, and dedicated nurses, who work selflessly day and night to help, heal, and care for our residents. Thank you!