As National Nurses Week approaches, Castro County Healthcare (CCH) proudly pays tribute to the dedicated nurses serving our community. From the compassionate caregivers at Plains Memorial Hospital, the committed professionals at the Medical Center of Dimmitt, to the nurturing staff at County View Living, these unsung heroes are the backbone of healthcare, providing comfort, care, and healing to those in need.
National Nurses Week, celebrated annually from May 6 to May 12, commemorates the contributions of nurses and highlights their invaluable role in the healthcare system. This year, CCH takes this opportunity to honor and recognize the exceptional efforts of nurses across all its facilities, whose unwavering commitment and tireless dedication are instrumental in delivering quality patient care.
Elisha Rosier, CEO of CCH, expressed profound gratitude for the remarkable contributions of nurses, stating, “Our nurses are the heart and soul of Castro County Healthcare. Their unwavering dedication and selfless service exemplify the true spirit of healing and compassion.”
Throughout the week-long celebration, CCH will shine a spotlight on the diverse roles and responsibilities of nurses, including nurse practitioners (NPs), registered nurses (RNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and certified nurses (CNs).
Nurse practitioners, a vital component of the healthcare team, play a multifaceted role in patient care. With advanced training and expertise, NPs assess, diagnose, and treat patients, collaborate with physicians, andempowerindividuals and families through education and support. Their comprehensive approach ensures quality care and enhances patient outcomes.
Registered nurses, often called RNs, engage with patients through various means, such as administering treatments, educating patients and their families on medical conditions, and offering support to both patients and their relatives.
Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA’s), alternatively termed nurse’s aides, operate under RN supervision to aid patients who require assistance with daily living activities.
Licensed vocational nurses play a role in patient care by providing vital bedside support and assisting clinical services under the direction of registered nurses and other healthcare team members.
Reflectingonthesignificance of National Nurses Week, Rosier emphasized, “This week is a time to honor the dedication, compassion, and professionalism of our nursing staff. They are the frontline warriors, providing comfort and healing to our patients every day.”
The history of National Nurses Week can be traced back to the pioneering efforts of Dorothy Sutherland, an employee of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. In 1953, Sutherland proposed a national day to celebrate and recognize nurses for their contributions to society. In 1974, President Richard Nixon officially proclaimed May 6 as National Nurses Day, and in 1982, the American Nurses Association expanded the celebration to a week-long event, culminating on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
As National Nurses Week unfolds, Castro County Healthcare encourages everyone to join in honoring and thanking the dedicated nurses who tirelessly serve our community. Whether through a simple gesture of appreciation or a heartfelt thank-you message, let us all express our gratitude to these extraordinary individuals who embody the spirit of caring and compassion.
For more information about local healthcare programs and services, please visit www. plainsmemorial.com.