What is National Nurses Week?

National Nurses Week is celebrated annually in the United States, kicking off on May 6 and running to May 12, Florence Nightengale’s birthday.

What is the Purpose of National Nurses Week?

This week-long celebration honors and recognizes the valuable contributions of those in the nursing profession. The purpose of this recognition is:

• To honor and recognize the vital role nurses play in patient care, health care systems and communities.
• To celebrate their dedication, compassion and expertise in caring for others.

For 23 consecutive years, Nursing has ranked as the Gallup Poll’s Most Honest and Ethical Profession across 23 industries and professions! This doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of the compassion, kindness and excellent care nurses provide. How fitting that the poll’s intent aligns with American House Core Values of Respect (Most Ethical) and Integrity (Most Honest).

Being a Nurse in Senior Living

A nurse’s work can be demanding and challenging, but it’s also very rewarding. In a senior living community, their primary tool is compassionate care. The hardworking nurses that serve our American House communities make a difference to every resident who lives within our communities, every day. In addition to their dedicated service to the health of every resident, they maintain relationships and observe details in residents that make a big difference in their care. Additionally, they may perform any of the following and more:

• Administer medication and monitor the well-being of residents
• Complete clinical assessments
• Correspond with family members
• Designate nursing assignments and set work schedules
• Coordinate with external health care professionals

“To all our nurses at American House Senior Living: Thank You! Thank you for your kindness, compassion and dedication, not only to our profession, but to each of those you serve. You truly are deserving of this annual recognition! Happy National Nurses Week!”

Sue Lingo, VP of Quality and Resident Care

Many of our American House residents enjoyed careers as nurses. Mary, a former nurse and resident at American House Spring Lake, has never lost her inclination to help others, “I’m always aware of people in need,” she said. “I feel compelled to help.”

The History of National Nurses Week

Nursing is a noble, selfless profession dating back to the mid-1800s with the work of British-born Florence Nightingale. She was a nurse as well as a social reformer and statistician who established St. Thomas’ Hospital and the Nightingale Training School for Nurses in 1860. Her experiences during the Crimean War were foundational in her views about sanitation, and her efforts in health care reform greatly influenced the quality of care in the 19th and 20th centuries and beyond. Today, she is considered the founder of modern nursing.

During National Nurses Week, May 6-12, take the opportunity to thank the nurses in your life!

Are you interested in becoming part of our story? A career in our senior living communities is life changing. With training and guidance, we help you find your place in the company and teach valuable skills that allow you to move up and become a leader.