Emergency Nurses Day is celebrated on the second Wednesday of October every year. This year it lands on October 12th. While the nursing profession requires large amounts of compassion and expertise, nurses who dedicate their resources to hospital emergency rooms must contend with unique difficulties.
The Day’s Origins
Emergency Nurses Day originated in Australia in 1989: an international celebration meant to honor the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of emergency nurses around the world. Various events are held around the world in order to thank and show support to those who chose nursing as their profession.
Nursing In America
Florence Nightingale established modern nursing in the 19th century. According to CDC statistics, per 100 persons, 45.8 visits end up recorded. The first person the patient sees? The ER nurse. While most ER nurses earn a degree as an RN (Registered Nurse), many continue their training in order to further their skills and improve their knowledge of an ever-changing medical field. Some nurses go on to specialize as well. Today, there are over 3 million RNs in the U.S. workforce.
Ways To Observe
If you are looking for ways to observe Emergency Nurses Day, here are several:
- Say thank you to an emergency room nurse in your life;
- Raise funds for your local hospital(s) and medical centers. ‘Fun runs’ and ‘bake sales’ are always popular fundraising methods;
- Take the day to spend time learning more about the vital role of emergency nurses in healthcare and medicine.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Info Sources: National Today; Days of the Year; National Day Calendar
Photo Source: AdobeStock
