Hospital celebrates local nurses
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send your username and password to you.
From the Knox County Hospital—
KNOX CITY – Whether you’re visiting your primary care provider, find yourself in an emergency room, or are admitted to the hospital, more than 3 million nursing professionals in the United States are the heart of healthcare in almost every aspect.
Celebrating the incredible work of nurses at home in Knox County, and across the nation, Knox County Hospital District is taking part in National Nurses Week, which is observed May 6-12.
In the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, nurses are among the frontline health professionals caring for patients. Their tireless work is even more important, often serving as a lifeline for patients hospitalized due to COVID-19.
According to Stephen Kuehler, CEO of Knox County Hospital District, the extended scope of services nurses provide at all of the hospital district facilities make them one of the most valuable medical team members.
“Providing essential care and support across our organization, nurses are the heart of our healthcare team,” Kuehler said “Whether you are in a doctor’s office or the emergency room, and everywhere in between frankly, our nursing professionals are truly on the frontline of healthcare. Nurses are among the first healthcare workers you’ll encounter in almost any medical setting.”
National Nurses Week is rooted in the work of the profession’s most notable icon, Florence Nightingale. Often referred to as the “lady with the lamp,” Nightingale made her reputation during the Crimean War when she led a group of 38 nurses on the battleground.
Throughout her journey, Nightingale provided much-needed services to the gravely wounded British troops. As night fell, she continued her mission, lighting the way with her famous lamp.
The week-long celebration begins on May 6 each year, the anniversary of Nightingale’s arrival in Crimea, and ends on her birthday, May 12. In 1974 President Nixon declared these dates as National Nurses Week.
The important role nurses play in healthcare is one of the reasons why the World Health Assembly has designated 2020 the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife.
There are upwards of 30 different types of nurses in the healthcare industry.
“During this most unusual and unprecedented time, nurses continue to lead the way being on the front lines of healthcare,” Kuehler added “I am certain that I speak on behalf of the entire community in saying that we are all grateful for the nurses in Knox County for delivering an enhanced level of patient care. I see it… and our patients feel it.”