By Sheila Robison, MiCAFE Economic Security at Elder Law of Michigan
My sister is a nurse. I am very proud of her. She is one of the millions of men and women around the world who we celebrate today, on International Nurses Day. My sister works long hard hours, day and night, 12-hour shifts, sometimes without breaks, and often staying on longer than her shift allows. Her profound devotion is immeasurable. Nurses make up the biggest health care occupation in the United States and should be given recognition today, May 12, 2020.
This year, as years before, the International Council of Nurses has a theme! Nursing Times reports the International Nurses Day 2020 theme is “nursing the world to health” and will focus on the “true value of nurses to the people of the world.” Nurses play a unique role and work with people young and old. From birth to the elderly, nurses are globally known and admired worldwide. We certainly want to recognize them for all the good they do each day throughout the year.
The work that nurses do is complex. It is physically and emotionally challenging. These are skilled professionals who constantly show respect and compassion for their patients. Nurses follow orders from doctors, handle prescription drugs, and deal with unexpected emergencies. It’s the professionalism with empathetic diligence that makes the grade with high standard nursing care. Nurses have to be action-oriented, quick to solve problems, and have effective communication skills that involve attention to detail.
We all know or may have experienced the importance of nursing care. From vaccinations to hospital care, a nurse has no doubt been in your life at some point. Most recently, with the COVID-19 outbreak, nurses have gained attention and are praised for the work they do. I trust this writing gives you a deeper understanding of the profession. The next time you are in the presence of a nurse, please tell them how they are appreciated! They are truly admired! Our lives would simply not be the same without their care.
Sheila Robison is an Economic Security Team Member for MiCAFE at Elder Law of Michigan and has been a member of the Elder Law of Michigan team since June 2010. As an Economic Security Team Member, Sheila assists Michigan seniors with benefit applications and serves as an advocate for the health and safety of seniors.