OLDS — May 10-16 has been proclaimed National Nursing Week in Olds.
May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who is credited with founding the nursing profession.
Chief administrative officer (CAO) Michael Merritt said during a recent council meeting that setting aside a week to acknowledge the contribution nursing makes to the community is especially appropriate during the COVID-19 pandemic -- not only in Olds but across the country.
“I think this is a very important proclamation,” he said.
Director of community services Doug Wagstaff agreed with that.
"As the CAO indicated, this certainly has come to the forefront in light of the last year; of all the work that health-care workers have been under, some of the stresses in some of the most trying of times during our health crisis,” he said.
The theme of National Nursing Week this year is #WeAnswerTheCall.
It was developed by Canadian Nursing Association to showcase the many roles that nurses play in a patient’s health care journey.
“Nursing is known for being a "behind-the- scenes" profession,” a request for decision prepared by town staff said.
“The pandemic brought to light the courage and commitment that nurses work under every day and showed the important role that nurses play in the community.
“During the week of May 10-16, 2021 everyone is encouraged to recognize, acknowledge and celebrate the vital role that nurses play in our society.”
