Nurses to be Recognized Globally in 2020
For the first time in history, the World Health Organization (WHO) is recognizing the nursing profession by marking 2020 as the Year of the Nurse. This year also coincides with the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, one of the founders of modern nursing.
In light of this exciting and well-deserved recognition by the WHO, the BC Nurses' Union will be busy throughout the year highlighting nurses' invaluable contributions by improving health on a provincial, national and global level.
Despite the incredible work nurses do every day in BC, we are fully aware of the ongoing challenges that nurses face, especially when it comes to short staffing and workload issues. While the heart of the profession, providing safe patient care, has remained steadfast over the years, the nursing profession has seen its share of challenges with increased patient acuity, complex population needs, and a health care system that is struggling to meet demands. These factors are playing a large role these days in the moral and professional distress many nurses are experiencing.
Ongoing efforts to raise awareness around the provincial nurse shortage will continue into 2020, and we look forward to having more conversations with the provincial government and the employer about the urgent need for resources and education for nurses.
This year also serves as an opportunity for all nurses to take a moment to consider what it is about nursing they love most. Whether it's in an ER, long-term care facility or in the community, nurses in every health care setting are connected by their desire to help. We encourage you to also take time to thank your colleagues and your nursing community for the important work they do every day to provide safe patient care.
Visit the BCNU Year of the Nurse 2020 campaign page for initiatives through out the year.
Learn more about the World Health Organization's Year of the Nurse proclamation.