People are being urged to shine a light from their window at 8pm on Tuesday to mark International Nurses’ Day and show their appreciation for those who play a key role in the pandemic.
Nurses and midwives have been recognised for their frontline work as they care for those who have been affected by COVID-19. The ‘courageous’ nurses and midwives have been thanked by Health Minister Robin Swann who said they play an instrumental role in the pandemic.
Speaking ahead of International Nurses’ Day, the Health Minister recognised the critical role of the profession.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is testing all of us, but nurses are on the front line. They are working tirelessly in our hospitals, primary care, care homes and right across all settings to keep our community safe.
“I know that there has been anxiety and worry across the profession as we face this public health crisis but I have also seen the courage and positivity of our nurses.
“They have been instrumental in our response to COVID-19. Their leadership, expertise and experience were key in the opening of our Nightingale Hospital, we have had over 700 nursing and midwifery students in their final six months of study join the workforce early and almost 1,000 nurses, nursing assistants and midwives have applied to return to the health service.
“While saying thank you can sometimes feel inadequate, the fact remains that we are truly thankful for everything that nurses and midwives do for us,” he said.
Nurses celebrate International Nurses’ Day on the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale (12 May), a founding leader of the profession. 2020 has also been designated the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, marking 200 years since the birth of Nightingale.
Chief Nursing Officer Professor Charlotte McArdle said nurses have risen to every challenge put in front of them.
“Nurses have been with patients every step of the way; whether that be nursing them to recovery or being at their side during their final moments and supporting loved ones to say goodbye. I know that families will always remember the nurses that helped them through the most difficult of times.
“This pandemic will take its toll on all of us but I urge nurses to do all that they can to look after themselves and each other,” she said.
And she added: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all my colleagues in health and social care, and in the independent sector. Happy International Nurses’ Day 2020.”
To pay homage to the work carried out by nurses and midwives, the Department has coordinated the illumination of historic buildings and monuments across Northern Ireland on the evening of 12 May. Buildings will be illuminated blue, the colour of the nurse.