The New York State Department of Health Announces Observance of National Nurses Week, May 6-12, 2018

Governor Cuomo Issues Proclamation Honoring New York's Nurses

2018 National Nurses Week Theme is "Inspire, Innovate, Influence"

ALBANY, N.Y. (May 7, 2018) - The New York State Department of Health today announced the observance of National Nurses Week, May 6-12, 2018. Additionally, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has issued a proclamation honoring New York's nurses for their dedication to patient care. The Empire State has more than 300,000 nurses working as registered professional nurses, licensed practical nurses, clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners, across all healthcare settings statewide to ensure the best health outcomes for patients.

"Nurses play an essential role in the health care delivery system. With their specialized knowledge and skill – whether providing direct patient care, educating our future and current nurses, working in public health, administration, or policy-making roles – nurses are working to protect, improve, and promote the health, productivity, and well-being of all New Yorkers," said Sally Dreslin, MS RN, Executive Deputy Commissioner, New York State Department of Health.

The American Nurses Association's celebration of National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6 and ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale's birthday. Nightingale was the founder of modern nursing and is credited with expanding roles for women in the workforce. This year's National Nurses Week theme is "Inspire, Innovate, Influence," recognizing that the nursing profession is a leading advocate for health and wellness.

In addition to the annual recognition of nurses, the American Nurses Association has designated 2018 as the "Year of Advocacy – At the Bedside and Beyond," to highlight different nurse advocates, tools, tips, and services each quarter through a different lens: from local to global, focusing on the impact and contribution of nurses at every level.

To read the Governor's Proclamation please see: https://health.ny.gov/press/reports/docs/governor_cuomo_proclamation_for_nurses_week_2018.pdf

For more information about National Nurses Week please see https://www.nursingworld.org/education-events/national-nurses-week/.