Dressed in white, nurses at Helen Joseph Hospital yesterday led a march around the block as a sign of their commitment to the delivery of quality healthcare.
Following the march, the nurses were addressed by the hospital CEO Dr Billa and the Head of Nursing, Matron Peele. Nurses renewed their commitment to the profession by lighting candles and taking the nurses’ pledge. The march was a kick start of week-long celebrations that will be taking place at the hospital to commemorate International Nurses Day.
International Nurses Day is commemorated annually on 12 May as declared by the International Council of Nurses in 1971. The day is in remembrance of Florence Nightingale who is considered as the founder of modern nursing. In South Africa, the first black nurse Cecilia Makiwane is also remembered. The day celebrates the nursing role in primary health care.
Under the theme: Nurses: A Force for Change – A vital resource for health, Helen Joseph Hospital will celebrate the whole week and dedicate it to nurses. Today, the hospital will host a nursing Imbizo which will look at areas such as labour issues and Financial Wellness of staff.
On Wednesday, nurses will light the lamp in remembrance of Florence Nightingale as well as outline in detail the significance of the day and the theme for this year. Motivational speakers will also address healthcare workers on the day.
On Thursday, healthcare workers will set up health awareness stalls at the pharmacy foyer to showcase the different services available at the hospital. To end these celebrations, on Friday, a nurses quiz will be held at the hospital’s Dining Hall to empower health care professionals as well as to test their knowledge in the nursing field.
Enquiries:
Patricia Mokoena
Cell: 082 924 8800
