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As NurseWeek’s new editor, I consider myself fortunate to have the Nursing Excellence Awards 2000 coincide with my arrival. It’s nice to begin this new role focusing on the things that are right in nursing. While the individuals highlighted in this issue of NurseWeek are exceptional examples of nurses doing what they do best, I am confident that similarly compelling stories could be told about colleagues we each have known and had the honor to work beside. During this year’s awards process, I had the opportunity to review the nominations and hear the wonderful stories sent in from the nominees’ peers. The experience brought to mind many special colleagues I have known, people who influenced my career, helped cultivate my love of nursing, and clarified my values about patient care. I found myself wishing I had thanked them for what they had given me before our paths separated. The nurses we honor this year have made such unique contributions that we easily and enthusiastically identified their excellence. It is interesting to note the incredible breadth and diversity with which these nurses practice nursing and contribute to patient care. It is symbolic of the massive change that has occurred within the healthcare industry: The opportunity to practice nursing is no longer focused solely on the traditional healthcare employer. This broadening of nursing practice will serve to strengthen the profession and its viability as an attractive career choice. Perhaps it also will redirect some attention to the long-neglected issues of work environment, nurse retention, and career earning power. The Nursing Excellence Awards winners are examples of how central well-educated, competent, and professional nurses are to an effective healthcare delivery system. While this point is occasionally lost on top decision makers, it is well-known by our patients and our physician colleagues. Though the majority of nurses who come in contact with the public will do so in hospital settings, it is important that we educate the public about the dynamic and changing nursing profession. Beyond the traditional healthcare system, the public needs to recognize the nurses hard at work in schools, community agencies, churches, technological and scientific industries, and the media. While we are celebrating the achievements of these eight special nurses, think about the nurses who represent excellence where you work. Single them out. Tell them that what they do is important and that you admire their commitment. And maybe next year, you’ll share their stories with us by nominating them for one of these distinguished awards. Carol Bradley,
MSN, RN |
