International Nurses Day is a chance for us to reflect on the care and support nurses give to more than 1.5 million patients in NSW public hospitals, at home and in the community. The event is celebrated globally on May 12 each year - the birthday of the world’s most famous nurse, Florence Nightingale.
“As I visit hospitals around the State, I am struck by the common qualities of dedication, determination, compassion and, of course, clinical excellence which our nurses possess,” Mrs Skinner said.
Mrs Skinner also said she is proud of the Government’s achievement in recruiting much needed nurses and midwives. The Government has recruited 2,800 full-time nurses and midwives since March 2011, exceeding their pre-election promise of adding 2,475 new nurses to the State’s health service.
“We are indebted to them for the vital role they play in our society.”
NSW now has more than 47,500 nurses and midwives.
The theme of this year’s International Nurses Day is Nurses: A Force for Change - A Vital Resource for Health.