Queen Mary's Hospital Hosts Nurses’ Day Celebration

on the birthday of Florence Nightingale

 

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Over 100 nurses and health care workers attended Nurses’ Day at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton, on Tuesday 12 May. Nurses’ Day takes place internationally each year on 12 May, as a tribute to Florence Nightingale who was born on that day in 1820, and celebrates the valuable contribution nurses make to society.

To celebrate Nurses’ Day, Clinical Skills Trainer, Helen Jarvis, organised a fantastic ‘drop-in’ event for local NHS Wandsworth nurses, including community nurses, hospital nurses, district nurses, and health care support workers.

There were lots of exciting activities available on the day, including a free prize draw for a limited-edition Fob watch, and an information stand about further study courses at Kingston University, the Knowledge and Skills Framework, and Nursing Practice and Professional Development team.

Alison Benincasa, Associate Chief Operating Officer for Older People Services, was also in attendance with other senior nurses, to highlight the important role nurses can have in the senior management of the NHS. Alison began her career as a Registered Nurse and now looks after a large health service meeting the needs of older people in Wandsworth.

The event had an international theme to emphasise that nurses’ day takes place worldwide, and nurses were encouraged to put a pin on a world map if they had ever worked abroad. It came to light several NHS Wandsworth Nurses have worked as far afield as Uganda and Australia during their nursing careers, bringing a wealth of different experience to their nursing colleagues. Attendees could also take home free goodies on the day, including colourful mugs, bags, and a ‘Proud to Care’ nursing badge.

Janet Milton, Night Sister for the Intermediate Care Team and Clinical Lead Nurse, says:
“I liked that it was a drop-in event, so I could come along anytime in the day. There were lots of nice freebies up for grabs, plus useful information about further study courses, and the food was pretty tasty too! It was a lovely day with a great atmosphere and everyone was very welcoming. I’m looking forward to next year’s event already!”

May 22, 2009