Fanshawe Celebrates National Nursing Week

This past week (May 11 to 17, 2009) was the Canadian Nurses Association's National Nursing Week. Nursing Week is an opportunity to promote and show appreciation for the vital role nursing plays in the health system and in the life of every Canadian.

"Nursing Week is a time of celebration and an opportunity to give thanks for the overwhelming contribution of nurses toward improving health outcomes and fostering the continual progression of quality and safe delivery of care," said Vanessa Burkoski, Provincial Chief Nursing Officer, in a letter to Fanshawe College faculty. "With deepest respect and highest regard for all my nursing colleagues, thank you for remaining steadfast in your commitment to deliver the finest care to patients, families, and communities. Happy Nursing Week."

Nursing Program Coordinator Carol Butler, left, tours a group of high school students through the Nursing Simulation lab during the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame's annual Discovery Day at Fanshawe.

According to Pam Skinner, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Human Services, "Fanshawe College's School of Nursing has had a 36-year history of educating Registered Nurses, Registered Practical Nurses, Personal Support Workers and new Internationally Educated Nurses. We do this work collaboratively with The University of Western Ontario as well as with our practice partners in acute and community-based care."

On Tuesday, May 12, 2009, faculty in the School of Nursing enjoyed cake to celebrate each other's contributions to Nursing. Thank you's were exchanged, and everyone in attendance received a tulip to take home. Tuesday was also the birthday of Florence Nightingale (born May 12, 1820), famous for her pioneering work to promote the establishment and development of the nursing profession in its modern form.

"Nurses' critical role in the health care system is supported by dedication and commitment to patient care, education, community service, and research," said Pam Skinner. "I am delighted to add my best wishes for Nursing Week to both our current and future generation of nurses."

In addition to the Nursing Week celebrations, faculty from the School of Nursing were recently involved in the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Discovery Day on Friday, May 8, 2009.

Discovery Days are one-day workshops that give secondary school students and teachers the opportunity to explore a variety of career options in medicine and the health sciences. Approximately 400 high school students and teachers from London and surrounding communities were invited. Students gained a clearer picture of what it would be like to be a health professional by interacting with professors in lectures and hands-on workshops throughout the day.