Nurses Week
Effective Date: Sunday, May 6th, 2012
WHEREAS, the nearly 3.1 million registered nurses in the United States comprise our nation’s largest health care profession; and
WHEREAS, nurses make a difference in the lives of all Alaskans, providing care for people at all stages of life; and
WHEREAS, there are currently 11,409 registered nurses, 968 licensed practical nurses, 173 registered nurse anesthetists, and 775 advanced practiced nurses in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the depth and breadth of the registered nursing profession meets the varied and emerging health care needs of the American population in a wide range of settings; and
WHEREAS, studies indicate that the appropriate levels of registered nurse staffing contribute to improved health outcomes, shorter hospital stays, fewer adverse events that can result in fatalities, safer patient care, and improved nursing work environments; and
WHEREAS, as we encourage our state’s youth to serve others beyond self, a career in nursing is an excellent field to consider, enabling one to pursue a rewarding profession while serving the people of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from National Nurses Day on May 6th through May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale – the founder of modern nursing.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim May 6 12, 2012 as:
Nurses Week
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to recognize the extraordinary actions and accomplishments of nurses and to show appreciation for nurses at every opportunity throughout the year.
Dated: May 2, 2012
