Rejuvenation of the Nursing Spirit

Pictured: Alisa Schneider-a renewed nurse

Rejuvenation: to revitalize, refresh, restore, renew

Do you remember the excitement you felt when you completed your nursing education? For many it was also a relief, for some there was fear yet you knew you were entering into something inspiring, fantastic, and powerful. As you worked your first job you gained the skills to prioritize and communicate effectively. You saw your interventions have an effect on your patients, and although you went home spent, you were full of pride.

Unfortunately, over time you may have become less than inspired by the realities of the work, and you see how fantastically absurd it is that the health of our people has deteriorated over time in despite the financial, technological, and intellectual capabilities we have gained that were meant to advance the state of our country's healthcare system. As a nurse you may now struggle to have an effect on your patients lives as they briefly come in and out of yours and the power you once felt for making changes to improve their health may be waning.

But there is hope...

Nurses from across the country just like you are reporting to us that an Office of the National Nurse to lead the delivery of preventive health message to every American has revitalized their nursing spirit.

We are hearing the following comments from supporters:

I am in support of the National Nurse position. Having served as the Medical Operations Chief in Houston, Texas during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, it has been proven that nursing is in a position to provide coordination, collaboration and direction during our some of our country's greatest challenges.

Nurses can significantly improve the health of our nation through education and community outreach.

Who knows better than the nurses working in the field to know the real problems faced by our patients and us as well?

Nurses can make a difference! Give us that chance to show you, and help turn the healthcare dollar waste around.

Nurses do have a voice in making change. We have the power to contribute to improving the health of all people. Joining this effort is a direct way to do this and refresh your excitement for your profession. Join us by contacting your US Congressional Representatives to urge them to co-sponsor HR 4903, the National Nurse Act of 2006. Let them know you want to see preventive health services delivered to every American by the most trusted health service providers-Nurses!

Also let the nursing organizations that represent you know that you would like them to share this effort with their constituent members so that all nurses can join in the discussion and have an opportunity to restore their nursing spirit.