International Nurses Day and International Year of the Nurse

Florence Nightingale's life and practice is referred to throughout the world as the pioneer of modern nursing.  This year, marking 100 years since her death, is the International year of the nurse.

Annually the hard work and dedication of nurses worldwide is being honored on May 12^th with International Nurses Day, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth.

This years' theme is, Nurses leading chronic care.

Northland nurses are integral to health care in Northland and the Northland DHB is keen to acknowledge their contribution to patient care throughout the sector.

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) identifies the world's biggest killers as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and some cancers. Together they cause an estimated 35 million deaths each year throughout the world.

In New Zealand, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, with the death rate more than twice as high in men as in women.   Further, for people under 35, death rates are two to three times higher for Maori compared to non-Maori.  Cancer is the second leading cause of death and the major cause of hospitalisation in New Zealand.

Different models of chronic care delivery operate throughout the world. In Northland, advanced practice nurses are leading and supporting innovative models of care.

Margareth Broodkoorn, Northland DHB Director of Nursing and Midwifery said it was important to acknowledge the achievements and practice of nurses throughout the health sector;

"Acknowledging Nurses throughout the health sector, their commitment to excellent practice and the contribution they make everyday to their communities. Nursing is an extremely diverse profession, complete with its own unique opportunities and rewards. Be it in aged care, hospitals or in the community it has an effect on all of us".

Florence Nightingale's lasting contribution has been her role in founding the modern nursing profession. She set an example of compassion, commitment to patient care, and diligent and thoughtful hospital administration.

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has celebrated this day since 1965. In January 1974, the decision was made to celebrate the day on 12 May as it is the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale. In 2005 the District Health Boards (DHBs) and the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) established the first ever joint committee to examine safe staffing and healthy workplace and identify options for improvement for all nurses in New Zealand.

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For further information, please contact:
Paula Martin, Communications Officer
Northland District Health Board 
Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 3321