HOSPITAL nurses have been thanked for their hard work and dedication to the community.
As part of International Nurses’ Day 2015 on Tuesday (May 12), a range of events were held by South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT).
Nurses and patients left messages of thanks and support in inspiration books at Warwick Hospital and staff at Leamington Spa Hospital were treated to some holistic pampering while those at Stratford and Ellen Badger Hospital in Shipston enjoyed tea parties.
Organised by The Royal College of Nursing, this year nurses were asked to tweet pictures of themselves with a few words explaining why they nurse and the hashtag #whyInurse.
David Bloxham who works on Malins Ward at Warwick Hospital was first encouraged to join the profession having undergone surgery aged 15.
He said: “I was really impressed by the nurses who were looking after me on the ward and felt it was the job that I was suited to.
“For me, nursing is about being a friendly face for people at what can be some of their most vulnerable moments in life.
“Having the skills and knowledge to work in a team and support patients and their families through a time which can be such an emotional rollercoaster gives me a tremendous sense of satisfaction.”
And matron Kathy Wagstaff admitted nursing was a hugely rewarding career.
She said: “I nurse because I get a feeling of pride and satisfaction when I have cared for someone. I don’t know of a greater honour than to provide compassion and support to people at the time they need it the most.
“Each and every day is different in nursing; sometimes it’s the very small acts of kindness and compassion that have the biggest effect on a patient’s stay in hospital.
“Each day I get to meet with new people, talk to them, and more importantly listen and learn from them – you never quite know what’s going to happen in a day, each day there is always excitement and a new challenge.”
And Helen Lancaster, SWFT Director of Nursing added: “International Nurses’ Day is important as it highlights all the vital work done by nurses every day across the NHS and is about recognising the difference these nurses make.
” I want to personally thank all of our nurses for their pride and dedication to providing compassionate care to all of their patients.”
