Love A Nurse Day, Nurses of Distinction and Nurse Week

[Kristine Gebbie]

With due respect for the originators of these ideas:

The concept of "love a nurse" is interesting, in part because of the 
associations with the various double entendre bumper stickers about the various 
ways of loving associated with various professions--X's do it _____.  While 
being loved (I read your message as one of being honored and appreciated) may 
be expressed by a smiley face or a box of candy, those expressions of 
appreciation are generic, and associate appreciation for nurses as one more 
"day" intended to increase the purchase of flowers, candy or cards.  
Appreciation of nurses by each other ought to be evident in professional 
respect for each other's patient care decisions, consultations, and 
recommendations of reference and resource materials.  Appreciation of nurses by 
others ought be be evident in respect for the level of education and 
professional contribution, evidenced by salary level, use of professional 
titles, availability of opportunities for participation in continuing education 
and research, and the like.

While "loving a nurse" has a pleasant ring, I suggest that devoting a serious 
half day to the concepts of "respecting professional nurses all year" would 
have more impressive, long-term consequences for both the individuals in any 
organization, and for the profession as a whole.


Kristine Gebbie, DrPH, RN
Columbia University School of Nursing
Center for Health Policy 
630 West 168th St., Mail Box 6
New York, New York 10032

Phone 212-305-1794