It is National Nurses Week, and the County wants to thank all nurses, including the nearly 500 public health nurses, for the excellent care they provide to San Diego County residents every day.
Each year, from May 6 to 12, nurses across the nation are honored for their work, compassion and dedication to improving the health of others. Nurses Week is part of a month-long celebration.
County public health nurses provide care across all populations, through all stages of life and work with patients during their most vulnerable times. They serve thousands of clients annually at six public health centers, Edgemoor Skilled Nursing Facility, the Psychiatric Hospital, and San Diego detention centers.
Public health nurses also promote public wellness in underserved and at-risk communities by providing critical information about health issues, nutrition, disease prevention and immunization. County nurses meet people where they are, including home visits to more than 1,200 families.
“Public health nurses are vital to the health of our communities,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, County interim public health officer. “Their compassion, empathy, and commitment to those they serve is inspirational and provides a strong foundation for excellence in the public health workforce.”
Public health nurses cover a wide range of disciplines including disease prevention and investigation, vaccinations, health promotion, long-term care, behavioral health services, homeless outreach, services for older adult persons with disabilities, sexual wellness, harm reduction, and environmental safety.
This year’s theme for National Nurses Week is “The Power of Nurses,” honoring the critical role nurses play in healthcare and the positive impact they have on lives and communities. Nurses bring comfort in times of distress, knowledge to improve quality of life and clinical expertise to promote healing.
Thank you, public health nurses, for your commitment, strength, and sacrifice so San Diego County residents can live well and thrive.
