As part of National Nurses Week, the County is celebrating more than 500 public health nurses for their invaluable contributions and sacrifices while providing expert care to our community. Their knowledge, dedication, and compassion improve the lives of patients and families every day.
This year’s theme, “Nurses Make the Difference,” honors the indispensable caregivers who provide a high level of health care for all people regardless of income, race, or ethnicity.
“Our public health nurses work every day to eliminate the health disparities that exist in our communities,” said County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman, Nora Vargas. “I am so thankful for their tireless efforts to protect our most vulnerable residents.”
County public health nurses serve thousands of San Diego residents across the region at six public health centers along with the Edgemoor Skilled Nursing Facility, the Psychiatric Hospital, and detention centers throughout the region. The nurses also provide home visits to more than 1,200 families.
“I would like to thank our public health nurses for safeguarding the health of our children, families, and communities,” said County Public Health Officer Wilma J. Wooten, M.D., M.P.H. “They are the bedside friend, reassuring smile, and calming voice in times of illness and uncertainty.”
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.
Since July of last year, County nurses have served over 17,000 patients.
National Nurses Week started on May 6, which is also National Nurses Day. The celebration runs through May 12, the birth date of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale.
All nurses in San Diego County deserve the community’s gratitude as they make a positive difference in our region’s health every single day.
