Press Release 1/2012 International Nurses’ Day

 
  

11 May 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY 2012

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN NURSING COUNCIL

The South African Nursing Council joins the nurses around the globe as we commemorate the International Nurses Day, acknowledging the scientific, ethical and professional influence that Florence Nightingale had on the nursing profession.  Nurses, globally on this day remember and reflect on the meaning and value of their own and collective contribution in the delivery of health care.

The theme for 2012 is “Closing the Gap: from evidence to action”

The South African Nursing Council celebrates this historical milestone by acknowledging the tireless efforts of all nurses in South Africa, who despite daily pressures and challenges, continue to prioritize the welfare of their patients.

This year, on International Nurses’ Day the South African Nursing Council will be paying tribute to the pioneers of nursing.  Chief amongst these would be the celebrations of Cecilia Makiwane, the first black professional nurse to obtain state registration in Africa in January 1908.  In addition the Council will pay tribute and salute visionary leadership provided by various nurse leaders in the transformation of the nursing profession in line with the democratic principles espoused in the Constitution of South Africa.

A year ahead provide a golden opportunity for nurses to define a strategic role to be played by nurses in contributing to a long and healthy life for all, specifically in the implementation of nurse driven primary health care, a strategy for ensuring citizenry access to basic health care.  We are also optimistic that our midwives will embrace the introduction of midwife-led obstetric services as an opportunity for saving mothers and saving the babies of our country

ENDS

Issued by

The chairperson: Ms JN Makhanya

South African Nursing Council
P.O. Box 1123
Pretoria
0001

Tel : 012 426 9542 / 083 496 8366
Fax : 012 426 9554 / 086 231 9094

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