Nurses work in a variety of settings but they all share a common goal – to provide the best possible care for their patients.
To celebrate these unsung heroes, the Federation of Nurses/UFT hosted a “Nurse Recognition Annual Celebration” May 4. Achievement awards were presented to 21 nurses who exemplify the principles of the profession.
“Our nurses are magnificent,” Michael Mulgrew, president of the United Federation of Teachers told the packed hall. “They have been a lifeline for our families and communities. Tonight is an opportunity for us to recognize their professionalism, commitment, talent - and to thank them."
“Awards were presented to heroes who selflessly go the distance for each patient,” said Anne Goldman, VP for Non-DOE Members, Federation of Nurses/UFT. “If you save a life, you are a hero. If you save 10 lives, you are a nurse.”
Nurses work under increasingly difficult circumstances. Nurses continue to be in short supply across the state, and that, coupled with shortages in other healthcare-related fields, is contributing to higher than usual workloads, longer shifts, and burnout. During the celebration, labor leaders acknowledged nurses’ struggles and encouraged them to continue to fight for adequate staffing.
“Today's challenges to achieve appropriate staffing levels and positive patient outcomes can only be achieved through our union,” said Goldman. “The power and advocacy of our union provide the strength our nurses need to correctly support patient care.”