TikTok fun, gifts and a clapping ceremony: celebrating International Nurses Day 2020

Nurses and midwives across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) were showered with love and gifts today to mark International Nurses Day.

COVID-19 restrictions certainly did not dampen celebrations, with nursing and midwifery staff enjoying TikTok challenges at Blacktown Hospital, a clapping ceremony at Auburn Hospital and surprise gifts and delicious snacks distributed to staff across the organisation.

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy thanked nurses and midwives for their passion and dedication.

“Thank you for delivering the best possible care for our patients,” Graeme said.

“You are an amazing group of professionals and your contribution is integral to ensuring our patient experience, the quality of our care provided and meeting the needs of our community.

“I hope you enjoyed the celebrations today.”  

WSLHD Nursing, Midwifery and Clinical Governance director Caroline Farmer said our nurses and midwives are our soldiers on the forefront of patient care.

“Nurses are often the first people you see when you are admitted to hospital or attend an emergency departments or community health centres,” Carol said.

“They are always ready to help and provide compassionate care for patients and families under difficult circumstances.”

To say thanks to our nurses and midwives, Carol arranged for almost 5,000 of WSLHD’s nurses and midwives to receive their own International Nurses Day 2020 water bottle.

“It is an extra special occasion this year, as 2020 has been designated the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife,” Carol said.

“Happy International Nurses Day to all of our wonderful nurses at WSLHD.

“Thank you for your dedication and care, and the difference you make to our patients every day.”

Operating suite clinical nurse specialist Verity Inglis started work at Mount Druitt Hospital in 1998 where she remained for four years.

Following a nursing stint in Brisbane, she returned in 2005 to Mount Druitt, which she describes as the “the best hospital” she’s ever worked at.

Verity’s role includes welcoming and preparing people for surgery, and managing requirements for anaesthetic recovery.

“I’ve supported hundreds of people before they enter the operating suite for their surgery. Some are petrified and anxious but the simple gesture of holding their hand goes a long way,” Verity said.

“I love being a nurse and helping people.  After surgery, I see how the patient is recovering and it’s nice to hear their gratitude and appreciation for their care.”