The community is invited to join Atrium Health Navicent in recognizing National Nurses Week by thanking the health care system’s nearly 1,600 nurses for their tireless dedication and the exceptional patient care they provide every day.

National Nurses Week is held annually, beginning on May 6 (RN Recognition Day) and ending on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who is recognized as the founder of the modern nursing profession. Nursing comprises the nation’s largest health care profession. The American Nurses Association selected this year’s theme, “You Make a Difference,” to honor varying nursing roles as well as the positive impact the nation’s 4.4 million nurses have on everyone's lives.

“Despite the many changes in the job of a nurse since the days of Florence Nightingale, their role in providing health care remains vital,” said Atrium Health Navicent Chief Nursing Executive Tracey Blalock. “We thank all of our nurses for their tireless dedication and everyday commitment to ensuring every patient receives high quality care. I encourage everyone to take this week as an opportunity to thank the nurses in their life – whether it’s a family member, a caregiver, a coworker or just a stranger in the grocery check-out line. Everyone has a nurse to thank!”

In recognition of the ongoing need for nurses, Atrium Health Navicent has partnered with local schools to create a career pipeline of trained nurses by providing tuition assistance and part-time employment to assist individuals pursuing nursing careers. For additional information about nursing careers at Atrium Health Navicent, visit https://careers.atriumhealth.org/.

In 2020, the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Recognition Program awarded Atrium Health Navicent with its fourth Magnet designation, placing the facility in an elite group. Only 3 percent of all U.S. hospitals have received four or more Magnet designations, including four in Georgia.

Atrium Health Navicent is hosting several activities this week to thank nurses, including a pet therapy visit on Wednesday, May 10. Media representatives are invited to attend an interview opportunity immediately before the pet therapy visit, at 10 a.m., outside the Atrium Health Navicent Peyton Anderson Health Education Center, 877 Hemlock Street in Macon. Please RSVP by emailing [email protected].