Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital celebrates and honors its dedicated nursing staff during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.

“Each and every day, our exceptional nursing staff puts the needs of patients first, insuring that Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital and Borgess Lee Medical Group remain a vital part of our community,” said Lorrie Mortensen, chief nursing officer, Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital. “On behalf of the entire hospital, I wish to thank our more than 80 nurses for their time, talents and dedication.”

The work of America’s 3.1 million registered nurses to save lives and maintain the health of countless individuals is the focus of the 2010 National Nurses Week. This year, the American Nurses Association (ANA) selected “Nurses: Caring Today for a Healthier Tomorrow” as a theme.

The ANA supports and encourages National Nurses Week recognition programs through the state and district nursing associations, other specialty nursing organizations, educational facilities and independent health care companies and institutions.

Traditionally, National Nurses Week is devoted to highlighting the diverse ways in which nurses are working to improve health care. From bedside nursing in hospitals and long-term care facilities to the halls of research institutions, state legislatures and Congress, the depth and breadth of the nursing profession is meeting the expanding health care needs of American society.

Annually, National Nurses Week begins on May 6, marked as RN Recognition Day, and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession.

In honor of National Nurses Week and RN Recognition Day, registered nurses around the country are encouraged to wear the official “RN Pin.” To purchase a pin, call 1-800-445-0445.