WHEREAS, beginning in 1991, National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6, also known as “National Recognition Day for Nurses”, through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing; and

WHEREAS, National Nurses Week is a time of year to reflect on the important contributions that nurses make to provide safe, high-quality health care; and

WHEREAS, nurses serve on the front lines, risking their lives treating the injured and sick during wartime, natural disasters, and public health emergencies, including the COVID–19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, nurses are known to be patient advocates, acting to protect the lives of individuals under their care; and

WHEREAS, nurses represent the largest single component of the health care profession, with an estimated population of more than four million registered nurses in the United States; and

WHEREAS, when nurse staffing levels increase, the risk of patient complications and lengthy hospital stays decrease, resulting in cost savings; and

WHEREAS, nurses are the cornerstone of the public health infrastructure, promoting healthy lifestyles and educating communities on disease prevention and health promotion; and

WHEREAS, nurses touch the lives of the people of the United States through every stage of life.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 59TH OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE:

THAT the Oklahoma House of Representatives supports the goals and ideals of National Nurses Week, recognizes the significant contributions of nurses to the health care system in Oklahoma, and encourages the citizens of Oklahoma to observe National Nurses Week and understand the importance of nurses in the lives of patients.