Amrita’s Nursing Service Department in conjunction with the Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI), observed International Nurses’ Day on May 12, 2010 at the Health Sciences campus in Kochi.

Celebrated all over the world to commemorate the valuable contribution nurses make to society, the day also marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing. Born 190 years ago in England, she is credited with having laid the foundation of professional nursing.

Amrita’s program was inaugurated by Dr. Sharada Rajeevan, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Cochin University.

“Nurses are bound together in the activity of patient care; hence they need to be aware of their responsibilities first hand,” stated Dr. Sharada in her inaugural address. “They should be well informed, motivated and skilled in their respective areas of service.”

Sampoojya Swami Poornamritananda Puri delivered the benedictory address.

“The humble profession of nursing offers motherly care and affection to each and every patient,” he shared. “Happiness can only be achieved through God’s grace. Nursing is one of the most noble of all services through which one can achieve God’s grace easily.”

“Amma’s life of selfless service should be the example for us to follow,” he further emphasized.

“We are here to appreciate the valuable services rendered by the Florence Nightingales of Amrita,” stated Dr. Prem Nair, Medical Director, in his address.

Others who spoke included Dr. Rajesh Pai, Medical Administrator and Mrs. P. Vishalakshi, Deputy Nursing Officer. Prof. Sunil Moothedath and Prof. Sreedevi P.A., both from the Amrita College of Nursing also addressed the nursing students in the audience.

Prizes for the various cultural competitions as well as proficiency awards were distributed during the function. An educational session on Nurses’ Day with the theme – Delivering Quality, Serving Communities: Nurses Leading Chronic Care – followed the inaugural ceremony.

“Nurses themselves are the brand ambassadors for their profession. Trained nurses are blessings for the human society,” the students learned.

And further, “For patients, nurses represent the hands of God for they are dedicated to offering compassionate services to one and all.”

May 15, 2010
Amrita School of Nursing, Kochi