Scottsbluff, NE – Regional West nursing leadership served ice cream sundaes to Medical Center employees Thursday in celebration of National Nurses Week and in recognition of this year’s theme: “Serving Today for a Healthier Tomorrow.”

The purpose of Nurses Week is to raise awareness of the value of nursing and to educate the public about the role nurses play in meeting American health care needs. May 6 is known as National Nurse Day and May 12 is the birth date of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

Nurses Week activities included a local workshop presented by Faith Roberts, BSN, RN, CCRN entitled “Maintaining a Professional Presence: It’s in Everyone of Us.” Roberts addressed generational differences in nursing, the benefits of empowerment in the work environment, the constant stress and turmoil today’s lifestyle has on individuals, and the impact that a hero has on staff.

Of the 430 registered nurses and licensed practical nurses employed by Regional West, more than 60 have earned specialty certifications. One Air Link advanced practice nurse and two emergency services nurses are involved at the national level with setting standards for emergency care and education.

Regional West Health Services, with over 1,800 employees, provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, we offer care that spans more than 30 medical specialties. Regional West Medical Center, a subsidiary of Regional West Health Services, is accredited by The Joint Commission and is one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state of Nebraska.