The hallmark of independence has always centered on the multiple rights we, as Americans, have secured. They include the rights to education, free speech, free will, and autonomous thought. How appropriate is it then that nursing’s many facets showcase the independence that is the cornerstone of our nation.
Nurses and nursing students have an amazing array of educational opportunities to choose from. Whether one chooses to start down the nursing career path as an AUA or LPN, go straight into a ADN or BSN program right out of high school, or even return to education as an adult to complete an accelerated pathways program to become an RN, these different paths to licensure can afford nurses much opportunity. Over time the nursing trail can lead to advanced degrees, the chance to specialize in a field and become a certified RN in that given area, and a host of increased employment prospects once one gets her foot in the door.
Nurses in the United States have exposure to top-notch facilities, equipment, and medications–resources that are unequaled in many parts of the world. And while nurses do have the right to grumble about being overworked, they also understand that they have rightfully earned a scope of practice that is far beyond what many of their peers in other countries have. (http://infusionnurse.org/2012/07/04/celebrate-4th-of-july/).
Nurses in the US also have the right to lobby state and federal governments to sponsor bills and even to voice their collective opinions through state and national organizations. When nurses band together, great changes and advances can be made to move their beloved profession and all of healthcare forward. Through advocacy groups, unions, state boards of nursing, and political arms of nursing, nurses have a collective voice in government and are assured fair practice to nursing employment.
Thanks to them and to unions, as a nurse, you have the right and the responsibility to kick back and enjoy some fun, food, and fireworks on a holiday (unless you opted to get a per diem on July 4th, then celebrate on the 5th). However, like any good nurse, you would be remiss if you didn’t recognize your right to look out for the safety of your fellow Americans, especially on a holiday. Fireworks, picnic food, swimming pools and too much sun (http://blog.medicalsolutions.com/summer-travel-nursing/fourth-july-safety-guide-travel-nurses/ ) can all lead to trips to an ER where your colleagues are working hard through the holiday to offer medical help to those who weren’t so lucky to have a nurse as a guest at their festivities.
And so, on this 4th of July holiday, the staff of Educators in Nursing wishes all nurses, nurse educators and nursing students a very happy holiday! You have our thanks for protecting us, nurturing us, and proving every day why the independence we fight for so valiantly is so vital.
