[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 56 (Wednesday, April 9, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E551]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE CONTRIBUTION OF NURSES

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                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 9, 2008

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge 
the noble and essential role nurses play in providing quality health 
care across our Nation.
  Our Nation's health care system is complex and every day people with 
all types of needs are cared for by qualified and professional nurses. 
Every individual can remember an experience when someone they loved 
needed health care and a nurse was the first person by their side 
providing compassionate and essential care. My wife, a registered nurse 
works on the front lines of caring for Americans and like so many 
nurses, her devotion extends beyond the workforce; as she goes home 
every day after work and is just as thoughtful and attentive to the 
needs of our family. The tireless efforts made by nurses to provide 
nurture and solace are an inspiration to all.
  A growing number of nurses are essential to ensuring all people 
receive quality care; and our Nation's public health infrastructure has 
the professionals necessary to respond to natural and manmade 
disasters. The Department of Health and Human Services projects the 
current ten percent vacancy rates in registered nurses will grow to 36 
percent by the year 2020, representing more than one million unfilled 
jobs. We must make sure to provide strong Congressional leadership, 
unflagging support, and the Federal funding necessary to ensure the 
United States continues to maintain a steady supply of nurses to care 
for the patients of today and tomorrow.
  Madam Speaker, in honor of their unwavering commitment, dedication, 
and selflessness, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring nurses and 
their exemplary service to our community and our country.

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