[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 56 (Thursday, April 2, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E856]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING TENNESSEE'S NURSES DURING NATIONAL NURSES WEEK, MAY 6-12, 2009

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                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 2, 2009

  Mr. GORDON of Tennessee. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor all 
nurses nationwide and to celebrate National Nurses Week, which begins 
on May 6, 2009. The week long commemoration honors all nurses, and ends 
on May 12, Florence Nightingale's birthday.
  This year's theme, ``Nurses: Building a Healthy America,'' addresses 
the important role nurses have in our society. Research has shown that 
when there are more registered nurses working in health care 
facilities, there are lower mortality rates, shorter lengths of stay, 
fewer complications, and lower costs.
  As a member of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, I have consistently 
supported legislation protecting nurses' rights and funding increases 
for nursing education. There is much work, however, that still needs to 
be done.
  Currently, there is a national nurse shortage. By the year 2020, it 
is predicted Tennessee alone will have a shortage of 9,495 registered 
nurses. I hope that National Nurses Week will mark the beginning of a 
trend in the recruitment and retention of nurses throughout our 
country.
  Undoubtedly, we have all been positively affected by nurses at some 
point in our lives. Whether they have cared for a family member, a 
friend, or a loved one, we can all be grateful for their hard work and 
service to our communities.
  I want to use this opportunity to thank nurses in Tennessee and 
across the country.

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