Gifts for National Nurses Week

Nurses just may be the hardest working and most under appreciated professionals on the workforce today. Working long hours, late shifts and helping to provide care for hundreds of people throughout the year, these vital healthcare providers deserve a much needed pat on the back.

National Nurses Week, held this May 6-12 is the perfect time to show your admiration for your nursing staff at your hospital, nursing home or health facility. And don't forget visiting nurses, school nurses and assisted living care nurses.

Take the time to have a party or recognition event at the end of each team's shift. Serve bagels, donuts and coffee in the morning, pizza for lunch or ice cream and cake in the afternoon or evening. Decorate your entire facility with balloons. Add a special touch by serving on decorated cups and plates that show your facility's name and a special appreciation message.

Decorate your entire facility so other teams, residents and visitors can share in the joy. Hang posters or banners in hallways, cafeterias and waiting areas. Invite local politicians or speakers to come address your event. Take plenty of photos and display after your event to keep your message of appreciation alive for weeks or months of added goodwill.

Offer special awards for nursing staff members who have gone beyond the call of duty with recognition plaques and engraved crystal. Honor perfect attendence recipients with lapel pins. Make sure to hand out awards with the entire staff present. Mention accomplishments in your organization'snewsletter or send to your local newspaper or community website.

Nurses spend most of their time on their feet and on the move. How about handing out soothing lotion with a special message printed on the container. And for stress, distribute fun stress ball relievers. A small token of appreciation will act as a daily reminder or how much you care about your staff.

Night shift nurses will appreciate coffee mugs with a warm message of encouragement printed on the side. They'll also carry stylish tote bags with pride. Your sentiment will be remembered long after National Nurses Week.

Choose from a wide selection of gifts for nurses. And remember to honor your nursing assistants, too! By throwing a memorable event and handing out fun and useful gifts, you will be buidling much needed pride and loyalty.