After two years of caring for our community in pandemic conditions, it seems more appropriate than ever to recognize Certified Nurses Day this Saturday, March 19. Celebrated by health care professionals around the world, the day pays tribute to those nurses who have furthered their ability to care for patients by earning advanced certification in one or more specialty areas.

I am proud to share that when combined, Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital have 170 certified nurses, which benefits our patients and strengthens patient care. Research shows that certified nurses make better decisions, based on their knowledge of what has been proven to work. Moreover, certified nurses have demonstrated an engagement with their profession that increases patient safety and satisfaction.

Certified Nurses Day is celebrated on the anniversary of the birth of Margretta Madden Styles, RN, EdD, FAAN. An American nurse, author, educator and nursing school dean, Styles helped establish national standards for certifying nurses in pediatrics, cardiology and other medical specialties. Her work left an indelible mark on the nursing profession. She was instrumental in founding the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

If you or a loved one have been a patient at PBMC or WCGH, there is a good chance that a certified nurse was part of your care team. Please take a minute to reflect on all that they have done for you and for the health of our community, especially over these past two years, and join me in celebrating their achievements.

Ellen M. Leone, RN, MSN, is chief Nursing Officer of Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital