Heath and Medical Services Assistant Minister Veena Bhatnagar yesterday reminded nurses that every decision while serving patients made a difference in the health system.

She was speaking yesterday at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital auditorium during the International Nurses Day celebrations . It was attended by over 200 nurses, retired nurses and matrons on May 12 which marks the birth of the founder of modern day nursing, Florence Nightingale.

“This year’s International Nurses Day celebrations will provide nurses the opportunity to celebrate with a difference by exploring other strategies that can improve our organisational resilience.”

Meanwhile, Fiji Nursing Services director Selina Ledua said it was also important to look out for the interest of our nurses.

“We face a number of challengers and over the years with the assistance from the Government, we continue to deliver the best service.”

St Giles celebration

At St Giles Hospital in Suva,  Senior Matron Miliakere Nasorovakawalu said it was an important day for their hard working staff.

“This is a very important day for our nurses especially with the mental health services where we have our nursing staff who are hardworking nurses here,” Ms Nasorovakawalu said.

“Nurses are to ensure healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all sorts of ages.

“Our nursing staff at St Giles play a very important role in developing a plan to align with ministry as well as this hospital.

“I salute our nursing staff at St Giles who take pride in being a nurse and care of such patients who need more assistance.”

The programme ended with a performance by the St Giles patients to mark the International Nurses Day celebrations