To: County of Sonoma Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): Department of Health Services
Staff Name and Phone Number: Nolan Sullivan, 707-565-4474; Amelyn Olson, 707-565-2696
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supervisorial District(s): Countywide
Recommended Action:
Title
Adopt a Gold Resolution proclaiming the week of May 6 through May 12, 2025 as National Nurses Week in Sonoma County.
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Executive Summary:
Since 1974, May 6 through May 12 has been recognized in the United States as National Nurses Week, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of nurses and honoring Florence Nightingale, who was born on May 12, 1820. By adopting this Gold Resolution, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors affirms the essential role of nurses in advancing public health and the well-being of the county's residents. The 2025 theme, "The Power of Nurses to Transform Health," underscores the critical influence of nurses in shaping healthcare outcomes, addressing health disparities, and fostering healthier communities. County nursing staff are integral to assessing the health of communities, driving preventive health initiatives, and guiding some of the most vulnerable populations toward improved physical and mental well-being.
Discussion:
The theme for National Nurses Week in 2025, "The Power of Nurses to Transform Health," highlights the profound impact that nurses have on individual and community health. Nurses are uniquely situated within the health care system to serve the complete needs of individuals and families. They meet patients where they are and are often the person with whom patients interact most. Nurses can understand what individuals and the system need like few others.
Nurses advocate for systemic changes to improve health equity and address social determinants of health. They work with policymakers, community organizations, and underserved populations to eliminate barriers to healthcare access and improve health literacy. By championing preventive care and holistic health interventions, they play a crucial role in shaping a healthier future for all Sonoma County residents.
Nurses conduct health assessments, provide education, and link individuals to community resources, serving populations with varied health, social, and economic needs. They play a key role in addressing public health crises, including infectious disease outbreaks investigation and management, case management of children with medically complex and fragile conditions, maternal-child health support, protective services for child, vulnerable adult and the elderly, and disaster response efforts. Their work helps reduce health disparities and ensure equitable access to care for all residents.
In recognizing National Nurses Week, we recommend the Board of Supervisors to adopt the Gold Resolution to acknowledge the dedication, expertise, and compassion that nurses bring to their work every day. Their commitment to public health and direct patient care not only improves individual well-being but also strengthens the overall health of the Sonoma County community. This resolution serves as a formal expression of appreciation for the invaluable contributions of nurses and their role in transforming health for all.
Prior Board Actions:
On April 30, 2024, the Board adopted a resolution proclaiming the Week of May 6 through May 12, 2024 as National Nurses Week in Sonoma County.
On April 18, 2023, the Board adopted a resolution proclaiming the Week of May 6 through May 12, 2023 as National Nurses Week in Sonoma County.
On April 30, 2019 the Board adopted a resolution proclaiming the Week of May 6 through May 12, 2019 as National Nurses Week in Sonoma County.
On May 8, 2018 the Board adopted a resolution proclaiming the Week of May 6 through May 12, 2018 as National Nurses Week in Sonoma County.
Fiscal Summary
Narrative Explanation of Fiscal Impacts:
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Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
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Attachments:
Attachment 1 - Resolution
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board:
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