The flicker of an oil lamp told wounded war soldiers that Florence Nightingale, pioneer of modern nursing, was near making her nightly rounds. With knowledge, skill and genuine caring, she could brighten even the darkest of times. Today, Nightingale's passion continues to light the way…
Answering the call
Even before the opening of St. Luke's Hospital, now MeritCare, our founding physicians recognized the important role of well-trained, compassionate nurses. But in 1908, where would they find these talented nurses? Meet Sisters Osa Oppedahl, Sina Howland and Grace Hagen – three courageous nurses from the Norwegian Lutheran Deaconess House and Hospital in Chicago who answered the call.
The new 35-bed hospital opened on Feb. 25, filling to capacity in three days. The Sisters acted quickly. They recruited and trained three student nurses for caring, healing and serving. Today, over 2,000 nurses work at MeritCare, making a difference in countless lives.
Extraordinary care begins with education
St. Luke's School of Nursing opened in 1908, with the first class of three graduating in 1910. Demand for high quality nurses combined with a supportive environment for learning set the stage for the School of Nursing's celebrated 79-year history. In all, 2,811 nurses graduated, contributing much to our tradition of extraordinary care.
Today, nursing education continues at MeritCare. Throughout the year, we host more than 350 nursing students from 15 of the finest nursing programs in this region, providing quality clinical experiences to help prepare them for exceptional service; many pursue careers at MeritCare.
Vision, values and voice
Nurses of 100 years ago changed bed linens, bathed patients, collected specimens, applied hot cloths and dressed wounds. The role of today's nurse goes far beyond, taking many paths – hospitals, clinics, specialty areas, management, home health, research, education and more. Advances in medical care is one reason, but there's another important reason, too: Nurses at all levels show leadership through their vision, values and voice. Many MeritCare nurses have taken their careers to the next level by pursuing a professional certification in their area of specialty, advancing their nursing education to become advanced practice registered nurses and becoming formal nursing leaders. But always, healing is at the heart of nursing.
Thank You MeritCare Nurses
Nurses are vital to our patients, their families and our region. As we celebrate National Nurses Day on May 6, please join me in thanking these dedicated nurses for the intelligence and empathy they bring to patient care every day. They exemplify the art and science of nursing, improving the health and quality of life of the people we serve.
Sincerely,
Roger L. Gilbertson, M.D.
President/CEO