Under the powerful theme of the International Council of Nurses (ICN) for this year, the Organization of Nurses of Aruba (ODEA) extends a warm congratulations to all care professionals on our island. This year, the global focus is on the economic value of nursing and the urgent need to empower this workforce to guarantee a resilient healthcare system. EMPOWERMENT AND THE AruBIG CHALLENGE: For the impacts of nursing to be greater, professionals must be duly empowered. This entails not only participating in daily care decisions but also in strategic public health decisions in Aruba. A cardinal point for ODEA is the introduction of AruBIG. Although the registration process is accessible for those with MBO-4, HBO-V, Nurse Practitioner, or Nursing Specialist diplomas, the real challenge lies in re-registration. ODEA makes a call for: PROTECTION OF THE TITLE – A GUARANTEE FOR ARUBA: The introduction of this registry is of utmost importance for the citizen. The title of nurse is a protected title. This means that only those with a recognized diploma and the proper capacity can bear this name. ODEA emphasizes that it must be ensured that not only within institutions but also outside of them, all those providing care have their credentials in order. A CALL TO THE FUTURE GENERATION: Aruba, like the rest of the world, is facing a critical shortage of nurses in hospitals, care facilities, home care, and education. In this context, ODEA encourages: RECOGNITION AND TEAMWORK: This week is an opportunity to shine a light on nurses, caregivers, and nursing specialists. However, a nurse cannot function without stakeholders. ODEA values the teamwork of all health professionals but asks the community and businesses to put the nurse at the center of appreciation this week. Congratulations to all Nurses of Aruba! Let us show our appreciation for the people who are there for us when a health challenge knocks at our door. Your love and sacrifice are the foundation of our wellbeing.
