Recognizing Nephrology Nurses Week
Floor Speech
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Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the vital contributions of nephrology nurses and address the profound impact Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has on the Greater Philadelphia Community. Nephrology nurses are critical to the support and care of patients who suffer with CKD and often go above and beyond to meet their patients' needs. Recognizing their critical work, I am proud to support the designation of September 8-14, 2024, as National Nephrology Nurses Week.
CKD statistics are staggering: about 1 in 7 Americans are affected by chronic kidney disease, over 1.8 million people in Pennsylvania alone. We must provide the necessary education and care to this vulnerable population and their families and recognize the significance of the nurses who practice in all areas of nephrology.
Nephrology nurses practice in countless different areas as they care for patients with CKD, such as inpatient (hospital) and outpatient hemodialysis, transplantation, home therapy, pediatric dialysis, and CKD education. Nephrology nurses' responsibilities include care coordination, outcome management, supervision and delegation, patient- centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and focused, one-on-one teaching of patients, their families, and their support systems.
I call upon all members of our community to join me in celebrating the strength, courage, and dedication of nephrology nurses. Let us honor those who care for this patient population in the Greater Philadelphia area and reaffirm our commitment to supporting these dedicated nurses.
Congress should also support the designation of September 8-14, 2024, as National Nephrology Nurses Week. Together, let us acknowledge the role of these nurses in our community regarding the care and support of those with CKD.
I encourage all individuals to learn more about chronic kidney disease and the impact it has on our health system and our population in Pennsylvania, as well as celebrate the invaluable impact made by nephrology nurses.
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