Saint Lucia joined the global observance of International Nurses Day on May 12 with renewed recognition of the critical role nurses play within the healthcare system, as the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the profession through training, support, and investment.
Chief Nursing Officer, Kurthney Charlemagne-Surage, described nurses as central to the nation’s healthcare delivery, stating that this year’s theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future, Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” reflects the realities facing the profession and the importance of equipping nurses to meet growing demands.
“Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare, the guardians of compassion and the architects of a healthier future,” Charlemagne-Surage said.
She explained that empowerment within the nursing profession extends far beyond symbolic recognition.
“Empowerment is not a slogan, it is a call to action. It means ensuring that every nurse has the voice, the tools and the support to practice at the highest level of their training,” she stated.
According to the Chief Nursing Officer, empowerment also means “creating safe workplaces, investing in education and nurturing leadership so that nurses can stand tall as advocates, innovators and decision makers.”
“We know that when nurses are empowered, patients thrive. When nurses are empowered, communities grow stronger,” she added.
Charlemagne-Surage said the Ministry of Health continues to prioritize professional development through continuing educational sessions and training initiatives aimed at building the capacities and competencies of healthcare staff across the island.
“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is proud to stand at the forefront of this movement,” she said.
“Through the ongoing commitment to professional development and continuing educational sessions this month, aimed at building capacities and competencies among the current cadre of staff, we are building on traditions that honor compassion, leadership and excellence.”
She stressed that such initiatives represent more than administrative programmes.
“These are not just programs, they are promises to our nurses that their contributions will never go unnoticed,” Charlemagne-Surage declared.
The Chief Nursing Officer also acknowledged the ongoing pressures confronting healthcare workers, including staff shortages, demanding workloads, and the emotional burden associated with patient care.
“But empowerment also means resilience,” she said. “The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition acknowledges the challenges, staff shortages, heavy workloads and the emotional toll of care.”
Despite those difficulties, she praised the dedication shown daily by nurses throughout Saint Lucia’s healthcare institutions.
“Yet, we also recognize the courage, creativity and solidarity that every nurse brings to the ward, clinic and community,” Charlemagne-Surage noted.
“You are the light in moments of darkness, the steady hand in times of crisis and the voice of hope when silence feels overwhelming.”
She further pledged that the Ministry would continue advocating for improved conditions and increased investment in the profession.
“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is committed to continue to champion the well-being of nurses, amplify their voices and continue to advocate for increased investment in the profession,” she stated.
During her address, Charlemagne-Surage also paid tribute to Nurse Karen Louis, whose recent passing has deeply affected the nursing community.
“The Ministry of Health also wants to take this opportunity during Nurses Week to remember Nurse Karen Louis who passed away suddenly last week. This loss is deeply felt across the nursing fraternity,” she said.
“In this moment of grief, let us nurses support each other and honor her memory, dedication and courage and also her contribution to the health sector.”
She extended condolences to Louis’ relatives, colleagues, and the staff of St Jude Hospital, particularly the pediatric ward where she served.
“May we find comfort in shared memories and strength in unity. Sincere condolences to her family, friends and staff of the St Jude Hospital, especially the pediatric ward where she was assigned,” Charlemagne-Surage added.