During a discussion with several nurses last night, we acknowledged the importance of nurses having a passion for the profession, and how this passion makes a difference in patient care. When I view the trailer for The American Nurse: Healing America, I feel the passion in the voices of those nurses featured. I can only imagine the impact that viewing this entire feature documentary will have. It premieres during National Nurses Week and I am really looking forward to seeing it! 

In 2012, Carolyn Jones, a photographer and filmmaker, traveled across the United States documenting the work of nurses. Her book, The American Nurse, was published that year and includes portraits, interviews, and biographies of nurses she encountered on her journey. An interview with Jones reveals her passion for this project, despite not being a nurse herself. She states, “Nursing is real. I'm fascinated by how a nurse can help all different people, even people that have committed terrible crimes, with the same compassion that they can treat a friend.” She learned a lot during her conversations with nurses and her journey is bringing our important work into the eyes of the public. For that, I am grateful. 

I will leave you with this powerful quote from the mission of The American Nurse Project: 

“At some point in our life each of us will encounter a nurse, whether it be as a patient or as a loved one. And that one encounter can mean the difference between suffering and peace; between chaos and order. Nurses matter.”

I hope that many of you will get the opportunity to see this film. You can find a list of theaters here. I look forward to hearing what you think!