Media Statement
Thursday 6 May 2004
International Nurses and Midwives Day Exhibition
A multi-media exhibition celebrating nurses and midwives offers a unique opportunity for the public to learn more about
both careers.
The exhibition at Tairawhiti District Health (TDH) will mark International Nurses Day and International Midwives Day,
both celebrated in May.
The event has been organised by TDH’s most senior nurse, Professional Nursing Advisor Andrew Charnock.
“Both days, as well as the exhibition, give us an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of nurses and midwives now
and through the decades,” says Mr Charnock.
“It will also provide the public a rare opportunity to see what a career in midwifery or nursing might be like.”
Public are invited to visit the exhibition between 10am and 2pm on Wednesday 12 May in Gisborne Hospital’s Chapel.
Mr Charnock encouraged retired nurses and midwives, or those who have been away from the profession for a period of
time, to also visit the exhibition.
“The roles of nurses and midwives are constantly expanding to keep pace with a changing world. However the basic focus
remains the same – these staff are always there for you and we want to acknowledge that at the exhibition.”
The Tairawhiti Innovative Nursing Team, which recently set up a unique nursing clinic at Juken Nissho Ltd will be at the
exhibition.
Other attractions are a photo exposition portraying the day-to-day work of TDH nurses and midwives, a display of local
newspaper articles relating to nursing and midwifery, and a presentation of the latest CPR training equipment.
Local nursing memorabilia and hospital equipment dating back to the sixties and sourced from a local collection will
also be on display.
Mr Charnock said TDH staff will be on hand to talk to visitors about the role of nurses and midwives in the health
sector.
“Nursing and midwifery today is more varied than in the past and these professionals must have a wide knowledge base,”
says Mr Charnock.
“I expect other TDH staff as well as visitors to be surprised and impressed when they discover more about the role
nurses and midwives play, especially in the wider community.”
International Nurses Day this year is on Wednesday 12 May while International Midwives Day is on Wednesday 5 May.
ENDS