Week toasts nurses, technicians Published May 10, 2013 By 60th Medical Group Public Affairs 60th Medical Group Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The 60th Medical Group is celebrating National Nurse/Tech Week at David Grant USAF Medical Center, which is held on May 6 - also known as Nurses Recognition Day -- and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession. This year's theme is "Delivering Quality and Innovation in patient care." The theme reflects the essence of the nursing practice and the purpose why so many have chosen this path like Florence Nightingale. Florence Nightingale was called the year after the Crimean War began to gather a team of nurses to attend to the wounded and sick British soldiers. One of the many great innovations she carried out and is remembered was simply by delivering compassionate care and comfort to wounded British soldiers as she walked in dark hallways with her lamp. She is credited with reducing the hospital's death rate by two-thirds. The purpose of the weeklong celebration is to raise awareness of the value of nursing and help educate the public about the diverse ways in which nursing personnel -- who comprise the largest healthcare profession -- are working to improve the healthcare needs of the American people. From bedside nursing in medical centers, hospitals and outpatient clinics, the depth and breadth of the nursing profession is meeting the expanding health care needs of the Air Force community. These dedicated professionals promote and maintain the health and wellbeing of Air Force beneficiaries seven days a week, 365 days a year, Many serve around the world representing a career with more than 250 years of experience. Each continues to strive to deliver quality patient care.