By: Kelly Guzman, MN, RN, EDAC, FAAN

“Nurses Make the Difference” is this year’s National Nurse’s Week theme. For almost 20 years, my nursing career has focused on elevating the nurse’s voice in healthcare design. This year’s theme resonates deeply as healthcare design is more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that nurture healing, support efficiency, and enhance the overall patient experience. Nurses play a pivotal role in the design process, guiding the creation of environments prioritizing patient well-being and staff satisfaction.

At the core of every healthcare facility, nurses are the unwavering backbone of operations. They connect with patients, provide medical care, and give emotional support. They understand the intricacies of patient flow, the significance of accessibility, and the influence of environmental factors on recovery.

Dress Rehearsal events are an opportunity to test the layout of patient rooms, the integration of technology, and new paths of travel. Frontline staff participation is what makes these events so special. Nurses bring a unique perspective to healthcare design rooted in their understanding of patient needs and clinical workflows.

By actively engaging nurses in the design process, healthcare facilities can create workflows and environments that are functional and conducive to delivering excellent care.

Nurses Week is a poignant reminder of nurses’ vital role in healthcare design and beyond. It’s an opportunity to celebrate their unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence. As we reflect on the theme “Nurses Make the Difference,” let us recognize and honor nurses’ profound impact on shaping the future of healthcare, while enriching the lives of patients, families, and communities.

Thank you to all the brave and courageous nurse leaders with whom I have had the pleasure of working over the course of my career. Each of you has inspired me through your commitment to our communities. Cheers to you!