By Jared Sanders, MSN, APRN, ACNPC-AG, FNP-C
Each year during National Nurses Week, we take a moment to recognize the quiet heroes who are the lifeblood of our healthcare system: nurses. At every stage of life—from birth to the final moments—nurses provide not just expert medical care, but the compassion, support, and advocacy that patients and families so deeply need.
At the heart of this care lies a commitment to healing, empathy, and trust. Nurses are often the first to comfort, the last to reassure, and the constant presence that bridges uncertainty with stability. They offer more than clinical skill; they offer a human connection that is irreplaceable.
As a Nurse Practitioner (NP), I’ve witnessed firsthand how our role has evolved to meet the growing needs of patients and communities—especially in places where access to healthcare is limited. But no matter how advanced our clinical training becomes, we never lose sight of our roots in nursing. Our identity is built on that same foundation of compassion, holistic care, and advocacy.
Nurse Practitioners unite the art of nursing with the science of medicine. We diagnose, treat, and manage complex health conditions while holding onto the values that define our profession. That dual role is powerful—it allows us to act as both skilled clinicians and dedicated patient advocates.
Across Missouri, NPs are filling critical healthcare gaps—particularly in rural and underserved areas. We’re increasing access, reducing delays, and improving outcomes. But to do more, we need continued support. Enabling NPs to practice to the full extent of their education and training is not just about professional recognition—it’s about ensuring timely, quality care for all Missourians.
During this National Nurses Week, let’s celebrate every nurse, from the bedside to the clinic, who shows up with heart, purpose, and resilience. And let’s champion policies that empower Nurse Practitioners to continue leading the charge in transforming healthcare—one patient, one community at a time.
