July 1, 2008
The UAB Student Nurses' Association (SNA) is showing American military nurses how much their service is appreciated and the Iraqi people how much they care by sponsoring "Nurses Helping Nurses" to send care packages to Iraq. UAB student nurses have spent the past several weeks collecting items and are packing a shipment to go out in honor of the July 4 Independence Day Holiday.
UAB School of Nursing faculty members have been in contact with a UAB alumnus and nurse serving in Iraq. She mentioned how the roles of nurses are changing there as Iraqis have become more comfortable seeking care from American military personnel. As a result, military nurses and doctors are delivering babies and caring for burn victims, including children. The UAB SNA students created the program as a way to send the nurses comfort items from home and items such as baby clothes and blankets to give to the Iraqi families leaving the hospital with a new baby. In addition to donated items, the students are collecting letters or cards of encouragement to pass on to the nurses in Iraq to show these war-zone nurses they are valued.
The UAB SNA will continue to accept donations throughout the summer semester. Items can be dropped off in the collection boxes located in the UAB School of Nursing building on the ground floor in front of the student lounge, or on the first floor in front of the elevators. Items needed include:
For Civilians:
Flip Flops, all sizesLiquid Soap (Old Spice, Irish Spring)
Deodorant
Shaving Cream
Gold Bond Powder
Patient Gowns
AAA Batteries
Infant Hats, Clothes, Socks, Blankets
Twin-sized Flat Sheets
Baby Powder
For Nurses:
ShampooConditioner
Febreze Fabric Dryer Sheets
Good Coffee
Chocolate
Microwave Popcorn