Category: October Weeks

  • NATIONAL HEALTHCARE QUALITY WEEK – First Full Week in October

    NATIONAL HEALTHCARE QUALITY WEEK

    Every year during the third week in October, National Healthcare Quality Week recognizes the professional who strives for a safe, quality patient experience throughout the industry. The week also focuses on tools and protocols designed to improve outcomes and provide the highest quality care possible.

    Healthcare quality professionals focus on enhancing patient care and improving outcomes and value. They work in every area of healthcare. Some of their primary roles include patient safety, regulation, accreditation, analytics, quality review and more.

    Organizations and healthcare professionals across the country participate in the annual event. They honor healthcare quality professionals and their contributions to patient care. Their positive impact on the industry means greater quality care for all.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #HealthcareQualityWeek

    Industry leaders host events throughout the week. They invite healthcare professionals to join webinars, lunches, and talks that honor healthcare quality professionals. These events also provide information about how the industry is doing and what can be done to continue to improve healthcare quality. Participate by offering events such as these or participating in local and online events. Show your support for healthcare quality, too. When you do, use #HealthcareQualityWeek or #HQW.

    NATIONAL HEALTHCARE QUALITY WEEK HISTORY

    The National Association for Healthcare Quality sponsors National Healthcare Quality Week annually. The organization hosts several events both online and nationally. Their promotions recognize healthcare quality professionals and address topics that are aimed at improving the industry overall.

     

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  • NATIONAL RED RIBBON WEEK – Last Week in October

    NATIONAL RED RIBBON WEEK

    Every year during the last week in October, the country comes together for National Red Ribbon Week. This weeklong observance is considered the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation. The campaign focuses on the mission of keeping kids drug-free.

    In 1971, President Richard Nixon officially declared a “War on Drugs.” He stated that drug abuse was “public enemy number one.” During the 1980s, President Ronald Reagan expanded many of the policies Nixon had put into place. In 1984, Nancy Reagan began her campaign, “Just Say No” to drugs. The Red Ribbon campaign joined the fight against drugs in 1985.

    In the years following, there continued to be much education and awareness about the dangers of drugs. Some would say these campaigns have been successful in reaching the youth. In 1997, about 43 percent of adolescents had used illicit drugs at some point in their life. In 2019, this number had gone down to 35 percent of adolescents. However, while drug use among adolescents has declined, the number of drug overdose deaths is on the rise.

    Another troubling statistic is that more adolescents are abusing prescription drugs. In 2014, more than 5,700 adolescents misused prescription drugs. These prescription drugs include stimulants, opioids, and depressants.

    To help curb these statistics, parents are encouraged to talk to their kids about drugs. They are also encouraged to be positive role models for their children. Parent involvement is one of the most effective ways to keep kids drug-free. Parents should also realize the signs their child is abusing drugs. Some of these signs include mood swings, memory problems, weight changes, evasive answers to questions, and abandoning social activities. The sooner a parent recognizes their child has a drug problem, the easier it can be to help them.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalRedRibbonWeek

    The best way to observe this week is to wear a red ribbon. Other ways to participate include:

    • Talk to your children about the dangers of drugs.
    • Encourage your child to make a drug-free pact with their friends.
    • Help your child plan a red ribbon rally at their school.
    • Learn about people who have overcome their drug addiction and went on to succeed in life.
    • Watch movies about addiction and recovery, such as “Rush,” “Basketball Diaries,” and “Home Run.”
    • Find role models for your children, such as sports stars and celebrities who are against drug abuse.

    Spread awareness for this important week on social media with #NationalRedRibbonWeek

    NATIONAL RED RIBBON WEEK HISTORY

    The nonprofit organization, National Federation of Parents for Drug Free Youth formed in 1980. The organization later changed its name to National Family Partnership (NFP). As a grassroots organization consisting of parents, their goal is to nurture the full potential of drug-free youth. In 1985, drug traffickers kidnapped, tortured and murdered Drug Enforcement Agent, Enrique Camarena in Mexico. The violent act angered many parents and youth throughout the nation. To help raise awareness about the destruction caused by drugs, they wore red ribbons. This event was considered the first Red Ribbon campaign. In 1988, the NFP sponsored the country’s first weeklong National Red Ribbon Celebration. Since then, National Red Ribbon Week has been held every year during the last week in October.

     

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  • INTERNATIONAL POSTCARD WEEK – First Week in October

    INTERNATIONAL POSTCARD WEEK

    Every year during the first week in October, International Postcard Week celebrates these little cards that are fun to mail.

    The postcard became quite popular during the late 1800s and early 1900s. People loved how postcards made it quick and easy to communicate with one another. They also loved the fact that postcards did not require an envelope. And also, postage was less expensive on a postcard!

    Since that time, people around the world have embraced the postcard. They become especially popular for travelers. Postcards became a great way to send a picture of the place they were visiting. When visiting their destination, the traveler bought postcards and sent them to their friends and family. You may have even said to a loved one before going away, “I’ll send you a postcard!”

    Here are some fun facts about postcards:

    • The art of postcard collecting is called deltiology.
    • Donald McGill created the best-selling postcard of all time, which sold 6 million copies.
    • Old postcards are sold for hundreds and even thousands of dollars at auction.
    • Austria sent the first government-issued postcard in October 1869.
    • Many people believe the postcard was invented in France and was sent during the Franco-German War.

    To qualify as a postcard, it needs to be a particular size. Postcards are between 3.5 inches and 4.25 inches high and between 5 inches and 6 inches long. Postcards must also be at least .007 inches thick and no more than .016 inches thick.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #PostcardWeek

    The best way to observe this week is to send someone a postcard. If you can’t get out and buy one, why not design your own? Several online apps can help you do it. If you make your own, remember that postcards need to be a particular size. You can also go online and look at postcards from around the world. One more way to participate is to share and swap postcards with other collectors.

    You can download and print postcards from the National Day Calendar Classroom, too. Another way to celebrate is by discovering pen pals, like these 5 pairs of famous ones. However you celebrate, be sure to use #PostcardWeek to share on social media.

    INTERNATIONAL POSTCARD WEEK HISTORY

    Postcard enthusiast Brenda Perez created this special week. The first International Postcard Week was held during the first week of October in 2013.

     

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  • DISARMAMENT WEEK – Week of October 24

    DISARMAMENT WEEK – Week of October 24

    Every year, beginning on October 24th, Disarmament Week raises awareness about the dangers of the arms race. During the week, the UN urges Member States to advance international peace and security by eliminating nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction.

    An arms race is defined as a pattern of competitive acquisition of military capability between two or more countries. The competitive nature of an arms race reflects an adversarial relationship. Since the 20th century, two major arms races have occurred. The first was between Germany and Britain prior to WWI. Germany was a rising power who sought to challenge the UK’s naval dominance. Historians believe this arms race helped to start the Great War.

    The second major arms race of the 20th century occurred between the United States and Soviet Union. This nuclear arms race is often referred to as the Cold War. This arms race is believed to be the most expensive and largest arms race in history. By 1967, the U.S. had acquired more than 31,000 warheads. Twenty years later, the Soviets had more than 40,000 warheads.

    This arms race officially ended in the 1990s. Despite this fact, these two countries still have 90% of the world’s nuclear warheads. The United States has 6,185 and the Soviet Union has 6,490. Even more concerning is that as of 2019, many believe another nuclear arms race began. This current arms race involves China, North Korea, and Iran. Experts say this arms race will lead to a more dangerous and unstable environment. The arms race could also cause unwanted conflicts and the demand for increased military spending.

    Despite this current arms race, many regions of the world are developing nuclear-weapon-free-zones. These regions include the South Pacific, Africa, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Antarctic.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #DisarmamentWeek

    During this week the United Nations primarily focuses on nuclear disarmament. They also encourage disarmament efforts in the area of land mines, small arms, and other types of conventional weapons.
    To participate in the week learn more about the importance of the disarmament of nuclear weapons. You can also watch CNN’s Cold War documentary. Spread awareness for the week on social media with #DisarmamentWeek

    DISARMAMENT WEEK HISTORY

    Disarmament Week was established in 1978. That year, The Final Document of the General Assembly’s special session called Member States to abandon the use of force in international relations and seek security in disarmament. In 1995, the UN invited the government and NGOs to take an active part in Disarmament Week. It has been the goal ever since to create a better understanding of disarmament issues for the general public. The week begins on October 24th, which is the anniversary of the United Nations, which was formed in 1945.

     

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  • NATIONAL LEAD POISONING PREVENTION WEEK – Last Week in October

    NATIONAL LEAD POISONING PREVENTION WEEK

    Every year during the last week of October, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week raises awareness about lead poisoning. It’s also a day that focuses on helping individuals, organizations, and governments to work together to reduce childhood exposure to lead.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) children in 4 million households are exposed to high levels of lead. When lead builds up in the body, it results in lead poisoning. Children under the age of 6 are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. This is because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults. Also, children may inadvertently put things that contain lead into their mouths.

    Signs of lead poisoning in children include:

    • Developmental delays
    • Learning difficulties
    • Loss of appetite and weight loss
    • Feeling sluggish and fatigued
    • Seizures

    Babies in the womb can also have lead poisoning. Babies that are exposed to lead before birth might be born too early or have a low birth weight. Adults can get lead poisoning, too. Symptoms of lead poisoning in adults include high blood pressure, joint muscle and pain, problems with memory or concentration, headaches, and mood disorders.

    Lead poisoning occurs when children or adults are exposed to lead. Lead is found in batteries, pottery, roofing materials, soil, cosmetics, toys, and bullets. The United States banned lead-based paints in 1978. However, many people still live in older homes that were painted with lead-containing paint. It’s these people who are at the highest risk of lead poisoning. Families who live in homes with lead pipes are also at risk.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalLeadPoisoningPreventionWeek

    Many health organizations across the country hold events throughout the week. These events include webinars, presentations, and seminars on lead poisoning prevention. To participate:

    • If you’re concerned about lead in your home, get your family tested for lead poisoning.
    • Learn about lead and its negative effects on one’s health.
    • Talk to health officials and policymakers about ways to prevent lead poisoning in your community.
    • Watch the documentary Lead Poisoning…The Perfect Predator.

    Spread awareness for the week with #NationalLeadPoisoningPreventionWeek or #NLPPW

    NATIONAL LEAD POISONING PREVENTION WEEK HISTORY

    In 1999, the United States Senate designated the last week in October as National Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. The observance is more commonly known as National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW). The CDC, EPA, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and WHO coordinate events for NLPPW. Because of the success of the campaign in the U.S., the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and WHO created an International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in late 2012.

     

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  • PASTORAL CARE WEEK – Last Week In October

    PASTORAL CARE WEEK

    Every year during the last week of October, Pastoral Care Week provides opportunities for organizations and individuals to recognize spiritual caregivers and their ministry. This week is also known as Spiritual Care Week.

    Spiritual caregivers have a great responsibility for the spiritual health of their church and community. This responsibility often takes much of their time and energy. Caring for others is a huge sacrifice, as it sometimes takes them away from their own families. These spiritual caregivers and pastors are the ones that people call on in times of crisis. They must always be ready to pray or cry with someone who is struggling.

    Even though most spiritual caregivers are filled with peace, joy, patience, kindness, and other fruits of the spirit, it doesn’t mean they don’t ever struggle. The life of a spiritual caregiver can be stressful at times. Just consider the following statistics:

    • 72% of pastors work 55 to 75 hours a week.
    • 84% of pastors feel they are on call 24/7.
    • 65% of pastors fear they are not good enough to meet other people’s expectations.
    • 78% of pastors have had their vacation or family time interrupted with ministry duties.
    • 75% of pastors have had at least one stress-related crisis during their ministry.

    Thankfully, with an increase in clergy appreciation, 73% of churches are treating their pastors better than ever. Also, 90% of pastors feel they are where God called them to be. As things continue to get better for spiritual caregivers, hopefully, fewer pastors will experience burn out and continue with their important work.

    If you don’t already, pray for your pastor or spiritual caregiver this week, and every week.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #PastoralCareWeek

    During this week, many churches, places of worship, and organizations with a chaplain hold special services to provide encouragement for their pastoral staff. Church members also give cards and special gifts to their pastors. Some might even take their pastor and their family out for lunch. If you have a pastor or spiritual mentor in your life, this is the perfect week to show them your appreciation. You can also give a shout out to your pastor on social media with #PastoralCareWeek.

    PASTORAL CARE WEEK HISTORY

    The COMISS Network: The Network on Ministry in Specialized Settings, has been hosting Pastoral Care Week since October of 1985. The COMMIS Network is a group of organizations that come together to discuss the field of pastoral care and counseling. Each year, the COMISS Network chooses a special theme for Pastoral Care Week. Recent themes include:

    • 2020: Collaborative Health Care: Chaplains Complete the Picture
    • 2019: Hospitality: Cultivating Space
    • 2018: Hospitality: Cultivating Time
    • 2017: Hospitality: Cultivating Inclusion
    • 2016: Spiritual Resilience
    • 2015: Spiritual Care Together

     

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  • NATIONAL PHARMACY WEEK – Third Full Week in October

    NATIONAL PHARMACY WEEK

    Held during the third full week in October, National Pharmacy Week acknowledges the invaluable contributions pharmacists and technicians make to patient care.

    Did you know that one out of every two Americans take a least one prescription drug? With so many Americans taking prescription drugs, pharmacists play a more vital role than ever in our health care system. Not only do pharmacists provide medicine, but they also provide important information to patients. They need to know everything there is about the prescriptions they fill. This includes knowing how medications interact with one another.

    Along with dispensing medication, pharmacists work as researchers, educators, advocates, and counselors. Some pharmacists also give immunizations. They even help patients with weight management and smoking cessation. Additionally, pharmacists often work with insurance companies to ensure their patient’s medications are covered by their health insurance plan. National Pharmacy Week recognizes all these contributions and more!

    It’s clear that pharmacists have a direct impact on their patient’s health. No wonder pharmacists love their jobs! Here are some more reasons pharmacists enjoy their work:

    • They get to work directly with patients.
    • Pharmacists have job mobility, stability, and flexibility.
    • State-of-the-art technology gives pharmacists an advantage.
    • They are highly respected members of the community.

    Pharmacists don’t just work behind the counter. Some of them work in hospitals, nursing homes, and managed care organizations.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalPharmacyWeek

    During the week many pharmacies provide pharmacy tours and open houses. These events allow the public, as well as other healthcare workers, to get a glimpse into the daily operations of the pharmacy. These events also provide a chance for pharmacists to share success stories about improved patient outcomes. Some pharmacies also host meet and greets so that patients and caregivers can ask questions. Other events include brown-bag workshops, health fairs, and presentations.

    To participate, give your pharmacy or favorite pharmacist a shout out on social media this week with #NationalPharmacyWeek.

    NATIONAL PHARMACY WEEK HISTORY

    Robert J. Ruth, a pharmacist from Ashville, North Carolina proposed the idea of a National Pharmaceutical Week in 1924. He made the proposal during the annual meeting of the American Pharmacist Association (APhA). The first event was held October 11-17, 1925. The name of the week was eventually changed to National Pharmacy Week. Years later, in 2004, the APhA would declare the entire month of October as American Pharmacists Month.

     

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  • NUCLEAR SCIENCE WEEK – Third Week in October

    NUCLEAR SCIENCE WEEK

    Every year during the third week of October, Nuclear Science Week provides an opportunity to discuss the positive impact that nuclear technology has on our lives. The observance also invites educators, students, and employers to better understand nuclear science.

    The word nuclear means “of or relating to the nucleus of an atom.” Atoms are a necessary component of everything around us. Even human beings are composed of atoms. Nuclear science, then, is the study of the atomic world. In order to understand the universe, and ourselves, we need to know how atoms come together and interact. Atoms can also be combined with other atoms to produce medicines and more efficient materials.

    Science gives a Greek philosopher named Democritus credit for coming up with the idea of atoms back in 450 B.C. One hundred years later, Aristotle, a more well-known philosopher, thought the idea of an atom was ridiculous. Because of these beliefs, the world did not take the subject of atoms seriously until 1800.

    Around 1800, a British chemist named John Dalton revived Domocritis’s idea of atoms. After much research, Dalton established a theory of the atom. While science accepts most of his theory still today, science has disproved one area. Dalton’s theory suggests that atoms are the smallest particles. Since Dalton’s theory, scientists know now that there are smaller particles than the atom. Throughout the years, different scientists discovered electrons, protons, and the nucleus. All of these are components of nuclear science.

    Nuclear Science Week focuses on many uses of nuclear science found in physics, energy, medicine, environmental research, agriculture, mining, and archeology. Innovators also use nuclear science to make certain kinds of smoke detectors for the home.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NuclearScienceWeek

    Around the country, organizations hold a variety of events. Each year, a different city is chosen to host national events. Past host cities have included Albuquerque, Washington D.C., Chicago, Seattle, Knoxville, and Wilmington. Events have included hands-on demonstrations, workshops, educational seminars, nuclear science competitions, and exhibits.

    To participate:

    • Learn about nuclear science and its importance in the world.
    • Read about nuclear scientists including Marie Curie, Otto Hahn, Enrico Fermi, and Paul Dirac.
    • Involve your children. Do nuclear science activities and experiments with your kids.
    • Develop a nuclear science trivia contest for friends and family members.
    • Educators, host an essay-writing or poster contest for your students.
    • Do you use nuclear science? Share your experiences and innovations with others.

    However you celebrate, be sure to share this week on social media with #NuclearScienceWeek

    NUCLEAR SCIENCE WEEK HISTORY

    In 2009, the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History expressed the need to generate public awareness on the achievements of nuclear science. The museum, along with several energy partners, formed a steering committee for Nuclear Science Week. From 2010 to 2012, they held week-long nuclear science celebrations in January. To widen participation, organizers changed the celebration from the cold month of January to the third week in October.

     

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  • EMERGENCY NURSES WEEK – Week of Emergency Nurses Day in October

    EMERGENCY NURSES WEEK

    Emergency Nurses Week recognizes the unique value of emergency, ER, or trauma nurses. It always takes place the week surrounding Emergency Nurses Day, the second Wednesday in October each year.

    These professionals focus on the immediate care of patients who require medical attention to avoid long-term disability or death. It is a complex role, treating the trigger event for the emergency visit as well as communicating with the patient, the families, and the care team.

    This front line position is very people-centered, not only physically but emotionally too. People in emergency situations often feel distraught and upset. So, the emergency nurse must treat the emotions as well as the emergency medical issue. It can be chaotic, especially if the cause of the visit is a violent incident.

    Emergency nurses are in demand. Not only is because there a growing demand for emergency health care, but also, there is a high turnover rate for emergency nurses. That’s why the latest employment trend in the field is for traveling, ER, or trauma nurse. They work for a traveling nursing agency that sends them around the country to live and work in a critical need area. A quick search on the Internet shows 17,000 openings for traveling emergency or trauma nurse.

    HOW TO OBSERVE EMERGENCY NURSES WEEK 

    The week honors nurses who are often highly stressed by the chaotic and rushed environment in which they work.

    • Write a thank you note to an emergency nurse or emergency nursing department that has helped you.
    • Use #emergencynursingweek, #ENWeek, or,#YouMakeADifference
    • Follow the exciting posts of Emergency Nursing on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/emergencynursing
    • Follow Emergency Nursing Association on Twitter @ENAorg
    • Read what it’s like to experience a day in the life of an emergency room nurse https://dailynurse.com/day-life-emergency-room-nurse/
    • Invite an Emergency Nurse to speak to your power lunch, brown bag lunch, or service club.
    • Look for then sign up with your local hospital or clinic’s emergency nursing department to participate in an injury prevention presentation.
    • Host an injury prevention program with your local emergency nursing staff in your community.

    NATIONAL EMERGENCY WEEK HISTORY

    • 1989, the organization Emergency Nursing Association (ENA) has recognized the second Wednesday in October as Emergency Nurses Day.
    • 2001, ENA expanded the celebration to devote an entire week to honoring emergency nurses.

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  • NATIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY WEEK – Last Week in October

    NATIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY WEEK

    Every year during the last week in October, National Massage Therapy Week celebrates the massage therapy profession. Also known as National Massage Therapy Awareness Week, the week promotes the many benefits of therapeutic massage.

    If you have never gotten a massage, you are missing out. Massage promotes many health benefits including relieving stress and tension. Other proven benefits of massage therapy include:

    • Relieves pain
    • Reduces anxiety
    • Improves sleep
    • Promotes relaxation
    • Increases range of motion
    • Reduces chemotherapy-related nausea
    • Eases symptoms of depression
    • Improves cardiovascular health
    • Lowers blood pressure
    • Reduces headache pain and also the frequency of migraines

    Those who trained in massage therapy and are educated about its benefits provide the best massages. These specially-trained professionals are called massage therapists. Massage therapists attend a special school where they attain a certificate of massage therapy. They must also take an approved national exam in massage therapy. After passing the exam, a massage therapist applies for a license in the state they are practicing. Throughout their career, they must continue to meet education requirements. Most massage therapists are self-employed.

    Massage therapists perform several kinds of massages. Each type of massage is used for a specific purpose. For example, a Swedish massage helps to remove knots in the muscles and relieves tension. An aromatherapy massage boosts the mood and alleviates symptoms of depression. Other types of massages include deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, trigger point massage, reflexology, chair massage, and prenatal massage.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalMassageTherapyWeek

    Members and chapters of the AMTA celebrate this week in fun and unique ways. They hold public massage demonstrations and educational sessions on the benefits of massage therapy. Members of the AMTA also provide massage therapy for charitable events. Here are some ways for you to participate:

    • If you have never had a massage, this is the perfect week to get one.
    • Thank your massage therapist for helping you feel your best.
    • Learn more about the different types of massage.
    • Buy a friend or loved one a gift certificate for a massage.
    • Share your story of how massage therapy has benefited you.

    Spread awareness for this week on social media with #NationalMassageTherapyAwarenessWeek.

    NATIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY AWARENESS WEEK HISTORY

    The AMTA started National Massage Therapy Awareness Week in 1997 to raise awareness about the benefits of massage.

     

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