Nurses across Ohio’s Hospice volunteer to be a part of the Nursing Honor Guard. They travel to wherever the patient calls home to acknowledge a patient’s many years of service as a nurse.
The Nursing Honor Guard recognizes nurses who are in our care for their commitment to providing compassionate care to patients. Nurses dress in traditional and historical uniforms comprised of a blue and red cape, white dress and cap. The ceremony highlights a nurse’s career and individual achievements.
During the ceremony, the Nursing Honor Guard shares with the honoree, “Though your nursing tasks are complete, they are not forgotten. It is our honor to express our respect for you as a nurse and our gratitude for the care you have given.”
In addition, the nurses recite the Nightingale Pledge. This is a statement of the ethics and principles of the nursing profession. The Nightingale Pledge is often recited by nursing school graduates as part of their graduation ceremonies.
The Nursing Honor Guard ceremonies can be quite emotional and meaningful for patients and their families. Each ceremony is filled with pride and respect for the nurse who is being honored.
