As the Coronavirus pandemic has unfolded over the past several months, time appears like it has slowed to a standstill. We have seen how the general public have rushed to stockpile goods, while our courageous nurses have taken up the challenge to care for the sick, in the most difficult circumstances.

Nurses have the enormous privilege of carrying the burden of preserving human dignity amid worldwide uncertainty. Together with our medical colleagues, all nurses meet and care for people when they are at their most fragile, bringing hope to what in some cases is the worst times of their lives.

We, at the Australian College of Emergency Nursing, would like to give a big thank you to all our colleagues, who are working tirelessly on the frontline to care for people in need, in the fight against coronavirus. As a College supporting all aspects of emergency care, we are truly inspired by your personal commitment to making a difference in these unprecedented and challenging times. We see our colleagues going the extra mile to ensure people are truly cared for in the most proficient manner even after long and exhausting days. We see emergency nurses working alongside each other, supporting colleagues and using skills learned, both in the past and new skills, to overcome challenges in the face of adversity.

Emergency nurses have faced numerous challenges for many years over several decades. We have always stood by each other offering a shoulder to lean on and with team support and innovation we have always overcome adversity. These current times of uncertainty will test our resolve and patience but just remember we are strong and resilient, that is why we are emergency nurses.

Be assured that there will be success in the future to eradicate Coronavirus. In the meantime, we encourage you to take all possible precautions to ensure the health and safety of yourselves and your loved ones. We must remain vigilant and continue to work together to make a difference.

The Australian College of Emergency Nursing remains by your side, applauding the work our nurses achieve as we are all in this together.