American Red Cross Nursing Facts

FACTS | VOLUNTEER | FAQ

American Red Cross Nursing ... a presence throughout ... uplifting lives with compassion and special skills ... competent and prepared ... strengthening the organization with innovation and support ... enhancing communities.

Background:
Nurses have always been a cornerstone for the provision of services by the American Red Cross. Historically, Red Cross nurses have provided their assistance during times of disaster and conflict with the 1888 Yellow Fever Epidemic and the 1889 Johnstown Flood. The Red Cross Nursing Service was formally established by Jane Delano in 1909. Red Cross nursing has also had a major role in the historical evolution of nursing and nursing leadership in the United States with many Red Cross nurses, including Jane Delano, Clara Noyes, Julia Stimson and others playing strategic roles in the development of American nursing.

Nurse Involvement Today:
Today more than 40,000 nurses continue to be involved in employee and volunteer capacities at all levels and in all service areas throughout the American Red Cross. The following information provides examples of how nurses are involved in Red Cross activities:

Provide direct services: e. g., local Disaster Action Teams (DAT), Health Fairs, volunteer in military clinics and hospitals, blood collections team, tissue donor recruitment;
Teach and develop courses: CPR/First Aid, Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Disaster Health Services, Nurse Assistant Training, Babysitter Training, International Humanitarian Law, Family Caregiving;
Act in management and supervisory roles: including Chapter and Blood Region executives;
Serve in support functions: committee members, public relations, fund raising, marketing; and
Function in governance roles: local, state and national board roles; state Nurse Liaison roles.