MASSENA -- Massena Memorial Hospital is celebrating what they call “National Nursing Assistants Week” by recognizing t"he important role these individuals play in the delivery of care to patients," the hospital said.

The hospital said it would like to recognize these “hardworking” staff members. MMH’s Nursing assistants team includes Mindy Bowles, Rosemary Deragon, Crystal Gilbride, Sara Guest, Amber LaPage, Dawn LaShomb, Aryanna Mossow, Jordan Munson, Kim Pelkey, Elly Ramsey, Kayla Vice and Kristy Young.

What MMH refers to as "National Nursing Assistants Week" began June 13.

"Nursing assistants have various responsibilities within healthcare settings. Daily duties include providing basic care to patients, including assistance with bathing, dressing, eating, and repositioning or moving the patient. Nursing assistants also record vital signs, dispense medications, and gather information from physicians and other clinicians about patients’ conditions and care plans to ensure their needs are met. In addition to directly caring for patients, nursing assistants clean, restock, and change the linens in patient areas," an MMH news release said.

“Nursing Assistants are a vital part of the patient care team as they spend the most “hands on” on time with the patient. NAs are responsible for providing direct patient care, ensuring patients comfort and safety, and helping the patient meet various health needs and goals. I'm extremely proud of our NAs at MMH; they truly make a positive impact on the well-being of our patients," Deb Cameron, Medical/Surgical/ICU Director, said in a prepared statement.