n Editorial: Ordinary Essential

n EDITORIAL Ordinary Essentials

The phrases, “Never again” and “Never forget” are etched on memorials to holocaust survivors and in the hearts of those whose loved ones were murdered in communities destroyed by violent conflicts. Uttered by people outspoken against genocide and oppression, the words forewarn of atrocities that can and will perpetuate unless actively thwarted. In light of Russia’s war in Ukraine, many ask, “Why again?” and “Did we forget?”

Today, so many seek a secure place to live and thrive. Ukrainians, Afghans, Central and South American people are fleeing violent conflict in their native countries. Individuals everywhere struggle against many kinds of marginalization. Many of us take for granted precious, simple things: running water, food choices, a safe neighborhood, home, family, pets, and the comfort of mundane daily routines—but these are privileges worth fighting for.

In “Venting the Truth About COVID 19,” a history of pandemic and disease repeats itself. Outraged by soldiers dying of minor wounds, Florence Nightingale challenged “the way things were done” in the Crimean War Hospital. She used objective methods to identify hazardous infectious practices, implement hygienic change, and reduce casualties. Her approaches contributed to the modernization of health care. Interplay among government bureaucracy, egotistical leaders, pathogens, greed, and human nature fueled the pandemic. The resultant cacophony of injustices are being addressed by nursing unions, which amplify the voices of nurses demanding PPE and calling for safe health practices based on truth, for OSHA worker protection, and for sound public policy in defense of vulnerable healthcare workers.

In “Breastfeeding Disparities Among Communities Lacking Access to Lactation Consultants During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Theory-Guided Paper,” the authors recognize complex barriers encountered by mothers, particularly from economically disadvantaged Black communities. Their challenge to marshal community and hospital resources through a breastfeeding sponsorship program empowers mothers to provide the best kind of nutrition available to their baby. Here, women and caregivers are cognizant of the oppressive social forces of racism and modern isolation that can distress the fragile and emotionally charged weeks of early motherhood and child life. The article demonstrates the wisdom of ages, calling upon “a village” to boldly, gently promote the strength and well-being of the next generation.

In “Sexual Well-Being and Screening for Risky Sexual Behaviors: A Quantitative Retrospective Study,” it seems that young adults who were cultivated with certain gender norms and cultural pressures are predisposed to risk tolerance in their sexual lives. Given the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic, it is essential for young adults to make accurately informed decisions. Through screening and education, youth are supported by a caring, open campus health environment that challenges them to recognize and modify bodily and emotionally unsafe sexual practices.

We are struck by the hope, compassion, determination, and willingness of people who unite and stand to challenge oppression in order to retain what they hold dear. Healthcare workers support efforts to address building improved practices, equity in health care, and continued improvement in a sometimes-broken system. The articles in this issue reflect the invaluable nature of the ordinary; we applaud the efforts of those authors and readers who choose—and fight—to keep it.

Anne Bové, MSN, RN-BC, CCRN, ANP Audrey Graham-O’Gilvie, DNP, RN, ACNS-BC, CCRN-k Meredith King-Jensen, PhD, MSN, RN Alsacia L. Sepulveda-Pacsi, PhD, DNS, RN, FNP, CCRN, CEN Coreen Simmons, PhD-c, DNP, MSN, MPH, RN