An appreciation day on March 19 honoring nurses who achieve and maintain national board certification in their specialty, promoting higher standards of patient care and lifelong learning.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
The American Nurses Credentialing Center, in partnership with the American Nurses Association, created the observance in 2008, with over 70 organizations signing a proclamation at the first event. The date March 19 honors the birthday of nursing certification pioneer Dr. Margretta Styles.
Celebrate Certified Nurses Day on March 19 and show your appreciation for the hardworking nurses all around the world! This day was created to recognize and honor certified nurses who have dedicated their lives to helping others. It's a special day to thank these medical professionals for their compassion, skill, and commitment in providing quality healthcare.
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
When individuals choose to pursue certification as a nurse, it elevates the level of patient care across the board. It creates a culture of excellence within any organization or facility where certified nurses practice, ensuring that everyone is held to high standards of quality and safety.
By becoming certified, nurses demonstrate their commitment to providing the best possible care for their patients. Certified nurses are knowledgeable and experienced in their field, allowing them to make informed decisions about treatments and procedures that will benefit the patient.
In addition to general nursing knowledge, certified nurses possess specialized skills and expertise that enable them to provide more comprehensive care. They keep up with changing technology and trends in healthcare, which allows them to identify and address potential problems before they become major issues.
Show your appreciation for nurses this National Nurses Day! Show your support with donations, cards, and kind words to recognize their hard work.
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