Date
Tuesday
May

May 6-12

National Nurses Week

It's time to honor and appreciate the hardworking heroes in scrubs during National Nurses Week - don't forget to thank a nurse!

Yearly Date
May 6
Type
Week

Introduction

Mark your calendars for May 6-12 because it's time to celebrate National Nurses Week! This week-long celebration was first established in 1954 by the American Nurses Association to honor and recognize the hard work and dedication of nurses across the country. From providing compassionate care to saving lives, nurses play a vital role in our healthcare system and deserve all the recognition they can get. So let's take this week to show our appreciation for these amazing healthcare heroes who make a difference in our lives every day!

National Nurses Week Timeline

1820
Florence Nightingale Born
Florence Nightingale, prominent nursing pioneer honoured during National Nurses Week, was born on May 12.
1954
First National Nurse Week
The first observance of National Nurse Week took place in January 1954 commemorating the 100th anniversary of Nightingale's mission in Crimea.
1971
ANA Shifts Date
The American Nurses Association Board of Directors changed the date to May to celebrate on the week ending on Nightingale's birthday.
1981
Recognized by Congress
Congress officially recognized National Nurses Week after efforts from New Mexico nurses led by Mercedes Van Durme.
1993
ANA Finalizes Dates
The American Nurses Association Board of Directors designated May 6-12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week.

How to Celebrate National Nurses Week

1

Host a nurse appreciation luncheon

Gather some friends and family members to celebrate the nurses in your life with a special luncheon dedicated to them. Show them how much they are appreciated for their hard work and dedication.

2

Send thank you cards to local hospitals

Take the time to write thank you cards to the nurses at your local hospitals. Let them know how much their efforts and sacrifices are appreciated by the community.

3

Organize a fundraiser for a nursing charity

Use this week as an opportunity to give back to the nursing community by organizing a fundraiser for a nursing charity. This could be a fun run, silent auction, or any other creative event.

4

Create a social media campaign to recognize nurses

Spread the love for nurses by creating a social media campaign to recognize their hard work and dedication. Use hashtags like #NationalNursesWeek or #NurseAppreciation to bring attention to their important role in healthcare.

5

Attend a nursing conference or workshop

Take this week as an opportunity to invest in yourself and your career by attending a nursing conference or workshop. You'll learn new skills and meet other nurses who share your passion for the field.

Why National Nurses Week is Important

A

It recognizes and appreciates nurses' hard work and dedication

National Nurses Week is a time to honor and celebrate the tireless efforts of nurses. Their job is demanding, both mentally and physically, and they often go above and beyond the call of duty to care for their patients. This week allows us to show our gratitude for all that they do.

B

It raises awareness about the importance of nursing

During National Nurses Week, there are often events and activities that focus on educating the public about the crucial role that nurses play in our healthcare system. It's a chance for people to learn more about what it takes to be a nurse and recognize the vital contributions they make to our society.

C

It promotes self-care among nurses

Nurses are notorious for putting their own health and well-being on the back burner while caring for others. National Nurses Week serves as a reminder for nurses to prioritize their own self-care and well-being. It also encourages healthcare organizations to provide resources and support for nurse self-care throughout the year.

National Nurses Week Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 5
Friday
2024
May 5
Sunday
2025
May 5
Monday
2026
May 5
Tuesday
2027
May 5
Wednesday