National Nurses Day
Honor the compassionate caregivers on National Nurses Day! Nurses are the backbone of American healthcare, providing expert care with kindness and dedication. This day begins National Nurses Week, celebrating these essential healthcare professionals.
About National Nurses Day
Honor the compassionate caregivers on National Nurses Day! Nurses are the backbone of American healthcare, providing expert care with kindness and dedication. This day begins National Nurses Week, celebrating these essential healthcare professionals.
History & origins
National Nurses Day is observed on May 6 and serves as the opening day of National Nurses Week in the United States. Its modern roots trace to 1978, when New Jersey recognized May 6 as Nurses Day, and the American Nurses Association formally acknowledged May 6 as National Nurses Day in 1982. The broader week was later set by the ANA for May 6 through May 12, aligning the observance with Florence Nightingale’s birthday on May 12.
Why it matters
National Nurses Day spotlights the essential role nurses play in hospitals, clinics, schools, and long-term care settings, where they provide direct patient care and often serve as the first line of support for patients and families. It also draws attention to workforce shortages, burnout, and the need to invest in nursing education, retention, and safe working conditions.
How to celebrate
Thank nurses you know or encounter. Give cards or small gifts to nursing staff. Support nursing scholarships. Learn about the nursing profession. Share nurse appreciation posts on social media. Donate to nursing organizations.
Facts
- Over 4.2 million registered nurses work in the US
- Nursing is one of the most trusted professions
- Nurses provide direct patient care in all healthcare settings
- Florence Nightingale founded modern nursing
- The nursing shortage affects healthcare nationwide
Upcoming dates
- Wednesday, May 6, 2026
- Thursday, May 6, 2027
- Saturday, May 6, 2028
- Sunday, May 6, 2029
- Monday, May 6, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Nurses Day 2026?
National Nurses Day 2026 is on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. It begins National Nurses Week, which runs through May 12.
What is National Nurses Day?
National Nurses Day is a day to recognize nurses for their care, skill, and dedication to patients. In the United States, it kicks off National Nurses Week.
Who started National Nurses Day?
The observance was popularized in New Jersey in 1978 and later formally acknowledged by the American Nurses Association in 1982. Its timing was chosen to connect with the larger weeklong celebration of nurses.
How do you celebrate National Nurses Day?
You can thank a nurse, send cards or small gifts, support nursing scholarships, or donate to nursing organizations. Many people also share appreciation posts or learn more about the profession.
Is National Nurses Day the same as Nurses Week?
No, National Nurses Day is the first day of National Nurses Week. Nurses Week runs from May 6 to May 12 each year and ends on Florence Nightingale’s birthday.
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