National Nurses Day is celebrated each year on May 6. This date holds significant historical importance as it relates to events in the life of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.1
Who Is Florence Nightingale?
Florence Nightingale, born on May 12, 1820, was a British nurse who revolutionized healthcare during the Crimean War in the 1850s.2 Her dedication and pioneering work in nursing laid the foundation for the nursing profession as we know it today.
In the United States, national recognition of nurses was first officially proposed in 1952, but it wasn’t until 1982, under the administration of President Ronald Reagan, that National Recognition of Nurses Day was officially declared every May 6.3
What is Nurses Week? And when is Nurses Week? What started as one day to celebrate nurses on National Nurses Day turned into a full week, which begins on May 6 and culminates on Florence Nightingale’s birthday, May 12. Hence, National Nurses Week was established to acknowledge the 100th anniversary of Nightingale’s efforts in Crimea and pay tribute to her and all other nurses who make a difference worldwide.
During this week, various activities and events are organized worldwide to recognize and celebrate nurses’ invaluable contributions to our society.