The History of National Nurses Week: Honoring Those Who Care for Us All
Every year from May 6 to May 12, we celebrate National Nurses Week—a time to recognize the vital role nurses play in healthcare and to honor their dedication, skill, and compassion. But how did this celebration begin? The story of National Nurses Week is a testament to the enduring impact of nursing and the determined efforts to ensure these heroes receive the recognition they deserve.
The Origins: Florence Nightingale’s Legacy
The celebration concludes on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing. Her tireless work during the Crimean War and her revolutionary ideas on sanitation and patient care laid the foundation for nursing as a respected profession. Her legacy inspired generations and eventually led to a global movement to formally recognize nurses.
Key Milestones in National Nurses Week History
- 1953: Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare proposed a “Nurse Day” to President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Although not officially proclaimed, this marked the beginning of advocacy for recognition.
- 1954: The first National Nurse Week was observed from October 11–16 to mark the 100th anniversary of Nightingale’s mission to Crimea.
- 1972: The House of Representatives attempted to officially recognize a “National Registered Nurse Day,” but it did not pass the Senate.
- 1974: The International Council of Nurses (ICN) declared May 12 as International Nurses Day. That same year, President Richard Nixon issued a proclamation designating a National Nurse Week.
- 1982: A pivotal year—President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation officially recognizing May 6 as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”
- 1990: The American Nurses Association (ANA) expanded the recognition to a full week: May 6–12, now known as National Nurses Week.
- 1993: The ANA permanently designated May 6–12 as the official dates for National Nurses Week moving forward.
A Growing Celebration
Over time, the celebration has evolved to include specialty recognition days, such as:
- May 6: National Nurses Day
- May 8: National Student Nurses Day
- Wednesday of the week: National School Nurse Day
These additions reflect the diversity of nursing roles and highlight the evolving landscape of healthcare.
Why It Matters Today
In times of crisis, from global pandemics to personal emergencies, nurses are often the first and last touchpoints in a patient’s healthcare journey. Their role has never been more important. National Nurses Week is not just about appreciation—it’s about acknowledging a profession built on compassion, science, and service.
Sources:
inspirus.com, allmaysee.org, ogradypeyton.com, onlinenursing.cn.edu, teamhealth.com, nursingworld.org, nursejournal.org, majesticcare.com, healthcommedia.com, nationaldaycalendar.com, nurse.org
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