National Nurses Day

Celebrated on 05/06/2026

Quick Fact

National Nurses Day is celebrated annually on May 6, marking the start of National Nurses Week, which ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. In 2025, the American Nurses Association theme is "Nurses: The Heartbeat of Healthcare," highlighting their critical role in the healthcare system.

Origins and Establishment of National Nurses Day

National Nurses Day was first proposed by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) in 1953. However, it wasn't until 1974 that President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation officially designating a week in May as National Nurses Week. The specific date of May 6 was later chosen as the start of the week to align with Florence Nightingale's birthday on May 12. The American Nurses Association (ANA) has been instrumental in promoting and organizing the celebration.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the years, National Nurses Day has evolved from a simple recognition to a major event with ceremonies, educational programs, and media campaigns. In 1990, the ANA expanded the celebration to a full week, National Nurses Week, which now includes National Nurses Day on May 6, National Student Nurses Day on May 8, and National School Nurse Day on the Wednesday of the week. Today, healthcare organizations, hospitals, and nursing associations host events such as award ceremonies, continuing education workshops, and public awareness campaigns to honor nurses' contributions.

Facts & General Observations

• There are over 4.2 million registered nurses in the United States, making nursing the largest healthcare profession.
• The first National Nurses Week was celebrated in 1991, with the theme "Nurses: The Heartbeat of Healthcare."
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $81,220 in 2023, with employment projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032.

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