National Certified Nurses Day is an annual celebration honoring nurses who have pursued advanced certifications in their specialized fields. This day recognizes the dedication, expertise, and commitment of certified nurses who contribute to improved patient outcomes through their advanced knowledge and skills.
Quick Facts
When is it: March 19th annually
Tagged as: National Certified Nurses Day
What’s the hashtag: #NationalCertifiedNursesDay
When was it founded: 2008
Who founded it: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and American Nurses Association (ANA)
History
The day was established in honor of Dr. Margretta “Gretta” Madden Styles, a pioneering figure in nursing certification. Dr. Styles conducted the first comprehensive study of nurse credentialing in the 1970s and played a crucial role in developing certification standards for nurses worldwide. Her work with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) and contribution to establishing the ANCC has left a lasting impact on the nursing profession.
Timeline
- 50 A.D.: Phoebe becomes the first known nurse mentioned in historical records
- 1820: Birth of Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing
- 1902: Ellen Dougherty becomes world’s first registered nurse
- 1970s: Dr. Styles conducts first comprehensive nurse credentialing study
- 2008: First National Certified Nurses Day celebration
Dates for Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March | 19 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | March | 19 | Thursday |
| 2027 | March | 19 | Friday |
| 2028 | March | 19 | Sunday |
| 2029 | March | 19 | Monday |
| 2030 | March | 19 | Tuesday |
How It’s Observed
Certified Nurses Day is observed through various activities that celebrate the achievements of certified nurses. Hospitals and healthcare organizations often host luncheons, award ceremonies, or social media shout-outs to recognize these professionals. Many certified nurses take this day to reflect on their accomplishments and inspire colleagues to pursue certifications.
The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of continuous learning and professional development in nursing. Certified nurses are encouraged to share their experiences with peers, fostering a culture of excellence within healthcare settings.
Communities benefit from certified nurses’ dedication to patient safety, specialized care, and lifelong learning—making this celebration vital for recognizing their impact on society.
Fun Facts About Certified Nurses
- There are over 200 nursing specialties and subspecialties
- Over 4.2 million Registered Nurses work in the United States
- Certification requires continuous education and re-certification
- Certified nurses can specialize in multiple areas
Quiz
(Answer: #CertifiedNursesDay)
What year was Certified Nurses Day founded?
(Answer: 2008)
Who is considered the pioneer of nursing certification?
(Answer: Dr. Margretta “Gretta” Madden Styles)
What date is Certified Nurses Day celebrated annually?
(Answer: March 19)
Which organization oversees nursing certifications in the U.S.?
(Answer: American Nurses Credentialing Center)
What hashtag is used for Certified Nurses Day on social media?
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between a Registered Nurse and a Certified Nurse?
A: While both complete a four-year bachelor’s degree, Certified Nurses undergo additional training and certifications in specific specialties.
Q: How many nurses are there in the United States?
A: Approximately 4.2 million Registered Nurses as of recent counts.
What is Certified Nurses Day?
Certified Nurses Day celebrates nurses who earn and maintain certifications in their specialties.
Why is March 19 chosen for this day?
It marks the birthday of Dr. Margretta Madden Styles, a pioneer in nursing certification.
How can I celebrate Certified Nurses Day?
You can thank certified nurses personally, host events at healthcare facilities, or share appreciation posts on social media using #CertifiedNursesDay.
What are some benefits of nursing certification?
Certification improves patient outcomes, enhances professional growth, and boosts job satisfaction among nurses.
How many certified nurses are there globally?
There are over 225,000 certified nurses recognized by ANCC alone.
Importance of Certified Nurses Day
Certified Nurses Day plays a crucial role in recognizing the efforts of nurses who pursue advanced certifications. These professionals demonstrate exceptional commitment to patient safety and clinical excellence through specialized training.
The day inspires other healthcare workers to strive for certifications that validate their expertise while improving overall healthcare standards. It also serves as a platform to promote awareness about the value of certification among patients and communities.
By celebrating certified nurses, we acknowledge their contributions to fostering healthier societies and advancing medical practices globally.
Related Celebrations
- National Nurses Week
- International Nurses Day
- Emergency Nurses Day
- Pediatric Nurses Day
- Critical Care Nurses Day