A serene hospital scene: a compassionate nurse in scrubs gently tending to a patient, sunlight streaming through large windows, highlighting the warmth and dedication in her expression

National Registered Nurse Day is an annual celebration honoring the dedicated professionals who form the backbone of our healthcare system. This special day recognizes the invaluable contributions of registered nurses and their commitment to patient care.

Quick facts

  • When is it?: May 6th annually
  • Tagged as: #NationalRegisteredNurseDay
  • What’s the hashtag?: #ThankYouNurses
  • When was it founded?: 1982
  • Who founded it?: American Nurses Association (ANA)

History of National Registered Nurse Day

National Registered Nurse Day emerged from a broader effort to recognize the nursing profession. It began as part of National Nurses Week, which was first observed in 1954 to mark the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. Over the years, various attempts were made to establish a national day of recognition for nurses, culminating in the official proclamation of National Registered Nurse Day in 1982.

Timeline

  • 1953: Dorothy Sutherland proposes a “Nurse Day” to President Eisenhower
  • 1954: First observed National Nurses Week (October 11-16)
  • 1974: The International Council of Nurses (ICN) proclaims May 12 as “International Nurse Day”
  • 1982: President Ronald Reagan signs proclamation for “National Recognition Day for Nurses” on May 6
  • 1990: ANA expands the recognition to a week-long celebration (May 6-12)
  • 1993: ANA establishes permanent dates for National Nurses Week

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025May6Tuesday
2026May6Wednesday
2027May6Thursday
2028May5Friday
2029May5Saturday
2030May5Sunday

Observed

National Registered Nurse Day is celebrated in healthcare facilities, hospitals, and communities across the United States. Many organizations host special events, offer appreciation gifts, and provide educational programs to honor nurses and raise awareness about the nursing profession.

Fun Facts About Registered Nurses

  1. Registered nurses outnumber doctors 4-to-1 in the United States.
  2. Nurses walk an average of 4-5 miles during a 12-hour shift.
  3. The symbol of nursing is an oil lamp, inspired by Florence Nightingale.
  4. Nursing is consistently ranked as one of the most trusted professions.
  5. There are over 4 million registered nurses in the United States.

Quiz

  1. What is the primary role of a nurse?
  2. What is the term for a nurse who specializes in caring for newborn infants?
  3. What is the first step in the nursing process?
  4. Which nursing specialty focuses on mental health and psychiatric care?
  5. What is the highest level of nursing education?

(Answers: 1. Administer medications, 2. Neonatal nurse, 3. Assessment, 4. Psychiatric nursing, 5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN))

FAQs

  1. Why is National Registered Nurse Day important?
  2. How can I show appreciation to nurses on this day?
  3. What qualifications are required to become a registered nurse?
  4. How has the nursing profession evolved over the years?
  5. What are some challenges faced by registered nurses today?

Related

  • International Nurses Day
  • National Student Nurses Day
  • National School Nurse Day
  • Florence Nightingale’s Birthday
  • Healthcare Heroes Day