International Nurses Day: May 12th

International Nurses Day is observed each year on May 12th to honour the dedication, compassion, and expertise of nurses worldwide. These healthcare heroes are often the first and last faces patients see — supporting recovery, saving lives, and providing critical emotional care. Celebrated on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, this day recognises the essential role nurses play across the globe.

Key Facts About International Nurses Day

Why Nurses Matter

Nurses are not just assistants to doctors — they are vital decision-makers, care planners, and patient advocates. Their role includes:

• Administering medications and treatments
• Monitoring patient conditions and updating care plans
• Supporting families and offering emotional care
• Coordinating patient discharges and follow-up care
• Training new nurses and managing hospital staff
• Responding to emergencies and saving lives

Nurses often work long shifts under high stress. Their empathy, technical skills, and dedication directly impact recovery and patient outcomes. They are essential to the healthcare system — often the unsung heroes.

A Brief History of International Nurses Day

The idea for a nurses’ recognition day was first proposed in 1953 by Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health. While it was not approved then, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) began celebrating May 12th in 1965, and in 1974 it was officially declared International Nurses Day.

The date honours Florence Nightingale, who revolutionised nursing during the Crimean War and established the world’s first secular nursing school in 1860. She also made major contributions to social reform, women’s education, and public health policy.

How to Celebrate International Nurses Day

There are many meaningful ways to show appreciation for nurses and raise awareness of their impact:

• Send a thank-you card, flowers, or small gift to a nurse who helped you
• Deliver chocolates, cake, or a pizza to your local hospital or care unit
• Post a public message of gratitude on social media
• Donate to organisations that support nurses’ mental health and well-being
• Host or attend an event to honour nurses in your community
• Read up on Florence Nightingale and the history of nursing

Every Year Has a Theme

The ICN chooses a theme for each year’s celebrations. Recent examples include:

• 2020: Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Nursing the World to Health
• 2021: Nurses: A Voice to Lead – A Vision for Future Healthcare
• 2023: Our Nurses. Our Future.

These themes help guide events, resources, and messages of support across healthcare networks and institutions worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of International Nurses Day?

The day exists to acknowledge the incredible contributions nurses make to healthcare and society — from hospitals and clinics to communities, schools, and beyond.

Why is it celebrated on May 12?

This is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who is considered the founder of modern nursing and was instrumental in transforming the profession into a respected, skilled vocation.

How can I thank a nurse?

• Send a handwritten thank-you note or email
• Offer a small, thoughtful gift like chocolates or coffee
• Publicly share your gratitude using social media
• Nominate them for a recognition award if available

What organisations are involved in International Nurses Day?

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) leads the global celebrations. Many national nursing associations, hospitals, universities, and charities also participate.

Future Dates for International Nurses Day

Hashtags for International Nurses Day

• #InternationalNursesDay
• #ThankYouNurses
• #NursesAreHeroes
• #VoiceToLead
• #NurseAppreciation
• #FlorenceNightingale