Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Each year, National Nurses Week takes place from May 6 to May 12, culminating on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing. This weeklong observance honors the tireless commitment, compassion, and skill of the nearly 5 million registered nurses across the United States who serve as the bedrock of our healthcare system.
Whether they’re comforting patients at the bedside, leading public health initiatives, assisting in surgeries, or coordinating care in communities, nurses do far more than many realize. Their work often goes unseen, but its impact is deeply felt.
The Heartbeat of the Healthcare System
Nurses are involved in nearly every aspect of patient care. They:
- Assess and monitor patient conditions
- Administer medications and treatments
- Educate patients and families
- Advocate for patient needs
- Coordinate with other healthcare professionals
Beyond their clinical duties, nurses offer emotional support, cultural sensitivity, and the human touch that defines compassionate care. They are often the bridge between a complex medical system and patients seeking clarity and comfort.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the world witnessed just how critical—and courageous—nurses truly are. They stood on the front lines in hospitals, homes, and vaccination clinics, working long hours under intense pressure. Their bravery saved countless lives.
A Brief History of Nurses Week
- 1953: A proposal for a national nurse day was sent to President Eisenhower.
- 1974: The International Council of Nurses officially designated May 12 as International Nurses Day.
- 1993: The American Nurses Association (ANA) permanently established National Nurses Week as May 6–12.
Now, the week is a nationally recognized celebration, including National School Nurse Day (May 8 in 2025) and National Student Nurses Day (May 8), spotlighting various roles within the profession.
The Diversity of the Nursing Profession
Nurses aren’t monoliths. They specialize in a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Critical Care and ICU
- Pediatrics
- Oncology
- Geriatrics
- Mental Health
- Women’s Health
- Public Health and Community Nursing
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)** who diagnose and treat conditions independently
Advanced practice nurses are transforming care delivery and expanding access, especially in underserved communities. Their expertise often rivals that of physicians in specific specialties, making them essential to healthcare equity and access.
Nurses and Medication Access
Many nurses also help patients navigate the costs of care. They frequently educate individuals on how to access affordable medications, refer them to discount programs, and assist in finding pharmacies with the best pricing.
The RxLess™ Assurance Plan make their jobs easier by giving patients a way to compare prescription prices in real-time and find the lowest-cost options at nearby pharmacies. Nurses can direct patients to this free app to help them stay adherent to their treatment plans without sacrificing financial stability.
How to Celebrate and Support Nurses
You don’t have to work in healthcare to make a meaningful impact. As an individual, small gestures of gratitude can go a long way in making nurses feel seen and appreciated. Here are some simple yet powerful ways to show your support:
- Say thank you: A handwritten note, a kind email, or even a verbal “thank you” can brighten a nurse’s day.
- Share your story: Post a personal experience on social media about how a nurse made a difference in your life. Use hashtags like #NursesWeek or #ThankYouNurses.
- Treat a nurse in your life: Whether it’s coffee, lunch, or just checking in, thoughtful acts of kindness are always appreciated.
- Donate or volunteer: Support organizations and causes that provide scholarships, support services, or supplies to nurses and nursing students.
Final Thoughts
Nurses don’t just care for us when we’re sick—they advocate for our wellbeing at every stage of life. From birth to end-of-life care, their presence is constant, skilled, and full of heart. National Nurses Week is more than a celebration—it’s a reminder that nurses are irreplaceable and deserve our ongoing respect, support, and gratitude.
To every nurse: Thank you. You are the heart of healthcare, and your impact ripples through families, communities, and the nation.
