National Nurses Day is observed annually on May 6th, kicking off National Nurses Week which concludes on May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. May 12 marks the celebration of International Nurses Day. This day recognises the vital contributions and commitments of nurses, acknowledging their crucial role in society. Florence Nightingale, a renowned English social reformer and statistician earned acclaim for her care of wounded soldiers during the Crimean War, earning her the nickname 'The Lady with the Lamp.' National Nurses Week honours her legacy and the dedication of nurses worldwide, celebrating their selfless service and commitment to providing exceptional patient care.

National Nurses Day: Significance

The day holds great significance as it recognises the invaluable contributions of nurses to the healthcare system. Observed annually on May 6th, this day acknowledges the selfless dedication, compassion and hard work of nurses who provide exceptional patient care. It celebrates their commitment to delivering quality healthcare often going above and beyond their duties. By honouring nurses, National Nurses Day promotes appreciation for the nursing profession, encourages recognition of their vital role in society, ultimately strengthening the healthcare system as a whole.

National Nurses Day 2025 (Image Credits: Canva)

Nurses Day Theme 2025

The theme of National Nurses Day 2025 is “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies” which highlights the critical role nurses play in maintaining public health and driving economic growth.

National Nurses Day Wishes

1. Happy National Nurses Day! Thank you for all that you do to promote health and well-being and make a positive difference in people's lives.

2. Wishing all nurses a very happy National Nurses Day! Your tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to patient care are truly appreciated.

3. On this National Nurses Day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all nurses for the exceptional care and compassion they provide to patients every day.

4. Happy National Nurses Day to all the amazing nurses out there! Your professionalism, expertise, and kindness are deeply appreciated.

5. Today we celebrate and honor the incredible work of nurses. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to providing compassionate care and making a difference in the lives of so many.

6. Wishing a very happy National Nurses Day to all the hard-working and compassionate nurses who work tirelessly to make our communities healthier and safer. Thank you for your service!

National Nurses Day Quotes

1. “Nursing is one of the fine arts: I had almost said ‘the finest of fine arts.”- Florence Nightingale

2. “Every nurse was drawn to nursing because of a desire to care, to serve, or to help.”- Christina Feist-

3. “America’s nurses are the beating heart of our medical system.”- Barack Obama

4. “Nurses are there when the last breath is taken and when the first breath is taken. Although it is more enjoyable to celebrate the birth, it is just as important to comfort in death.”- Christine Belle

5. "They have this insatiable need to care for others, which is both their greatest strength and fatal flaw.”- Jean Watson,

6. "Nursing is not just an art, it has a heart. Nursing is not just a science, but it has a conscience."

7. "Nursing is a work of heart."