Every year, from May 6th to May 12th, we celebrate the nurses who keep our healthcare system running! It’s National Nurses Week, and it’s a time to show our appreciation for these vital members of our communities.
Nurses are leaders, advocates, educators, and innovators. They are essential to the healthcare system. Without nurses, our hospitals and clinics simply could not function.
So, exactly when is Nurses Week? What’s the history behind it? What’s the theme for this year? And how can you show your appreciation for the nurses in your life? We’ll cover all that and more, including some great gift ideas and discounts you can use!
Unveiling National Nurses Week
Nurses: they’re always there when you need them. Here’s when we officially celebrate them.
When is Nurses Week 2025?
National Nurses Week runs every year from May 6th to 12th, a period that ends on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
Nurse.org, however, likes to stretch out the celebration a bit, so they celebrate the entire month of May as Nurses Month.
The Power of a Theme
The theme for National Nurses Week 2025 is “The Power of Nurses™”.
The International Nurses Day theme is “Caring for nurses strengthens economies,” so there’s plenty to think about during this week in May!
Why Nurses Week Matters
Nurses Week is a time to give thanks and show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of nurses everywhere. It’s a chance to publicly acknowledge their contributions to our health and well-being.
Many healthcare organizations use this week to celebrate their nursing staff with special events, awards, and other forms of recognition.
But why is it so important to recognize nurses? Because they’re absolutely vital to patient care. They’re the ones at the bedside, providing comfort, expertise, and advocacy. They’re the backbone of our healthcare system, and they deserve our gratitude.
A Look Back: The History of National Nurses Week
People started trying to establish a day to recognize nurses as early as 1953. Then, in 1954, we saw the first National Nurse Week, celebrated from October 11-16.
Here are some key milestones in the creation of National Nurses Week as we know it today:
- In 1974, the International Council of Nurses declared May 12 International Nurses Day. President Nixon also signed a proclamation recognizing National Nurse Week.
- In 1982, the ANA declared May 6 National Nurses Day, signed by President Ronald Reagan.
- In 1990, the ANA expanded the celebration to a full “Nurses Week.”
- In 1994, the dates of May 6-12 became permanent.
Also worth noting: National Student Nurse Day falls on May 8th, and National School Nurse Day also occurs during Nurses Week.
Showing Appreciation: Gifts, Discounts, and More
If you’re looking for ways to show your appreciation for the nurses in your life, here are a few ideas:
Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Nurses
Practical and personalized gifts are always a good idea. Think about self-care items that can help nurses relax and recharge after a long shift. A gift that has a personal touch shows you put extra thought into it.
You could also record video messages from patients, students, or coworkers expressing gratitude. A short video message can be a really impactful way to show how much you appreciate a nurse’s hard work.
National Nurses Week Discounts and Freebies
Many brands offer discounts and freebies for nurses during National Nurses Week. For example, you may find discounts at Adidas, Crocs, FIGS, Therabody, Samsung, Lenovo, Chipotle, Dunkin’, and Starbucks.
Discounts can range from 20% to 30% off on products from brands like Adidas, Crocs, and FIGS. Therabody, for example, has been known to offer 20% off Theragun products for nurses.
For the latest deals, check resources like Nurse.org’s giveaway roundup for updated discounts and freebies. You can also check with the brands directly.
How to celebrate nurses year-round
It’s important to remember that nurses need our support all year long, not just during Nurses Week.
Many organizations are dedicated to supporting nurses. For example, the American College of Education (ACE) offers degree programs to help nurses advance their careers.
There are also simple things everyone can do to show appreciation. A sincere “thank you” can mean a lot. You can also recognize nurse friends, mentors, and those who make a difference in your day.
Key Takeaways
Nurses are essential to the healthcare system, and their dedication and compassion deserve to be celebrated. National Nurses Week is a wonderful time to show appreciation for the nurses in your life.
But let’s not limit our support and recognition to just one week a year. Let’s make an effort to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifices of nurses every day.
To all the nurses out there: Thank you for your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to providing quality care. Your work makes a real difference in the lives of patients and their families.