Every year, from May 6 to 12, National Nurses Week brings us the opportunity to recognize the vast and incredible contributions of nurses across the nation. This celebratory week honors not only the dedication and skill of these healthcare heroes, but also the long and fascinating history of the nursing profession.
A Look Back: The History of Nurses Week
The story of National Nurses Week stretches back to the 1950s when a movement was first put forth to establish a day that recognized nurses. However, it wasn’t until 1974 that the efforts finally came to fruition. The International Council of Nurses declared May 12, the birthday of nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, as International Nurses Day. In the same year, President Nixon signed a proclamation establishing National Nurse Week. Over the years, the celebration expanded and in 1990, the American Nurses Association (ANA) Board of Directors officially declared May 6-12 as National Nurses Week.1
The 2024 Theme: Nurses Make the Difference
The 2024 theme for National Nurses Week, “Nurses Make the Difference,” highlights the many ways nurses impact those around them. Registered nurses are one of the largest segments in the U.S. workforce, and with more than four times as many RNs as physicians, nurses deliver the majority of hospital and long-term care.2 This is why nurses are uniquely positioned to make a difference in patients’ lives.
Nurses are advocates for patients, a constant presence at the bedside, and educators who guide us through complex medical situations. Their skills and compassion are essential for patient well-being, comfort, and recovery.
Check out some of the amazing ways our WCU nursing community is making a difference:
- Iris M. (BSN ’20) helped a terminally ill patient attend her son’s wedding ceremony.
- WCU-Orange County students and faculty provided health screenings at the Special Olympics.
- Alumna Shanna J. paid it forward by partnering with The Nurses Pub.
- Joshua M. (BSN ’13) started a non-profit that provides haircuts for the homeless.
- Two WCU nursing students provided emergency wound care while volunteering.
Big and Small Ways to Show Appreciation
During National Nurses Week, there are many ways to show appreciation for the nurses in your life. Here are a few ideas:
- Write a heartfelt thank you note. If you or a loved one is receiving care from a nurse, a simple note expressing your gratitude can make a big difference. Let them know you appreciate their dedication to caring for the community.
- Perform an act of service. If you have a family member or friend who is a nurse, this is the perfect week to make them dinner, walk their dog, buy them coffee, or take care of the dishes.
- Donate to a cause. Contribute to a cause that matters to a nurse or find a scholarship fund that can help the next generation of nursing professionals.
- Simply say, “Thank you.” The next time you interact with a nurse, take a moment to express your appreciation for their hard work.
Nurses are the quiet heroes of healthcare, and National Nurses Week is a time to celebrate their immense contributions. By recognizing the rich history of the profession and the continually evolving scope of the role, which allows nurses to make a dramatic impact in our daily lives, we can show our appreciation for these remarkable individuals.
1 NursingWorld.org, “Celebrating America’s more than 5 million registered nurses”
2 American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Nursing Workforce Fact Sheet
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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