Nurses are incredibly important people in the healthcare world. And National Nurses Week is the perfect time to show our appreciation for all that they do. Nurses often work long, hard hours and it can be a thankless job at times. They are often the first person a patient sees when they are visiting a healthcare facility, and they perform a wide range of tasks, from the simplest to truly heartbreaking.
When Is National Nurses Week?
National Nurses Week is celebrated May 6th through May 12th, which is Florence Nightingale’s birthday. This full week dedicated to nurses was made official in 1994. But in 1974, the International Council of Nurses established National Nurses Day.
In addition to National Nurses Week, National Student Nurses Day was established in 1998 and is celebrated on May 8th. And in 2003, National School Nurse Day was established to be celebrated on the Wednesday during National Nurses Week.
National Nurses Week is sponsored and promoted by the American Nurses Association to highlight all that these amazing healthcare providers do.
What Do Nurses Want?
We know that nurses are very important, but they are often not recognized for just how much they actually do. Much like any profession, simple acts to show thanks and respect can make a huge difference. Everyone likes to feel appreciated.
A few ideas to show your appreciation:
- Write thank you notes.
- Gift cards are always a great gift – food, coffee, spa services, etc.
- Advocate for local business support with discounts or freebies.
- Have a meal delivered to your doctor’s office (but call ahead to plan).
Businesses That Are Celebrating National Nurses Week:
We’ve gathered some deals and specials for nurses to enjoy during this week. Deals may vary by location. It’s always best to confirm ahead of time. If you know of any local businesses that are offering deals, discounts, or freebies for nurses, please send us an email!
