International Nurses Day: what is it and how to mark the occasion?

Every day, nurses serve the healthcare system and provide critical care for the ill.

Their commitment, empathy, and bravery have a profound impact on people’s lives, particularly in times of crisis and disease.

Here is everything you need to know about the special day.

Every year on May 12, International Nurses Day honours and acknowledges the critical roles that nurses play in the healthcare system and in society as a whole.

It also serves as a chance to express gratitude to nurses for their tireless work and round-the-clock patient care provision.

The day’s history began in 1953 when Dorothy Sutherland of the US Department of Health suggested to President Dwight D. Eisenhower that nurses should have a special day. Even though it wasn’t accepted at the time, it set the stage for later acknowledgement.

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) began celebrating International Nurses Day in 1965 as a way to recognise nurses. Later, in 1974, May 12 was selected as the official date since it commemorates the birth of Florence Nightingale, who is credited with founding modern nursing.

Since then, people all over the world have commemorated this day to raise awareness of nurses’ selfless dedication and ceaseless efforts.

International Nurses Day focuses on a different theme every year.

‘Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives’ is the theme for 2026’s International Nurses Day.

International Nurses Day is more than just a celebration. It serves as a reminder of the vital role nurses play in our daily lives. Nurses are dependable, resilient, and compassionate at both hospitals and clinics, handling both routine care and emergencies.

Support groups that strive to help nurses and enhance nursing education. As a thank you, provide little presents, flowers, or gift cards.

Alternatively, run errands for nurses or prepare meals in bulk if you’re looking for something more practical.

On this occasion it may also be wise to send your nurse family and friends some heartfelt messages or create a social media post sharing why you’re thankful.

Here are a few examples of messages you can send: