National Nurses Day, celebrated on May 6th, is the official start of Nurses Week each year. Initially proposed in 1953 by Dorothy Sunderland to President Eisenhower, it wasn’t until over 20 years later that the day was officially proclaimed National Nurses Day.

National Nurses Day is celebrated to honor the work of the nurses who care for patients daily in a variety of healthcare settings. As health care continues to evolve, the role of nurses remains essential. This day provides an opportunity for everyone to show appreciation for those who care for others day in and day out.