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About International Nurses Day

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About International Nurses Day

International Nurses Day is marked on 12 May, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who shaped modern nursing.

Hospitals hold small events, patients and families send thanks, and many countries mark a whole Nurses Week around the date.

Nurses are often the first and last person a patient sees each day. A simple thank you means a great deal to them.

  • 12 May every year
  • Florence Nightingale's birthday
  • Marked since 1974

Where it began

Florence Nightingale was born on 12 May 1820. She led nurses caring for soldiers in the Crimean War and became known as the Lady with the Lamp, for her night rounds.

She later started a nursing school in London and helped make nursing a respected job.

The International Council of Nurses has marked the day since 1974, and it shares a theme each year.

Florence Nightingale, the Lady with the Lamp

How it grew over time

  1. 1820

    Florence Nightingale is born on 12 May in Florence, Italy.

  2. 1850s

    She cares for wounded soldiers in the Crimean War with her team of nurses.

  3. 1860

    Her nursing school opens in London.

  4. 1974

    12 May is chosen as International Nurses Day.

  5. Today

    Hospitals in many countries hold a week of thanks around the day.

How it is celebrated in different places

  • India

    Nurses are honoured with awards and hospital events on the day.

  • United Kingdom

    A lamp is carried in a service in London to remember Florence Nightingale.

  • United States

    National Nurses Week runs from 6 May to 12 May.

International Nurses Day moments

Night rounds in the Crimean War hospital
The hospital at Scutari in the 1850sIstanbul, Turkey
Trainee nurses learn on the ward, 1975Brisbane, Australia
A nurse at work in a public hospitalThailand

International Nurses Day today

Today patients and families send thanks to nurses, and hospitals share cake, flowers and small awards for their teams.

How people celebrate International Nurses Day

  • Thank you cards from patients
  • Hospital events
  • Flowers and treats for the ward
  • Messages to nurse friends

How to wish well

  • Thank them for their patience and kindness on hard days.
  • Remember night shift nurses too.
  • Keep it short and warm.

Questions about International Nurses Day

When is International Nurses Day?

International Nurses Day is on 12 May every year.

Why is Nurses Day on 12 May?

It is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, born in 1820, who founded modern nursing.

What do you write to a nurse?

Thank them for their care and kindness and wish them rest and good health too.

What is a short Nurses Day message?

"Thank you for caring when it matters most. Happy Nurses Day."

How can hospitals celebrate Nurses Day?

A thank you note from leaders, a shared meal and time to recognise each team go a long way.

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