International Nurses Day
International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world every May 12, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. ICN commemorates this important day each year with the production and distribution of the International Nurses’ Day (IND) resources and evidence.
Historically, as well as today, nurses are at the forefront of fighting epidemics and pandemics – providing high-quality and respectful treatment and care. They are often the first and sometimes the only health professional that people see and the quality of their initial assessment, care and treatment are vital.
Nurses account for more than half of all the world’s health workers, yet there is an urgent shortage of nurses worldwide with 5.9 million more nurses still needed, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the vital role nurses play. Without nurses and other health workers, we will not win the battle against outbreaks, we will not achieve the Sustainable Development Goals or universal health coverage.
Why International Nurses Day is important
- This day provides an important role in making nurses well informed, advised, encouraged, and supported to deliver better works. Activities like competitions, awards and free provision of medical services are provided to make the celebration memorable.
- It creates an avenue for nurses from different part of the world to unite, use the opportunity to make contact with front line staff
- it is based yearly on a theme on dimensions of
how to achieve the Millennium Development Goals which was established in 2000
How to observe International Nurses Day
- Highlight the nurses on social media – Every registered nurse has a story, both on and off the floor. It is important to take the time to research these stories and showcase them whenever possible. Find a specific success story or a patient testimonial and post it on Facebook and/or Instagram with a photo of the nurse (with their permission). This will then be shared by their peers and the public which will, in turn, make them feel appreciated and noticed.
- Write a personal note to your nurse- A personal (handwritten) note still goes a long way. This is especially true in the current digital age. Write personal thank-you notes for every registered nurse on the staff. Make sure to include one specific thing for each nurse. It can be an inside joke or special story, as long as it appears sincere; it will go a long way with your registered nurses.
- Gift a gift- Everyone loves a gift. These do not need to be high-end, just a little something to show that you appreciate their hard work. It can be a gift card or an entire day at the spa. It would be even more appreciated if each gift could be customized for each nurse.
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Tip:
As we mark this, day, we urge countries to ensure:
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- the occupational safety and health of nurses and all health workers, including notably, unhindered access to personal protective equipment so they can safely provide care and reduce infections in health care settings.
- nurses and all health care workers have access to mental health support, timely pay, sick leave, and insurance; as well as access to the most up-to-date knowledge and guidance required to respond to all health needs, including outbreaks.
- nurses are given the financial support and other resources required to help respond to and control COVID-19 and future outbreaks
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Resources
In order to celebrate today effectively, here is a list of resources you can use to make the day special – or to plan ahead
- Why do we celebrate International Nurses Day?
- Nice Tips For Nurse’s Day
- International Nurses Day Celebration | The Live-In Care Experts
Reference Sites
- FCT School of Nursing, Abuja
- UN and other international NGO
- Non-Profits website for the observance
