By Sushant Agarwal
Published on | May 12, 2025
International Nurses Day is observed on May 12 each year to honour nurses across the globe for their dedication and contribution to healthcare.
The date marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, born on May 12, 1820, who is widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing.
International Nurses Day, proposed in 1953 by Dorothy Sutherland, was established in 1965 and has been celebrated worldwide on May 12 since 1974.
The theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies,” emphasizes nurses' well-being in building stronger healthcare systems.
The theme urges support for nurses' well-being, highlighting that investing in them strengthens healthcare and global economic sustainability.
Nurses are the heart of healthcare, vital for patient care, treatment, education, advocacy, and communication within medical teams.
Nurses face stress, burnout, and understaffing, emphasizing the urgent need for better support, resources, and funding in healthcare.
Nurses are encouraged to stay active, eat well, practice mindfulness, manage time, enjoy hobbies & seek help to prevent burnout & maintain well-being.
The day recognizes nurses’ impact, raises awareness of challenges, and advocates for better conditions and policies for a healthier future.
International Nurses Day urges gratitude, awareness, and advocacy for nurses’ rights, strengthening healthcare and society as a whole.