National Nurses Week kicks off today (May 6), honoring the dedication and contributions of nurses across the United States. The week-long celebration culminates on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who is considered the founder of modern nursing. Nightingale, known as the "Lady with the Lamp" for her night rounds during the Crimean War, established the first professional nursing school in 1860 at St. Thomas' Hospital in London.
National Nurses Week has been celebrated annually since 1990, with permanent dates set from May 6 to May 12. It began with a proclamation by President Nixon in 1974 and has since become a recognized event supported by the American Nurses Association (ANA). The ANA and its state and territorial associations promote the nursing profession and organize celebrations to recognize the vital role nurses play in healthcare.
During this week, many businesses offer special deals and discounts to show appreciation for nurses. For instance, Chick-fil-A is offering free chicken sandwiches to nurses with a valid ID, and Crocs is providing a 25% discount on full-priced styles. Other companies like Chipotle, HTeaO, and Insomnia Cookies are also participating in the celebration with various offers.
The week also includes National School Nurse Day on May 7 and National Student Nurses Day on May 8. These days highlight the contributions of school nurses and nursing students, respectively.