International Nurses Day 2023: A global tribute to nurses’ selfless service

International Nurses Day: Theme

Every year, a specific theme is chosen, and for 2023, the theme for this year is “Our Nurses. Our Future.”

History

International Nurses Day commemorates the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale who was a pioneering figure in nursing. Florence Nightingale was born on May 12, 1820, in Italy. She is considered the founder of modern nursing. She gained prominence during the Crimean War in the 1850s, where she and her team of nurses treated wounded soldiers. Nightingale’s efforts to improve sanitary conditions and nursing practices significantly reduced mortality rates and revolutionized the profession.

Significance

Acknowledging Nurses’ Contributions: International Nurses Day highlights the selfless dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts of nurses in providing high-quality healthcare services to patients around the world. It recognizes their role as critical caregivers and advocates for the health and well-being of individuals.

Raising Awareness: The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of nursing as a profession and the need for continued support and investment in nursing education, research, and resources. It serves as an opportunity to address nursing challenges and promote the value of nursing in healthcare systems.

Celebrating Achievements: International Nurses Day celebrates the achievements and accomplishments of nurses in improving healthcare outcomes, patient safety, and healthcare innovations. It provides a platform to recognize exemplary nurses and their contributions to healthcare advancements.

Promoting Nursing Profession: The day promotes nursing as a respected and vital profession, encouraging individuals to consider nursing as a career choice. It highlights the diverse roles nurses play in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, community health centers, research institutions, and more.

Key Role in COVID-19 pandemic

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was a major global public health emergency and nurses comprised the major part of medical workforce. Nurses played a vital role in COVID-19 pandemic as front line workers of patient care in hospitals and were actively involved with evaluation and monitoring of the community. They put their life at stake to save lives knowing that they were exposed to hazards that put them at risk of infection. They were key players in stopping the pandemic with adequate assistance.