National Nurses Week: A Time to Appreciate the Work That Matters

What Is National Nurses Week and Why Does It Matter

The National Nurses Week is a seven-day celebration to honor the unwavering dedication, compassion, and expertise of nurses across the country. It culminates on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

This week is more than a calendar event. It’s a national opportunity to say “thank you” to the people who are there for us during some of life’s most important and difficult moments.

When is National Nurses Week?

National Nurses Week takes place from May 6 to May 12 each year. It’s a time to recognize the impact nurses make every day—on patients, families, and entire healthcare systems.

At TAG MedStaffing, we’re proud to support and celebrate the nurses who continue to play such a vital role in our healthcare system.

Why Nurses Deserve Recognition During Nurses Week?

Nurses are a steady, skilled presence in all corners of healthcare—from hospital floors to community clinics and home care settings. They assess, care, educate, advocate, and respond, all while navigating demanding schedules and emotional challenges.

Whether they’re helping manage chronic conditions, assisting in recovery, or supporting families through uncertain times, nurses make an undeniable impact. Their commitment deserves ongoing recognition—not just during National Nurses Week, but year-round.

Meaningful Ways to Celebrate National Nurses Week

Looking for ways to celebrate the nurses around you during Nurses Week? Whether you’re recognizing one nurse or a whole team, the most important thing is that it feels genuine. Here are a few thoughtful ideas:

Host a “Thank You” Breakfast or Lunch
Offer a catered meal or coffee bar where nurses can take a real break. Shared downtime builds connection and boosts morale.

Write Personalized Appreciation Cards
Take the time to mention something specific: how they handled a difficult moment, the comfort they gave a patient, or the way they support their team.
Create a Wall of Gratitude
Set up a board or digital space with messages from patients (if possible), their families, and coworkers. Let the words speak for themselves.
Offer Wellness or Self-Care Gifts
Think massage vouchers, comfy socks, water bottles, journals or a quiet lounge stocked with healthy snacks and stress-relief items.
Invite Nurses to Share Their Voice
Create space for open dialogue. Ask nurses what support they really need—whether it’s better staffing, flexible scheduling, or emotional wellness tools—and actually follow through. Being heard and valued is one of the most meaningful forms of appreciation.
Enter Them in a Giveaway or Raffle
Small prizes, extra break time, or gift cards can boost morale and make the week feel festive.

Even small efforts can go a long way in making nurses feel seen, respected, and appreciated—not just during Nurses Week, but well beyond it.

For healthcare employers, this is also a great time to check in with your nursing staff, acknowledge their work personally, and make sure they feel seen and supported.

A Message from TAG MedStaffing to All Nurses

To every nurse reading this: your work makes a difference, and we thank you for it.

If you’re exploring new job opportunities in healthcare, whether you’re a recent grad or a seasoned nurse, TAG MedStaffing is here to help. We connect talented nurses with full-time, part-time, travel, and per diem roles across the country.

About TAG MedStaffing

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Let this National Nurses Week be more than a celebration—make it the start of your next opportunity.