National Certified Nurses Day

Certified nurse in superhero scrubs, with a stethoscope, saving lives with a smile in a bustling hospital ward.. — National certified nurses day illustration

Certified nurses are like superheroes in scrubs, using their superpowers to save lives and provide exceptional care to patients. National Certified Nurses Day celebrates these incredible individuals and recognizes their dedication in the field of nursing.

When is Certified Nurses Day?

It's national certified nurses day on the 19th March.

What is National Certified Nurses Day?

National Certified Nurses Day is observed on March 19th every year to honor and appreciate certified nurses for their hard work and commitment to the nursing profession. These special individuals have undergone rigorous training and have passed national certification exams to demonstrate their expertise in a specific nursing specialty.

This day not only celebrates the achievements of certified nurses but also raises awareness about the importance of professional certifications in nursing. It encourages nurses to pursue further education and certifications to enhance their knowledge and improve patient care.

The Importance of Certified Nurses

Certified nurses play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients. They possess advanced knowledge, skills, and competencies in their respective specialties, making them valuable assets in healthcare settings.

By obtaining certifications, nurses demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality care and staying updated with the latest advancements in their fields. Certification also enables nurses to expand their career opportunities, as many healthcare institutions prefer certified professionals.

Moreover, certified nurses contribute to better patient outcomes. Their specialized knowledge allows them to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with precision and expertise. They are equipped to handle complex cases and provide evidence-based care that leads to improved patient recovery.

How to Celebrate National Certified Nurses Day

National Certified Nurses Day is a perfect opportunity to show your appreciation for certified nurses and acknowledge their dedication. Here are a few ways you can celebrate this special day:

Send a heartfelt thank-you note or message to a certified nurse who has made a difference in your life or the life of a loved one.
Organize a small gathering or award ceremony in your workplace to honor certified nurses and recognize their achievements.
Share inspiring stories or testimonials about certified nurses on social media using the hashtag #CertifiedNursesDay.
Donate to organizations that support professional development and certifications for nurses.
Take a moment to reflect on the impact certified nurses have on patient care and the healthcare industry as a whole.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the idea of dedicating a day to certified nurses originated from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)? The ANCC is the world's largest and most prestigious nurse credentialing organization, and they proposed the establishment of National Certified Nurses Day to recognize the contributions of certified nurses.

History behind the term 'Certified Nurses'

1854

The Rise of Nurse Training Schools

In 1854, Florence Nightingale opened the Nightingale Training School for Nurses at St. Thomas' Hospital in London, England. This marked a significant shift in the training and professionalism of nurses. The school provided a standardized curriculum and rigorous training, ensuring that nurses developed the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality care.

1883

The Establishment of the American Society of Superintendents of Training Schools for Nurses

In 1883, the American Society of Superintendents of Training Schools for Nurses (later renamed the National League for Nursing Education) was established. This organization aimed to elevate the status of nursing as a profession and promote the standardization of nursing education across the United States. Through their efforts, nursing schools began to adopt similar curricula and accreditation criteria.

1900

Growth of Nursing Licensure

Around the year 1900, various states in the United States started implementing nursing licensure laws. These laws required nurses to meet specific educational and training criteria to be eligible for licensure. The introduction of licensure further emphasized the importance of proficiency and professionalism within the nursing field.

1952

Introduction of Certification

In 1952, the American Nurses Association (ANA) established a certification program for nurses. This program aimed to recognize and validate the specialized knowledge and skills of nurses in specific areas of practice. Certification became an additional credential that demonstrated a nurse's commitment to continuous learning and expertise in a particular field.

1974

Formation of the American Nurses Credentialing Center

In 1974, the American Nurses Association created the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a subsidiary to oversee and administer certification programs for nurses. The ANCC has since become a leading organization in providing certifications such as the Certified Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwife, among others. The establishment of this center further solidified the importance of certification in nursing.