New Delhi: On May 12, every year, the world comes together to celebrate International Nurses Day. This special day is dedicated to honoring the selfless contributions of nurses. These nurses work tirelessly to provide quality healthcare services and shape the future of healthcare. 

It’s a day to recognize their dedication, compassion, and expertise in caring for patients and advocating for the well-being of nurses worldwide. There are different slogans for Nurses Day every year. This year, the slogan is “Our Nurses. Our Future.”

According to State of World’s Nursing 2020 report, 59% of all healthcare professionals are nurses. The same report claims that the world will need 36 million nurses across globe by 2030, yet there is shortage of 5.9 million nurses especially in low and middle income countries. Pandemic has reminded us about the value of nurses in health care and therefore, on the occasion of the International Day of the Nurse and 200th Birth Anniversary of Florence Nightingale, let’s commit to their: occupational safety and health of nurses, financial support, and access to mental health support.

Strengthening nursing can have triple impact of improving health, promoting gender equality, and supporting economic growth.

Nursing is known to be one of the most trusted Professions to date. More than 33 lakh nurses are working in India, and the number is significantly increasing every day. It has also been predicted that the Nurse requirements will increase by 6% from 2021 to 2031.

International Nurses Day is a global celebration that pays tribute to the remarkable legacy of Florence Nightingale, who is widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing. Born in Italy on May 12, 1820, she gained worldwide recognition during the Crimean War in the 1850s. She treated wounded soldiers with her team of nurses and revolutionized the nursing profession by improving sanitary conditions and nursing practices. Her efforts significantly reduced mortality rates and inspired many to pursue a career in nursing.