For many people, Thanksgiving is a day of gathering, slowing down, and sharing gratitude. But for thousands of Nurses, it’s another kind of service day, a time to show up, care deeply, and be present for patients who need them most. Working on Thanksgiving isn’t always easy, but it carries a unique meaning that only Nurses truly understand.
Whether this is your first holiday shift or your fifteenth, here’s a little appreciation, encouragement, and guidance to help you make the most of the day.
While the rest of the world settles into celebration, you’re providing stability, safety, and comfort to people who may be spending the holiday in a hospital bed. That’s no small thing.
Many patients feel vulnerable or lonely this time of year, and your presence can help them feel less alone. Even the smallest acts, a warm blanket, an extra moment of listening, a genuine smile, can mean more than you realize.
Sometimes, the most meaningful gratitude comes from the quiet moments no one else sees.
Even on shift, there are ways to honor the holiday:
Start the day with a gratitude intention
Share a festive treat or potluck dish with your team
Write small thank-you notes to coworkers
Add a subtle autumn touch to the unit (per facility rules!)
Share a moment of reflection during handoff
These tiny traditions help the day feel special and they strengthen the bonds that make Nurse teams feel like family.
If you’re missing a holiday gathering, remember: Thanksgiving can be celebrated anytime.
Try:
Quick FaceTime calls during break
Asking family to save you a plate
Planning a “Thanksgiving redo” on your next day off
Creating your own tradition; breakfast Thanksgiving, takeout Thanksgiving, cozy movie-night Thanksgiving
Your holiday isn’t lost, just postponed.
Holiday shifts can be mentally and emotionally heavy. Make space for yourself, too.
Eat a real meal, even if it’s not turkey
Drink water and something fall flavored
Take a few grounding breaths between patient rooms
Step outside for 2 minutes of fresh air
Give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up; gratitude, exhaustion, pride, or even frustration
You’re human, and Nursing on a holiday is hard work.
Working on Thanksgiving is a sacrifice, but it’s also a gift.
A gift of service.
A gift of compassion.
A gift of presence.
While many people give thanks around a table, you’re giving thanks through action; supporting patients and families who are facing some of their toughest moments.
Please know this: You are seen. You are appreciated. And your work matters deeply. We are thankful for YOU.
Thanksgiving may look different for Nurses, but its heart remains the same: gratitude, connection, and caring for one another.
If you’re working this holiday, thank you for being the steady, skilled, compassionate presence your patients rely on.
You make a profound difference, not just on Thanksgiving, but every single day.