National Nurses Day is celebrated annually on May 6th to raise awareness of the important role nurses play in society. This day also marks the beginning of National Nurses Week, which ends on May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale. Nightingale is considered the founder of professional nursing due to her pioneering work during the Crimean War of 1853-1856 and her establishment of the first secular nursing school in London.
Here are five ways to say 'thank you' to a nurse who has touched you or a loved one this year:
- Say it with caffeine: Nurses work long and late hours. A gift card to a coffee shop is a practical and much appreciated token of thanks.
- Say it out loud, Facebook style: Consider a big social media shout-out on your Facebook page. Tag your nurse friends, but make it public to all.
- Say it with soles: On their feet for long shifts, the quest for the perfect pair of nursing shoes can be eased with a gift certificate to a local or online nursing supply store.
- Say it with a letter: Handwritten thank-you notes are still an excellent way to share your feelings and boost the recipient's day.
- Say it with food: Every workplace enjoys a thoughtful basket of food from a grateful customer. Just make sure to include enough for the team.