May 12 marks International Nurses Day, honoring the birth of Florence Nightingale in 1820, renowned as the pioneer of modern nursing. Established in 1974 by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), this annual event recognizes the invaluable contributions of nurses to healthcare worldwide.

During the 1850s Crimean War, Nightingale made significant strides in nursing while stationed at the Barrack Hospital in Scutari (now Üsküdar, Istanbul). Witnessing deplorable conditions, she implemented stringent standards of care, ensuring cleanliness and adequate supplies for injured British soldiers. Her experiences spurred her advocacy for healthcare and nursing reform, culminating in the establishment of the Nightingale School of Nursing at St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, in 1860. This initiative inspired the founding of similar nursing schools globally, including in Australia, the United States, and China, shaping the modern nursing profession.

International Nurses Day is marked annually by the ICN through the distribution of educational materials, spotlighting nurses' dedicated work and innovative practices, crucial for patient well-being and healthcare advancement globally. These materials also address pertinent issues within the nursing community, such as economic challenges and inadequate work conditions, aiming to bolster nursing education and resilience against enrollment fluctuations.

Each year, a theme is chosen to focus attention on current nursing issues. Past themes have ranged from environmental concerns to poverty alleviation and healthcare accessibility.

In countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States, International Nurses Day often extends into National Nurses Week, a weeklong celebration honoring the tireless efforts of nursing professionals.

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