12 May: International Nurse Day

The International Nurse Day (IND) is observed every year on May 12 across world to mark the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and also mark contribution of nurses towards the society. The theme chosen by International Council of Nurses (ICN) for 2018 IND was ‘Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Health is a Human Right’.On this occasion, President of India conferred National Florence Nightingale Awards to nursing personnel from across the country for selfless services rendered by nurses with devotion, sincerity, dedication and compassion.

Background

International Nurses Day was first proposed by Dorothy Sutherland (officer from US Department of Health, Education and Welfare) in 1953 and first proclaimed by US President Dwight D. Eisenhower. It was first celebrated by International Council of Nurses (ICN) in 1965. In January 1974, 12th of May was declared to be celebrated as birthday anniversary of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale. She was born on May 12, 1820.

Month: Current Affairs - May, 2018