What is the theme of International Nurses Day in 2023?

In 2023, the theme of International Nurses Day has been set by the ICN as ‘Nurses: A Voice to Lead - Invest in Nursing and respect rights to secure global health.’

May 12, 2023, will be recognised as International Nurses Day or Nurses' Day, which is celebrated annually to honour the contributions and achievements of nurses worldwide. It is an opportunity to recognise the critical role that nurses play in healthcare, their dedication to patient care, and the impact they make in their communities.

This day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifices that nurses make daily to care for patients, advocate for their health and well-being, and make a difference in their communities. It also serves as a reminder to support and empower nurses, recognise their achievements, and address the challenges they face.

International Nurses Day is celebrated globally, with various activities organised to commemorate the occasion, including conferences, seminars, webinars, award ceremonies, and social media campaigns.

The 2023 theme for International Nurses Day is A Voice to Lead: Our Nurses. Our Future. Set by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), the 2023 theme addresses the global health challenges exacerbated by a shortage of nurses. Nurses are crucial in all parts of health care, whether it be acute, preventative, primary, or community care, and a refusal to address the ongoing worker shortage will leave all Australians worse off. Overall, Nurses' Day is an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for the critical role that nurses play in healthcare and society as a whole.

Rembereing Florence Nightingale

Florence Nightingale, known as the "Lady with the Lamp," was a pioneering nurse and social reformer who made significant contributions to the nursing profession. She is celebrated each year on May 12th, which is recognised as International Nurses Day or Nurses' Day, to honour her birth anniversary and the work of nurses around the world. Florence Nightingale is famous for her work during the Crimean War, where she led a team of nurses to care for wounded soldiers.

She became known for her compassionate and dedicated care, as well as her emphasis on hygiene and sanitation, which greatly improved the health outcomes of the soldiers. After the war, Florence Nightingale continued to advocate for better nursing care and healthcare reform. She founded the first nursing school in the world at St. Thomas' Hospital in London and wrote extensively about nursing and public health issues.

Today, Florence Nightingale is considered the founder of modern nursing and her legacy continues to inspire nurses around the world. International Nurses Day is an opportunity to recognize the important role that nurses play in healthcare and to honor their contributions to society.