National Certified Nurses Day is celebrated annually on March 19 to honor nurses who have gone beyond their basic license and earned national board certification in a specialty. That might mean critical care, emergency medicine, pediatrics, oncology, or dozens of other fields — each with its own rigorous exam and continuing-education requirements.
The date of the observance itself carries special significance. March 19 is the birthday of Margretta “Gretta” Madden Styles, an international pioneer in nursing credentialing who designed the first comprehensive study of nurse certification. The day was co-founded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Nurses Association (ANA), and it has been observed since 2008.
National Certified
Nurses Day
Honoring nurses who go beyond licensure to earn board certification in their specialty.
If you spot initials on a nurse’s badge, here’s what some of the most common certifications stand for:
What Makes Certification Special?
Board certification is voluntary, which makes it meaningful. Certified nurses have chosen to validate their expertise through standardized testing and ongoing professional development. Research consistently links certified nursing staff to better patient outcomes and higher standards of care. If you notice initials like “BC” (Board Certified), “CCRN,” or “CEN” on a nurse’s badge, those letters represent hundreds of hours of advanced study.
Facts About Certified Nurses
Certified nurses are an essential part of the healthcare system. National Certified Nurses Day reminds us of the dedication and expertise certified nurses bring to their roles. Here are some insightful facts about their work and achievements:
- There are over 180 nursing certification specialties, covering areas like pediatrics, oncology, and critical care. These certifications allow nurses to deliver targeted expertise.
- Studies show that hospitals with more certified nurses report better patient outcomes and higher satisfaction rates. Their specialized knowledge improves care quality.
- Certification is voluntary, reflecting a nurse’s personal commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.
- Dr. Gretta Styles, known as the “Mother of Nursing Credentialing,” helped establish global standards for certification programs.
- Certified Nurses Day encourages healthcare organizations to support and celebrate nurses pursuing advanced credentials.
How to Celebrate National Certified Nurses Day
National Certified Nurses Day offers an opportunity to honor these healthcare heroes and promote their work. Here are some meaningful ways to celebrate:
- Thank a certified nurse: Express appreciation to certified nurses you know. A heartfelt note or small token of gratitude can make their day.
- Support certification efforts: Encourage nurses in your community to pursue certifications by providing resources or funding opportunities.
- Share on social media: Raise awareness using hashtags like #CertifiedNursesDay to highlight their contributions to healthcare.
- Learn more about certifications: Explore the various nursing specialties and their impact on patient care.
