PIERRE - The South Dakota Nurses Association joins the American Nurses Association in celebrating National Nurses Week. Annually, National Nurses Week begins on May 6, marked as RN Recognition Day, and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession.

The theme for this year is "Nurses: Making a Difference Every Day." National Nurses Week is devoted to highlighting the diverse ways in which registered nurses, the largest health care profession, are working to improve health care. From bedside nursing in hospitals and long-term care facilities to the halls of research institutions, state legislatures, and Congress, the depth and breadth of the nursing profession is meeting the expanding health care needs of American society. The purpose of National Nurses Week is to raise awareness of the value of nursing and help educate the public about the role nurses play in meeting the health care needs of the American people.

In honor of the dedication, commitment, and tireless effort of the nearly 2.9 million registered nurses nationwide to promote and maintain the health of this nation, the South Dakota Nurses Association is proud to recognize registered nurses everywhere for the quality work they provide seven days a week, 365 days a year.

The South Dakota Nurses Association is a statewide not-for-profit professional association, representing registered nurses in South Dakota. It is a constituent of the American Nurses Association.