VA Office of Nursing Services (ONS)
National Nurses Week
Behind every Veteran’s story of healing, support, and hope, a VA nurse is making a difference. Many VA nurses are Veterans themselves or have a personal connection to those who’ve served. VA is proud to join the American Nurses Association in celebrating National Nurses Week, which begins with National Nurses Day on May 6th and ends on Florence Nightingale’s birthday on May 12th. We recognize the compassion, expertise, and leadership of the more than 119,000 VA nurses transforming Veteran care.
This year’s theme, “Advancing Nursing and Transforming Health Care,” reflects the vital role VA nurses play in shaping the future of Veteran care. Whether in hospitals, clinics, residential facilities, or through telehealth, VA nurses lead with innovation and expertise. Their insights improve patient outcomes, drive best practices, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
Purpose and Significance
During National Nures Week, VA recognizes the vital role nurses play in caring for U.S. Veterans across medical centers, clinics, and other VA Healthcare facilities. It highlights the expertise, compassion, and leadership that VA nurses provide daily to improve the health and well-being of Veterans. The observance reinforces the VA's commitment to supporting and appreciating its nursing staff while inspiring professional excellence and teamwork.
Observance Activities
During National Nurses Week, VA Medical facilities often organize:
• Recognition ceremonies and awards honoring outstanding nurses,
• Educational programs, workshops, and professional development opportunities,
• Social and team-building events celebrating staff contributions,
• Public communications to highlight VA nursing accomplishments and initiatives.
This week not only serves as a morale booster for VA nursing staff but also raises public awareness about the specialized care and dedication found in the VA healthcare system. It underscores the essential role of VA nurses in delivering highquality care to veterans across the nation. Celebrating National Nurses Week reinforces respect, gratitude, and professional pride among VA nurses, while inspiring future generations of nurses to serve Veterans with excellence.
A heartfelt thank you
To every VA nurse: thank you. Your skills save lives. Your compassion brings hope. Your dedication makes VA what it is—a trusted partner in health for our nation’s Veterans. Thank you for the exceptional care you deliver to Veterans, caregivers, and survivors every single day. Your hard work and your heart inspire us, and we’re endlessly grateful for the difference you make in the lives of those who’ve served our country.
Join our mission
If you’re a caring, reliable, skilled nurse looking to have your career make a real difference in the life of a Veteran, a nursing career at VA might be right for you. From emergency departments to long-term care facilities, VA nurses are on the frontlines of healing.
- Explore opportunities for VA nurses
- JOB APPLICATION process.
- LEARN about VA benefits.
- SUPPORT your education
- DISCOVER how you can #WorkAtVA.
