Every year during Nurses Week, we pause to recognize the remarkable individuals who form the backbone of healthcare—our nurses. Nurses Week is always special, and in 2026, the American Nurses Association is spotlighting the theme The Power of Nurses™. It’s no surprise that the IONRP team loves nurses and takes every opportunity we can to celebrate them.
This theme doesn’t just sound inspiring — it reflects what nurses and leaders already know to be true: when nurses are supported, heard, and empowered, outcomes improve, teams thrive, and entire communities benefit.
The Power Behind the Profession
Whether you’re a nurse caring for patients directly, coordinating complex needs, mentoring new nurses, or guiding teams through constant change, every individual contributes to the strength of the profession. Nurses and leaders alike play a role in creating environments where people feel supported, valued, and can do their best work.
This week is a reminder not just to celebrate, but to acknowledge the shared responsibility we all carry in strengthening the profession.
Reflecting on What Nurses Bring to the World
Across the country, more than five million nurses practice in diverse roles and settings, providing expertise, compassion, and lifesaving interventions every day (Edwards, 2025).
Nurses are often the first to notice subtle changes, the first voice patients hear in vulnerable moments, and the steady hands that guide families through fear and uncertainty. And behind every strong nursing team is leadership that prioritizes safety, well‑being, and professional growth.
A Week to Celebrate—and Recommit
Nurses Week is a perfect time to show appreciation in meaningful, authentic ways. Leaders and team members might create spaces for sharing experiences, demonstrating gratitude, and providing recognition.
Celebrating Through Story: Beyond Nurse Residency Podcast
In our May episode of the Beyond Nurse Residency Podcast, we celebrate National Nurses Week (May 6–12) and the impact nurses make all month long. This year is especially meaningful as the American Nurses Association marks its 130th anniversary and highlights the theme, The Power of Nurses™. Listen now to hear real stories from nurses at different stages of their careers—from building confidence in the first year to leading with resilience and reflecting on long-term growth. Their experiences highlight the importance of support, teamwork, and lifelong learning across the profession.
To Our Nurses and Leaders: Thank You
To every nurse: thank you for your dedication, resilience, compassion, and expertise.
To every leader: thank you for standing beside your teams, advocating for their needs, and fostering environments where they can thrive.
As we celebrate Nurses Week 2026, may we honor not just what you do, but who you are—and continue working together to elevate the profession in lasting, meaningful ways.
Here’s to The Power of Nurses™, today and every day.
Jessica Ociepka, MSN, RN-BC
Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program Coordinator
jessica-ociepka@uiowa.edu
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Reference
Edwards, S. (2025). How many nurses in the U.S.? ConsumerShield.
https://www.consumershield.com/articles/how-many-nurses