National Nurses Day is May 6. We raise awareness of all nurse contributions and commitments and acknowledge the vital role nurses play in society. This day is also the first day of National Nurses Week also known as National RN Recognition Day. National Nurses Week begins May 6 and ends on May 12, which is the birthday of Florence Nightingale May 12, 1820 – August 13, 1910, the founder of modern nursing. Healthcare and Medicine! Nurse checking patient vitals.