National Career Nurse Assistants’ Day is a holiday that’s observed during the first day of National Nursing Assistants’ Week every year. National Nursing Assistants’ Week begins on a Thursday during the second full week of June. This week and this holiday recognize all of the nursing assistants who work hard to ensure that their patients are healthy and well cared for.

Also known as nursing aides, these nurses work under the supervision of a licensed practical or registered nurse, and provide basic care and help to their patients. Their job is extremely important to the wellbeing of their patients and that’s why this holiday celebrates them every year.

The History Of National Career Nurse Assistants’ Day

This holiday was created by the National Network of Career Nursing Assistants during the late 1970s. It has been observed every year since then. It’s a day to show support and appreciation to these nursing professionals who do the hard, and sometimes unpleasant, work that has to be done to ensure that patients are happy, healthy, and well taken care of.

Some Of The Duties Of Nursing Assistants

Below are some of the jobs that nursing assistants have to do. Although the following isn’t a comprehensive list of all of their duties, it does give an insight into what nursing aides have to contend with on a daily basis.

• Bathe patients and make sure they’re clean.
• Help patients dress and use the toilet.
• Serve meals and help patients eat.
• Turn and reposition patients between beds and wheelchairs.
• Record patient’s vital signs.

Observing National Career Nurse Assistants’ Day

To observe this holiday, all you have to do is to thank a CNA that you know. It doesn’t matter if they work for in-home care, at a nursing home, or at a hospital. Just drop them a simple thank-you note or give them a fruit basket.

It’s also a good day to tell the hospital’s administration what a great job they’re doing. While observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #CareerNurseAssistantsDay to spread the word about this holiday and to give thanks to CNAs around the world.