CNA Day

Quick facts
When is it?	Every June 12th
It's also known as:	Certified Nursing Assistant Day
Tagged as:	Healthcare Jobs & Professions
What are the hashtags?	#CNADay #CertifiedNursingAssistantDay
We first published this page on:	Jun 12th, 2025
We last updated this page:	Jun 12th, 2025

Contents

Certified Nursing Assistant Day honors those who care for patients with compassion and dedication. This day begins a special week when people pause to recognize the hard work CNAs do.

They help patients bathe, eat, walk, and feel safe. Their care often makes the toughest days easier. It feels good to see these helpers stand tall, even when days are long.

Their role fills vital gaps in our health system. CNAs face physical and emotional demands as they support patients and work alongside nurses and doctors. They form bonds of trust with each person they serve. A simple kind word or careful touch can bring calm in fear or pain.

Their efforts often go unseen, but this day gives them a heartwarming nod from communities and families. It tells every helper that their presence matters and that their work changes lives.

How to Celebrate Certified Nursing Assistant Day

Here are some lively ideas to mark CNA Day in a heartfelt and fun way:

Host a Breakroom Bash

Consider arranging a surprise snack party in the staff lounge. Fill tables with finger foods, fresh fruit, and hearty drinks. Invite colleagues to stop by for a quick treat and a pat on the back.

Create Personalized Notes

Ask patients, families, and teammates to write simple thank-you cards. Pin them to a colorful board or leave them on each CNA’s station. Reading heartfelt words brings a warm smile.

Offer Relaxing Breaks

Invite a massage therapist or yoga instructor for short break sessions. Let helpers enjoy a few quiet minutes to stretch and unwind. Such moments provide real care for caregivers.

Run Lighthearted Games

Organize a few playful contests like trivia or a relaxed relay. Offer small gift cards or fun badges as prizes. A bit of laughter and friendly rivalry builds camaraderie.

Give Thoughtful Tokens

Gift them small useful items like badge reels, comfy socks, or mini lotions. These practical presents say “we appreciate you” without fanfare. They often carry gratitude throughout the day.

Invite Local Guests

Ask a community leader or resident to speak a few kind words about CNAs. They can bring a personal perspective on how much those efforts matter. This creates a real sense of connection.

History of CNA Day

The need for care support rose sharply during World War I. Nurses split time between battlefields and hospitals.

The American Red Cross set up a Volunteer Nurses’ Aide Service to train helpers who could support nurses in caring for soldiers. Those aides offered basic care and comfort, often volunteering long hours in tough settings.

Interest resurfaced during World War II when the Red Cross reopened its training program. Many volunteers continued working in healthcare after the war ended.

On‑the‑job training became common in the 1970s. Concern grew over uncredentialed staffing in nursing homes. That led to new rules requiring aides to hold proper certification.

In 1977, advocates launched National Nursing Assistants’ Week. That marked the first formal time to honor these caregivers. The first dedicated CNA Day appeared as part of that week. It gave a special day to salute their contribution.

Certification became official in 1987. President Reagan signed the Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA), which required all nursing assistants to be certified before working in certain facilities. This act cemented the CNA role in modern care.

CNA Day