Caring for the smallest and newest patients, neonatal nurses work in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) to provide for the special needs of those who come into the world a bit earlier than expected. From basic care like feeding, bathing, changing and weighing the newborns to administering medications, making assessments, and perhaps even performing resuscitation, the job of a neonatal nurse can be a stressful but rewarding one, making a difference on a daily basis.
National Neonatal Nurses Week is celebrated to shine a spotlight on the impact that people in the neonatal nursing profession make on the lives of their tiny patients and their families. In addition, the hope for the week is to make a difference by advocating for those who are in this profession and thank them for the hard work and dedication they put into this life-saving work.
History of National Neonatal Nurses Week
This important appreciation event was founded by the National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) in 2000. Originally starting out as Neonatal Nurses Day on September 15, it was determined in 2019 that the event should be expanded to give everyone a better chance to acknowledge and say thanks to these many neonatal nurses who make the world a better place for so many families.
How to Celebrate National Neonatal Nurses Week
Show some support to the women and men who work so hard in this niche job by celebrating them on some of these ways during National Neonatal Nurses Week:
Thank a Neonatal Nurse
Those who have a friend or family member who is a neonatal nurse can take National Neonatal Nurses Week as a perfect opportunity to show some love and appreciation for the dedicated work that they do. Equally, those folks whose lives have been impacted through the direct care of a child – who is perhaps born prematurely or has birth defects or other health issues – can take this week as a special opportunity to say a rousing “thank you” to a special neonatal nurse with cards, messages, gifts and more.
Understand More About Neonatal Nurses
Get involved with National Neonatal Nurses Week by learning a bit more about the kind work that these men and women do. Those who know a neonatal nurse can ask them about their experiences and stories. Those who are interested but don’t know one can learn by doing research. Check out some of these interesting facts to get started with:
While NICU nurses are dedicated to the babies, they are equally there to help the whole family during very challenging times.
The majority of babies that neonatal nurses take care of are those born prematurely.
Most training for nurses in the neonatal unit occurs on the job, with approximately 4-6 months of orientation
Become a Neonatal Nurse
One excellent thing to consider during National Neonatal Nurses Week might be becoming a NICU nurse. Depending on the particular state in which they work, neonatal nurses can be trained through either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree along with licensing as a registered nurse.
You may also like
National Neonatal Nurses Day
In the quiet corners of hospitals, neonatal nurses work tirelessly, providing specialized care to newborns facing critical health challenges. These dedicated professionals are the backbone of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), offering not only medical expertise but also emotional support to families during some of their most difficult times. Their role...
- United States
NICU Awareness Month
Raising understanding about premature infant care, their special needs, and the dedicated medical teams that support them.
- United States
National Emergency Nurses Day
Honor the dedication of these amazing medical professionals by fundraising for your local emergency department or sending gifts on Emergency Nurses Day.
- Australia
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- and 1 more
Certified Nurses Day
Certified Nurses Day spotlights nurses who choose to prove their expertise the hard way: by earning a nationally recognized certification in a specialty area and then keeping it current. Certification is not the same as a nursing license. Licensure is the baseline requirement to practice, while certification is an added...
- Australia
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- and 1 more
National days and holidays on September 12
National Just One Human Family Day
Some days speak louder than others—and this one speaks of unity. National Just One Human Family Day invites people to pause and look at each other with open hearts. It’s not about grand gestures or big speeches. It’s about the simple idea that every person belongs. Skin color, language, religion—none...
National Hug & High 5 Day
National Hug & High 5 Day invites everyone to share hugs and high fives, spreading warmth and positivity. This special day encourages connecting with friends, neighbors, or even strangers through simple gestures. A heartfelt hug or an enthusiastic high five can brighten someone's day instantly. These small acts remind us...
National Report Medicare Fraud Day
Spotting something off on a medical bill might seem small, but it can mean catching a much bigger problem. National Report Medicare Fraud Day puts the focus on stopping scams that cost the country billions. It encourages everyday people—not just experts—to speak up when something doesn’t look right. Crooks use clever...
Crayfish Party
Crayfish Party is a lively and festive occasion celebrated with friends and family. This event marks the end of summer, bringing people together for a joyful feast. Tables are often set with bright decorations, and the air is filled with laughter. The menu features cooked and seasoned crayfish. The atmosphere...
- Denmark
- Finland
- Norway
- and 1 more
Seize Every Day
Join free for personalised recommendations, email reminders and exclusive guides. Never miss a day.