On May 12, we celebrate nurses worldwide – the professionals who stand by patients’ bedsides day after day, often in the background, yet are key players in the functioning of the healthcare system. Nurses are an essential link in healthcare: they are the ones who are not only crucial in physical healing but also provide essential emotional support.
The work of nurses goes far beyond basic care tasks. They are the first to notice changes in a patient’s condition, to observe the smallest signs, and to relay information to doctors. They are the ones who accompany patients with empathy, patience, and attention – whether during hospital treatments, rehabilitation, or even in the most difficult moments. Nursing work is often invisible, yet life-saving.
At the same time, the nursing profession brings serious challenges. In addition to the physical demands – lifting, long shifts, and night duty – constant emotional strain and the pressure of being on call can also be mentally exhausting. Burnout syndrome, unfortunately, is common in this profession. To prevent this, workplace support, rest opportunities, and the protection of mental health are crucial – whether through psychological support, supervision groups, or simply creating a work environment that respects human dignity.
Enhancing their social and professional recognition is not only our moral duty but also in our collective interest. Acknowledging nurses goes beyond celebration: without fair financial recognition, career opportunities, continuous professional development, and comprehensive support for the healthcare system, we will not be able to preserve this irreplaceable workforce in the long run. May 12 is a perfect occasion to pause for a moment and express our gratitude to nurses. Thank you for the strength, perseverance, and compassion with which they make people’s lives easier and better every day. They are the ones who bring hope when it’s needed the most – the Silent Heroes, who we can never praise enough.