National Nursing Week 2025 is officially underway in Newfoundland and Labrador following the signing of a provincial proclamation by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Health and Community Services, and Yvette Coffey, RN, President of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador (RNUNL).

The ceremony, held today in St. John’s, formally recognizes the invaluable contributions of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners across the province. This year’s theme—“The Power of Nurses to Transform Health”—emphasizes the central role nurses play in strengthening the health care system and improving the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

“Nurses are not only the first point of contact for patients—they’re leaders, educators, researchers, and tireless advocates,” said Yvette Coffey. “This week, we honour their professionalism, expertise, and unwavering commitment to delivering quality care across every sector of our health care system.”

National Nursing Week is celebrated each May to coincide with the birthday of Florence Nightingale, widely recognized as the founder of modern nursing. It provides an opportunity to highlight the profound and lasting impact nurses have in every setting—from hospitals and clinics to long-term care and community health.

RNUNL encourages all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to join in recognizing the vital work of nurses by sharing messages of thanks, personal stories, or photos using the hashtag #PowerOfNurses on social media.

To learn more about RNUNL’s advocacy and the work nurses do across the province, visit www.rnunl.ca.