National IV Nurse Day

National IV Nurse Day is a specialized healthcare observance celebrated annually on January 25. The day honors the highly skilled professionals who specialize in infusion therapy, ensuring the safe and effective delivery of medications, fluids, and nutrition directly into the bloodstream.

We know of the following similar holidays:

• National Operating Room Nurse Day
• Emergency Nurses Day
• International Nurses Day
• International Orthopaedic Nurses Day

History of National IV Nurse Day

The establishment of National IV Nurse Day dates back to 1980, when the United States House of Representatives officially designated the date to honor infusion nurse specialists. The resolution was introduced by Massachusetts Congressman Ed Markey, who sought to bring public attention to this critical and growing branch of the nursing profession. The first official observance took place on January 25, 1981, and it has since become a permanent fixture in the healthcare calendar.

Before the professionalization of this field, intravenous therapy was a rudimentary practice often fraught with complications. The formation of the Infusion Nurses Society (INS) in 1973 helped standardize protocols and introduced rigorous certification processes. Today, many infusion nurses hold the Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI) credential, which requires extensive clinical experience and passing a comprehensive exam. National IV Nurse Day recognizes these decades of advancement in medical technology and the specialized education required to manage complex vascular access devices.

Why is National IV Nurse Day important?

This day is significant because infusion therapy is one of the most common yet complex medical interventions in modern healthcare. IV nurses are responsible for more than just inserting needles; they must have an expert understanding of venous anatomy, pharmacology, and fluid balance. Their expertise reduces the risk of complications such as infections, infiltration, and phlebitis, which can significantly impact patient recovery times and overall safety.

The holiday also highlights the expanding role of IV nurses in outpatient and home-based care. With the rise of long-term treatments for chronic illnesses, such as chemotherapy and biologics, these nurses often provide life-sustaining therapy outside of traditional hospital settings. They serve as patient advocates and educators, teaching families how to manage central lines and recognizing early signs of adverse drug reactions. By celebrating this day, the medical community acknowledges that specialized vascular access is a science that requires precision and constant professional development.

• It recognizes the specialized skills needed for intravenous medication delivery
• It commemorates the 1980 House of Representatives resolution for nursing excellence
• It promotes awareness of the Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI) credential
• It highlights the role of nurses in preventing serious bloodstream infections
• It honors the advocacy provided to patients undergoing long-term infusion therapy

How to Celebrate (or Observe) National IV Nurse Day

The most common way to observe this day is through professional recognition within hospitals and clinics. Management often hosts small ceremonies or “thank you” luncheons to acknowledge the dedication of their infusion teams. Many healthcare facilities display posters or digital banners that explain the importance of the specialty to patients and other staff members. In some settings, “IV Nurse Day” gear, such as specialized pins or apparel from the Infusion Nurses Society, is worn to foster a sense of pride and community among the staff.

For those outside the profession, a simple gesture of gratitude toward an infusion nurse during a treatment session can be very meaningful. Patients and their families often write thank-you notes or share positive experiences on social media using the hashtag #IVNurseDay. Educational institutions and nursing schools use the day to hold seminars or workshops on the latest advancements in vascular access technology. These events encourage registered nurses to pursue further certification and stay updated on evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes.

• Send a personalized thank-you note to an infusion nurse you know
• Host a recognition event or breakfast for the IV team at your facility
• Wear a purple ribbon or specialized nursing pin to show support
• Share facts about the importance of patient safety in infusion therapy
• Attend an educational webinar on new vascular access technologies

National IV Nurse Day Dates Table