American Correctional Nurses Association

National Nurses Week Message from the American Correctional Nurses Association

To All Correctional Nurses,

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, May 6-12, 2025, the American Correctional Nurses Association (ACNA) extends our deepest gratitude and appreciation to nurses who chose to care for patients within the walls of our nation's correctional facilities. Correctional nursing is a unique and often under-recognized specialty—one that demands resilience, compassion, clinical excellence, and unwavering professionalism. We provide care to some of the most vulnerable populations in environments that are complex, challenging, and too often overlooked. Our work is not only essential to the health and well-being of our patients, but also to the safety and integrity of the entire correctional system.

This week, and every week, ACNA honors the critical role we play—not just as nurses, but as advocates, educators, healers, and professionals within our specialty who embody the highest standards of practice. Your courage and commitment are inspiring!

Thank you for your service, your strength, and your heart. Happy National Nurses week.

With deepest respect,

Heather E. Norman, MBA, MSN, NE-BC, CNL, CCHP-RN
President, American Correctional Nurses Association