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Red Cross Regulations Regarding Wearing Nurse Pins

Clara Barton pinned red ribbons to her coat in 1870 to identify herself when she distributed supplies to the destitute. She later helped to create the "American Red Cross," a service organization that enlists medical professionals and other volunteers to provide aid and assist with public health programs. The red cross appears on various items, but specific regulations apply to wearing the Red Cross nurse pin.

  1. History of the Red Cross Nurse Pin

    • The red cross symbol of first aid represents an international humanitarian movement that began in Switzerland during the late 19th century and influenced the creation of the "American Red Cross." Volunteers and nurses were first recruited to assist people in their homes with hygiene and care for the sick at a time when there was a growing demand for medical services. Nearly 100,000 Red Cross nurses volunteered to provide aid during World War I and II. The nursing service now responds to issues of health and safety, disaster response and civilian blood programs.

    Wearing the Red Cross Nurse Pin

    • The Red Cross nurse pin symbolizes professional status and dedication to service. The round gold cloisonne enamel pin with a red cross on a white background is issued to a registered nurse who has graduated from an accredited nursing program and is licensed in the state where she has completed 20 hours of Red Cross service. A number is engraved on the back of each pin and identified on an enrollment card stating the regulations for wearing the pin. The badge and card remain the property of the "American Red Cross" and the pin may be worn only by the individual named on the card. A student nurse pin is given to those in training who have done 10 hours of service.

    Other Red Cross Pins

    • Pins with the red cross on various colored backgrounds were issued to other medical and non-medical volunteer corps who served during the world wars and were worn in specific locations on the collar, cap or lapel. These vintage pins have become desirable collectible items. Any supporter of the "American Red Cross" today may obtain and wear a generic cloisonne red cross pin that is widely available.

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