The American Nurses Association (ANA) is a professional organization representing the interests of the nation's 4 million registered nurses. The ANA was founded in 1911 and is headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland. The organization's mission is to promote the nursing profession, advance health care, and protect the rights of nurses. The ANA offers a wide range of services to its members, including continuing education, professional development, and advocacy. The organization also publishes a number of journals and other publications related to nursing and health care. The ANA is governed by a board of directors and has a membership of over 4 million nurses.