Nursing is a profession with a rich and diverse history. When you think of nursing, you may think of Clara Barton, Florence Nightingale, or maybe even the nurses of movies and television shows such as MASH, ER and Chicago Hope. Regardless of what triggers your thoughts, the nursing profession has been one of the most respected in history, and its roots go back decades.
Article Contents
Early Origins
The history of modern day nursing can trace its roots back to nuns and military personnel. In times of peace and war, there were individuals who cared for the sick and wounded. However, while compassionate and eager to help, these early caregivers were not trained like the nurses of today and worked in conditions that were often detrimental to patients.
Florence Nightingale and the Foundation of Professional Nursing
One of the first significant developments in nursing occurred during the Crimean War, where Florence Nightingale worked to improve conditions for soldiers. She authored a book titled Notes on Nursing which laid the foundation for professional nursing.
Notable Figures in Nursing History
Other famous nurses throughout the history of nursing include:
- Clara Barton, who helped found the Red Cross
- Agnes Jones, who helped establish nursing schools in the United States
- Linda Richards, who was the first graduate of a U.S. Nursing School program
- Ellen Dougherty, who was the first Registered Nurse in New Zealand
Nursing in the Military
Over the course of history, nurses have played an important part in the military. Nursing dates back as far as the Civil War, with nurses such as Dorothea Dix trying to help wounded soldiers of both the North and South. Nurses have also been involved as caregivers in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Evolution of Nursing Attire and Gender Diversity
In the past decade, the appearance of nurses has changed significantly. Instead of wearing nurses caps, which were a tribute to nuns who were the original nurses, today’s nurses look different than those fifty years ago. Another significant change is the increase in the number of male nurses in the profession. Over the past few decades, the number of males in the nursing profession has increased, and it is expected that in future years, this trend will continue.
Moving Forward
Nursing has been a valuable profession and one that is worthwhile to those who have pursued it. While nursing has changed over the years, what hasn’t changed is the dedication and compassion of nursing professionals.
Additional Resources
- History of Nursing (VCU)
- Medicine Through Time
- History of Nursing Resources
- Center for Nursing History
- Florence Nightingale
- Notes on Nursing
- The Life of Clara Barton
- Famous Nurses in History
- Women Nurses in the Civil War
- The History of Wartime Nurses
- History of Nurses in the Military
- Black Nurses in History
- Men in Nursing
- Nursing Programs
- Nursing Shortage Fact Sheet