History of Nursing Profession Overview

Nursing is a healthcare profession focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities to help them achieve, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life.

Nurses play a critical role in patient care, working closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, pharmacists, and therapists.

Nursing involves both practical skills and a deep understanding of human health and well-being.

Nursing careers are diverse. From bedside care in hospitals to education, research, and even innovation.

The origins of nursing can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where women often played the role of caregivers.

In ancient Greece, women provided care within the home, while temples housed those requiring assistance, cared for by priestesses.

The Roman Empire saw the emergence of hospitals, but caregivers lacked formal training and volunteered their time.

During the Middle Ages, hospitals in Byzantine cities were staffed mainly by male assistants and nurses, while women continued to care for the sick in rural communities.

A profession that requires a unique body of knowledge, a strong service orientation, recognized authority, a code of ethics, ongoing research, and autonomy.

A collection of standards that guide the practice of nursing.

Involves gathering information about a patient's health status.

Analyzing assessment data to identify actual or potential health problems.

Setting specific and measurable goals for the patient.

Developing a plan of care to achieve the desired outcomes.

Putting the plan into action and providing care to the patient.

Evaluating the effectiveness of care and making adjustments as needed.

A period where healthcare practices began to evolve significantly. The establishment of medical schools like the Royal College of Surgeons in London marks a key development during this era.

A British nurse who revolutionized nursing during the mid-1800s. She emphasized health maintenance, restoration, and the importance of a clean environment for patient care.

A set of principles and practices for nursing based on health maintenance, restoration, and a focus on environmental factors. This was pioneered by Florence Nightingale and heavily influenced modern nursing practice.

A term used to describe Florence Nightingale's impact on improving sanitation and reducing death rates in hospitals. Her dedication to hygiene and clean environments drastically improved patient outcomes.

The Nightingale Training School, established in London, was one of the first nursing schools to combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice, setting a new standard for nursing education.

Florence Nightingale's analysis of disease patterns, particularly her link between poor sanitation and cholera/dysentery outbreaks. This emphasized the importance of a clean environment and influenced public health practices.

A term that refers to the payment for healthcare services by a third party (like an insurance company), rather than the patient directly. It's a key development in the 20th century that shaped how healthcare was financed.

A type of health insurance that covers healthcare costs through a fixed monthly payment, regardless of actual use. It's a significant change in the 20th century that provided greater access to healthcare.

A nursing program that usually takes four years to complete, offering courses in basic sciences, theoretical and clinical nursing, social sciences, arts, and humanities.

A master's degree focused on nursing that is earned after a baccalaureate degree. It prepares nurses for roles like educators, administrators, and advanced practice.

A doctoral degree in nursing that equips graduates to conduct research and apply findings to clinical practice, teaching, and leadership.

The nurse's independent ability to make decisions and act without needing direct orders from a physician. An example is initiating coughing and deep breathing exercises for a post-operative patient.

The professional and legal responsibility of nurses to answer for the quality and type of care they provide.

Providing care and support to patients in all health settings, focusing on promoting health, preventing illness, managing illness and symptoms, supporting families, and providing end-of-life care.

The shift of nursing education from hospitals to universities, leading to more specialized and autonomous nursing practices.

The first formal nursing education program in Turkey, established in 1911. It was a six-month program aimed at providing basic nursing training.

A turning point in Turkish nursing education, marked by the start of a two-and-a-half-year program at the Bristol Health School in 1920, training nurses for the American Hospital.

Established in 1925, it offered a two-year program, and its foundation was directly influenced by the efforts of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

The introduction of Bachelor's degree programs in nursing, with Ege University setting the precedent in 1955.

The establishment of Florence Nightingale School of Nursing in 1961, contributing to the advancement and diversification of nursing education.

The Turkish Nurses Association, founded in 1933, played a key role in advocating for the profession and promoting nursing standards.

The first nurse in Turkey with a university degree and postgraduate qualifications. She was a leading figure in establishing nursing schools and the Turkish Nurses Association.

A nurse who helps patients regain health, manage disease, and achieve maximum independence in their recovery process. This includes helping them with activities they may have trouble with, such as eating, bathing, or moving around.

A nurse who acts as a protector for a patient's rights and helps them understand and navigate healthcare processes. This might involve advocating for their treatment preferences, ensuring they receive appropriate care, and supporting them in making informed decisions.

A nurse who teaches patients and their family about their health conditions, medications, and how to manage their care. This may involve explaining procedures, demonstrating techniques, and ensuring the patient understands their illness and treatment.

A nurse who manages a team to provide safe, collaborative, and patient-centered care. This involves organizing care plans, ensuring proper staffing, and working with other healthcare professionals to meet the needs of the patients.

A nurse who actively seeks out new knowledge and skills to improve their practice and deliver the best possible care for patients. This can include continuing education, pursuing advanced degrees, and staying updated on new medical discoveries.