History of Nursing Quiz

History of Nursing

Summary of Ancient Cultures

Egypt

In ancient Egypt, nursing was considered a sacred profession. Priestsesses were employed to care for the sick and wounded soldiers, and they were highly respected members of society.

Greece

In classical Greek culture, women played key roles in nurturing children and caring for the sick. Hippocrates, who is often referred to as the father of medicine, noted this role and their nursing contributions.

Rome

In ancient Rome, slaves called scunda served as nurses, midwives, and wet nurses. They would take care of infants, children, sick adults, and elderly persons.

China

Ancient Chinese texts indicate that there were already specialized nurse practitioners during the Chin dynasty, around 200 BC. These early healers followed patient-centered healing practices, which included herbal medicine and acupuncture.

Site of Health Care in Ancient Cultures

In ancient civilizations like Babylon, temples were used as hospitals and places of medical education. In ancient India, the traditional medical text "Ayurveda" describes the role of Vaidyas, highly qualified physicians and surgeons.

Islam and Nursing

During the Islamic Golden Age, hospitals flourished in places like Baghdad and Damascus. Ibn Rushd, known as Averroes, wrote an influential work on health care, including a section on nursing. Islamic scholars have contributed significantly to modern nursing theories through their works on public health and community care.

The Founder of Nursing

Florence Nightingale, born in 1820, has been recognized as the founder of modern nursing. During the Crimean War, she established the first official school of nursing and improved hygienic conditions, leading to significant reductions in hospital infection rates.

Historical Perspective

Throughout history, nursing has evolved from a cottage industry to a complex system with formalized training programs. The Florence Nightingale School of Nursing was founded in London in 1860, setting the standard for professional nursing education.

Nursing Defined by Different Scholars

Modern definitions of nursing vary slightly depending on the source. For example, the World Health Organization defines nursing as "the practice of nursing". Others view nursing as a way to promote wellness, while others see it as a means to prevent illness.

Definition of Nursing by W.H.O.

According to the World Health Organization, nursing encompasses the promotion, protection, and restoration of the highest achievable level of physical, social, and mental well-being, whether in a person's own home or in an institution.

Types of Nursing Educational Programmes

Nursing educational programmes offer various levels of education, including diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, doctoral degrees, postgraduate certificates, and continuing professional development courses.

History of Nursing Education in Pakistan

Pakistan's nursing education system began in 1869 when Lahore Medical College started offering a two-year diploma programme for nursing students. Today, there are numerous schools of nursing across the country that offer a variety of educational programs and specialties.