Insights Gained
The video on the history of nursing provided an illuminating and thought-provoking exploration of the profession’s rich past (The History, 2023). It was surprising to discover that the term “nurse” was initially used to refer to someone who cared for children, and that it was only later in its evolution that the term came to denote care for those who were ill. This highlights the importance of those who provide care for the vulnerable in society, whether it be children or older people.
Another surprise was the varied quality of care in the early hospitals. The provision of care in some hospitals was seen to be of a high standard due to the presence of religious orders; however, other institutions experienced a lack of efficient care as a result of untrained staff who had not received formal instruction (Abbott & Wallace, 2020). This was a poignant reminder of the need for standardized education and training for nurses, a concept Florence Nightingale was aware of and acted upon.
The legacy of Florence Nightingale’s revolutionary work during the Crimean War is undeniable. Nightingale is credited with pioneering the implementation of foundational concepts of sanitation, health maintenance, and illness prevention into the practice of patient care, resulting in a revolutionary shift and laying the foundation for modern nursing. Her team’s achievements are particularly noteworthy, as the mortality rate of patients under their care experienced a drastic decrease(Bullough & Bullough, 2021). This serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of accessible and adequate healthcare.
Reflection
As a nursing student, this video has provided an affirmation of my choice to pursue a career in nursing. It emphasizes the importance of nurses in improving healthcare outcomes and advocating for their patients (The History, 2023). Additionally, it highlights the impact of Florence Nightingale’s advocacy of standardized statistics on the movement towards evidence-based care.
Moreover, this video has allowed me to reflect on the challenges that nurses have faced throughout history, from societal perceptions of nursing as an honorable occupation to the ongoing fight against infectious diseases. This has served as a reminder of the strength and dedication that nurses have demonstrated in the face of adversity. Overall, the video enhanced my understanding of the significance of nursing and its contributions to healthcare. It further solidified my resolve to become an educated and caring nurse who can aid in improving patient outcomes and promoting the health of all people.
References
Abbott, P., & Wallace, C. (2020). Health visiting, social work, nursing and midwifery: A history. In The sociology of the caring professions (pp. 20-53). Routledge.
Bullough, V. L., & Bullough, B. (2021). The care of the sick: The emergence of modern nursing. Routledge.
The History. (2023). History of Nursing. YouTube.