The Development Of Nursing And Nursing Theory In The 20th Century

Regardless of the title used, nurses have been an integral part of caring for other people as far back as history goes, although it was not until the 20th century that nursing was recognized as a profession (Wikipedia). Nursing becoming a profession of its own was due largely in part to the work done by Florence Nightingale, often referred to as the mother of modern nursing. Nightingale's vision was the inspiration for opening of both hospitals and nursing education programs throughout the world, including the United States, upholding Nightingale's vision and principles (Villanova). Through the emergence of nursing throughout history, education through clinical experience as well as book studies has been at the forefront, particularly beginning in the late 1800s as nursing theories began to emerge. Nursing theories are defined as "an organized framework of concepts and purposes designed to guide the practice of nursing" (Nursing Theory). Nurses use these models to guide patient care and critical thinking skills while providing an overall foundation for the profession of nursing. Many of the nursing theories from the mid 1900s can be grouped into subcategories, one of which is need based, referencing Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs. The needs theories were established on the premise of individuals being able to

Nurses are held to high standard with expectations of unwavering professionalism, having been ranked the most trusted profession for 15 consecutive years, according to annual polls (ANA). The concept of professionalism in nursing is a concept that can characterized by honesty and high ethical standards. With concepts being the building blocks of theories (Chinn), Abdellah's theory was created with her experience as an honored member of the armed forces and respected educator, fashioning her as a prime example of a professional