There was much progress in nursing during the early to middle part of the 20th century (1900 through the late 1930s). After reading the textbook and the lesson for this week, describe one area of change in nursing during that time period that intrigues you. Discuss how that area could be applied today. Judd, D. & Sitzman, K. (2014). A History of American nursing: Trends and eras (2nd ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett. Purchase the answer to view it Purchase the answer to view it
During the early to middle part of the 20th century, nursing experienced significant advancements and changes. One area of change that particularly intrigues me is the evolution of nursing education during this time period. The development of formal nursing education programs and the establishment of nursing schools laid the foundation for professional nursing as we know it today.
In the early 20th century, nursing education was primarily hospital-based and focused on hands-on, practical training. Nurses were often trained through apprenticeship-like programs, where they worked alongside experienced nurses to learn the necessary skills and knowledge. However, this approach to nursing education was criticized for its lack of standardized curriculum and theoretical foundation.
One notable change in nursing education during this time period was the establishment of the Columbia University School of Nursing in 1904. Under the leadership of Mary Adelaide Nutting, the school introduced a three-year program that combined clinical training with academic coursework. The curriculum included subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and hygiene, providing a more comprehensive education for nursing students.
The introduction of a formal nursing curriculum at Columbia University marked the beginning of a shift towards a more academic and scientific approach to nursing education. This change reflected a growing recognition of the need for nurses to have a solid understanding of the scientific principles that underlie their practice.
Another important development in nursing education during this time period was the introduction of the concept of specialization. In the 1920s and 1930s, nursing schools began to offer specialty programs that focused on specific areas of nursing practice, such as obstetrics, pediatrics, and psychiatry. This specialization allowed nurses to acquire in-depth knowledge and skills in their chosen area of practice, further professionalizing the field.
The advancements in nursing education during the early to middle part of the 20th century have had a lasting impact on the nursing profession. Today, nursing education is predominantly university-based and includes both theoretical coursework and clinical training. The emphasis on scientific knowledge and evidence-based practice that was introduced during this time period continues to be a cornerstone of nursing education.
Moreover, specialization in nursing has become a common practice in many healthcare settings. Nurses can choose to specialize in areas such as critical care, oncology, or geriatrics, among others. These specialty programs provide nurses with advanced knowledge and skills that allow them to provide specialized care to patients in their specific area of practice.
Furthermore, the concept of continuing education, which was also emphasized during this time period, remains a crucial aspect of nursing practice today. Nurses are encouraged to engage in lifelong learning to stay updated on the latest advancements in healthcare and enhance their professional development. This commitment to ongoing education ensures that nurses are equipped with the most current knowledge and skills to provide high-quality patient care.
In conclusion, the evolution of nursing education during the early to middle part of the 20th century played a vital role in shaping the profession of nursing. The establishment of formal nursing education programs, the introduction of specialized programs, and the emphasis on scientific knowledge and continuing education have all contributed to the professionalization of nursing. These advancements continue to be relevant and applicable in contemporary nursing practice, ensuring that nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care to patients.