Nursing has evolved and changed over time. It would not be what it is today without many influential, dedicated and hardworking nurses. We are excited to share several nurses that have impacted our profession for centuries, some you may know and some you may not. Each of these nurses contributed, in various degrees, to larger political and/or social movements.
Florence Nightingale (1820-1910)
Known as “The Lady with the Lamp,” Florence Nightingale’s influence on nursing is undeniable. Her passion for statistics led to the development of the Nightingale rose diagram, and she established the world’s first secular nursing school at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London. In addition, she published Notes on Nursing as core curriculum at the Nightingale School. An inspiration to so many in the nursing profession, Ms. Nightingale treated the sick regardless of class, condition or time of day.
Linda Richards (1841-1930)
As the first professionally trained nurse in the United States, Ms. Richards used her career to support many other pursuits. She established the first nurse-training programs in the United States and Japan, as well as encouraged mental health institutions. Ms. Richards also created the first system for keeping individual medical records for hospitalized patients. Inducted into the American Nurses Association Hall of Fame and the National Women’s Hall of Fame, she paved the way for official standards in nursing and nurse training.
Anna Caroline Maxwell (1851-1929)
Considered the “American Florence Nightingale”, Ms. Maxwell served as the first superintendent of nurses at the Presbyterian Hospital Training School for Nurses in New York City where she devoted her career to elevating educational standards for nursing. A pioneer of nursing, Maxwell was dedicated to improved nursing education, standardizing nursing procedures, and increasing public acceptance of nursing as a profession.
The Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (OAAPN) offers educational and networking opportunities for advanced practice nurses, including: Certified Nurse Practitioners and Certified Nurse Midwives. OAAPN works with legislators and policy makers, provides membership benefits and activities, and offers volunteer opportunities within Ohio health care community.