Nursing: Then & Now

Over the years nursing has undergone major transformation, from the attires, responsibilities, and education. I graduated from nursing school in 1988, during which time, I wore white uniforms, including white stockings and shoes. My hair was pinned up and my nails were trimmed and unpolished. I learnt medications by writing information on index cards and utilizing drug handbooks. I memorized medications’ uses, side effects, dosages, and nursing implications. We relied on calculators, counting drip factors, and were self-reliant. Patients were never addressed by their first names. Our clinical rotations were managed by our nursing instructors who supervised each student individually. Students received failing grades if they were tardy or did not correctly perform the required procedures or demonstrated the proper techniques. These actions would result in dismissal from the program, until the beginning of the next school year. There was emphasis on “hazards of immobility” and as a result we learnt to turn and position patients, relieving pressure with pillows and rolls. We were taught skin care and foot care, including nail trimming. Nasogastric tubes were inserted and positon was checked using an air filled syringe and our stethoscope. Medications were only available in unit doses. Vital signs were obtained using a glass thermometer, and a manual sphygmomanometer. We documented on paper using the nursing process. A great portion of our shift was focused on patient care, instead of charting.

Compared to how nurses are now educated or trained this may be viewed by many as very basic. Nevertheless, this education was my foundation and has been instrumental in the trajectory of my career.  Throughout the years, I have acquired valuable nursing acumens that has helped to enhance my personal and professional growth. Although, I have obtained my Masters and Doctorate, and no longer practice at the bedside, I proudly say “I will always be a nurse.”

I am grateful for the technology and advancements that has helped us to deliver safe and more efficient care. The evolution has positively impacted nursing and the delivery of health care tremendously. We have the tools to delivery high quality, safe, patient-centered care, but do we have the nurses to execute? 

Somewhere along the way, the passion and zest has diminished in the profession. Let us stay motivated, continue to learn and grow and not forget the reasons why we became nurses.