Understanding nursing as a profession

This book, written by Michael Traynor, professor of nursing policy at Middlesex University, is a fascinating analysis into nursing as a profession, as well as a history of nursing, and its evolution over time.

The author begins by arguing that the history of nursing has been 'peculiar'. This section was particularly interesting as it detailed the transition from a 19th century nursing service, which was generally seen as being based on morality derived from Christianity. It was more focused on relieving suffering, as opposed to clinical treatment, due to limited medical knowledge at the time. The author explains the social factors that led to nursing being seen as a stereotypically female profession, and why the profession is what it is today.