J Korean Acad Nurs Adm.  2022 Jun;28(3):200-213. 10.11111/jkana.2022.28.3.200.

Nightingale's Legacy as a Social Reform Activist: Based on Literature Review

• Yeh BI
• Park J
• Kim N

• KMID: 2536032
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.11111/jkana.2022.28.3.200

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of the study was to re-evaluate Florence Nightingale’s achievements celebrating the 200 th anniversary of Nightingale’s birth and to reflect on her legacy.
Methods
We conducted an extensive literature review with key words in Korean and English using 9 electronic databases, related data, books, articles, websites, and secondary literature.
Results
As a result of this study, the five legacy of Nightingale as a social reformer were examined. First, founding nursing in response to social needs. Second, reform of the health care system. Third, a practical social activist who promoted social change for the public good. Fourth, first adoption of health statistics. Fifth, emancipation of women. Nightingale’s legacy as a social reformer has had an considerable influence on our society so far.
Conclusion
Nightingale was a pioneer in nursing, but she was a social reform activist who successfully transformed the medical systems and even the whole social system based on her keen insight, religious vocation, profession vision, and personal competency. In the middle of World’s chaos and uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems more necessary than ever to embody the legacy of Nightingale as a social reformer, and put it into practice.

Keyword

Florence Nightingale; Legacy; Social reform; Founder of nursing; Nursing