Notes on Nursing: What it Is, and What it Is Not – by Florence Nightingale

Neither in my own nursing education at the B.S.N. nor at the M.S.N. level, was it even suggested, much less required, that I read any of Florence Nightingale’s original writings. Even as a nurse educator for over thirtyyears, I did not require my students to read her writings either. After reading “Notes on Nursing: What it Is, and What it Is Not”, I now believe it is a void in the education of a nurse not to read at least some of the writings of the founder of modern day nursing. Notes on Nursing would be an excellent choice. This book introduces holistic health, alternative therapies, home health, health prevention and maintenance, the role of women in nursing and in everyday life, leadership, nursing administration, communications skills, mind/body and body/mind relationships. Her theory on the use of fresh air, light, warmth, cleanliness, quiet, and the proper selection and administration of diet is also well explored. – Anita S. Kessler, R.N., M.S.N., M.Ed.