How many nurses out there still had to learn this pledge?? I did when I was in college and I was just wondering if anyone else had had to memorize it too.
Florence Nightingale Pledge
I solemnly pledge myself before God and in the presence of this assembly, to pass my life in purity and to practice my profession faithfully. I will abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous, and will not take or knowingly administer any harmful drug. I will do all in my power to maintain and elevate the standard of my profession, and will hold in confidence all personal matters committed to my keeping and all family affairs coming to my knowledge in the practice of my calling. With loyalty will I endeavor to aid the physician in his work, and devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care.
I admire Flo for what she stood for, and her Notes on Nursing is still a remarkably relevant book considering that it was written around 150 years ago. She did so much for battlefield soldiers and for health/hygiene everywhere. I respect her for that.
That said, I am glad we didn't have to recite that pledge in nursing school. 'Tis a bit corny. It talks about 'aiding the physician' in his work, saying nothing about what to do if we don't agree with him. (I know, Lady Flo didn't write it.)
I got pinned recently and this is the one we had to recite:
"In the full knowledge of the task I am undertaking, I promise to take care of the sick with all the skill and understanding I possess, without regard to race, creed, color, politics, or social status, sparing no effort to conserve life, to alleviate suffering, and promote health.
I will respect at all times the dignity and religious beliefs of the patients entrusted in my care, holding in confidence all personal information enrusted to me and refraining from any action which might endanger life or health.
I will endeavor to keep my professional knowlege and skill at the highest level and give loyal support and cooperation to all members of the health team."
Now that is something I'd be happy to recite every morning!
You were 27 in 2005, and had a CAPPING CEREMONY? Do you wear a cap? I don't know a Nursing School or Nurse that has them, since the '70s!
In 1960, I graduated from a hospital nursing school,, but without that pledge being said, and with flat round mortor board type caps, that had a point in front, and a black velvet ribbon around the base.
I think in historical terms it is a nice touch for nursing students to learn.
Of course the only part that sticks a bit in my craw is the "aid" to the doc part . ... . . I like being a teammate better.
steph
DITTO, STEVIELYNN!
I'm so glad that the confidentiality was stressed in the pledges we have been told to adhere to, as HIPPAA "sticks in my craw".
Why on earth patients are so naive as to believe that signing a form will guarantee the keeping of their confidences, when medical professionals such as Nurses have already pledged to do that? In reality, if you read the fine print on the whole thing (that patients sign they were given), that ridiculous sham signs AWAY that right, allowing their information to be given any insurance company or government agency requesting it!
I always refuse to sign it, but my chart isn't flagged as one refusing the information to be communicated elsewhere, so it is.....
Way back in '81 at my Graduation we recited it with one of Flo's lanterns beside us. I trained at a hospital where the first "matron" Lucy Osborne was one of Flo's girls. Lots of history!!!!
I admire Flo for what she stood for, and her Notes on Nursing is still a remarkably relevant book considering that it was written around 150 years ago. She did so much for battlefield soldiers and for health/hygiene everywhere. I respect her for that.
That said, I am glad we didn't have to recite that pledge in nursing school. 'Tis a bit corny. It talks about 'aiding the physician' in his work, saying nothing about what to do if we don't agree with him. (I know, Lady Flo didn't write it.)
Arwren,
I'm going to check that book out you mentioned Nursing Notes, have you read NIGHTENGALES by Gillian Gill. Another good book on her great nursing skill and thoughts. She wasn't afraid to get in those doctors faces! Just an FYI!
I just graduated in May, and we wore starched caps, had lanterns, and all recited the Florence Nightengale Pledge. Personally, I really think it was an important part of the night. And I also think the pledge still has merit and still applies. Oh, and by the way, I'm only 25 for those of you that think it's "old fashioned."
We did and I liked it. I think that times have changed and so the meaning has changed with it... mischevious being an example. But I think if a nurse cannot in truth recite the pledge (ok, I can understand the God part if you're a non-believer) you have no business practicing nursing. Flo is my hero.
Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP
4 Articles; 5,259 Posts
I admire Flo for what she stood for, and her Notes on Nursing is still a remarkably relevant book considering that it was written around 150 years ago. She did so much for battlefield soldiers and for health/hygiene everywhere. I respect her for that.
That said, I am glad we didn't have to recite that pledge in nursing school. 'Tis a bit corny. It talks about 'aiding the physician' in his work, saying nothing about what to do if we don't agree with him. (I know, Lady Flo didn't write it.)