Traditions in Nursing That Today’s Nurses Can Leave Behind

Nursing began as a profession in the middle of the 19th century, and has evolved into a specialized, skilled health occupation. What started as a vocational role based out of convents and wards is now the largest group of healthcare professionals in the U.S. But as the roles, education, and expectations of nurses have changed over the centuries, so have the traditions in nursing.

Rituals and ceremonies might seem obscure to practicing nurses — when you’re two coffees deep into your shift and juggling five patients, what do traditions have to do with the real life of a nurse? Nursing traditions, and the values they reflect, are meant to carry the profession forward into tomorrow while acknowledging the work that was done yesterday. They create a shared narrative of a profession dedicated to service while holding a moment to celebrate your accomplishments.

What Is Tradition in Nursing?

Nursing traditions are a set of practices, rituals, and values that have been passed through generations of nurses, shaping the identity and culture of the profession. These traditions often reflect the historical roots of nursing and serve as a bridge between the past and present.

Many traditions in nursing have ties to the profession’s historical legacy, with figures like Florence Nightingale, Mary Seacole, Susie Walking Bear Yellowtail, and others influencing early practices. For example, traditional pinning ceremonies often reference Nightingale’s Lamp of Learning to welcome new nurses to the profession.

But traditions aren’t just rituals performed sparingly — they can also be values and practices that nurses use every day. For example, evidence-based practice is a tradition in modern nursing that hasn’t always been appreciated in the field. The philosophy of patient-centered care is also a relatively new model for the practice. While traditions might make you think of static, repetitive rituals, they must also be dynamic and updated to reflect the latest developments.

5 Traditions in Nursing That Modern Nurses Can Leave Behind

1. Strict Uniforms

You probably saw old pictures from capping ceremonies at your nursing school, or you have an older nurse relative who had to wear white-skirted uniforms and hats to work. This traditional nursing attire was meant to communicate cleanliness and purity at a time when male nurses were nearly non-existent in the profession. Some other nurse uniforms had a flair for the dramatic, with blue capes worn by nurses from the Red Cross.

While these uniforms were recognizable, modern nurses typically desire comfort and functionality. Starting in the 1960s, nurses began wearing green dresses, and eventually pants and quality scrubs. Many hospitals today have colored uniform requirements, and some even allow nurses to wear t-shirts to work. Caps have fallen out of vogue, although you may still see them on badge pin reels and bumper stickers.

2. Standing When a Physician Enters the Room

In the past, it was considered a sign of respect for nurses to stand when a physician entered a room. Under a hierarchical medical model, standing acknowledged the physician as leader of the healthcare team, and it was the nurse’s sole duty to assist in carrying out orders. With the shift towards more collaborative and team-based healthcare, this practice is rarely expected today.

3. Top-Down Hierarchy

Traditional nursing was characterized by a rigid hierarchical structure, with nurses described as “the instruments of doctors” in some medical circles. Nurses were not expected to think critically about their role in patient care, and nurse autonomy was virtually nonexistent.

Modern nursing emphasizes a more collaborative approach, where shared decision-making is encouraged. Nurses are taught to think critically about treatment plans, thoroughly assess patients themselves, and act independently within their scope.

4. Patriarchal Patient-Treatment Structures

Healthcare exists within the context of cultural norms. Physicians throughout history made decisions for patients without even informing them of what was going on with their bodies. The nursing value of veracity, or honesty, wasn’t even considered under this structure.

Today’s nurses practice patient-centered care, with standards like informed consent and shared decision-making between healthcare providers and patients. Patients are encouraged to take part in medical decisions, and nursing values state the importance of patient autonomy. Modern nurses continue to build a more egalitarian and patient-focused healthcare environment.

5. Rigid Expectations About Who Can Be a Nurse

Historically, nursing was a woman’s role. In fact, Nightingale herself believed that men were unsuited for nursing. These gender biases and stereotypical views about the suitable roles for men and women are oppressive for everyone, and held the profession back for years.

The modern nursing workforce is increasingly diverse, and while nursing still needs more men, it’s come a long way since Nightingale’s days. By dismantling rigid expectations, nurses contribute to a more open and inclusive profession that values individuals for their skills, dedication, and compassion rather than conforming to outdated societal norms.

New Traditions in Nursing

While many traditions have changed, the core values of nursing, such as empathy and advocacy, remain strong. The progress of nursing practices reflects the evolving values of healthcare professionals and the patients they serve.

Modern nurses might be waving good-bye to some nursing traditions, but others are going strong, including:

• DAISY Award ceremonies: These yearly ceremonies honor exceptional nurses. Anyone can nominate a nurse, and it’s the most well-recognized award for practicing nurses, students, and educators.
• Nurse pinning ceremonies: Graduating nurses receive a pin that often signifies the Lamp of Learning. This tradition dates back to Florence Nightingale, and is a symbol for nursing and continued learning.
• The Nightingale Pledge: During a pinning or graduation ceremony, new nurses may recite a pledge. Many schools have their own written oath, and these symbolize a nurse’s commitment to the profession.
• Blessing of the Hands: Offered in nursing schools and hospitals, this ritual affirms nurses for the compassionate care they give to patients. Blessings are typically offered in a nondenominational tradition, recognizing the inclusivity and diversity of modern nursing.

Rituals like these help students and practicing clinicians celebrate their accomplishments and acknowledge the essential work they do every day.

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