Florence Nightingale’s legacy in 2020, International Nurses year: a narrative review

Abstract

Background: Nurses guarantee assistance using different nursing theories, which present different conceptual frameworks, but which have a common vision in the whole of the human being, his holistic needs and the connection with the environment. Florence Nightingale was the first to introduce aspects of the scientific method, structuring a theory focused on the connection between the management of the physical environment and the actions of nurses. Methods: The aim is the evaluation of Nightingale's theory in reference to its contemporary integration, through a narrative review of the literature. Results: The action of nurses on the environment according to Nightingale's theory in care settings and hand hygiene are identified as fundamental in the fight against the spread of infections and in the implementation of the holistic vision. Discussion: Nightingale's theory shows elements of applicability and modernity, such as the acquisition of a greater awareness of healthcare professionals in relation to the care of environments and hand hygiene. Conclusions: Florence Nightingale's theory presents aspects of validity, but further studies are needed to contribute to the evolution of her model, especially in its contemporary contextualization.