Leadership reflection: The Florence Nightingale Pledge

By Cynthia Plonien, DNP, RN, CENP

Recently, I observed a pinning ceremony for RN to BSN graduates. It was an emotional event attended by graduates, families, and friends. The pride, the love, and the support from those significant to the new RN was not only seen, but also could be felt, as graduates were pinned with a badge of nursing by husbands, mothers, fathers, and children. The ceremony concluded with a reading of the Florence Nightingale Pledge. As the pledge was read, I could not help but think that it represented the professional practice of nursing, as well as the needs of humanity. Although the pledge was originally written in 1893, it expresses expectations that we struggle to achieve every day in our present society. It dawned on me that as technology changes over time, the mind, heart, and the soul of people remain constant. It continues to be important to teach compassion, caring, respect, the benefits of life-long learning, and the pursuit of excellence. As we move into a new year, it may be valuable for all of us to reflect on our roots in professional practice and to carry the consciousness forward into our time yet to come.

Florence Nightingale Pledge

With full knowledge of the responsibilities I am undertaking, I pledge to care for my patients with all of the knowledge, skills, and understanding that I possess, without regard to race, color, creed, politics, or social status.

I will spare no effort to conserve meaningful life, to alleviate suffering, and to promote health.

I will refrain from any action which might be harmful to the quality of life or health of those I care for.

I will respect, at all times, the dignity and religious beliefs of the patients under my care, and hold in professional confidence all personal information entrusted to me.

I will endeavor to keep my professional knowledge and skills at the highest level and give my support and cooperation to all members of the health team.

With full awareness of my qualifications and limitations, I will do my utmost to maximize the potential of the nursing profession and to uphold and advance its standards.

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