Nursing is one of the medical fields that plays a vital role in patient care and treatment alongside physicians. Nurses not only participate in the treatment process but also have a significant impact on improving the quality of life for patients, as well as in education and disease prevention. In Iran, January 24th is designated as Nurse’s Day to acknowledge the tireless and selfless efforts of nurses. This day serves not only as an opportunity to appreciate the hard work of this group but also as a chance to explore the history of nursing in Iran and to recognize the distinguished nurses in the country.
History of Nursing in Iran
The history of nursing in Iran dates back to ancient times, although the concept of nursing was not as we understand it today. In ancient Iranian civilizations, such as during the Achaemenid period, there were hospitals and medical centers known as “Iranian hospitals,” where nursing played a crucial role. At that time, nursing primarily involved the care of patients at home or by attendants in hospitals.
However, the modern history of nursing in Iran can be traced to the Qajar era. During this period, Western physicians came to Iran, and hospitals and health institutions began to operate in a more organized manner. Among the most significant developments of this time was the establishment of hospitals like “Namirani Hospital” and “Ghasr Hospital” in Tehran, which were considered the first modern medical centers.
In the late Qajar era and the early Pahlavi period, the process of training and educating nurses started earnestly. Specifically, in 1923 (1302 in the Persian calendar), the first nursing school in Iran was founded at “Mosaddegh Hospital” in Tehran, marking a pivotal moment in Iranian nursing history. During the first Pahlavi era, many medical and health organizations were established, and this trend reached its peak in the second Pahlavi era. Nursing was recognized as a scientific and education-oriented profession during this time, and nurses worked as official members of the healthcare team in hospitals.
History of Nursing in Iran
Nurse’s Day in Iran
On the 24th of Dey in the official Iranian calendar, the day is recognized as “Nurse’s Day.” This day commemorates Dr. “Zohreh Sadat Rahnama,” the first Iranian nurse who is considered a pioneer in nursing and nursing education in Iran. In 1955 (1334 in the Iranian calendar), she returned to Iran after being the first Iranian woman to study nursing abroad, where she undertook numerous activities to elevate the nursing profession in the country.
Additionally, this day has gained special significance for honoring the contributions of nurses, particularly during health crises and the outbreaks of infectious diseases, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses have always stood at the forefront during times of war, natural disasters, or health crises like the COVID pandemic, often sacrificing their lives in service to patients.
Prominent nurses of Iran
In the history of nursing in Iran, there have been prominent figures who played significant roles in advancing this profession. Some of these nurses are as follows:
1. Zohreh Sadat Rahnama
Dr. Zohreh Sadat Rahnama is the first Iranian nurse who began her studies abroad and played a fundamental role in training and educating Iranian nurses upon her return to the country. In 1955, she became the first Iranian nurse to receive a university degree in nursing from Harvard University. She was pivotal in the development of the nursing profession in Iran and in establishing nursing schools, and she is recognized as one of the founders of the Iranian Nursing Association.
2. Farideh Ghavami
Farideh Ghavami is one of the prominent nurses in Iran who has dedicated over four decades to the health care system of the country. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to the training of new generations of nurses in various medical and nursing education sectors. Ghavami has also left a notable impact in the field of nursing research with her distinguished works.
Iranian female nurses
3. Fereshteh Gholizadeh
Fereshteh Gholizadeh is also a well-known nurse who has actively worked to enhance nursing education and provide healthcare services in the underserved regions of the country. Through her management and leadership in various nursing sectors, she has made a significant impact on improving the quality of healthcare services in the country.
4. Nurses during the imposed war
During the Iran-Iraq War (198-1988), nurses played a crucial role in assisting the wounded and affected individuals. One of the prominent nurses was Leila Kazemi, who served as a volunteer nurse on the front lines of the war. Due to her dedication and invaluable services during this period, she is recognized as one of the wartime nurses.
5. Nurses during the Corona era
In recent decades, especially during the global COVID-19 pandemic, Iranian nurses, like their colleagues around the world, stood at the forefront of the fight against this disease. Elaheh Mousavi, one of the prominent Iranian nurses, was recognized as a dedicated and selfless nurse during the pandemic, serving in intensive care units under the most challenging conditions.
Nurses in the time of Corona
Challenges and Future of Nursing in Iran
In recent years, despite significant advancements in nursing and nursing education in Iran, challenges still exist that require more attention. One of the biggest issues facing nurses in Iran is financial and legal constraints, which can lead to decreased motivation and job satisfaction among nurses. Additionally, the shortage of nurses in many hospitals and healthcare centers has resulted in increased pressure on nurses and a decline in the quality of healthcare services. Nevertheless, various institutions, particularly the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education, have made efforts to address these issues. Educational programs, recruitment of nursing staff, and improving the rights and benefits of nurses could be solutions to enhance the status of this profession in Iran.
Conclusion
Nurse’s Day is an opportunity to appreciate the relentless and selfless efforts of nurses, especially in challenging and crisis situations. The history of nursing in Iran has witnessed significant advancements, and Iranian nurses have played a crucial role in improving community health throughout various points in the country’s history, both in the past and in modern times. Given the increasing demand for skilled and specialized nurses, focusing on education, enhancing the occupational and legal status of nurses, and addressing existing challenges can greatly contribute to the further development of this profession in Iran.
