Contribution of historical studies about nursing schools to memory and identity of the profession: an integrative review

This study aimed to identify and analyze the scientific production of historical studies on nursing schools and their contribution to the memory and identity of the profession. The methodology used was an integrative review. The search was conducted in the databases SciELO, LILACS, MEDLINE and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria were: articles written in Portuguese, English, French or Spanish; be in accordance with the guiding question; and have been published in the last 10 years. The editorials, letters to the reader, biographies and accounts of experience were excluded. The survey identified 26 articles of sources composing the study sample. The results showed a peak of publication between years 2008 and 2010; the Journal of Nursing in Anna Nery School main periodic disclosure; and Brazil with a significant literature on the subject. Some strengths of the analysis of the articles may be mentioned regarding the contribution to the identity and memory of the profession: a rigid training with religious character; a submission to the medical profession as well as a strong resistance to it; the fight for better positions in the healthcare field; emphasis on professional competence; and the perpetuation of rituals and symbols. All historical studies have proved important for development of the nursing profession as well as to preserve their identity and memory.