Flo’s Corner

“Nursing is a progressive art such that to stand still is to go backwards.” – Florence Nightingale

As we honor the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale we revisit her story to remind us all just how much each of our own contributions can mean. Never forget, from the smallest light can come the greatest of inspirations!

Hear an audio recording of Florence Nightingale.

This sound recording is a copy made from the original brown wax cylinder on behalf of Wellcome Library by the British Library (18th March, 2004) featuring the voice of Florence Nightingale recorded on 30 July 1890.

Read Transcript | Wellcome Library

The Nightingale Pledge

See how the pledge has evolved over the years …

Original Pledge (1893)

I solemnly pledge myself before God and in the presence of this assembly to pass my life in purity and to practise my profession faithfully.

I shall abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous, and shall not take or knowingly administer any harmful drug.

I shall do all in my power to maintain and elevate the standard of my profession and will hold in confidence all personal matters committed to my keeping and all family affairs coming to my knowledge in the practice of my calling.

I shall be loyal to my work and devoted towards the welfare of those committed to my care.

Modern Pledge (since 1999)

Before God and those assembled here, I solemnly pledge;

To adhere to the code of ethics of the nursing profession;

To co-operate faithfully with the other members of the nursing team and to carryout faithfully and to the best of my ability the instructions of the physician or the nurse who may be assigned to supervise my work;

I will not do anything evil or malicious and I will not knowingly give any harmful drug or assist in malpractice.

I will not reveal any confidential information that may come to my knowledge in the course of my work.

And I pledge myself to do all in my power to raise the standards and prestige of the practical nursing;

May my life be devoted to service and to the high ideals of the nursing profession.
Flo Says What?

Practical advice by a sensible woman.

Think You Know Flo?

Take the ANA Florence Nightingale Quiz and find out!