The Historical Review of Nursing in Cyprus during the Ottoman Period (1571 - 1878) and the British Period (1878 - 1960).

Background: For nurses, the knowledge of the history of their art is central, both to understanding their science, but also their practice within the health care system. Therefore, it was necessary recounting the insufficient development of Nursing in Cyprus during the Ottoman period and the rapid development during the British period. Objective: The purpose of this study was the historical overview of the development of Nursing in Cyprus during the Ottoman and the British period. Methodology: Historical research has been used, more specifically primary, secondary and tertiary sources were used through the review of domestic and international literature. Results: During the Ottoman period the lack of any health service was evident and there was no effective state welfare for medical or nursing care for the residents. The foundation of the first health structures reached with the concession of domination of the island by the British. The Nursing profession was officially established in Cyprus in 1951 with the Nursing and Midwifery Law of 1951. Despite the presence of many British nurses throughout Cyprus, and sending several Cypriots young girls abroad for studies, the nursing industry was not sufficient to meet the needs of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]