Who is The patient from Notes on Nursing and what is their importance?

Nightingale's refers to the patient throughout the book. The patient has no specific name, gender or age. Nightingale had equal concerns for the old and young, especially babies. During this time period, the patient could have had any number of symptoms, which were the result of any number of ailments. Common ailments included measles, small-pox, scarlet-fever and diphtheria.

The patient could be found in hospitals or private homes, and it was often difficult for them to communicate their needs. Nightingale notes, however, that the patient could never be blamed for this, as they were victims of their diseases and required extra care and attention. Recovery should never be rushed.

Outside of Nightingale and nurses, the patient is the most prominent person in the book. The purpose of the book is to make sure the patient gets the care they require and deserve. Patients should always be the priority for anyone who chooses the nursing profession. Clearly, part of the definition of what nursing is to Florence Nightingale includes the care and healing of the patient.