Welcome!

Dear Visitors,

The Main Historical Commission operating under the Board of the Polish Nursing Association invites you to embark on a journey through the Virtual Museum of Polish Nursing.

Thanks to a project prepared by the Polish Nursing Association in cooperation with the Foundation for the Development of Polish Nursing, co‑funded by the Citizens’ Initiatives Fund Operational Programme, we are able to fulfill the dream of spreading knowledge about the history of this extraordinary profession.

The fate of Polish nursing has always been closely intertwined with the fate of our nation. Its development was shaped by political circumstances, economic and social factors, and the organization of healthcare. Nurses have always been present wherever help was needed—both in times of peace and during armed conflicts, disasters, and catastrophes. They heroically supported civilians and soldiers alike—on barricades, battlefields, and in trenches. They serve people of all ages and health conditions, regardless of origin, race, faith, or beliefs, offering their knowledge and skills. They take on tasks arising from the expectations of society, their professional community, and global standards. They join numerous associations and organizations, both national and international, and continually improve their qualifications.

The Museum is an attempt to present this heritage, to preserve memory and gratitude for the achievements of our predecessors, and to pose a challenge for future generations of nurses. We encourage you to explore the history of nursing, which is part of our national heritage and is woven into the history of Poland, the history of medicine, religious orders, and Polish women. Knowledge of one’s roots fosters a sense of belonging, connection, pride, and professional identity. It inspires and strengthens the commitment to the development of the profession.

The documents presented at this stage of the Museum’s creation represent only a small fraction of the available collections. We hope to continue this endeavor. We are convinced that in many homes—in drawers and corners, among yellowed papers and forgotten objects—lie the hidden stories of people connected with nursing. We count on your interest and cooperation.

We invite you warmly.

There is no tomorrow without today. Today will be yesterday tomorrow, and that is already history. Knowledge of one’s roots brings a sense of belonging, connection, pride, and professional identity. It inspires and strengthens the commitment to work for the development of the profession.

Krystyna Wolska-Lipiec