Nursing, health care and professionalism in Cuba

The pre and post-revolutionary history of nursing are detailed. Related developments in general education, nursing education, the sexual division of labor, economics, and public participation in administration are contrasted to show the intimate relations which nursing as a profession has with the society around it. It is posited that a fundamental change has occurred in the role, training, and expectations of the Cuban nurse. Concurrently, this change has proceeded with a process of elevating quality and self-control of nursing work—key aspects of increased professionalization. This new professionalization is considered in relation to other professions in Cuba and more generally within a socialist system.