Ellen Dougherty facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ellen Dougherty
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| Born | 20 September 1844 Cutters Bay, New Zealand
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| Died | 3 November 1919 |
| Known for | first registered nurse |
Ellen Dougherty (born September 20, 1844 – died November 3, 1919) was a brave New Zealand nurse. She made history by becoming the very first Registered Nurse in the entire world!
Early Life and Training
Ellen Dougherty was born in a beautiful place called Cutters Bay, New Zealand. She was inspired to become a nurse after hearing about the famous nurse, Florence Nightingale. Before her official nurse training, it's thought that Ellen worked in a pharmacy in Wellington.
In 1885, Ellen began her nursing studies at Wellington Hospital. She worked hard and earned her nursing certificate in 1887.
Becoming a Matron
After finishing her training, Ellen took on an important role. In 1893, she became the matron of the brand new Palmerston North Hospital. A matron is like the head nurse, in charge of all the nursing staff and patient care. Ellen also officially registered as a pharmacist in 1899. This meant she was qualified to prepare and give out medicines.
The First Registered Nurse
New Zealand was a leader in nursing! In 1901, it became the first country to pass a special law called the Nurses Registration Act. This law made sure that nurses had proper training and were officially recognized.
Because of this new law, Ellen Dougherty became the very first nurse to be officially registered. This happened on January 10, 1902. It was a huge step for nursing around the world!
Later Life and Legacy
Ellen Dougherty retired from nursing in 1908. She passed away on November 3, 1919. She is buried at Clareville Cemetery in Carterton.
Her special medal is kept at the Nurses Chapel in Wellington Hospital. To celebrate 100 years of nursing, Ellen's grave was restored. On January 10, 2002, her grave was rededicated in a special ceremony. Family members, historians, and news reporters attended this event.
It's interesting to know that the United Kingdom only started registering nurses in 1919. This was the same year Ellen Dougherty died, showing how far ahead New Zealand was in recognizing nurses.
