An archetype for the doctoral prepared advanced practice nurse: Mary Bristow Willeford (1900–1941), nurse-midwife and doctor of philosophy

Abstract

Objective

Advances in nursing education and practice in the early twentieth century are examined using the biography of Mary Bristow Willeford (1900–1941), one of the first nurses in the United States to practice as a nurse-midwife and earn a doctoral degree.

Methods

This historiographic research used a social history perspective to examine Willeford's education and career, and the social forces that facilitated her accomplishments.

Findings

Willeford practiced as a nurse-midwife beginning in 1926 and earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in 1932. She held leadership positions at the Frontier Nursing Service and oversaw much of their data systems on the processes, outcomes, and cost of care, and was a founding member of the first professional organization for nurse-midwives in the United States. Willeford later worked as a consultant for the California Department of Health, educating nurses about maternal, infant, and child health, and for the United States Children's Bureau, improving the practice of midwives and developing nurse-midwifery educational programs. Throughout her career, Willeford was well mentored and given educational, professional, and clinical practice opportunities by leaders, educators, and researchers in nursing and other health sciences.

Summary

Willeford was a pioneering nurse whose career exemplifies the work that can be accomplished by nurses with a strong educational foundation, advanced practice opportunities, and ongoing mentorship across the health sciences.