Final answer:
Nursing evolved from an occupation to a profession due to the increase in women's educational opportunities, societal changes that demanded professional healthcare workers, and the essential service provided by female nurses during wartime, which highlighted their expertise and commitment to medical care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The evolution of nursing from an occupation to a profession was influenced by several key factors. During the early decades of the 20th century, there was a significant increase in educational opportunities for women, which led to a higher number of female high school graduates and college students. This educational advancement, along with the acknowledgment of the critical role played by women in the healthcare sector during war times, led to a greater recognition of the nursing field.
In addition to the rise in educational attainment among women, the labor market increasingly demanded skilled nursing and healthcare professionals. The experiences of nurses who served overseas during the war also contributed to a shift in the perception of nursing, as they returned home with valuable skills and experience that could be utilized in civilian medical care. Nursing became a respected career option due to the commitment and professionalism demonstrated by these women.
Lastly, societal changes such as the enforcement of mandatory school attendance laws and an increase in secretarial jobs also played a role in opening up the labor market for women, including careers in nursing and medicine. As a consequence, nursing transitioned from being seen as a mere occupation to being recognized as a professional field, with formal training, standards of practice, and a commitment to public service.