In its roles as Professional Association and Trade Union the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has published over 6000 information resources to support the professional development of its members. Since its establishment in 1916 the RCN has published literature on nursing policy, education, research, legal and ethical guidance along with campaign and promotional materials.
The collection can be accessed via our library catalogue.
Many of the publications are also available via our digital archive.
Highlights from the collection
The Study of Nursing Care
In 1966, the RCN was invited by the Ministry of Health to undertake studies to develop the quality of nursing care. "The Study of Nursing Care" research project includes seminal works such as The Unpopular Patient by Felicity Stockwell, plus two reports reviewing the series.
You can find all of the published works available for free online.
RCN Research Series
Commissioned in 1973, the RCN research reports consists of 57 papers published with the aim to encourage the appreciation and dissemination of high-quality studies to the nursing profession. The series is a valuable resource for exploring the history of nursing in Britain. The research reports cover a wide range of nursing subjects, including clinical practice; nursing education; history of nursing; nursing philosophy; and mental health nursing. The collection is particularly strong on ward-based learning and teaching, and health visiting and community nursing.
For more info on how to access this material please contact us.
