Brazilian nurses in air transport of wounded during World War II

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the preparation of nurses from the Brazilian Expeditionary Force to work in the air transport of wounded people during World War II. Method: historical-social study, of a qualitative nature, based on the work entitled “Nurses with the FAB on the Italian front: 1944-1945”, written by nurse Izaura Barbosa Lima. The data results from a bibliographic survey, the use of documentary sources and database consultations, with the material being treated using Thematic Content Analysis. Results: the following categories emerged: Professional trajectory of Nurse Izaura; Commuting between the United States and Italy; and the Nursing Air Evacuation Course. Conclusion: the study highlights the pioneering role of nurses in the Brazilian troops sent to Italy, the necessary preparation and completion of the course to join the air transport service for the wounded. Its achievement assumes relevance for contributing new elements to the History of Brazilian Nursing, particularly regarding the establishment of the foundations of Brazilian female military nursing.