Children's nursing and future directions: learning from 'memorable events'.

At present, the UK provides pre-registration education in four distinct branches, including child, but this is under threat with calls for a single generalist register in line with most of the developed world. Debate about this may be understood by placing 'memorable events' associated with this in their historical context. Analysis of quantitative data, obtained from the Nursing and Midwifery Council identifies a clear correlation between the numbers of registered children's nurses and changes in child health and welfare policies as well as nurse education over the last century. This interpretation of 'memorable events,' showing the growth and influence of this branch of the profession, should enable present day reformers of nurse education to make a rational and informed decision as they debate and decide upon the future of children's (and young people's) nursing in the UK.