Organization of nursing care in the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939): a historical approach

The resolution of health problems in the population, as well as the assistance to injured people during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1938), were achieved in the Insurgent and republican fronts by national and international organizations. That health care was extremely demanded. Objective: To know the social and health organizations that supported in the national and republican fronts; to describe the health training taught during 1936-39, and also to emphasize the health care worked during the war by women. Method: It is a descriptive and historical review, based on primary and secondary sources, which investigate: 1) national and international organizations which cooperate with Spain during the war; 2) health professionals and volunteers who cared and were taught in health during 1936-39. Results: Whereas the insurgent camp was assisted by the Red Cross, Falange's nurses and volunteers without health training, the republican camp was helped by the Red Cross, International Brigades, International Red Aid and also feminist associations. Conclusions: The Civil War was marked by a huge number of injured, nevertheless, all the health professionals and volunteers dispensed health care with courage and dedication, even in spite of the danger. They were able to assistance each people with humanity.