Introduction. Lithuanian women were subjected to many of the same influences and trends that were exhibited in the United States in the early 1900s. The study of nursing in Lithuania offers an opportunity to compare the evolution of nursing in the United States with that in a small European country. For Lithuanian nurses, knowledge of their own history might help them to better understand the origins of their discipline and the social forces that have shaped it. The purpose of the publication is to present a discussion of changes and trends in Lithuanian nursing during the 20th century and the latest developmental changes in Lithuanian nursing as a predominantly female profession.

Material and methods. Historical inquiry was used to research and analyze written nursing history in Lithuanian libraries, archives and schools of nursing.

Results. Although medical education in Lithuania was established at the university level in 1922, nursing education remained based in vocational training schools until 1990. Lithuanian women had few career choices and nursing knowledge may have improved a woman’s desirability as a wife and mother. Nurses remain in mid-level positions due to lack of visibility and fewer opportunities for promotion by men in the highest administrative positions who do see their increased effectiveness.

Conclusions. Over the last decade, Lithuanian nursing has been rapidly evolving and racing to reclaim its place among nursing in Western countries. From a historical perspective, Lithuanian nurses need to strengthen networking and cooperation with nurses from other countries, to enhance the development of female nursing leaders, and to increase credibility and access to research environments.

Keywords: nursing, gender, women, Lithuania, historical inquiry