Rufaida Al-Aslamia

Rufayda Al-Aslamia (born 620 AD) was an Arab medical and social worker recognized as the first female Muslim nurse in Islam.

Early life Personal background Among the first people in Medina to accept Islam, Rufaida Al-Aslamia was born into the Bani Aslem tribe of the Kazraj tribal confederation in Medina, and gained popularity for her contribution with other Ansar women who welcomed the Islamic prophet, Muhammad, on arrival in Medina.

Familial ties to medicine Born into a family with ties to the medical community, Rufaida's father, Sa`ad Al Aslamy, was a physician and mentor under whom Rufaida initially obtained clinical experience, becoming a nurse.

Although not given responsibilities held solely by men such as surgeries and amputations, Rufaida Al-Aslamia practiced her skills in her tent as Muhammad used to order all casualties to be carried to her tent, treating them with medical expertise.

Rufaida also provided care to injured soldiers during the jihad, as well as providing shelter from the wind and heat of the desert for the dying.

History of female nursing in Arabia Pre-Islamic and Islamic era (570–632 AD) Though Muslims placed a high value on the ritual cleansing of the body, daily prayer schedules, and strict dietary regimens, medicinal treatment during the times of Muhammad was performed solely by doctors. They would visit the patient to diagnose abnormalities and provide medications to those who were in need.

Placing the bulk of the biological and physiological responsibilities of a patient on the doctor, nurses were limited in their duties to provide physical comfort and emotional support. There has also been relaxation of segregation in contemporary times. While there is controversy in who is the first surgeon and nurse in history, Middle Eastern countries attribute the status of the first-ever nurse to Rufaida.

Acute care origins Rufaida Al-Aslamia implemented her clinical skills and medical experience into developing the first-ever documented mobile care units that were able to meet the medical needs of the community.

The scope of her work in her organized medical command units consisted primarily in hygiene and stabilizing patients before further and more invasive medical procedures. During military expeditions, she participated in the battles of Khandaq, Khaibar, and others.

During times of peace, Rufaida Al-Aslamia continued her involvement with humanitarian efforts by providing assistance to Muslims who were in need.