The Wound Dresser by Walt Whitman

            "The Wound Dresser,"" by Walt Whitman, is a personal and relevant view of nurses during a time of war. "O maidens and young men I love, and that love me, what you ask of my days, those the strangest and sudden you're talking recalls; Soldier alert I arrive, after a long march, cover'd with sweat and dust"" (Whitman line 2). He shows the dedication, expense, and benevolence that are needed in this career field. His way with words in this poem is powerful and magnificent. Although we have a strong point of view of how doctors and nurses feel about their profession, Whitman showcases what is and is not noteworthy in the medical profession. The premise is to inspire, inform, and encourage you while reading this paper.
             A wound dresser was a vital part of the medical field during the time of the Civil War and World Wars I and II. The knowledge of how to wrap was essential in the recuperation process for soldiers in that time. "I dress the perforated shoulder, the foot with the bullet wound, cleanse the one with the gnawing and putrid gangrene, so sickening, so offensive, while the attendant stands behind aside me, holding the tray and pail "(Whitman line four). Throughout the entire poem, Walt Whitman displays the imagery of what and how he feels during this treacherous period in America. The sight of gangrene is not something most people would like to see. The general conscious about people in the medical field is they have strong stomachs. Throughout the literature Whitman informs the people of how untrue this really is. Mr. Whitman notes how he engages each individual differently and yet still gives each patient the time needed to cope, uncertain if they are dead or alive. Here is a great example of this "The hurt and wounded I pacify with soothing hand"" (Whitman, Line 5). A majority of people due to experience would agree that in most cases doctors and nurses are just trying to get people in and out.