The Nurses (TV series)

Zina Bethune Joseph Campanella Diana Hyland The Doctors and the Nurses 1965

The Nurses is an American television series that aired on CBS from September 27, 1962, to May 11, 1965. It was originally a drama series focusing on the lives of the staff at Alden General Hospital in New York City, and later, in its final season, the series was retitled The Doctors and the Nurses, reflecting a shift in focus to include stories about the doctors at the hospital as well.

Plot

The series centers around the professional and personal lives of the nursing staff, particularly focusing on the challenges and responsibilities they face in the hospital setting. The show aimed to provide a realistic portrayal of the nursing profession, highlighting the dedication and care nurses provide to their patients while also navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

Cast

The main cast included Shirl Conway as Liz Thorpe, the experienced and wise head nurse, and Zina Bethune as Gail Lucas, a younger nurse who often looks up to Liz for guidance. Other notable cast members over the series' run included Michael Tolan, who played Dr. Alex Tazinski, and Joseph Campanella, who portrayed Dr. Ted Steffen.

Production

The Nurses was created by Herbert Brodkin, who also served as the executive producer. The series was praised for its realistic depiction of hospital life and its sensitive handling of medical and ethical issues. It was produced by Plautus Productions and later, in its final season, by the Herbert Brodkin Production in association with CBS.

Reception

The series was well-received by audiences and critics alike for its groundbreaking approach to storytelling in a medical setting. It was one of the first television series to focus on the nursing profession, paving the way for future medical dramas. The Nurses also received several Emmy Award nominations for its writing and performances.

Legacy

The Nurses holds a significant place in television history for its pioneering focus on the nursing profession and its contribution to the medical drama genre. The series' emphasis on the challenges, ethical dilemmas, and the emotional toll of the healthcare profession continues to influence contemporary medical dramas.

See Also

• Medical drama
• List of medical drama television programs