Krankenpflegerin

Krankenpflegerin is the feminine form of the professional title traditionally used for nurses in German-speaking health care. Historically it referred to women employed in hospitals and other care settings performing professional nursing tasks. In contemporary usage the term Krankenpflegerin is increasingly being superseded by the gender-neutral Pflegefachfrau/Pflegefachmann, in line with nationwide reforms of nursing education. The term may still appear in older texts or in regional or informal contexts.

Typical responsibilities include assessing patients’ needs, monitoring vital signs, administering medications under supervision, providing wound care, assisting with mobility and daily activities, and supporting nutrition and hygiene. Nurses also perform infection control, document care in patient records, contribute to care plans, coordinate with physicians and other health professionals, and educate patients and families about treatments and discharge planning. The role requires empathy, communication, and adherence to legal and ethical standards.

Education and professional status in Germany were reformed by the Pflegeberufegesetz (PflBG). The standard programs now lead to the title Pflegefachfrau/Pflegefachmann after a three-year training with state recognition. Previously, many trainees completed shorter Krankenschwester/Krankenpfleger pathways. The exact scope of practice varies by setting and region, and higher-level tasks exist in some areas with specialist or advanced practice roles. The term Krankenpflegerin thus reflects historical usage, while current official terminology favors Pflegefachfrau.