In this paper I give a discursive view on the current state of nursing and the uniqueness of the Scottish context. After setting the historical and philosophical scene I begin in 2010 to ‘capture a moment in time’ during my first year in Scotland. I comment on my involvement in a conference on nursing narratives from speakers and delegates. I go on to describe the impact of Francis, policy and practice developments, NHS Scotland’s core values and the role of the Scottish Ombudsman in oversight and governance. I then address the role of research and development and the emergence of ‘alternative narratives’ associated with medical science, public health and Scotland as the ‘Living Lab’. I consider these narratives alongside the narratives of a caring and compassionate workforce to deliver high standards of safe, effective person-centred care to ensure ‘the people of Scotland lead longer, healthier lives’. This aspiration poses a particular challenge given Scotland’s position as ‘The Sick Man (and woman) of Europe’. I draw on these ‘alternative narratives’ to comment on their implications for nursing and midwifery. I conclude with a statement on the recent referendum for an independent Scotland and implications for the future.
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