Nur

Nursing is a profession within the health care sector focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities so they may attain, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life. Nurses may be differentiated from other health care providers by their approach to patient care, training, and scope of practice. Nurses practice in many specialties with differing levels of prescription authority. Many nurses provide care within the ordering scope of physicians, and this traditional role has shaped the public image of nurses as care providers. However, nurses are permitted by most jurisdictions to practice independently in a variety of settings depending on training level. In the postwar period, nurse education has undergone a process of diversification towards advanced and specialized credentials, and many of the traditional regulations and provider roles are changing.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of nursing dates back to ancient times, when the sick were cared for in temples and houses of worship. In the Roman Empire, the first hospitals were established. By the 3rd century, the role of the nurse in the hospital was clearly defined. In the Middle Ages, nursing care was provided by religious orders and the military. Modern nursing began in the 19th century with the establishment of the first nursing school, the Nightingale School of Nursing at St. Thomas' Hospital in London. The need for nurses in the United States was recognized during the Civil War, which led to the establishment of the first nurse training school in 1862.

Education[edit | edit source]

Nursing education includes instruction in patient care, basic science, nursing research, and clinical skills. Nurses also learn about ethical issues and the law as it applies to their profession. In some countries, a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for licensing as a nurse. In others, a diploma is sufficient. Many nurses continue their education after basic training, earning advanced degrees in nursing or related fields.

Roles and duties[edit | edit source]

Nurses perform a wide range of clinical and non-clinical functions necessary to the delivery of health care, and may also be involved in medical and nursing research. Other roles include policy development, quality improvement, patient advocacy, and healthcare management. Nurses are also responsible for assessing patients, providing care and treatment, communicating with doctors, coordinating patient care and providing education about health conditions and care techniques.

See also[edit | edit source]

Nur Resources
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