What is Nursing?: Exploring Theory and Practice (Transforming Nursing Practice)

The role of the nurse is changing to meet evermore complex healthcare needs in modern society. It is essential for students to understand the various strands that make nursing what it is, in order to develop their own professional identity and deliver the best care to their patients. This book clearly explores theories of nursing through their application within nursing practice. It first considers the nature of nursing and how it is defined as a profession. It then looks at the nature of nursing as an activity — what its aims are and how these aims are met through systems of care delivery. The book also considers nursing globally within other cultures and how sharing ideas can benefit nursing practice. Through group interviews with registered nurses, it discusses the benefits and challenges of working in each of the main nursing fields of practice. It considers the UK's NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) guidance in relation to the application of nursing theory and practice in both student and qualified work, allowing students to look forward to their practical needs as they progress towards registration.