“Care” with respect to Nursing

“Care” with respect to Nursing

Introduction

Cobb defines Care as “Information that one is cared for and loved; that one is valued and esteemed; and that one belongs to a network of mutual obligation” (Cobb, 1976). In traditional nursing ethics, the role of the nurse was synonymous with the patient himself or herself. Unlike the modern nurse, the traditional nurse did not aim for occupational status or self-fulfillment. Nightingale continually referred to nurses as “good and intelligent” women which demonstrate the focus of the traditional nurse ethic on a good character. Nursing, as a profession, was a “holistic, moral, educative process into which student nurses were inducted” (Bradshaw 1999).

Discussion

Nurses have key responsibilities in distinct areas including clinical practice, communication, delivering quality service, team work, risk management, utilizing information, learning and development and diversity and of course the most important one is the provision of “Care”.

In clinical practices, a nurse possesses a skill set that comprises assessment, planning, development, implementation and evaluation of programmes to encourage and further well-being endeavors. Another significant trait necessary in nursing profession is timely intervention in case of an emergency including initiation of proficient emergency care. Nurse support patients and encourage them to adopt healthy strategies to better their health and aid patients in understanding and internalizing the basics of self-care. (Royal College of Nursing, 2009).

Nurse practice sensitive communication styles so that patients are informed about their treatment options and consent to them prior to the application of these options and knows how to communicate with and support patients receiving “bad news”. (Royal College of Nursing 2009).

Delivering quality service is a challenging task. Nursing professionals must work within their own competence, keeping their values and practices in line with the professional code of conduct as regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). I usually ...