Definition of nursing by international council nursing?
According to the International Council of Nurses (ICN), nursing is defined as:
"Nursing is the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, groups, and communities. The nursing role is autonomous and collaborative."
This definition highlights several important aspects of nursing, including:
1. Protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities: Nurses play a crucial role in maintaining and improving the health of individuals and communities. This involves preventive measures, health education, and interventions to enhance well-being.
2. Prevention of illness and injury: Nurses work to identify risk factors and implement strategies to prevent the occurrence of illnesses and injuries. This may involve immunization programs, safety education, and lifestyle modifications.
3. Alleviation of suffering: Nurses provide care and support to individuals experiencing physical, emotional, or mental suffering. This includes pain management, symptom relief, and emotional support.
4. Diagnosis and treatment of human response: Nurses assess and monitor the human response to health conditions and provide appropriate interventions. This involves observing symptoms, identifying problems, and administering treatments as prescribed by healthcare professionals.
5. Advocacy in the care of individuals, families, groups, and communities: Nurses act as advocates for their patients and clients, ensuring that their rights, needs, and preferences are respected and met. This involves communicating with healthcare teams, educating patients and families, and advocating for policy changes that support better healthcare outcomes.
6. Autonomous and collaborative: Nursing practice is both autonomous and collaborative. Nurses have the autonomy to make independent decisions within their scope of practice, while also collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, pharmacists, and social workers, to provide comprehensive care to patients.