Nursing is a profession focused on caring for individuals, families, and communities so they may attain, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life.
According to the International Council of Nurses (ICN), nursing encompasses health promotion, disease prevention, and the care of physically ill, mentally ill, and disabled people of all ages in all health care and other community settings. It also includes advocacy, the promotion of a safe environment, research, shaping health policy, patient and health systems management, and education.
In the 21st century, nurses serve as the key link throughout a patient’s health care journey. Across the entire patient experience and wherever care is needed, nurses work tirelessly to identify and protect the needs of individuals.
Nursing plays a vital role in health care. The World Health Organization has affirmed that the services provided by nurses are one of the pillars of the health care system.