Nursing refers to the branch of medical profession that deals with the physical attendance, care and aid of medical patients. Part of a nurse’s responsibilities includes the documentation of a patient’s medical history, performance of diagnostic tests related to a patient’s condition as well as the administration of medicine and treatment. Nurses can also perform physical assistance or act as caregivers for patients.
Nurses also extend their services to the family or assigned caretaker of the affected individual. In many cases, nurses provide counseling services to the family including at-home care, dietary restrictions, hygiene, and medicine administration among others.
Nursing is an important branch in the healthcare system. While doctors usually enjoy the more distinguished reputation, the fact is that the doctor’s job is heavily complemented by nurses. Diagnoses and treatment mapping are handled by doctors, while the business of aiding the patient from initial consultation up to the resolution, falls under the responsibility of nurses.
Before getting into nursing, a qualification in the form of a bachelor’s degree, associate degree or a diploma in nursing must be obtained. In addition to this training, one must pass a licensure examination in order to obtain a nursing license. Advanced nursing levels require higher qualifications such as a master’s degree. Licensed nurses are referred to as Registered Nurses, while unlicensed nursing practitioners are usually termed as nursing assistants.
There are many specializations in the nursing field, samples of which are:
Pediatric Oncology Nurses ‘“ care for children with cancer
Ambulatory Care Nurses ‘“ nursing service offered in a clinic or physician’s office
Geriatric Nurse ‘“ care for the elderly
Emergency/trauma Nurses ‘“ Frontline care for people with life-threatening conditions