Chapter 1: Nursing Today
This foundational chapter introduces students to nursing as a profession, distinguishing it from a mere job or collection of skills. It defines nursing as both an art and a science—the art involves delivering compassionate, respectful care, while the science is grounded in a body of knowledge and evidence-based practice. The chapter traces the historical evolution of nursing, highlighting pioneers like Florence Nightingale, who established principles of sanitation and data-driven practice, as well as Clara Barton, Lillian Wald, and Mary Eliza Mahoney. It outlines the American Nurses Association (ANA) definition of nursing and its Standards of Practice (Assessment, Diagnosis, Outcomes Identification, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation) and Standards of Professional Performance. The chapter also covers Benner's Stages of Nursing Proficiency (Novice to Expert), professional roles (Caregiver, Advocate, Educator, Communicator, Manager), educational pathways (diploma, associate, baccalaureate, graduate), licensure via the NCLEX-RN, and the influence of Nurse Practice Acts on scope of practice. Contemporary trends such as the Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action, QSEN competencies, Magnet Recognition, and compassion fatigue are also addressed
Document information
- Uploaded on
- October 2, 2026
- Number of pages
- 8
- Written in
- 2026/2027
- Type
- Exam (elaborations)
- Contains
- Questions & answers
