Nursing is described as both an art and a science. It is balance clinical expertise with deep human compassion. While many see it simply as “healthcare work,” nursing is a distinct, self-governing profession with a set of standards and ethical obligations.
1. Defining Nursing
The definition of nursing has evolved from simple act of nurturing to a complex, evidence-based practice.
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Nightingale Perspective: Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing, defined it as “act of utilizing environment of patient to assist him in his recovery.”
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Modern Perspective (ANA): The American Nurses Association (ANA) defines nursing as:
“The protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, facilitation of healing, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations.”
In essence, while a doctor focuses on pathology (the disease), a nurse focuses on human response (how disease affects person’s life and body).
2. Characteristics of Nursing as a Profession
To be classified as a “profession” rather than a “job” or a “trade,” a field must meet specific societal and academic benchmarks.
A Specialized Body of Knowledge
Nursing has a combination of physical, social, and behavioral sciences. This knowledge is not static; it is constantly updated through Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice (EBP).
Autonomy and Self-Regulation
Nurses are not just assistants to doctors. They have autonomy to make independent nursing judgments (e.g., skin assessments, wound care, patient education). Profession is also self-regulated through state boards and professional organizations that set standards for practice.
Service Orientation
Primary motive of nursing is service to others. This altruistic focus distinguishes it from professions primarily driven by commercial or profit-based interests.
Code of Ethics
Nursing is consistently ranked as most trusted profession. This is due to a strict Code of Ethics that governs conduct, focusing on:
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Autonomy: Respecting a patient’s right to choose.
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Beneficence: Doing good for patient.
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Non-maleficence: Doing no harm.
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Justice: Treating all patients fairly.
3. Criteria of a Profession
According to sociologists and nursing scholars like Flexner and Bixler, a profession must meet following criteria:
| Criterio | How Nursing Meet It |
| Education | Requires a high level of education in an institution of higher learning (BSN, MSN, DNP). |
| Vital Service | Provides a service that is essential to the well-being of society. |
| Intellectual Effort | Involves significant mental activity and Nursing Process (Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation). |
| Accountability | Individuals are legally and ethically responsible for their own actions and decisions. |
| Professional Organization | Represented by bodies like ICN (International Council of Nurses) or ANA. |
4. Art vs. Science
One cannot define nursing without mentioning its dual nature:
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Science: This involves the technical skills, the understanding of pharmacology, O2 saturation levels, and the pH balance of blood. It is data-driven side of care.
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Art: This is human side, ability to provide comfort, intuition to sense a patient’s declining mood, and communication skills required to support a grieving family.
Nursing is a rigorous, academic, and highly disciplined profession. It requires more than just a kind heart; it requires a sharp mind, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a dedication to ethical treatment of all human beings.