Referencing this table from this book:
Lippincott CoursePoint Enhanced for Buckway’s Nursing in Today’s World
Amy S. Buckway, Holli Sowerby
Table 1.6 How Nursing Meets the Traditional Criteria for a Professional
Criterion
How Nursing Meets the Criterion
Possession of a Body of Specialized Knowledge
Critics state that nursing borrows from biologic sciences, social sciences, and medical science, and then combines the various skills and concepts. This amalgamation and synthesis may be one of nursing’s distinctive qualities. Nursing researchers work to develop an organized body of knowledge unique to nursing along with a specialized language of nursing (discussed later in this chapter). As this body of knowledge expands, this criterion is more nearly met.
Use of Scientific Method to Enlarge the Body of Knowledge
Much work has been done toward systematically gathering and analyzing data, correctly identifying problems, selecting alternates, and evaluating client care. Evidence-based practice and evidence-based education are at the forefront of nursing today (see Chapter 15).
Education Within Institutions of Higher Education
Over time, the settings in which nurses are educated have changed, with most programs under the auspices of colleges or universities. Controversy over the length of nursing programs (associate degree vs. baccalaureate degree) and the technical aspects of client care continues. A few programs continue to be offered by hospitals.
Control of Professional Policy, Professional Activity, and Autonomy
Today, nurses are responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating the care clients receive and are accountable for that care. Nursing policies and protocols, standards of practice, and evaluative measures and criteria have been developed by nurses (see Chapter 6). In some settings, nurses are eligible for third-party payment. More collaborative relationships are occurring with other healthcare team members, including physicians.
A Code of Ethics
The general standard for the professional behavior of nurses in the United States is the ANA Code for Nurses, which is periodically revised. The International Council of Nurses also has developed a code for nurses that sets the standards of ethical practice by nurses throughout the world (see Chapter 8).
Nursing as Lifetime Commitment
Most nurses view themselves as committed to their profession and continue to identify themselves as nurses long after they retire. However, some do leave the profession due to “burnout” and stress. Better educational and clinical pathways encourage continued growth and retention in the profession.
Service to the Public
Although discussion occurs with regard to altruism, remuneration for services, and collective bargaining (see Chapter 5), there is no question that nursing provides a service to the public.
