Debi's Blog

February 23, 2007
Strength, Commitment, Compassion, & Professionalism

What do nurses really do? An odd question you may say, but try to put into words what you do on a daily basis. You care for patients, right? But, it goes so far beyond that. Recently, Suzanne Gordon, the author of "Nursing Against the Odds," was asked to speak to a group of Harvard University students, and during the talk, one question kept popping up – what do nurses really do? She left the classroom pondering why the public has so little understanding of the "consequential nature of nursing practice."

Perhaps it goes back to the traditional role of a nurse as a modest, dedicated caregiver who is not in it for recognition, or maybe, it’s just too difficult to sum up all that we do. However, nurses need to take credit for their role in its entirety. As Suzanne Gordon puts it, "What do nurses do? They save lives, prevent complications, prevent suffering, and save money." A more modern view of nursing, indeed, but one in which nurses are recognized as professionals with "medical, technical, caring, nursing know-how … the complete nursing package"!

Nursing professionalism revolves around the belief that sound clinical knowledge, judgment and actions, combined with caring, result in improved patient outcomes. That’s the bottom line. And yes… that includes saving lives! Nursing is a professional practice that strives to heal through medical knowledge and caring.

In addition, we as nurses, are leaders. Whether it is at the bedside, in the Emergency Room, OR, Outpatient Clinic, or the Boardroom, we are guiding and leading clinical practice.

Nurses’ Week is the opportune time to reflect on "what we really do." And when asked the question, "What do nurses really do?"… give them the complete nursing package! Don’t sell yourself short. We are proud healthcare professionals who truly make a difference. As you walk the halls, stand tall, exude pride, and remember, you are the complete nursing package!