There are many factors that have influenced or imparted the
field of nursing. These factors include:
Societal
changes: Over the years, there has been increased in the rural-urban
migration, rapid spread of diseases through fast modes of traveling, changes in
the demography of the population, increased life span, unemployment, increased
job-related or family related stresses, and diversity of cultures. This calls
for a nurse who understands the implication of these changes on the health of
the client. The nurse should be able to provide a culturally relevant care for
the client.
Consumer
needs: With the advent of internet and other modes of information and
communication, the client the nurse of modern times will deal with have a
different view and approach compared to the past. The nurse needs to be aware
of these so that he/she can answer the questions and concerns of the client.
They nurse should have the right information to be able to counteract myths and
beliefs of the client related to health. Clients have also become more health conscious
so more and more people are embracing health promotion and wellness programs.
The modern nurse should be ready for this as well.
New
emerging threats: With the increased in terrorism such as nuclear, chemical
and bioterrorism, special training of nurses in disaster management and
decontamination have been instituted in some schools and colleges. Nursing has, therefore, moved beyond the
traditional bedside care in hospital settings into the field.
·
Healthcare
Delivery System: Navigating the healthcare system can be very complex with
numerous health insurances, Medicaid, etc. Cost of healthcare is also on the
increase and the conditions covered by these programs/insurances vary from one
program to another. The nurse has to be aware of these programs in order to
provide cost-effective management.
·
Evidence-based
practice: There are many research findings that are published each day. The
nurse has to constantly educate himself/herself to be abreast with the progress
in this field. Management of clients keeps changing with these research
findings. A nurse should be able to incorporate these new techniques/procedures
into the case management while still respecting the values of the client.
·
Nursing
and Biomedical Research: The nurse should be ready to contribute to the
growing knowledge of research. This requires
developing research skills and critical minds.
·
Nurse as
an Educator: With the growing shortage of nursing, clients are usually
discharged home early to continue their treatments at home. The nurse has to
develop good communication skills in order to be able to educate the client on how
to continue the management outside the hospital settings.
