PN 145: Concepts of Nursing I

PN 145: Concepts of Nursing I

PN 145, Concepts of Nursing I, is an introductory course designed to introduce nursing students to the foundational concepts and principles of the nursing profession. The course is a prerequisite for all nursing programs and provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in their nursing education. In this article, we will discuss the key concepts covered in PN 145, including the definition of nursing, the nursing process, patient-centered care, critical thinking, and the role of the nurse in the healthcare system.

Definition of Nursing

The definition of nursing has evolved over time, reflecting changes in society, healthcare, and nursing practice. 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, communities, and populations.” This definition reflects the holistic nature of nursing, which includes not only the physical care of patients but also the promotion of their emotional, spiritual, and social well-being.

Nursing Process

The nursing process is a systematic, evidence-based approach to delivering patient care. It consists of five steps: assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The nursing process provides a framework for nurses to assess patient needs, develop care plans, and evaluate patient outcomes.

Assessment is the first step of the nursing process and involves gathering information about the patient’s health status, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual factors. Nurses use a variety of assessment techniques, including interviews, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests.

Diagnosis is the second step of the nursing process and involves analyzing the data collected during the assessment to identify the patient’s health problems. Nurses use standardized nursing diagnoses to identify patient problems, such as impaired mobility or ineffective breathing patterns.

Planning is the third step of the nursing process and involves developing a care plan to address the patient’s health problems. The care plan includes specific interventions and goals to achieve desired outcomes for the patient.

Implementation is the fourth step of the nursing process and involves carrying out the care plan. Nurses use a variety of interventions to promote patient health, including medication administration, patient education, and physical therapy.

Evaluation is the final step of the nursing process and involves assessing the effectiveness of the care plan in achieving the desired outcomes for the patient. Nurses use a variety of evaluation techniques, including patient interviews and physical examinations, to determine the effectiveness of the care plan.

Patient-Centered Care

Patient-centered care is an approach to healthcare that prioritizes the needs and preferences of the patient. It involves understanding the patient’s values, beliefs, and cultural background and tailoring care to meet their individual needs. Patient-centered care also involves involving the patient in their care and providing education and support to promote their health and well-being.

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is an essential skill for nurses, allowing them to analyze information and make informed decisions about patient care. Critical thinking involves questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and considering multiple perspectives when making decisions. Nurses use critical thinking to assess patient needs, develop care plans, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

Role of the Nurse in the Healthcare System

Nurses play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing patient care, promoting health and wellness, and advocating for patients’ rights. Nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health centers.

Nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive patient care. Nurses also play an essential role in health promotion and disease prevention, educating patients about healthy lifestyle choices and providing preventive care services.

In addition to their clinical roles, nurses also play a critical role in healthcare policy and advocacy. Nurses advocate for patient access to healthcare, safe staffing levels, and healthcare reform. They also work to improve healthcare quality and patient safety, conducting research and participating in quality improvement initiatives.

Conclusion

PN 145, Concepts of Nursing I, provides an essential foundation for nursing students, introducing them to the foundational concepts and principles of the nursing profession. The course covers key topics, including the definition of nursing, the nursing process, patient-centered care, critical thinking, and the role of the nurse in the healthcare system. Understanding these concepts is critical to the success of nursing students and their ability to provide safe, effective patient care. As the nursing profession continues to evolve, it is essential that nursing students receive a strong foundation in these concepts to ensure that they are equipped to meet the changing needs of patients and the healthcare system.

RELATED:

PN 135: Concepts of Nursing in Care of Specialized Populations