A nurse (registered nurse) can be defined as a health care professional responsible for implementing the practice of nursing through use of nursing process in concert with other health care professionals.
There are various types of nurses namely: hospital nurses, office nurses, nursing homes nurses, public health nurses, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, home health nurses, occupational health nurses and head nurses/ nurse supervisors
There are common roles for the nurses regardless of the population/settings in which they belong to. These common roles include:
A nurse as an educator uses communication skills to assess, plan, implement and evaluate client learning. He/she also shares information both formally and informally and acts as a consultant to promote, restore and maintain health.
A nurse researcher uses and participates in nursing research to increase knowledge in nursing and improve client care.
A nurse advocate promotes human dignity, respects diversity, protects legal rights of clients, enhances access to healthcare and helps clients in making informed decisions regarding health
A nurse manager demonstrates ability to communicate effectively, uses critical thinking skills, coordinates cost effective care, delegates care, and collaborates with inter and intra disciplinary health care teams.
Finally, a nurse as a provider combines the art of caring and the science of nursing to meet the holistic needs of individuals, families and communities through collaboration with other health professionals. (American Nurses Association, 2006)
It is however important to note the fact that some nurses play special roles (which are spelt out by the population in which they belong.) other than the common ones mentioned above. For instance, hospital nurses, the largest group, are typically assigned to one area such as surgery, maternity, pediatrics, emergency, ICU, or oncology, but they sometimes rotate among departments. They also supervise licensed practical nurses and aides. Head nurses or nurse supervisors direct nursing activities, primarily in hospitals. They plan work schedules and assign duties to nurses and aides, provide or arrange for training, and visit patients to observe nurses and to ensure that the patients receive proper care.
They also may ensure that records are maintained and equipment and supplies are ordered. Office nurses care for outpatients in physicians’ offices, clinics, and emergency medical centers. Some also perform routine laboratory and office work. Nurse practitioners are the most advanced nurses, with the power to write prescriptions and independently diagnose and treat patients. Finally, Public health nurses work in government and private agencies, including clinics, schools, retirement communities, and other community settings. They focus on populations, working with individuals, groups, and families to improve the overall health of communities. They also work with communities to help plan and implement programs for immunizations, blood pressure testing, and other health screening. They instruct individuals, families, and other groups regarding health issues such as preventive care, nutrition, and childcare. (Anderson, 2006)
Reference
American Nurses Association, (2006): Nursing Facts; Today’s Registered Nurse – Numbers and Demographics. Washington, D.C.
Anderson, C.A (2006): The Nurse Ph.D.; A Vital Profession Needs Leaders