University:
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Course:
NURS 110 | Introduction to Nursing
Academic year:

2024
Views:

200

Pages:

2
Author:

Amelia R.

Amelia Roses (UNC2021-5678) Bachelor of Science in Nursing LECTURE NOTES : ROLES AND FUNCTIONS OF NURSES Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system, providing essential care to individuals, families, and communities across various settings. Understanding the roles and functions of nurses is fundamental for aspiring and practicing nurses to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. 1. Patient Care Provider: a. Nurses are primary caregivers who assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care to meet the physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs of patients. b. They provide direct care interventions, such as administering medications, performing treatments, and assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), to promote health and well-being. 2. Educator: a. Nurses educate patients, families, and communities about health promotion, disease prevention, and self-care management strategies. b. They provide information on medication administration, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and coping mechanisms to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. 3. Advocate: a. Nurses advocate for patients' rights, preferences, and needs to ensure they receive safe, respectful, and equitable care. b. They collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams and community resources to address social determinants of health and promote health equity. 4. Coordinator of Care: a. Nurses coordinate and manage patient care by collaborating with healthcare professionals, facilitating communication, and ensuring continuity of care across settings. b. They assess patient needs, develop care plans, and allocate resources to optimize outcomes and promote seamless transitions between healthcare providers and settings. 5. Leader and Change Agent: a. Nurses demonstrate leadership by promoting evidence-based practice, quality improvement initiatives, and innovation in healthcare delivery. b. They advocate for policy changes, organizational improvements, and advancements in nursing practice to enhance patient outcomes and address emerging healthcare challenges. 6. Researcher: a. Nurses contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge and evidence-based practice through research, scholarship, and participation in clinical trials. b. They critically appraise research findings, integrate evidence into practice, and conduct research to improve nursing care and patient outcomes. 7. Collaborator: a. Nurses collaborate with patients, families, healthcare teams, and community partners to achieve common goals and deliver coordinated, holistic care. b. They foster interprofessional communication, teamwork, and mutual respect to enhance the effectiveness of healthcare delivery and promote positive patient experiences.