The state of health and the state of illness are perceived as dynamic expressions of human life.  Nurses are thereby given a unique opportunity to address and meet the general and specific health-care needs of the individual patients, and where possible the society at large. We therefore, consciously strive to enhance equality of opportunity for all, whilst enabling patients, their families, friends and partners to realise their rights and responsibilities.

The philosophical foundation of our nursing practice is concerned with the provision of professional care in partnership with patients. We welcome the involvement of families, friends and partners in this holistic care. Where possible, we aim to enable our patients to achieve a state of optimal, physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being that will enhance their quality of life. Where necessary we shall facilitate dignity, privacy and comfort in death.

The essence of our practice is the concept of caring which encompasses sensitivity, responsiveness, empathy, professional skill and expertise. Therefore, nursing aims to function as a professional, interpersonal, caring discipline which protects, encourages, nurtures and advises patients who seek or are in need of health-care. Crucial to the determination of appropriate intervention is the nurse's need to exercise informed, professional judgement. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate sensitivity and respect for our patients' privacy and self esteem, and to ensure that their individual needs are met in all aspects of care planning and implementation. We aim to ensure that the care we deliver is of a high standard, qualitatively evaluated and that action is taken where appropriate. Successful rehabilitation of patients from their illness to an acceptable state of well-being will increase the patients' ability to return to their communities.

Professional nursing practice is influenced by rigorous education, a sound body of knowledge, research and effective leadership. Systematic inquiry, innovation and critical reflection inform our actions. knowledge of the natural, social and applied sciences, and the theory of nursing, facilitate our understanding of the health needs of our patients and direct the delivery of nursing care. The art of effective assessment of the patients state of health or well-being is critical in the ultimate establishment of a nursing diagnosis and responsible planning, implementation and evaluation of holistic nursing care.

The safety of our patients demands that all practitioners are appropriately and effectively prepared for their uniquely complex role by undertaking rigorous professional education and acquiring suitable professional expertise. Consequently, we practice and conduct ourselves within the standards and framework of our Code of Professional Conduct (UKCC 1992). As autonomous practitioners we are responsible and accountable for the decisions we make and the actions we take.  As the patients advocate, we ensure that patients are given appropriate information that could be utilised in making informed choices in relation to their care and treatment.

Nursing Progress: Issue 2: July 1997.

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Kikuchi JF, Simmons H. Philosophic Inquiry in Nursing.Newbury Park, Sage 1992.