Nursing Philosophy:
My philosophy is based on Nightingale's theory of practice. "Nursing is an art-an art requiring an organized practical and scientific training. Nursing is putting us in the best possible conditions for nature to preserve health-to prevent or restore or to cure disease or injury. Nursing is therefore to help the patient live" (Cherry & Jacob, 2011).
I believe a nurse should be honest, ethical, kind competent and have the patient's best interest at heart. A great nurse has integrity, good therapeutic communication, is a patient advocate, and respects each patient's view of themselves and their environment. It is important to be supportive and compassionate of each person receiving care. I believe in working as a collaborative interdisciplinary team to improve the health of patients. Nursing is a lifelong learning process, with technology growing and changing rapidly, there will always be a need to continue increasing knowledge, as well as incorporate research and evidence-based practice in the development of standards of care. I carry the elements of this professional philosophy into my personal life as well.
Cherry, B. & Jacob, S.R. 2011. Contemporary Nursing Issues, Trends, & Management (5th ed.). St. Louis, MO: