Nursing is one of the most exciting and in-demand jobs in America today. Nurses work to promote health, prevent disease and help patients cope with illness. They are advocates and health educators for patients, families and communities. When providing direct patient care, they observe, assess and record patient symptoms, reactions and progress. Nurses collaborate with physicians in the performance of treatments and examinations, the administration of medications and the provision of direct patient care in convalescence and rehabilitation.
Nurses work in an environment that is constantly changing to provide the best possible care for patients. They are continuously learning about the latest technology and medication as well as considering the evidence that their nursing practice is based upon. Because they will actually spend more face-to-face time with a patient than doctors, nurses must be particularly skilled at interacting with patients, putting them at ease, and assisting them in their recovery. It is often said that physicians cure, and nurses care.