In achieving these goals, nurses utilize the components of the nursing process, critical thinking, technology and caring behaviors. The nursing faculty has designed an organizing framework and curriculum based on a number of core beliefs that are considered basic to the practice of effective nursing care. Individuals are continually evolving complex beings that are similar in basic human needs. Individuals have rights, which include the right to participate in and determine the direction of their own destiny. Health is a dynamic life-long process that changes as an individual s basic human needs and adaptive capabilities are challenged by internal and external forces.
Health exists on a continuum with high level wellness at one end, and death at the other end.
Illness is a process in which the functioning of a person is diminished or impaired in one or more dimensions when compared with the person s previous condition. Nursing is an evolving, eclectic and applied discipline that uses cognitive, interpersonal and technical skills to promote, maintain and restore optimum health. Nursing is concerned with the health care needs of individuals, families and communities who are at different points along the health continuum. Nursing recognizes the significance of relationships within families, groups and communities as these relationships can both alter and support health status. Nursing uses the nursing process as a framework for providing and managing patient care.