The faculty of the Department of Nursing believes the professional nurse is a collegial member of the health care team dedicated and committed to assisting the client to adapt to a changing environment. Professional nursing accepts the responsibility for the care and coordination of health services to human beings and society. The professional nurse utilizes theories of communication, change, leadership, and teaching-learning as well as research methodology in the facilitation of optimum health potential of the client. The multifaceted professional role includes that of practitioner, health teacher, consumer of research, change agent, leader, collaborator, and client advocate. The nurse is self-directed, professionally and personally accountable, and humanitarian.
Initiative is demonstrated in client care, professional development, and personal growth.
Education for Professional Nursing includes the acquisition of liberal education and scientific knowledge, promotes the transfer of this knowledge from one sphere to another, and from theory into practice. Education for professional nursing is best accomplished in a college or university setting that encourages the spirit of inquiry, excitement of discovery, and creative and critical thinking. It is within this setting that the future practitioner can best gain the understanding and appreciation of the function of nursing in society and become a contributing member through development of individual potential. Learning is the acquisition of knowledge and skills that results in a behavior change. It is best accomplished through a process of inquiry based on previously learned knowledge and skills.