Health is the actualization of inherent and acquired human potential through satisfying relationships with others, goal directed behavior, and competent self-care. Individuals make adjustments in response to a health state to maintain stability and structural integrity. A person uses both internal and external resources to achieve the desired level of health and well being. Nurses operate holistically from a scientific base. Nursing's body of knowledge incorporates biological, behavioral, and humanistic principles.
Nursing has both a theoretical and a practice component.
Nurses incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities to promote the optimal functioning and adaptation of individuals. Nurses function independently and collaboratively with patients, families, and other members of the health care team. Additionally, the Grossmont College Nursing Program's curriculum is based on process subconcepts nurses use to maintain and improve the health of persons in their environment. These processes include inquiry, caring, and practice and are conceptualized as follows. It includes the nursing process, the scientific process, and the research process.