Nurse Who?

There are many challenges within the healthcare system, but one of the more disheartening aspects is how the expertise of nurses is often undervalued in today’s world. Nurses are highly trained professionals with degrees and licensure, yet we are frequently restricted in utilizing our full potential without external oversight.

For example, while nurses are equipped to educate patients about diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans, starting a business as a nurse without a specific “health coach” certification often leads to unnecessary barriers. Obtaining such a certification can cost thousands of dollars for a brief program, and the job market for these roles is oversaturated. Positions advertised as "health coach" roles often receive hundreds or even thousands of applications, with compensation averaging around $20 an hour—a stark undervaluation of the expertise nurses bring.

This shift has led to the commercialization of roles traditionally aligned with nursing practice. Tasks that nurses are uniquely qualified to perform—such as creating and implementing nursing diagnoses based on evidence-based practices—are being diluted. Nurses are trained to integrate clinical judgment, personalized care plans, and accurate documentation, all grounded in a holistic approach to patient care.

In contrast, while a physician's diagnosis focuses on identifying physical conditions through signs, symptoms, and assessments, a nursing diagnosis emphasizes the individual’s overall well-being, considering physical, emotional, and psychosocial factors. Nurses play a pivotal role in improving healthcare education and empowering communities to make informed, health-conscious decisions.

It is commendable that there are efforts to spotlight the diverse contributions nursing expertise can bring to community education and care. However, there remains a significant gap in recognizing and supporting the unique value nurses provide, especially in a healthcare system that urgently needs broader educational outreach. Nurses have the ability to make the world a healthier, more informed place if given the opportunities and respect that align with their skills and training.

Nurses, what do you bring to the table for society to flourish?

Warm regards, Crystal Gail R.N.

#Nurseleader #Nurseempowerment #Holisticcare #HealthcareNow #ConciousNursing

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