The
practice of a graduate from an associate degree nursing program is characterized by
critical thinking, clinical competence, accountability and a commitment to the value of
caring.
This practice applies to clients across the life span, with emphasis on
adults who have health needs and require assistance to maintain or restore their optimum
states of health or support to die with dignity. Because the aged comprise an increasing
proportion of nursing’s clients, the nurse with an associate degree is prepared to
address the acute and chronic health care needs of this population. The nurse is concerned
with individual clients and their relationships within their families, groups and
communities.
The nursing process is used as a basis for decisions, The nurse
establishes and analyzes a data base, identifies health care needs, selects nursing
diagnoses, sets client-centered goals, plans and implements care to achieve the goals, and
evaluates client outcomes.
The nurse’s commitment to client-centered care is reflected
through a collaborative approach involving the client, family, significant others, and
members of the health care team. The provider of care role of the graduate from an
associate degree nursing program encompasses preparation for practice in both acute and
long-term care settings where policies and procedures are specified and guidance is
available.
To develop the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective abilities
necessary to make sound nursing decisions and to practice competently, it is essential
that the nurse has current knowledge in nursing concepts, principles, processes, and
skills. Supportive of that knowledge is an understanding of health; acute and chronic
health deviations; nutrition; pharmacology; communication; human development;
teaching-learning principles; current technology; humanities; and biological, social, and
behavioral sciences.
