Nursing is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing health, restoring well-being, and alleviating pain by fostering an environment where individuals, families, groups, and communities can naturally manifest their healing abilities. The fundamental goal is to provide comprehensive physical, mental, and social support through specialized knowledge and skills to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives throughout their lifespan.
Nursing is rooted in caring for infants, the sick, and the elderly within homes and communities. Nursing has its origins in the fundamental activities of caring for people. Florence Nightingale laid the groundwork for the modern profession, shaping it into a recognized field of expertise. In Japan, the enactment of the Act on Public Health Nurses, Midwives, and Nurses in 1948 defined nursing as a professional practice, establishing licensing qualifications and responsibilities Legally, nursing care is provided by licensed nurses in diverse health, medical, and welfare settings, adhering to the stipulations of the same law. While the role and function of nursing have expanded with advances in medical care and societal changes, the essence remains rooted in care. In essence, nursing is characterized by its closeness to those subject to nursing care, actively engaging with individuals to understand their pain and suffering and offering compassionate consideration that safeguards their dignity.
The value of nursing, centered on preserving people’s dignity and supporting them in living life on their terms, stands as an essential societal value. This value is integral to a society that places high importance on human dignity, serving as a foundational element that supports the basis of society.
References- Hishinuma, M., Inoue, T., & Takeda, T. (2009). Principles of nursing: The essence and appeal of caring. Life Support Co., Ltd.
- Japan Nursing Association. (2011, May 19). Explanation of major terms related to nursing: Conceptual definitions, historical changes, and social context.
Retrieved from http://www.nurse.or.jp/home/publication/pdf/2007/yougokaisetu.pdf - Tamura, Y. (2008). Our dependency on Public Health Nurses, Midwives, and Nurses Act. Japanese Nursing Association Publishing.