Why is it so important to be a nurse in this day and age?

A nurses' speciality is caring for the patient, acting as an advocate for the patient, making sure their wishes are met. By collating all the information through assessments and the rapport that has hopefully been built we can provide a clearer picture of their needs. We do this by using assessment tools, and building trust with the patient, to inform the care we give. Reviewing the assessment(s) results regularly to look for patterns of improvement, or, in some cases, a decline in health, the interpretation which the nurse draws upon the assessment(s) is a key to any decisions that are made. Nurses have great value within the decision making process, as they spend the most time with the patient(s), this makes it easier to monitor the health status of the patient. The nurse also acts as the patient's advocate, regarding their choice of treatment and assumed outcome. Whenever a decision is in the process of being made, liaising with the patient is a necessity. There is no one better to look to for advice, than the nurse. As it is often the nurse who completes and interprets the assessments that determine the outcome of the decision, it could be said that the foundation of the Doctors decision lies in the nurse's professional ability.