As promised, this week we will investigate other health professionals. Here is a partial list of medical care practitioners; this is not exhaustive!
physicians, dentists, pharmacists, physician assistants, nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, surgeons, surgeon's assistant, athletic trainers, surgical technologist, midwives, dietitians, therapists, psychologists, chiropractors, clinical officers, social workers, phlebotomists, occupational therapist, physical therapists, radiographer, respiratory therapists, audiologists, speech pathologists, optometrists, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, medical laboratory scientists, and medical prosthetic technicians
But being a practitioner does not make you a professional. Nurses have had a rough time delineating their work as a profession.
For our purposes, a profession has three characteristics:
Autonomy to set educational and licensing standards
Technical, specialized knowledge
Public confidence in practitioners ethics (Parsons,1951) [and yes, this is the same Parsons of 'sick role' fame]
Investigate any means that medical care is practiced (see the list above). How does this method of medical care 'stack up' to the three characteristics of a profession. When is it not just a job? Just an occupation? Convince your group that this medical practice IS or IS NOT a profession.
Did your other students find what you found? Do you agree or disagree? If someone investigates nursing, then by all means, discuss why this has been SUCH a difficult issue for them (critical sociology will remind you to look at who has power, who wants the power, who doesn't want to lose power, etc.).
Full Answer Section
- Technical, specialized knowledge: Nurses have a deep understanding of the human body and the principles of healthcare. They must be able to assess patients, diagnose health problems, and develop and implement treatment plans. Nurses also need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
- Public confidence in practitioners' ethics: Nurses are held to a high ethical standard. They are expected to provide care that is safe, competent, and compassionate. Nurses are also expected to uphold the ethical principles of confidentiality, fidelity, and respect for patient autonomy.
When is nursing not just a job? Just an occupation?
Nursing is not just a job or an occupation. It is a profession that requires a high level of education, training, and skill. Nurses play a vital role in the healthcare system, and they are essential to providing quality care to patients.
Nurses have had a rough time delineating their work as a profession.
There are a few reasons why nurses have had a rough time delineating their work as a profession. First, nursing has traditionally been seen as a female occupation. This has led to nurses being undervalued and underpaid. Second, nurses have often been seen as the assistants to doctors, rather than as independent practitioners. This has limited their autonomy and authority. Third, nursing has been fragmented, with different types of nurses working in different settings. This has made it difficult for nurses to speak with a unified voice.
The future of nursing
The future of nursing is bright. The demand for nurses is expected to grow in the coming years, as the population ages and the healthcare system becomes more complex. Nurses will play an increasingly important role in providing quality care to patients.
Nurses are also becoming more vocal about their rights and their need for autonomy. They are working to improve their education and training, and they are demanding higher salaries and more respect. The future of nursing is one of greater autonomy, authority, and respect.
Sample Answer
Nursing
Nursing is a profession that has been evolving for centuries. Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and homes. They work with doctors and other healthcare professionals to provide a holistic approach to patient care.
Nurses have made significant contributions to the field of healthcare. They have helped to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and improve the quality of care.
Do nurses meet the three characteristics of a profession?
- Autonomy to set educational and licensing standards: Nurses have a significant amount of autonomy in setting educational and licensing standards. They are represented by the American Nurses Association (ANA), which sets standards for nursing education and practice. The ANA also accredits nursing schools and approves nursing licensure examinations.