The fundamentals of nursing are the basic principles and skills that all nurses must possess in order to provide safe and effective care to patients. These fundamentals include:
1. Assessment: Nurses must be able to assess a patient's physical, emotional, and mental health status in order to develop an appropriate care plan.
2. Communication: Nurses must be able to effectively communicate with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals in order to provide quality care.
3. Critical thinking: Nurses must be able to think critically and make quick decisions in order to provide safe and effective care to patients.
4. Patient advocacy: Nurses must advocate for their patients and ensure that their rights and needs are being met.
5. Safety: Nurses must prioritize patient safety and take measures to prevent harm or injury to patients.
6. Infection control: Nurses must follow proper infection control protocols to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
7. Medication administration: Nurses must be knowledgeable about medications and be able to safely administer them to patients.
8. Professionalism: Nurses must conduct themselves in a professional manner and adhere to ethical standards and guidelines.
Overall, the fundamentals of nursing are essential for providing high-quality, compassionate care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings.