Preparing for Nursing's Future

Abstract

W ith all the remarkable developments occurring around the globe, it's no surprise that nursing has entered an era of rapid and substantial change. And, in fact, the whole health field has become highly dynamic in the United States over the past few decades. The good news is that people live longer as a result of earlier diagnosis and treatment, healthier lifestyles, self-care programs, and a greater exposure to health information. Specifically, death from heart disease is down due to surgical intervention and new drugs, smoking cessation, and awareness of the importance of better nutrition and exercise. The health care picture is not all positive, however. On the increase are such serious problems as auto accidents, homicides, substance abuse, depression and anxiety disorders, and destructive manifestations of adolescent sexuality. Pregnancy among 15to 19-year-olds has created birth rates higher in our nation than in most developed countries. Cancer, particularly of the lungs, continues to be a leading cause of death, although important strides have been made in prevention and treatment. Perhaps the most devastating as well as perplexing illness of the 1980s and 1990s is the epidemic of HIV and AIDS. Another public threat, linked to AIDS, homelessness, and drug abuse, is the reemergence of tuberculosis. These concerns and others create enormous challenges for today's health care professionals.