Table of Contents
Nursing is a very demanding career, since it involves taking care of the people’s wellbeing which requires total dedication and selflessness. This way, nurses are able to touch the lives of many people. Duties and responsibilities of a nurse range from facilitating healing, alleviating suffering as well as preventing illness and injury. The relationship between a patient and a nurse is special and filled with intimacy since they provide them with shoulders to lean on during episodes of pain as well as show compassion and care. Therefore the phrase “powerful nurse” portrays the image of a dedicated caregiver and whose actions must be within the code of ethics.
The Phrase “Powerful Nurse”
When a doctor diagnoses an illnesses and performs a surgery or prescribes medication; it is the duty of a nurse to explain medical procedures, respond to emergencies and manage symptoms. In fact, the role of the nurse is not only to save lives, but to preserve and promote quality of life (Camilleri, 2015). Therefore, when I imagine of a powerful nurse, I think of a person who is emotionally stable, caring, has sound judgment and remarkable communication skills. These character traits are very critical in the nursing profession since in the current evidenced-based practice one must be able to administer patient’s physical and mental assessments as well as apply immense knowledge of infection control.
How Gender Roles in the American Culture Affect the Exercise of Power Among Nurses
In the American culture, the issues of equality have always been a matter of great concern. This has created a rift in the work places and the medical field is not an exception. Due to the issue of gender inequality being entrenched within the social structure, it creates segregation of roles for each sex as well as imbalance of power (Payne, 2016). One of the major issues that affect exercise of power in the nursing profession is because the occupation is assumed as ordinary women’s work. This devalues the occupation and diminishes the nurse’s ability to exercise their powers.
Characteristics or Behaviors of People Observed from Powerful People
Powerful people have got unique characteristics which creates a perception that they have the ability to influence the decisions of others. Although that assumption has a degree of truth, power originates from the way each individual addresses issues or addresses other people (Shama, 2016). Power is also reflected on the things that one does as well as how one lives. Other notable characters and behaviors of powerful people include self-confidence, they endure criticism, they are flexible and know when to speak.
Which Behaviors are Socially Desirable or Undesirable?
Socially desirable behaviors are those activities that people engage in which are morally right and which do not lead to negative consequences. These behaviors are meant to promote or improve the wellbeing of one’s self or others so that there can be a better tomorrow. To achieve it, one must present him or herself in a favorable manner. Conversely, undesirable behaviors are unacceptable acts in the society. These acts revolve around crime, drug taking and disorderliness which eventually lead to imprisonment, fines and future regrets.
Conclusion
In the medical field, nurses play a significant role in saving and improving lives through providing preventive healthcare and alleviate suffering. Therefore, the profession requires a high degree of sacrifice and dedication. In order for one to acquire the title of a powerful nurse, one must be emotionally stable, have sound judgment and portray good communication skills. Unfortunately, nurses face enormous challenges while exercising their powers due to gender differences. However, the issue can be addressed through proper segregation of roles for each gender and creating balance of power.
- Camilleri, P. (2015). The role of practice development nurses in Malta. Art & science research, 30(4), 40-48.
- Payne, K. (2016). Especially a nurse: find power in your practice. Tennessee nurse, 13-13.
- Shama, F. (2016). Perceptions of leadership among final-year undergraduate nursing students. Evidence & practice research, 23(7). doi:doi: 10.7748/nm.2016.e1535.