Nursing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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nursing
[ˈnəːsɪŋ ]
Definitions
medical care
The profession or practice of providing care for the sick and infirm, especially in a hospital or other medical facility. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled, and dying people.
Synonyms
caregiving, medical care, patient care.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nursing |
This term is commonly used when referring to the professional practice of providing medical and personal care, especially in hospitals and clinics.
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| caregiving |
This word is used when talking about providing personal care, often to family members or friends, sometimes in a home setting.
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| medical care |
This phrase is used to describe professional treatment and attention given to patients in hospitals, clinics, or by healthcare providers. It encompasses a broad range of services.
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| patient care |
This term specifically refers to the services provided to patients to ensure their well-being and comfort, often used in a hospital or healthcare facility context.
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Examples of usage
- Nursing requires a high level of skill and compassion.
- She decided to pursue a career in nursing to help those in need.
breastfeeding
The practice or profession of feeding a baby with milk from the breast. It is a natural and important aspect of early childhood development.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nursing |
Using for the act of feeding a baby with milk from the breast. It can be used in both medical and everyday contexts. It is neutral and general.
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| breastfeeding |
Typically used in a straightforward and clinical way to refer to the practice of feeding a baby with milk directly from the mother's breast. It is often used in healthcare settings and parenting advice.
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| suckling |
More commonly used in literature or when referring to animals. It can sound more formal or old-fashioned when referring to human babies.
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Examples of usage
- She believes in the benefits of nursing her newborn.
- Many mothers find nursing to be a bonding experience with their babies.
support and nourishment
The act of providing support, care, and nourishment to someone or something. It can also refer to the fostering and maintenance of something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nursing |
Typically used in medical or caregiving contexts to refer to the care of patients, especially by trained nurses.
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| care |
Can be used broadly to refer to attention and concern for the well-being of someone or something, not limited to medical contexts.
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| support |
Used to describe assistance or encouragement provided to someone, often emotional or financial help.
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| nourishment |
Refers specifically to providing food or sustenance needed for growth and health.
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Examples of usage
- The nursing of the injured bird back to health was a remarkable feat.
- The nursing of a plant requires regular watering and sunlight.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The practice of caring for the sick dates back to ancient civilizations, with records from Egypt and Greece showing early forms of caregiving.
- During the Middle Ages, nursing was often done by nuns in religious institutions, greatly shaping the profession's future.
- Florence Nightingale is known as the founder of modern nursing for her reforms in the 19th century during the Crimean War.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, nursing symbols like the caduceus (a staff entwined with snakes) represent healing and health.
- Nurses are often depicted as heroes in films and literature, highlighting their integral role in healthcare and society.
Modern Developments
- With advancements in technology, nurses today use telehealth systems to remotely diagnose and treat patients.
- Nursing education has evolved, with many universities now offering specialized degrees focusing on various aspects of healthcare.
Psychology
- Research has shown that compassionate care from nurses can significantly improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.
- The emotional toll of nursing can lead to burnout, emphasizing the importance of mental health support for nurses.
Global Impact
- The World Health Organization has emphasized the critical role of nursing in achieving universal health coverage worldwide.
- Nursing shortages are a global concern, prompting initiatives to encourage more individuals to enter the profession.
Origin of 'nursing'
The word 'nursing' originated from the Middle English word 'norsing', which meant 'feeding, suckling, fostering'. It has evolved over time to encompass the broader meanings of providing care, support, and nourishment. Nursing as a profession has a long history dating back to ancient times, but modern nursing practices have developed significantly over the centuries.