The aim
of the nursing community worldwide is to develop the profession
guided by continuing education based on nursing research,
and to regulate standards of competency and ethics.
There
are a number of educational paths to becoming a professional
nurse, which vary greatly worldwide, but all involve extensive
study of nursing theory and practice and training in clinical
skills.
The authority
for the practice of nursing is based upon a social contract
that delineates professional rights and responsibilities as
well as mechanisms for public accountability.
In almost
all countries, nursing practice is defined and governed by
law, and entrance to the profession is regulated at national
or state level.
