We know that nursing is both an art and a science. But do we give each its due when it comes to nursing education and preparation to enter the workforce?

In my mind, science is easier to understand…it makes sense. Anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology are just a sampling of the science courses we take in nursing school. It’s a lot of information that we need to learn, and there are usually definitive answers.

The art of nursing is less clear. Is it something that can be taught? Or is it gleaned through experience? Is there a right and wrong way to express empathy? A correct way to connect with another human being?

In Casey’s story, she mentions that when hiring a new nurse, she looks for someone who can “start a conversation with somebody and get their trust in five minutes.” That’s the art of nursing. Connecting with people so they trust you is no easy task, and yet nurses are voted the most trusted profession, time and time again.

We can affect positive change by blending the art and science of care delivery, using the right tools and knowing the science behind the treatment. But on the flip side, we also need to make sure we pay as much attention to the art of nursing in health care too – communication, attitude and confidence, teamwork, networking, critical thinking and creative problem solving, professionalism, empathy, conflict resolution, adaptability, initiative and strong work ethic. Some refer to these as soft skills, but to many they are the hardest skills to master.

At Wolters Kluwer, we’re celebrating nurses in recognition of all that they do every day. Learn more and watch “Care without Judgement: The HeART of Nursing.”

CASEY HOBBS, RN, Director of Nursing/Host & Co-Creator, Nurse Talk Radio, San Francisco, CA
Casey Hobbs found her passion for nursing while in her early twenties and has been living her “calling” ever since. For the past 40 years, Hobbs has served patients in hospitals, home care and hospice settings, and currently serves as Director of Nursing for a large healthcare organization in Northern California. Hobbs has always maintained, “laughter is the best medicine,” which led her to envision her radio program, “Nurse Talk” Radio in which she serves as host, while listening to two guys talk about cars on NPR. Hobbs is also a public speaker and spokesperson for the nursing profession.

Watch our Facebook LIVE with Casey from November 20, 2019 at 11 am!