Includes bibliographical references and index.

Understanding the health care environment and its financing -- The p olitical process in society and in nursing organizations -- The nursing profession and the community -- Exploring the growth of nursing as a p rofession -- Educational preparation for nursing -- Nursing for the fut ure -- Credentials for health care providers -- Legal responsibilities for practice -- Ethical concerns in nursing practice -- Bioethical issu es in health care -- Understanding the world of health care employment -- Initiating the leadership and management role -- Working with others for patient care -- Leading change and managing conflict -- Making pro fessional goals a reality -- Facing the challenges of today's workplace .