Includes bibliographical references and index.

Contents: 1. Concepts in nursing: Health and wellness -- The health care delivery system -- Community-based nursing practice -- Legal principles in nursing -- Ethics -- Evidence-based practice -- 2. Processes in nursing care: Critical thinking -- Nursing process -- Informatics and documentation -- Communication -- Patient education -- Managing patient care -- 3. Essentials for nursing practice: Infection prevention and control -- Vital signs -- Health assessment and physical examination -- Administering medications -- Fluid, electrolyte, and acid-based balance -- 4. Promoting psychosocial health: Caring in nursing practice -- Cultural diversity -- Spiritual health -- Growth and development -- Self-concept and sexuality -- Family context in nursing -- Stress and coping -- Loss and grief -- 5. Promoting physical health: Managing client care -- Exercise and activity -- Safety -- Hygiene -- Oxygenation -- Sleep --Pain management -- Nutrition -- Urinary elimination -- Bowel elimination -- Immobility -- Skin integrity and wound care -- Sensory alterations -- Surgical patient --