Northwestern Memorial Hospital Framework for Nursing Practice

Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Framework for Nursing Practice (pdf) is based on the work of Virginia Henderson and is comprised of the following components:

The Nurse

The role of the nurse is unique and essential to the care of the patient. The nurse demonstrates that unique and essential function through the Seven Attributes of the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Nurse:

• Demonstrating compassion for patients and families
• Being knowledgeable in relation to complex patient care issues
• Being dynamic and proactive when planning, implementing and evaluating the plan of care
• Incorporating the role of patient advocate into the plan of care
• Working in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team
• Being accountable for nursing practice and adhering to professional standards
• Maintaining and advancing the practice of nursing and our professional image

Nursing

Nursing is both a science and an art. Nursing practice is evidence-based and blends research, knowledge and technology with individualized, compassionate approaches to care.

Patient

The patient is at the center of care delivery. Each patient is a unique human being with complex, dynamic needs. Patients are encouraged to be active and engaged members of the healthcare team.

Family/Significant Other

Patients are part of a social support system. Involvement of the patient's family and significant others is acknowledged and valued as an integral part of the plan of care.

Team

The nurse in collaboration with the patient/family and the interdisciplinary team develops an individualized, evidence-based plan of care to promote health, ensure patient safety, facilitate recovery, and when appropriate, ensure a peaceful death for the patient.