Definition of Nursing project
ICN is embarking on a project to review and update its definition of nursing to better align with contemporary practice and the diverse needs of the global nursing community. Recognizing the challenges in crafting a unifying definition, the project will develop separate definitions for "nursing" and "nurse" and include a final document explaining the process, rationale, and reasoning behind the definitions.
Led by a dedicated project team and supported by an expert committee with representatives from all ICN regions, the project will also involve input from various stakeholder groups. Extensive consultations will guide the development process. The new definitions, which need to be supported by ICN members, are expected to be ratified at the ICN Council of Nursing Representatives (CNR) meeting in Helsinki in 2025.
Photo credit: ©Nick Danziger
The need for a renewed definition was highlighted at the ICN Congress in Montreal, where it was suggested that the current definition neither aligns with contemporary practice nor represents nursing in many countries.
Acknowledging the significance of these definitions, their development will require extensive consultation and input from many perspectives.
We invite you to collaborate with our project by sharing your insights and experiences. Your input will be invaluable in helping us refine our collective knowledge.
The Project team is primarily responsible for the delivery of the project, ensuring both that the work stays on track, and key stakeholders are actively engaged and involved.