A presentation of the conceptual bases for professional nursing, covering the diverse issues that influence nursing practice. This fourth edition is revised and updated to include five new chapters. Each chapter begins with "Learning Outcomes", which are designed to prepare the student for that area of study. The addition of bulleted information and charts - highlighted with a second colour - make the text more user-friendly. Case studies provide real-life application of chapter principles and there are critical thinking exercises which are designed to encourage classroom discussion.