Issue: Communication.

             Standard: Communication abilities sufficient for interactions with others in verbal and written form.

             Example: Can follow verbal and/or written instructions; must communicate patient response to therapy with others; documentation of therapeutic procedures performed on patient; consult with other health care providers in a professional manner.

             Issue: Mobility.

             Standard: Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room and walk in hallways, maneuver in small spaces; includes the strength necessary to lift patients, as needed.

             Example: Walking to and from departments to patient rooms; room to room to take care of all patients on a team assisting in patient transport.

             Issue: Motor Skills.

             Standard: Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care.

             Example: Perform vital signs, CPR, transporting patients, physical assessment, and manipulating equipment.

             Issue: Hearing.

             Standard: Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs.

             Example: Auscultation of BP, breath sounds, heart sounds, bowel sounds, hearing alarms in units, call bells, telephones; converse with patients, family and staff.

             Issue: Visual.

             Standard: Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary in nursing care.

             Example: Reading patient charts/flow sheets/monitors; drawing up and administering medications; assessing patient skin color; reading thermometers. .

             Here are the entry levels for degrees in nursing as based on Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Inc. (2005):.

             Bachelor of Science Nursing: (BS/BSN) A four-year program offered at colleges and universities that prepares nurses to practice across all health care settings. BSN graduates have the greatest opportunity for advancement. .

             Associate's Degree in Nursing: (ADN) A two-to-three year program offered at junior and community colleges, an Associate's degree trains and prepares nurses to provide direct patient care in numerous settings.