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Japanese experience of evolving nurses’ roles in changing social contexts
Author(s) -
Kanbara S.,
Yamamoto Y.,
Sugishita T.,
Nakasa T.,
Moriguchi I.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
international nursing review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.84
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 1466-7657
pISSN - 0020-8132
DOI - 10.1111/inr.12365
Subject(s) - transformative learning , nursing , public health , health care , work (physics) , sustainable development , public relations , global health , medicine , political science , psychology , mechanical engineering , pedagogy , law , engineering
Aim To discuss the evolving roles of Japanese nurses in meeting the goals and concerns of ongoing global sustainable development. Background Japanese nurses’ roles have evolved as the needs of the country and the communities they served, changed over time. The comprehensive public healthcare services in Japan were provided by the cooperation of hospitals and public health nurses. Introduction The nursing profession is exploring ways to identify and systemize nursing skills and competencies that address global health initiatives for sustainable development goals. Methods This paper is based on the summary of a symposium, (part of the 2015 annual meeting of the Japan Association for International Health) with panel members including experts from Japan's Official Development Assistance. Findings The evolving role of nurses in response to national and international needs is illustrated by nursing practices from Japan. Japanese public health nurses have also assisted overseas healthcare plans. In recent catastrophes, Japanese nurses assumed the roles of community health coordinators for restoration and maintenance of public health. Discussion The Japanese experience shows that nursing professionals are best placed to work with community health issues, high‐risk situations and vulnerable communities. Their cooperation can address current social needs and help global communities to transform our world. Conclusion Nurses have tremendous potential to make transformative changes in health and bring about the necessary paradigm shift. They must be involved in global sustainable development goals, health policies and disaster risk management. A mutual understanding of global citizen and nurses will help to renew and strengthen their capacities. Implications Nursing professionals can contribute effectively to achieve national and global health goals and make transformative changes.