A time for reflection*

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Abstract
The nursing profession in the United Kingdom is faced with great opportunities for significant developments. To make best use of these it is necessary to reflect on the past, to meditate on key issues which are current, to plan wisely and well for the future and then to press ahead with determination. Key issues highlighted are in the spheres of education, management and practice; the need for research is emphasized. The pay structure can either support or impede developments, as can the attitude of the medical profession; the nursing and medical professions are complementary and interdependent, understanding between them is essential and effective communications are core to its realization. A general goal identified is the achievement of a more cohesive profession, a modification of the divisions between education, management and practice which, it is contended, have intensified as developments have taken place in each of these spheres. Objectives for development are put forward in the context of current circumstances which, it is argued facilitate their promotion. Signs that the nursing profession now recognizes the need for unified action to achieve its objectives are seen as encouraging, and confidence is expressed that the profession will exploit the opportunities now within its grasp.

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