This topical book explores the current state of nursing, examines the new directions nursing is taking and also, importantly, looks to the future. With contributions from professionals at the forefront of nursing, the book seeks to examine some of the current issues in nursing at the present time, for example politics, research, education and management. The book will serve two fundamental purposes. Firstly it aims to stimulate debate and activity by all nurses in their particular sphere of influence, and in the wider world of nursing. Secondly, it informs those undertaking initial or post-registration nursing programmes and thus assist their understanding of the state of nursing.