A nurse is an individual who has completed a basic nursing education program and, in accordance with the provisions of the Act on Public Health Nurses, Midwives, and Nurses, holds one or more licenses as a public health nurse, midwife, nurse, or associate nurse, thereby being authorized to provide nursing care. The term “nurse” is sometimes used as a general designation for individuals holding these licenses.

Nursing profession includes Certified Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Certified Nurse (CN). CNS is an individual who has completed a master’s program at a nursing university graduate school, passed the Certification Examination of Japanese Nursing Association, and is recognized for exceptional nursing practice abilities in a particular specialized field. The roles of CNS include “practice,” “education,” “consultation,” “coordination,” “ethical coordination,” and “research.” In contrast, a CN is an individual who has completed a certified nurse education program, passed the Japanese Nursing Association Certification Examination, and is acknowledged for possessing proficient nursing skills and knowledge in a specific field. The role of a certified nurse involves “practice,” “guidance,” and “consultation.”

Nurses are entrusted with the responsibility of engaging in lifelong learning autonomously, continually honing their professional skills, discerning their roles within their respective positions, and addressing societal needs while developing their expertise.

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