MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Abstract

Nursing has evolved into a form of both art and a science. The head, the heart, and the hands have combined to become a modem day nursing institution. Nursing depends on societies' requirements and therefore survives simply because of societies' need for such a service. It is difficult for nursing to rise above societies' expectations, limitations, resources, and culture of the current age. This millennium has become the symbol for amazing challenges. Innumerable openings are available in the nursing profession. Academic institutions have developed to prepare the next generation of nurses. Alterations are being made in nursing and nursing educational institutions, determined by major socioeconomic factors, as well as by advancement in health care deliverance and professional matters exclusive to nursing. 

Due to progress in civic health and medical care, the average life span is escalating rapidly, which in tum demands an efficient and effective health care system. The augmentation in information technology has already had a radical effect on health care delivery and the education of nurses. As a result of globalization, progress in communication is seen, as well as the growth of international travel. Changes in commerce are observed. With the "death of distance" and diversification of population, the spread of disease and the delivery of health care have reached new boundaries and as a result we face both unexpected hazards and astonishing benefits. Nursing education and practice thus need to embrace the implication of the up-coming treatments from both genetic research and alternative medicine, while checking ethical differences and modifying the traditional methods. A sense of broader knowledge and skills are necessary to efficiently and capably administer the comprehensive requirements of patients and populations. The health care delivery system of the future will depend on a panel of nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, dentists, social workers, pharmacists, and other contributors to work collectively. While interdisciplinary and collaborative practice is still not the norm, there has been a heightened awareness of the need for coordinated care.

Thus the combination of articles in this issue of the Malaysian Journal of Nursing may help the researchers and students of nursing to pursue higher studies in specialised subjects such as Renal nursing, Orthopaedic nursing, etc. Through this, specialised doctors will have the helping hands of trained specialised nurses which will raise the professionalism of nursing to new heights. This journal targets improvement of knowledge and innovation which will in tum encourage better mental make-up. Recognizing the value of nursing literature, this journal's editorial board is busy enhancing the quality and accessibility of nursing literature.

The present issue of the journal deals with varied topics of both nursing and other health related problems which augment the enhancement of health care service. This issue on one hand includes a unique case study of laryngeal chondrosarcoma and deals with a delicate topic of filial piety. Whilst, on the other hand offers a considered article concerning the educational process of nursing and matters relating to hospital management. As a result, the journal offers a truly global readership, with a strong international focus, through a highly efficient editorial process.