The editors' intention in the production of this book was to provide a realistic picture of the present state of nursing. This has been presented from a number of different but inter-linked perspectives. The decades since the inception of the National Health Service have been ones of significant change, both in society at large and in the field of health care. The period has witnessed political, economic, social, scientific and technological change taking place ever more rapidly; whilst, in terms of health care, demand and expectations continue to increase apace. Nursing, throughout the period, has been influenced by, and has responded to, these prevailing influences, and continues to do so. Contributors to this volume have sought to examine in depth some of the current issues in nursing at the present time. Each chapter examines a specific issue in the current nursing context and is, therefore, capable of standing alone. But considered together the chapters enable many aspects of the current debate on, and development of, nursing to be seen as a whole. It is hoped that this book will serve two fundamental purposes. First, to stimulate debate and activity by all nurses in their particular sphere of influence, and in the wider world of nursing. Second, it aims to inform those undertaking pre-or post-registra­ tion nursing programmes and thus assist their understanding of the state of nursing.