Business and Leadership

What’s in a Word?

Eileen N. Lukes, PhD, RN, COHN-S, CCM, FAAOHN; Elizabeth Lukes Fioritto, BA

  • AAOHN Journal
  • April 2009 - Volume 57 · Issue 4: 171-174
  • DOI:

Abstract

Words provide meaning to concepts, but misuse of common terms can result in distorted understanding of concepts. Medicine and nursing are separate professions. Medical care and health care are distinct terms that are often used interchangeably. This article discusses terminology in light of the history of nursing, and provides recommendations to occupational health nurses for discussing these concepts with the public and other health professionals.

AUTHORS

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Dr. Lukes is a member of Arizona Valle del Sol AOHN and is a Mountain/Western Director on the AAOHN Board of Directors. Ms. Fioritto is a linguist from Chicago, IL.

ABOUT THE SECTION EDITOR

Dr. Strasser is President, Partners in Business Health Solutions, Inc., Toledo, OH; and Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Michigan, School of Nursing, Occupational Health Nursing Program, Ann Arbor, MI.

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