GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 206
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no special knowledge of the following topic.
Some people think the most important skill nurses should have is good medical knowledge. Others believe there are other more important qualities.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
Opinions are divided on the issue of crucial skills for nurses. Many argue that a nurse should have sound clinical knowledge, while others believe that there are other key qualities than just having good healthcare knowledge. Although empathy and critical thinking are vital, I feel that clinical competency is the cornerstone of nursing.
On the one hand, nurses should possess essential healthcare knowledge. In simple words, they need to comprehend the basics of anatomy and physiology so as to provide proper care for patients. These are the foundation for everything nurses do, from helping patients with personal hygiene to monitoring vital symptoms. For instance, a nurse needs to know the location of the most suitable veins for drawing blood. Besides, nurses administer medications, wound care and other treatment options. This is why the basics of clinical knowledge prove to be vital for a nurse.
On the other hand, it is argued that other key qualities are more significant in nursing. To start with, a nurse should be empathetic. A great nurse is able to understand how the patients are feeling because she or he can imagine what it is like to be them. In fact, empathy adds an outstanding value to medical care. This, in turn, stimulates the patients’ recovery process. For example, various researches carried out in this field have revealed that a patient who is under the care of an empathetic nurse recovers significantly quicker than others. Likewise, critical thinking is another important trait. A nurse should have the ability to think quick on his feet and get decisions correct. In a critical situation, it could translate to life or death for a patient.
In conclusion, there are many qualities one needs to be considered a great nurse. However, I think that intimate clinical knowledge exceeds all other qualities in importance since it is the mainstay of a nurse’s role.