Book excerpt: This book takes a comprehensive and critical look at current issues and trends in nursing, and examines future health care and market place consumer demands—as they relate to success in professional practice. It discusses the ever-accelerating pace of change occurring in the field, and features a broad spectrum of topics that highlight the importance of accountability, responsibility, and critical decision making for nurses of the 21st century. KEY TOPICS Chapter topics present an overview of the evolution of the image, education, knowledge, and professional organization of nurses; discuss professional values and core competencies, the search for employment, nursing issue management and leadership, future challenges, and much more. For new graduates and experienced nurses seeking information about the most contemporary concerns of their field.