A professional who contracts independently to render nursing care, usually to one patient, in hospital or private home. Responsibilities include:

• Administers medications, treatments, dressings, and other nursing services, according to physician's instructions and condition of patient.
• Observes, evaluates, and records symptoms.
• Applies independent emergency measures to counteract adverse developments and notifies physician of patient's condition.
• Directs patient in good health habits.
• Gives information to family in treatment of patient and maintenance of healthful environment.
• Maintains equipment and supplies.
• Cooperates with community agencies furnishing assistance to patient.
• May supervise diet when employed in private home.
• May specialize in one field of nursing, such as obstetrics, psychiatry, or tuberculosis.