This book investigates the practical requirements, educational pathways, and professional realities necessary for an individual to pursue a career in nursing. Alan E. Nourse, a physician and author, utilizes his medical background to provide a comprehensive overview of the nursing profession. He outlines the academic rigor of nursing programs, the clinical expectations of the field, and the various specializations available to practitioners. The text serves as a foundational guide for students evaluating the viability of nursing as a long-term career choice.

Readers frequently note the clarity and accessibility of the prose, which makes complex medical training paths understandable for high school and college students. Experts highlight this as a foundational text for those seeking an objective introduction to the nursing profession.