Õendus

Õendus is a term in the Estonian language that refers to nursing and caregiving within health care. It covers the practical and interpersonal aspects of caring for patients and clients who require assistance due to illness, disability, or age. In everyday use, õendus encompasses tasks such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with daily activities, ensuring hygiene, managing wounds, and providing emotional support. It is performed by trained professionals, often in hospitals, clinics, or in home-care settings, and is coordinated with other health care disciplines.

The field has grown into a professional occupation with structured education and ethical standards. Training typically includes theoretical instruction and supervised practice, and it leads to qualifications that enable the holder to work as a nurse or nursing assistant, depending on the level of education. The work is organized around patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice, with emphasis on communication, advocacy, and continuity of care. In society, õendus is linked to broader themes such as aging populations, chronic disease management, and community health.

In cultural and linguistic terms, õendus is often used in compound forms and official language to describe nursing care as part of health services. The term also appears in discussions about health policy, education, and labor markets, reflecting its central role in Estonia’s health system.