Abstract

The environment plays a significant part in human development, human health and diseases. Over the years, the environment has been progressively harsh, due to global warming (GW). The increase in the production of green house gases has resulted in enhanced greenhouse effect which has also resulted in changing epidemiological pattern of diseases. Nursing, being a responsive profession is not Immuned to the effects of global warming. This paper attempts an exploration of effects of global warming with a view of elucidating its implications for nursing. The concept of global warming was reviewed, various climatic changes were presented and the implications for nursing were brought to the fore. Nursing curricula should therefore be tailored and expanded to accommodate the various changes that occur as a result of global warming. Nurses are enjoined to be more proactive in the management of the increasing natural disasters and outbreak of communicable diseases.

Key words: Global warming, greenhouse effects, disease-pattern, vulnerable group, nursing.