This volume brings together a wide variety of writers, most of whom are nurses, to present their ideas on accountability as it applies to a number of different nursing situations. In addition, there are significant chapters on the historical development of accountability in nursing and its legal and ethical implications. Accountability is closely related to, yet distinct from, responsibility, autonomy and authority. Recent changes in health service funding and increasing moves towards community care bring the issue of accountability within nursing practice into sharp focus. This book provides a full consideration of how the broad concept of accountability applies to nursing and why, in the current climate, it is essential that nurses and health managers understand the implications. As nurses strive to provide excellent health care within economic guidelines, accountability is a key concept which needs further investigation. This book should be of interest to health managers, clinical managers, nurse educators, and student nurses.