Care of the diseased patients is an integral part of the clinical intervention centred on the benefit of the patient. Author defines the conception of „care“ as a component of medical activities. The characteristic features of the care and nursing are given. The specific problems of the providers of the care and those who accept it are discussed. Major differences between the cure (therapy) and care (nursing) and their mutual relations are considered. The compensatory character of nursing in situations when the therapy is ineffective is stressed.

        Key words: care, nursing, nursing team, acceptor of the care, cure, palliative care