Philosophy Of Science And Nursing
Philosophy Of Science And Nursing
PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE AND NURSING 3 Philosophy of Science and Nursing May 13, 2019 PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE AND NURSING It is essential that all nurses be aware of the philosophical science behind their area of expertise because it will allow them to advance in knowledge. The science is also necessary because nurses can understand how nursing science has evolved over the years (Dahlke, & Dreher, 2015). The science has enhanced the reflection of various aspects in the nursing field that are open for further exploration. Knowledge in the science sector will legitimize this field into a discipline. Further, this discipline will always act as a referencing material for all issues in the subject (Wyman, & Henley, 2015).
It will also offer a stepping stone for the advancement of nursing doctorate students into nursing scientists. In my experience, the provision of treatment for patients should be fair and not favor just a few people. A nurse should know the background of why they take the course because in most cases nurses are not ethical in their dealings (Alligood, 2017). Nurses are required to continually improve the quality of service they give to patients by attending seminars to be more informed. Also, nurses should always make patients aware of every possible harm, such as the need for HIV testing in the case of pregnant women and ways of family planning to have the number of children one can manage to take care of.
To be more advanced in their expertise, nurses are willing to study further to specialize further and acquire more knowledge about the nursing profession by pursuing master's programs for advancement from one level to a higher level.
Paper For Above instruction
The philosophy of science plays a crucial role in shaping the nursing profession, providing a theoretical foundation that guides practice, research, and education. Recognizing and understanding the philosophical underpinnings allows nurses to critically analyze their practices, make informed decisions, and contribute to the advancement of nursing science. The evolution of nursing science from empirical observations to complex theoretical frameworks underscores its progression as a discipline grounded in philosophical inquiry.
Philosophy acts as a bridge connecting theoretical knowledge with practical application in nursing. It legitimizes nursing as a scientific discipline rather than merely a vocation. As Dahlke and Dreher (2015) emphasize, understanding the philosophical basis of nursing helps in appreciating how the field has developed over the years, integrating diverse scientific knowledge to improve patient care. This understanding enables nurses to reflect critically on their actions and adapt to the changing healthcare environment effectively.
Moreover, the philosophical perspective encourages continuous learning and professional development among nurses. Attending seminars, pursuing advanced degrees, and engaging in research are ways through which nurses can enhance their knowledge base. This ongoing education fosters a culture of excellence and ethical practice, which is vital given concerns regarding unethical dealings in healthcare settings (Alligood, 2017). For instance, patients' rights to be fully informed about their treatment options, including potential harms like HIV testing during pregnancy or family planning choices, rely heavily on nurses' ethical awareness and philosophical understanding of their roles.
In the broader scope, philosophy provides a framework for understanding core concepts such as nursing theories, ethics, and patient-centered care. Recognizing the importance of epistemology—the study of knowledge—nursing professionals can better appreciate how evidence-based practice is grounded in scientific philosophy. This understanding enhances critical thinking, enabling nurses to evaluate research findings, implement best practices, and contribute to policy development.
Furthermore, the advancement of nursing science into a recognized discipline is supported by the development of theoretical models that reflect philosophical assumptions about health, illness, and care. For example, Watson's theory of human caring emphasizes the moral and philosophical aspects of nursing, promoting holistic and compassionate care that transcends purely biomedical approaches. These philosophical models serve as guiding principles for clinical practice, education, and research.
In conclusion, incorporating philosophical understanding into nursing enhances professional identity, ethical decision-making, and the scientific rigor of the field. It provides a foundation for ongoing innovation and improvement in patient care, ensuring that nursing remains a dynamic and respected discipline. As the profession advances, embracing philosophical inquiry will continue to be vital in addressing complex healthcare challenges and improving health outcomes.
References
- Alligood, M. R. (2017). Nursing Theorists and Their Work-E-Book. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Dahlke, M. D., & Dreher, H. M. (2015). Philosophy of science for nursing practice: Concepts and application. Springer Publishing Company.
- Wyman, J. F., & Henley, S. J. (2015). PhD programs in nursing in the United States: Visibility of American Association of Colleges of Nursing core curricular elements and emerging areas of science. Nursing outlook, 63(4).
- Chinn, P. L., & Kramer, M. K. (2018). Integrated theory and knowledge development in nursing. Elsevier.
- Johnstone, M. J. (2017). Bioethics: A Nursing Perspective. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Benner, P., Sutphen, M., Leonard, V., & Day, L. (2010). Educating nurses: A call for radical transformation. Jossey-Bass.
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- Alligood, M. R. (2014). Nursing Theorists and Their Work (8th ed.). Mosby.
- Carper, B. A. (1978). Fundamental patterns of knowing in nursing. Advances in Nursing Science, 1(1), 13-23.
- Parse, R. R. (1992). Human becoming: The evolving paradigm in nursing. Nursing Science Quarterly, 5(4), 161-168.