Nursing theories as nursing ontologies.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Philosophy
• Ontology
• Epistemology

Background:

• Current nursing theories are often viewed through traditional, realist perspectives.
• These perspectives may not fully capture the dynamic nature of nursing knowledge and experience.
• A need exists to explore alternative conceptualizations of nursing knowledge construction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a shift in perspective from nursing theories to nursing ontologies.
• To explore how philosophical conceptualizations of ontology can inform nursing knowledge.
• To examine the potential benefits of discussing nursing ontologies for the discipline.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical analysis of ontology using concepts from Paul Ricoeur and Stephen White.
• Comparison of ontological perspectives with traditional realist views in nursing.
• Conceptual exploration of how ontology relates to the experience of being a nurse.

Main Results:

• Ontology, as conceptualized by Ricoeur and White, acknowledges both change and stability in personal experience.
• This ontological view offers a different lens for understanding nursing knowledge construction.
• Reframing nursing theories as ontologies can potentially elevate philosophy's role in nursing.

Conclusions:

• Adopting an ontology framework may provide a more nuanced understanding of nursing knowledge.
• This approach could more accurately reflect the evolving yet stable nature of the nursing experience.
• Discussing nursing ontologies may enhance the philosophical depth and recognition of nursing as a discipline.