Approaching models of nursing from a postmodernist perspective

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Philosophy of Science
• Healthcare Models

Background:

• Models of nursing are widely used in practice and education.
• These models often carry implicit philosophical assumptions.
• A critical examination of these assumptions is needed for evidence-based practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore philosophical assumptions underpinning models of nursing.
• To introduce postmodernist approaches for critiquing these models.
• To examine the implications for nursing care.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical analysis of nursing models.
• Introduction to postmodernist criticism.
• Critique of the Roper et al. model as a case study.

Main Results:

• Identified various philosophical positions underlying nursing models.
• Demonstrated how postmodernism challenges conventional assumptions.
• Highlighted the Roper et al. model's implicit assumptions.

Conclusions:

• Postmodernism provides a critical lens for evaluating nursing models.
• Greater awareness of underlying assumptions can improve nursing care.
• Rethinking nursing models through philosophical critique enhances practice.