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[Introduction to epistemology in nursing sciences]
1Départment des Sciences Infirmières et Paramédicales de l'EHESP, Rennes, Paris. christophe.debout@ehesp.fr
Soins; La Revue De Reference Infirmiere
|April 1, 2011
Summary
Nursing research is crucial for professionalizing nurses. Three main epistemological traditions—positivist, interpretative, and critical—guide nursing science, sparking ongoing debate.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Science
- Epistemology
- Professionalization
Context:
- Nursing research is integral to the professionalization of nursing.
- Epistemological reflection has become increasingly necessary in the field.
- Current nursing science is influenced by positivist, interpretative, and critical traditions.
Purpose:
- To explore the epistemological underpinnings of nursing research.
- To examine the evolution of nursing as a profession through its research.
- To analyze the dominant philosophical traditions shaping nursing science.
Summary:
- The professionalization of nursing is intrinsically linked to the advancement of nursing research.
- A gradual epistemological reflection has become essential for developing the discipline.
- Contemporary nursing science is characterized by three main traditions: positivist, interpretative, and critical, which are subjects of ongoing discussion.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of philosophical inquiry in advancing nursing practice and education.
- Provides a framework for understanding the diverse theoretical bases within nursing.
- Contributes to the ongoing discourse on the scientific identity of nursing.
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