Pregnant With Promise for Far Too Long: Time to Deliver!

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Philosophy of Science
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Exploration of the historical and philosophical meanings of "nursing science" and "science of nursing."
• Focus on seminal ideas from Martha Rogers' influential writings.
• Reference to an editorial from the inaugural issue of the journal Nursing Science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the historical and Rogerian perspectives of nursing science.
• To apply a Rogerian nursing science perspective to the unitary rhythm of dying-grieving.
• To illustrate the concept with qualitative study data.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of nursing science terminology.
• Application of Martha Rogers' nursing science theory.
• Qualitative study involving participants' experiences of relating to a deceased loved one.

Main Results:

• A Rogerian nursing science perspective on the unitary rhythm of dying-grieving is presented.
• Qualitative data provides examples of relating to a deceased loved one.
• The study highlights the interconnectedness of life, death, and grieving within the nursing science framework.

Conclusions:

• The unitary rhythm of dying-grieving is a valid concept within Rogerian nursing science.
• Qualitative experiences offer rich insights into the human experience of loss and connection.
• This perspective enriches the understanding of nursing science and its application to end-of-life care.