The search for meanings in nursing: could Facet Theory be a way forward?

This paper examines some of the underlying tenets of Benner & Wrubel's Primacy of Caring, and suggests the use of Facet Theory as a possible route to overcome criticisms of the lack of systematic data collection and analysis in this approach to nursing research. Some of the steps undertaken in Facet Theory are described, and its use in wider nursing research discussed. It is proposed that Facet Theory offers a method of studying the multidimensional nature of nursing, which has the potential for a scientific approach without losing the essential ontological data.