[Feminist strategies 2]

This article is the second in a two-part series promoting the use of feminist strategies in nursing. Part one--in last month's issue--identified some of the myths in nursing. It focused mainly on the traditional scientific research methods upon which nursing research is based. In part two, the author defines the feminist approach and attempts to demonstrate the way nurses can use this approach to focus nursing care on women's specific needs. This approach consists of recognizing the components of patriarchal ideology, its myths and the reality of women and men. Feminism has restored the credibility of intuition, good listening skills, compassion, commitment and tolerance. They were long believed to be "feminine" and passive. These qualities do not discredit the women who possess them--many of whom are nurses, rather, they add to their competence. How can feminist nursing knowledge shed light on the different factors specific to a woman's life? Menopause, nutrition and domestic violence are examples presented by the author to address this question. Once nurses increase their knowledge of these factors--that up until now were not identified as women's needs--they will be able to rely upon their own capabilities to develop new methods of data collection, communication skills and promotion of their own professionalism. Through these conclusions, the author praises the feminist movement.