Development of Nursing Knowledge
Knowledge development is promoted through philosophical inquiry. The inquiries are supported by critical evaluation of theories that are used to describe, explain and predict nursing phenomena (Andrew, 2012). There are two main world views that are used to explain how the nursing world works; the received view and the perceived view. The received view focuses on whether a theory is right or wrong, in that theoretical assumptions should be tested and clear separations placed on empirical and theoretical understanding, thus leading to the truth. Perceived view, on the other hand, focuses on understanding through observation that leads to theory generation and requires the use of the senses and the mind, hence seeking understanding. This paper, therefore, discusses the worldview incorporated into the profession of nursing.
Integration of both the received and perceived world views is important in the professional identity of nursing as a profession. This is because, in addition to the different perspectives used in the shaping and understanding of theories, there are classifications of knowledge in nursing which include empirical, ethical, personal, and aesthetic knowledge (Elisabeth, 2015). Each classification is key in the nursing profession and is interrelated to provide a foundation in nursing research, education, and practice. Therefore, nurses should use different ways of knowing to produce a diverse perspective that supports the nursing practice.
For instance, a nurse taking care of a patient with a terminal illness requires extensive research on the illness. This equips the nurse with knowledge of the medication and treatment procedures needed at different intervals in the course of the treatment. Past knowledge and experience in handling similar patients also enable her to understand the needs of the patient. The moral code and the personality of the nurse have a significant impact on the treatment plan of the patient. Therefore, this shows that practice, theory, ethics, and research affect each other in an interactive way in the profession of nursing.
In conclusion, knowledge development and philosophical inquiry increase critical evaluation that enhances appreciation and respect for different ways of thinking, thus promoting growth in knowledge (Andrew 2012). Nursing can hence be viewed as both an art and a science as it entails both knowledges gathered from books and skills cultured in practice over a period of time. Therefore, nursing incorporates both the received and the perceived world views in its profession.
References
Andrew Sargent, (2012). Reframing Caring as Discursive Practice: A critical review of Conceptual Analyses of Caring in Nursing Inquiry– Nursing Inquiry 19(2): 134-143
Elisabeth Bergdahl &Caring M. Bertero, (2015). The Myth of Induction in Qualitative Nursing Research– Nursing Philosophy 16 (2): 110-120
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Question 
The development of nursing knowledge is an ongoing process.
Development of Nursing Knowledge
Discuss the case for the ongoing development and use of nursing grand theories and, conversely, make a case for the obsolescence of nursing grand theories for today’s practice and research.