Nursing practice draws upon several different ways of knowing

Abstract

• This paper explores the proposition that nursing practice draws upon several different ways of knowing. • It highlights difficulties often faced by practising nurses in defining what they do and hence what it is that constitutes nursing practice. • Following formal definition and analysis of sources of literature regarding nursing knowledge, issues such as the origins of knowledge and the sources of nursing knowledge are addressed. • The types of knowledge required to enhance nursing practice are discussed, focusing upon future opportunities and innovations in the generation of knowledge for nursing. • Finally, recommendations are made regarding the way forward for nurses endeavouring to communicate the complexities of nursing practice. © 1998 Blackwell Science Ltd.