Philosophy of Science for Nursing Practice: Concepts and Application

This book focuses on the philosophy of science applications to the discipline of nursing for use in doctoral nursing programs, both DNP and PhD. In DNP programs the evolution of philosophy of science content in the approved curriculum is unfolding. While the question how much research is necessary or desirable in DNP programs is a serious discussion point in nursing academe, this text provides essential content that also underlies the translation of evidence into practice. Practical application of philosophy of science principles provides the focus of this text. The text is written in three sections. The book presents an introduction to the concept of a 'practice discipline' as well as an in-depth description of what it is and is not. The practice discipline of nursing is then explored and defined. This section ends with a discussion of the place of philosophy of science in a practice discipline, with an emphasis on nursing. The book then focuses on basic principles and concepts of philosophy of science and their practical application for contemporary practice inquiry. The authors then conclude with an overview of the century long path to nursing science knowledge development that is an essential 'bridge' to philosophy of science. Finally, practice knowledge development is introduced as a 'next step' toward building an emerging nursing epistemology. The nursing chapters present a creative use of the social, political and historical context in which nursing has evolved. Overall, this extremely important text reassures the student of the fluid and palpable connections between philosophy of science and nursing science and practice.Key Features:

Brief, clearly written and approachable chapters that avoid esoteric and overly theoretical discussions and make clear connections to practice application
Designed to facilitate student ability to "see the real connection between philosophy and practice"
Chapters conclude with Critical Thinking Questions for use in class discussi or as assignments
Two additional features include a Critical Thinking Exercise designed to help students explore the relationship between philosophy of science and nursing science; and a Sample Syllabus that integrates an introduction to the discipline of nursing, philosophy of science, and a practice knowledge development nursing epistemology