UVM Theses and Dissertations
Format:
Print
Author:
Ressler, Alexis B.
Dept./Program:
Nursing
Year:
2009
Degree:
MS
Abstract:
This thesis utilizes a research methodology called Scholarly Personal Narrative (SPN) which provides a structure for exploring my personal experiences as a Registered Nurse (RN) as well as exploring my educational experiences in the Master's Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) and the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program. SPN is one of the many ways in which nurses can engage in the process of reflective practice. In this thesis, I acknowledge the major differences between the art and science of nursing as it is revealed through the philosophies of humanism and positivism and offer suggestions for integrating the two seemingly opposing models.
Nursing is a unique discipline that is very different from all other health care professions. However, because of the complex historical relationship between nursing and medicine, nursing is still struggling to free itself from medical hegemony. As a result, the notions of objectivity and rationality, which have been inherited from the medical model, continue to play a dominant role in all areas of nursing, including research, practice, and education. I come to nursing from a strong background in the liberal arts and education, and this has had a profound impact on my experience as a nurse in a primarily positivistic and biomedical health care environment. Thus, in thls thesis, I share many personal stories that help describe what this experience has been like for me. Finally, I conclude by offering some suggestions for integrating positivism and humanism in 1) the nursing role, 2) nursing practice, and 3) nursing education.
Nursing is a unique discipline that is very different from all other health care professions. However, because of the complex historical relationship between nursing and medicine, nursing is still struggling to free itself from medical hegemony. As a result, the notions of objectivity and rationality, which have been inherited from the medical model, continue to play a dominant role in all areas of nursing, including research, practice, and education. I come to nursing from a strong background in the liberal arts and education, and this has had a profound impact on my experience as a nurse in a primarily positivistic and biomedical health care environment. Thus, in thls thesis, I share many personal stories that help describe what this experience has been like for me. Finally, I conclude by offering some suggestions for integrating positivism and humanism in 1) the nursing role, 2) nursing practice, and 3) nursing education.