Difference Between Nursing and Nursing Science -Nursing and nursing science are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference between nursing and nursing science is crucial for those in the healthcare industry, as well as for patients and their families. In this article, we will explain what nursing and nursing science are, explore their differences, and discuss the importance of understanding the distinction between the two.
Introduction -Difference Between Nursing and Nursing Science
As the field of nursing continues to evolve, it is important to understand the differences between nursing and nursing science. Nursing is the practice of caring for patients, while nursing science is the study of the theories and principles that underpin nursing practice. By understanding the distinctions between these two fields, healthcare professionals can improve patient outcomes and advance the nursing profession as a whole.
Nursing
Nursing is a profession that has been around for centuries. Nurses are responsible for providing care to patients, advocating for their needs, and promoting wellness. There are several types of nursing practice, including:
A. Registered Nursing (RN)
Registered nurses are healthcare professionals who have completed an accredited nursing program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). RNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
B. Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
Licensed practical nurses are also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in some states. They work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians and provide basic patient care, such as taking vital signs and administering medications.
C. Advanced Practice Nursing
Advanced practice nurses (APNs) are RNs who have completed additional education and training in a specialized area of nursing practice. Examples of APNs include nurse practitioners, certified nurse-midwives, and clinical nurse specialists.
Nursing Science
Nursing science is the study of the theories and principles that underpin nursing practice. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on knowledge from the natural, social, and behavioral sciences. Nursing science aims to develop evidence-based approaches to patient care and to advance the nursing profession as a whole.
Definition of Nursing Science
Nursing science is the study of the phenomena that occur in the nursing practice. It involves the examination of the principles and theories that underpin nursing practice and the development of new knowledge that can be applied in the care of patients.
How Nursing Science Differs from Nursing Practice
While nursing practice involves the actual care of patients, nursing science is concerned with the development of knowledge that can be used to improve patient outcomes. Nursing science aims to generate new knowledge through research, education, and practice.
Focus of Nursing Science
The focus of nursing science is on developing evidence-based approaches to patient care. This involves using scientific methods to identify the best approaches to patient care and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
Differences Between Nursing and Nursing Science
The differences between nursing and nursing science lie primarily in their goals and objectives. The nursing practice focuses on providing direct patient care, while nursing science aims to advance the practice of nursing through research and the development of evidence-based practice. Nursing practice and nursing science complement each other, with nursing science providing the evidence base for nursing practice and nursing practice serving as the context for nursing science research.
Importance of Understanding the Difference Between Nursing and Nursing Science
Understanding the difference between nursing and nursing science is critical for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public. It helps to promote a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of nurses and nursing scientists, and how their work contributes to the delivery of high-quality patient care. Additionally, understanding the difference between nursing and nursing science can impact patient care by informing the development of evidence-based practice guidelines and improving the overall quality of care.
Conclusion
Nursing and nursing science are distinct yet interrelated disciplines that are essential to the delivery of high-quality patient care. While nursing practice focuses on providing direct patient care, nursing science aims to advance the practice of nursing through research and the development of evidence-based practice. Understanding the difference between nursing and nursing science is critical for individuals who wish to pursue a career in nursing or nursing research and can impact patient care by informing evidence-based practice guidelines and improving the overall quality of care.
FAQs –
What is the difference between a nurse and a nursing scientist?
nurse provides direct patient care, while a nursing scientist conducts research to advance the practice of nursing.
How does nursing science contribute to patient care?
Nursing science contributes to patient care by informing the development of evidence-based practice guidelines and improving the overall quality of care.
What is evidence-based practice?
Evidence-based practice is the integration of the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to guide clinical decision-making.
