Nursing as a Science: Understanding Its Scientific Basis and Educational Requirements

Nursing is often referred to as a science due to its reliance on scientific principles and evidence-based practices. This article explores the scientific foundation of nursing, the importance of scientific knowledge, and the rigorous educational requirements needed to become a nurse.

The Scientific Foundation of Nursing

Nursing is indeed a science that combines various scientific disciplines to inform practice. It involves the integration of biology, chemistry, psychology, and social sciences to provide effective care. Evidence-based practice, which combines clinical expertise with the best available research and patient values, is a critical component of nursing. This scientific approach helps nurses assess patient needs, implement care plans, and evaluate outcomes effectively.

Modern Nursing and Scientific Knowledge

Modern nursing requires a substantial amount of scientific knowledge across various fields such as health science, medical science, and social science. While the educational standards may not be prohibitively high, they are still more rigorous than high school levels. As nursing evolves, it is increasingly studied and researched as a science, contributing to a deeper understanding of patient care and healthcare delivery.

Everyday Application of Sciences in Nursing

In every moment of practice, nurses apply multiple scientific disciplines. They use chemistry, physics, microbiology, biology, pathophysiology, and physiology in their daily routines. Pharmacology, which heavily depends on biochemistry, is also a crucial area of study. The psychosocial and behavioral sciences are also integrated into nursing care, allowing nurses to address the holistic needs of patients. This multidisciplinary approach is evident in the nursing role, where treatment of people's responses to potential or actual health issues cannot be done without scientific understanding.

STEM in Nursing

Nursing is not only a profession but also a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) occupation. Nurses must attain a wide range of knowledge and skills to practice effectively. Key areas of study include the principles of body mechanics, human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. These subjects are heavily dependent on scientific understanding, particularly in pharmacology.

To become a nurse, one must take courses in various scientific disciplines. These courses include: Principles of body mechanics: Understanding how the body moves and functions. Human anatomy and physiology: Studying the structure and function of the body. Pathophysiology: Understanding the mechanisms of disease and disease processes. Pharmacology: Learning about medications, drug interactions, and the body's response to drugs. Biochemistry: Understanding the chemical processes within living organisms.

Conclusion

Nursing is a science that necessitates a deep understanding and application of various scientific disciplines. From evidence-based practice to the integration of biology, chemistry, and social sciences, nursing is a field that constantly evolves with scientific advancements. The rigorous educational requirements and the multidisciplinary approach ensure that nurses are equipped to provide the highest quality of care. As nursing becomes more recognized as a science, it paves the way for further research and innovation in healthcare.