title: [About the theoretic, philosophical, epistemological bases of scientific research: the case of nursing].
abstract: As indicated by the title, this paper discusses the theoretic, philosophical, epistemological basis of scientific research--the case of nursing. The author points out the fundamental questions in nursing--science and art. Nursing is considered both as a social practice and as a profession that encompasses scientific practice and the construction of knowledge. Thus, Nursing is understood as a "science under construction" or as specific knowledge, even if it is imprecise and, therefore, on its way to become scientific due to its evidences. In other words, knowledge that is justified not by total precision, on the contrary, by the need to find answers to the question about raising the epistemological reach of nursing research results--its knowing and knowing what to do. The discussion emphasizes the crucial nature of nursing care.
authors.affiliation: Escuela de Enfermería Anna Nery, Universidad del Brasil, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. decarvalho@eean.ufrj.br
authors.forename: Vilma
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: de Carvalho
mesh_terms: D015399:Nursing Research; D010687:Philosophy, Nursing