Ways of Knowing

Barbara Carper, a nursing professor at Texas Woman's University distinguished four essential ways of knowing. These "patterns of knowing" are empirical, personal, ethical, and aesthetic. The four ways of knowing is utilized within the nursing process by developing a distinct depiction of a client's plan of care.

Empirical knowing is accessible information based on solid scientific evidence and other verified facts that can be applied into nursing care. I remember admitting a 34 year old patient in the Intensive Care Unit who presented with fever and generalized weakness. She has no known medical history except for a recent urinary tract infection for which she is taking ciprofloxacin. Her lactic acid is 14, temp 103.5 F, pulse 120, and blood pressure 80/30. Based from her clinical presentation, vital signs, and blood workup, the diagnosis of sepsis is made. Upon further assessment, the patient has slightly labored breathing and decreasing level of consciousness. I immediately updated the physician on the patient's status, vital signs and history. New orders from the physician are then received to initiate sepsis protocol which involves a combination treatments and supportive care. With the help of antibiotics, fluid boluses, and other supportive measures, the patient transfer out of ICU. All of this information is base from scientific evidence which help healthcare professional make a clear diagnosis and follow a clinical pathway.

Ethical knowing involves knowledge of social values. It guides and influence how a nurse make clinical judgment that affect patient care.