Nursing knowledge is classified in a variety of ways, one of which is Carper’s Patterns of
Knowing (Carper, 1978). Carper’s framework offers a lens through which the nurse can reflect
upon insights acquired through empirical, ethical, personal, and aesthetic knowledge (Carper,
1978). Through intentional reflection using Carper’s Patterns of Knowing, nurses can process
experiential learning and knowledge acquired through practice. The purpose of this assignment
is to reflect upon a specific practice situation and better understand the professional knowledge Criteria for Content
Think of a surprising or challenging practice situation in which you felt underprepared,
unprepared, or uncomfortable.
Select an important nursing issue/topic that was inherent to the identified situation.
Briefly explain the situation
Identify the nursing issue inherent in the identified situation
As a method of refection, use Carper’s Patterns of Knowing to analyze the situation. In your
discussion, address ONE of the following Patterns of Knowing:
What do you think was the underlying reason for the situation? (Esthetics)
What were your thoughts and feeling in the situation? (Personal)
What was one personal belief that impacted your actions? (Ethics)
What evidence in nursing literature supports the nursing importance of the identified issue?
(Empirical)
What new insights did you gain through this reflective practice opportunity? How will this apply to
your practice as a nurse practitioner? Be sure to use scholarly literature to support your position.