The Art and Science of Nursing: Similarities, Differences, and Relations

Abstract

The terms art and science are significant for the practice of nursing. These two concepts have a particular meaning and their defining char acteristics help to illuminate the nature of nursing practice. An under standing of each term is foundational to the comprehension of similari ties and differences and to an understanding of the complex relation played out in nursing practice. Nursing as an art form has three major components—medium, process, and product. The science consists of the systematized knowledge. Both nursing's art and its science are essential for excellence in the performance of nursing's mission. There is a delicately balanced movement between art and science portrayed by experienced nurses that transcends as it uses the differences between these two forms.