Which way of knowing emphasizes what should be done in specific situations?

The emphasis on what should be done in specific situations is a hallmark of ethical knowing. This way of knowing involves the principles of right and wrong, moral values, and the responsibilities of care that inform actions and decisions in nursing practice. Ethical knowing helps nurses navigate complex situations that require them to consider not only clinical guidelines but also the well-being and rights of patients. It demands a careful analysis of situations to determine the most appropriate course of action based on ethical standards and moral frameworks.

Other ways of knowing—such as personal knowing, which focuses on self-awareness and the nurse-patient relationship; aesthetic knowing, which highlights the art of nursing and the subjective experience; and empirical knowing, which relies on scientific evidence and facts—do not directly address the normative aspects of "what should be done" in moral dilemmas. While all forms of knowing are valuable in holistic nursing, ethical knowing specifically gives nurses the tools they need to confront and resolve moral challenges effectively.