Even the most scientific nurses do not deny that nursing is, in some
way, an art. But precisely how the art and science of nursing are
interrelated is not clear. For example, Abdellah writes:
"The art of nursing must not be confused with the science of
nursing. The former concerns itself with intuitive and
technical skills (often ritualistic), and also the more
supportive aspects of nursing; the latter concerns itself with
scientific truths. Both are important. They are interwoven and
complement each other."[11]
However, Abdellah gives no further elaboration of this point. Usually,
when nurses are asked about the relatedness of the art and the science
of nursing, the view expressed is that science has to do with general
principles and laws that govern nursing and art has to do with the
particular application of principles in individual cases. Furthermore,
when a nurse describes some event as "beautiful nursing" and is pressed
to elaborate, she usually describes nursing actions that were performed
"artfully," "skillfully," "harmoniously." Thus, in some way, the art of
nursing has to do with the nurse's response to human needs through
actions that are purposeful and aesthetic.