Nursing in Islamic thought: Reflection on application nursing metaparadigm concept: A philosophical inquiry

BACKGROUND: Metaparadigm of nursing is one of the nursing discipline challenges of the present century, which should take into consideration the diversity of different cultures and viewpoints. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The purpose of this study is to evolve the concept of “nursing” (one of the concepts in nursing metaparadigm) on the basis of the Islamic scholars’ view. In this philosophical inquiry, we sought to clarify the concept of nursing according to the ideas derived from the Islamic scholars’ view. To achieve the research objectives, Islamic texts were studied and analyzed based on the criteria of concept anatomy (definition, attributes/characteristics, and boundaries). RESULTS: Based on Morse's criteria, with regard to Islamic thought, the concept of nursing in scientific literature is an immature concept. In Islamic viewpoint, human is a unique and integrated reality that implies a holistic paradigm in nursing theories. Since in Islamic thought human is described precisely and delicately, nursing concept can be delineated more clearly and can be helpful in enhancing and producing nursing clinical knowledge, nursing care, and nursing philosophy, specially clarifying holistic nursing. CONCLUSION: According to the criteria of concept anatomy, nursing is caring for and fulfilling the needs of patients, and it believes that nursing has a holistic paradigm and includes all of the dimensions and aspects of human beings.