The science of nursing: current issues and dilemmas.

The question regarding the nature and direction of nursing science, how it is derived or why and whether nursing is a science is a much debated one. This article focuses on an examination of the literature with regard to conceptualizations of science in general and nursing in particular with special emphasis on the nature, purpose, methods and domain of science and nursing science. It looks at the various positions taken, examines the consequences of holding any special position and makes suggestions for achieving excellence in Nursing Science.