According to Carper, which of the following is NOT one of the four ways of knowing in nursing?

The framework of knowing in nursing as proposed by Barbara Carper identifies four fundamental patterns: empirics, esthetics, personal knowledge, and ethical knowledge. Each of these ways of knowing represents a different dimension of nursing knowledge that contributes to professional practice.

Empirics refers to the science of nursing, the factual and researched-based knowledge that is foundational for evidence-based practice. Esthetics encompasses the art of nursing, including the nurse's ability to perceive and respond to patient experiences in a holistic manner. Personal knowledge involves the relationship between the nurse and the patient, as well as the self-awareness and interpersonal skills of the nurse. Ethical knowledge pertains to the moral and ethical dimensions of nursing practice, enabling nurses to make decisions that align with professional values and patient autonomy.

The choice of “theory” does not specifically align with Carper’s identified ways of knowing, as it is a broader concept often used within various aspects of nursing and healthcare but does not represent one of the four specific categories Carper outlined. Thus, the understanding of these four distinctive patterns helps clarify why "theory" is not considered one of the four ways of knowing according to Carper’s framework.