Humanism and its role in nursing professional development

Even though the concept of humanism is openly evident in nursing texts and theories, few researchers have discussed and comprehensively reviewed this topic. A better understanding of the concept of humanism in nursing can improve nursing practice in teaching, research, and clinical settings. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to review the role of the humanistic philosophy in the development of the nursing profession.

The current narrative review was conducted by initially searching scientific databases (Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Knowledge) using the MeSH terms of inquiry practice, caring, care, research, teaching, education, nursing, and humanism. The initial comprehensive search retrieved 372 articles, out of which only 19 articles entered the final review, and others were excluded according to our entry and exit criteria.

The role of humanism in the development of the nursing profession can be scrutinized under three broad dimensions, including research methods, nursing education, and nursing practice and care. Humanism, as a suitable philosophical basis for nursing knowledge and research, can contribute to the improvement of holistic and quality nursing care.

The humanistic nursing approach, which seems to be one of the main needs of today’s nursing practice, can be a good guide to achieving maximum quality and standard nursing care.