Historical methodology for nursing research.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To describe the basic tenets of historical research methodology, with emphasis on researching nursing history. AIMS: To introduce students and researchers to historical research, through substantive guidelines for library and archival research, and definitions of primary and secondary sources. To discuss ethical considerations--particularly those provoked by recent scholarly interest in the history of ordinary people. To explore issues of external and internal criticism. To discuss analysis, synthesis, and presentation of historical findings. CONCLUSIONS: Historical research, as a type of scholarly inquiry, requires attention to methodology to uncover and interpret findings for nursing.