Discoveries of Biological Sciences and their implications for nursing practice - Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem

Discoveries of Biological Sciences and their implications for nursing practice |

For the longest time, the production of knowledge in the field of biological sciences was viewed as the exclusive responsibility and competence of medical professionals. This scenario has changed in light of the worldwide trend of improvements in other health professions, which includes the need to implement the use of evidence-based methodology in nursing practice. This approach is an operational model of clinical competence that involves making decisions based on access to and interpretation of scientific information. To enable this complex form of practice, we must be able to rely on the knowledge provided by a set of basic disciplines that underpin the model's application. Nursing overcomes its own limitations when it appropriates itself of knowledge obtained via the scientific method, new discoveries, knowledge and technologies that determine better outcomes of their practice, improving skills for providing essential care even further.

The inter-relation between biological sciences and nursing is a two-way avenue. We could cite numerous findings that contribute to the formation of this bridge between the two areas, but few have been as influential as the discovery of nitric oxide (NO). Studies dating back to the 1990s have shown the endogenous synthesis of this gas, which until then was known only as a product of pollution. Nitric oxide is a soluble and highly lipophilic gas, synthetized by endothelial cells, macrophages and neurons. It is an important intracellular and extracellular signaling molecule, which promotes smooth muscle relaxation, causing a powerful hypotensive effect. It also acts as a neuromodulator, is bactericidal, and has a modulating effect in hormonal liberation, tissue healing and other biological actions.

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