Which set lists the four patterns of knowing?

• A. Empirical, Personal, Ethical, Aesthetic
• B. Cognitive, Affective, Psychomotor, Sensory
• C. Theoretical, Practical, Spiritual, Intuitive
• D. Abstract, Concrete, Procedural, Systemic

Answer: (A)

Carper’s four patterns of knowing in nursing are empirical, personal, ethical, and aesthetic. Empirical knowledge is about the science—the facts, data, and objective information you gather. Personal knowledge comes from the therapeutic relationship and understanding the patient as an individual through interaction and reflection. Ethical knowledge involves moral reasoning and knowing what ought to be done, guided by values like autonomy, justice, and confidentiality. Aesthetic knowledge is the art of nursing—the ability to perceive, interpret, and respond creatively to the unique situation of each patient.

This set matches those four terms exactly, making it the best choice. The other groupings reflect different frameworks (such as learning domains or other classifications) and do not represent Carper’s four patterns of knowing.