Skilled clinical knowledge: the value of perceptual awareness, part 1.

In this two-part article, the authors present strategies for clinical knowledge development, for documenting, conserving and enhancing the unique knowledge of the experienced clinician. In Part 1, they examine differences between practical and theoretical knowledge and discuss the implications for enhancing the practical knowledge nurses gain through clinical experience. Part 2, which will appear in the next issue of JONA, will examine clinical knowledge development as a means for enriching jobs, retaining experienced nurses, and improving patient care.