The research potential of practice nurses

Abstract

Little is known about the research aspirations and experiences of practice nurses. The study discussed in the present paper had three main aims: (1) to assess the level of research interest among practice nurses working in Essex and East London, UK; (2) to identify practice nurses' research priorities; and (3) to explore factors which facilitate and impede the development of practice nursing research. All practice nurses (n = 1,054) in the above areas were sent a questionnaire, and a total of 40% (n = 426) responded after two follow-up letters. Fifty-five respondents who volunteered for further participation were interviewed, either individually or in focus groups. About half (n = 207) of the survey respondents expressed an interest in undertaking research. One-third (n = 145) reported previous participation in research, and 20% (n = 85) had initiated their own research. Logistic regression showed that practice nurses educated to graduate level, and those working in practices with nurse training or participation in external research, were most likely to want to undertake research. Working in a medical training practice was found to be a negative predictor of research interest. Respondents prioritised research into long-term health problems with a high prevalence in the local population; for example, diabetes. Their reasons for wishing to engage in research included improving the service, career development, making work more interesting and reducing isolation. The main barriers identified were lack of time, lack of support from some general practitioners and poor access to higher education resources outside formal courses. The development of practice nurse research would provide a distinctive perspective on health need and service provision. It would contribute to the achievement of the national strategic objective of improving the quality of primary care, enhance the status of the profession, utilise the enthusiasm of individuals, increase job satisfaction and staff retention, and answer real questions.

Interdisciplinary researching: Exploring the opportunities and risks of working together

“…Even though disciplinary perspectives are different, the identification of shared values might reassure colleagues that it is safe to develop the opportunity for interdisciplinary researching. For example, an interest in lifelong learning, maybe in graduate training, or working in new professional situations with colleagues engaged in external research suggests an ability to work with others and do research (Davies et al ., 2002). Perusing the curricula vitae is one way to follow personal and professional interests and ongoing professional development, giving some idea of the individual’s openness in seeking new working situations.…”

Nursing competency and organizational climate as perceived by staff nurses in a Chinese university hospital

“…(2002) noted that a positive nursing work environment enables nurses to demonstrate professional practice, such as decision‐making capability. Davies et al . (2002) also stated that the nursing work environment is an important factor that influences nurses' research capabilities.…”

Nurses' experiences of participation in a research and development programme

“…The need for nurses to be more oriented towards conducting inquiries that rigorously and systematically make significant contributions to the knowledge development of clinical practice has been well documented in recent years (Davies et al . ,b, Hubbard et al . , Fitzsimons et al .…”