A Qualitative Study of Midlevel Nurse Managers' Perspectives of Scholarly Inquiry

Abstract

OBJECTIVE This study explored the key characteristics and needs of midlevel nurse managers (MLNMs) who support and engage clinical nurses (CNs) in scholarly inquiry. BACKGROUND Healthcare organizations expect CNs to participate in scholarly inquiry, incorporating evidence-based interventions to improve outcomes and safety. How the MLNM supports and engages CNs in scholarly inquiry remains unclear. METHODS Twelve semistructured interviews of MLNMs occurred at several facilities in the mid-Atlantic region utilizing the institutional review board–acknowledged protocol. Theme interpretation utilized inductive analysis. RESULTS Four recurrent themes emerged from the interviews related to the value of scholarly inquiry: 1) securing organizational resources to promote scholarly inquiry; 2) knowledge and experience in scholarly inquiry; 3) actions supporting scholarly inquiry; and 4) the value of scholarly inquiry within the organization. CONCLUSIONS Senior nursing leadership and healthcare organizations must recognize the value and provide the infrastructure to support scholarly inquiry. Infrastructure includes education, dedicated time, access to expertise, and resources.