Exploring the Roles, Functions, and Work Experiences of Nurse Scientists in the Veterans Health Administration

Abstract

OBJECTIVE The aim of this project was to describe nurse scientists' roles, functions, and work experiences in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). BACKGROUND Nurse scientists play a critical role in shaping the culture of clinical inquiry and closing the gap between knowledge and practice. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was used to collect information on sociodemographics, workload, research, clinical practice, education, and time/effort. Data were examined using descriptive statistics and χ2 analyses. RESULTS One hundred forty-four nurse scientists completed the survey. These nurse scientists serve dynamic and critical roles in conducting research, implementing evidence-based practice, and reforming policy. Research effort was limited due to workload and infrastructure constraints. Better research infrastructure was associated with higher research productivity and funding. CONCLUSIONS This survey highlights the needs and challenges nurse scientists experience in conducting research and advancing VHA's mission. Given the national shortage of PhD-prepared nurses, long-term strategies are needed to attract, hire, and retain nurse scientists in healthcare systems.