Research excellence across clinical healthcare: a novel research capacity building programme for nurses and midwives in a large Irish region

Abstract

Background: A lack of support and research skills development has contributed to low research output by clinically based nurses and midwives in Ireland, including those in specialised and advanced roles. A novel research capacity building (RCB) programme was developed to address existing barriers. The programme was developed and implemented using Cooke’s principles of RCB. Nurses and midwives participated from acute hospital, community, public health, mental health, older adult, intellectual disability, addiction and palliative care settings. Aims: This paper provides an evaluation of the Research Excellence Across Clinical Healthcare (REACH) programme from 2013–2016. Methods: Document analysis was used to evaluate RCB activities and outputs. Data were extracted from programme reports, conference proceedings, paper references, and workshop and conference sign-in/evaluation forms. Results: Individuals ( n = 17) and small research groups ( n = 4) were supported. Increased research capacity was demonstrated through dissemination of research in peer-reviewed journals, posters and oral presentations at national and international conferences. Sustainability was demonstrated by progression of participants to PhD ( n = 3) and research projects that remain ongoing ( n = 5). Skills development was facilitated by the organisation of workshops and conferences. Conclusions: A programme that provides academic support and mentorship in the clinical environment along with skills development can build research capacity. Future research should involve follow-up to determine any long-term effects.