The perceptions and experiences of nurses undertaking research in the clinical setting

Abstract

Nursing research activity by clinicians has increased in volume in the last few years, due to an increased awareness of the importance of evidence-based practice, the shift of nurse education into higher education establishments and the emergence of new nursing roles which demand research activity as a central domain of the role. This paper will report on the results of a study examining nursing research activity in the UK National Health Service and will present data examining the perceptions and experiences of nurses undertaking research. Forty-eight research-active nurses in five NHS organisations were interviewed. Data were analysed using the Framework approach. Four main themes emerged: perceptions of nursing research, NHS influences, support systems and individual influences. Many factors were identified by nurses that influenced their experiences and perceptions, and nurses frequently reported difficulties in being able to conduct research in the clinical area. Dissemination via publication was rare. Personal sacrifices were common and nurses felt that these were not recognised by managers. Nurses undertaking research need more structured support systems and recognition of the value of nursing research. Individualised help from more experienced researchers for support and to disseminate findings is recommended.