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 The
care provided by nurses must be constantly evaluated and
improved based on new information. Through Nursing Research,
scientific knowledge can be developed to improve their
decision-making regarding what care to provide patients and
how to implement that care. A solid research base is needed
to document the effectiveness of selected nursing
interventions in treating certain patient problems and
promoting positive patient outcomes. In addition, nurses
need to use research findings to determine the best way to
deliver services so that the greatest number of people
receive care. Nursing’s scientific knowledge base is
expanding quickly with the generation of new findings by
nurses and other health professionals using a variety of
research methods. The knowledge generated through research
is essential to provide a scientific basis for description,
explanation, prediction, and control of nursing practice
(Burns & Grove, 1999, p. 5).
Prerequisites
Participation
in Nursing Research can occur at all levels of education.
ADNs can assist with identification of research problems,
assist with data collection, and utilize research findings
in practice under supervision. BSNs can actually critique
research findings for use in research practice and utilize
research findings in practice. At the master’s level, a
nurse can collaborate in research projects and provide
clinical expertise for research.
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