Journal of Advanced Nursing

Nurses' Opinions About Clinical Nursing Research: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To examine nurses' opinions and assess their level of engagement in clinical research.

Design

An observational study employing a cross-sectional online survey from April to August 2024.

Methods

A convenience sample of registered nurses in a metropolitan health service in Victoria, Australia completed a self-report survey from April to August 2024. The survey consisted of fixed-response questions (5-point Likert scale) that measured nurses' opinions about clinical research and level of research involvement. Data were analysed using descriptive and univariate statistics, and content for two free-text open-ended questions.

Results

There were 186 participants who reported positive opinions towards the role of clinical nursing research in improving patient outcomes and quality of care. Lower ratings were observed for items concerning confidence in understanding and conducting research, enjoyment of reading research articles and access to resources necessary for participation in research. Few participants had previous experience in study design, data analysis and manuscript preparation and publication. Nurses with higher academic qualifications (e.g., Master's, PhD), and those employed in senior roles, had more positive opinions about clinical nursing research and were more actively engaged in it. Content analysis revealed five themes: (1) Accessibility and awareness of research opportunities, (2) Support and resources, (3) Time constraints and workload, (4) Professional development and (5) Integration of research into clinical practice.

Conclusions

Whilst nurses perceive the importance of research, the findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to build their confidence and capacity to engage in clinical nursing research.

Implications for the Profession

Nurses face significant barriers to active participation in research. Consideration is needed regarding how nurses are prepared for and adequately resourced to increase their involvement in clinical nursing research.

Impact

This study addresses the gap in evidence regarding nurses' opinions and level of engagement in clinical nursing research. Research leaders need to develop and test interventions to increase nurses' involvement in research.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct or reporting.