Professional Development and Roles of Doctorally Prepared Nurses in Spain: Results From a National Survey

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the professional development, roles, competencies, labour environment, and recognition of doctorally prepared nurses in Spain.

Design

A national cross-sectional survey.

Methods

An online questionnaire was distributed to nurses holding a PhD in Spain. The survey, conducted from March 2023 to April 2024, covered five domains: sociodemographic characteristics, postdoctoral professional development, competencies and leadership, work environment, and satisfaction. Data were analysed using descriptive and multivariate methods.

Results

A total of 363 nurses participated. Most held academic positions, yet 35.8% worked in clinical care. Despite strong engagement in research, teaching, and leadership activities, only 21.3% reported financial recognition and 23% experienced postdoctoral career advancement. Gender disparities emerged, with men frequently holding senior academic roles and leading research projects. Institutional barriers included limited access to protected research time, funding, and formal recognition. However, enabling factors such as motivation, teamwork, and research networks supported ongoing postdoctoral professional development.

Conclusion

Doctorally prepared nurses in Spain contribute substantially to research, education, and leadership, thereby enhancing healthcare delivery. However, their expertise remains underrecognized, particularly within clinical settings. Increased investment is essential to support their integration, professional advancement, and broader impact across academic and healthcare sectors.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Structured career pathways, postdoctoral support, and formal recognition mechanisms are needed to enhance doctoral nurses' impact on research, innovation, and leadership across academic and healthcare settings.

Impact

What problem did the study address? National evidence on the roles and recognition of doctorally prepared nurses in Spain was lacking.

What were the main findings? Doctoral nurses contribute to research, education, and leadership but face limited recognition, gender inequities, and scarce advancement opportunities.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Academic institutions, healthcare organisations, policymakers, and nursing leaders in Spain.

Reporting Method

The STROBE checklist guided reporting.

Patient or Public Contribution

Nurses were involved in the expert judgement phase, providing insights to validate and refine the research instruments.