The shortfall in published research: a study of nurses' research and publication activities

Abstract

Although in recent years there has been increasing pressure on nurses to become more research minded, available evidence still suggests that there is a significant shortfall in published nursing research. To date, it has not been clear whether this lack of output is a function of nurses' failure either to conduct research in the first place or to get it published. It is self-evident that if patient care is to be enhanced through research, then the reasons for the low output must be investigated systematically in order to understand the precise nature of the problem. Therefore, a national survey of 230 nurses was undertaken in order to ascertain the reasons underpinning the low publication rate. A questionnaire, comprising sections on biographical information, research activities and attitudes to research was distributed to a random sample of nurses and the results were analysed using techniques of descriptive and inferential statistics. The results suggest that the observed shortfall in published research is not a product of nurses' failure to conduct research projects but rather of their reluctance to submit their findings for publication. This reluctance seemed for the majority of respondents to be the result of a pronounced lack of confidence. The findings from this survey are discussed with reference to future professional development programmes.

Orthopaedic nurses' attitudes towards clinical nursing research – A cross-sectional survey

“…Olsen and second author (2014) found in their action learning project that bringing a group of novice and experienced practitioners, clinical experts, leaders and researchers together worked as a multistage focus group (Hummelvoll, 2008) characterized by togetherness, synergy and elevation of the participants' knowledge. Almost 20 years ago Hicks (1995) suggested that nurse managers on all levels should show their support if they were serious about nurses conducting research and Roxburgh contests that not much has changed (Roxburgh, 2006). Akerjordet et al (2012) also mention the critical role of nursing managers as strategic in developing a research culture among clinical nurses.…”

“Novice Authors … What You Need to Know to Make Writing for Publication Smooth”

“…Reasons reported include being insecure with their chosen research methodology, lacking confidence to write, diminished confidence in their research, and insufficient time to pursue writing activities. 4,6 Editorials have been written that lament the fact that nurses do not publish research results as frequently as they should and implore nurses to consider publication as an obligation. 1,7 For those who choose to forge ahead and publish their research results, there are some obstacles that need to be navigated.…”

“…A study of nurses in England showed that that 71% of the nurses were involved with research but only 58% wrote the results up, 10% had submitted their research for publication, and 9% were accepted for publication. 4 It has been noted that academic Australian nurses do not publish to the same degree as other disciplines. 5 Nurses may not publish their research because of a number of reasons.…”

Developing nursing research

“…Finally, there was no evidence to suggest that this approach made any difference and it is acknowledged that enthusiasm actually waned. Hicks (1995) investigated the reasons why the publication rate of nurses is low although evidence-based practice is on the increase; one suggestion is a lack of research being conducted. A random sample of 500 nationally selected nurses were sent a questionnaire which also addressed research activities and attitudes to research.…”