Nurses in academic departments of general practice and primary care

In 1997, the authors conducted a survey of registered nurses working in the academic departments of general practice and primary care in UK and Irish medical schools. The survey aimed to determine the number, demographic and professional profile of nurses employed in these academic departments, including their employment status and their views on their clinical work and professional development. The majority of nurses were professionally experienced, had higher degrees, worked in a research capacity, and were likely to have short-term contracts. Contrary to professional perceptions, the majority of nurses stated that clinical work is important to their current job and expressed a need for research support and recognition of their autonomy as healthcare professionals.