Microcomputers in a clinical nursing research program

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Health Informatics
• Hospital Administration

Background:

• Establishing a clinical nursing research program is crucial for evidence-based practice in community hospitals.
• Community hospitals often face resource limitations that can hinder research initiatives.
• The integration of technology is increasingly important for efficient research operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a model for implementing and sustaining a clinical nursing research program within a community hospital setting.
• To identify and elaborate on the supportive functions of microcomputers in facilitating nursing research.
• To present practical examples of research studies conducted by nurse researchers utilizing microcomputers.

Main Methods:

• Development of a conceptual model for a community hospital nursing research program.
• Analysis of microcomputer applications relevant to research support roles.
• Case study examples of microcomputer-assisted nursing research projects.

Main Results:

• A feasible model for establishing a nursing research program in a community hospital was outlined.
• Microcomputers were shown to provide valuable support in data management, analysis, and dissemination for nurse researchers.
• Specific examples demonstrated the successful application of microcomputers in various nursing research studies.

Conclusions:

• A structured approach, leveraging microcomputer technology, can enable community hospitals to develop robust clinical nursing research programs.
• The use of microcomputers enhances the efficiency and scope of research activities undertaken by nurse researchers.
• Implementing such a model can advance nursing science and improve patient care outcomes.