Research utilization among clinical nurse specialists.

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Knowledge Utilization
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are advanced practice nurses expected to integrate research into practice.
• Understanding how CNSs utilize research is crucial for improving evidence-based practice.
• Existing research utilization models may not fully capture the nuances of CNSs' behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utilization behavior of CNSs concerning research-based versus nonresearch-based information.
• To examine how CNSs apply research findings in their clinical practice.
• To investigate the criteria CNSs use for evaluating research applicability.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study design was employed.
• Twenty-four CNSs participated in field survey interviews.
• A nontraditional conceptualization of knowledge utilization (cognitive and instrumental) guided the study.

Main Results:

• CNSs most frequently utilized research findings conceptually.
• Occasional instrumental use of research was reported, supported by case examples.
• Only 50% of CNSs could articulate explicit criteria for evaluating research applicability.
• Findings showed congruence with research utilization patterns in non-nursing professional populations.

Conclusions:

• CNSs' knowledge utilization is predominantly conceptual, with limited instrumental application.
• A significant gap exists in CNSs' ability to critically evaluate research for practice.
• The study highlights a need for enhanced training in research appraisal and implementation strategies for CNSs.