How I learned my ABCs: Action, back to basics, collaboration, discovery.

Area of Science:

• Critical care nursing research
• Clinical evidence generation

Background:

• Conducting research in critical care settings presents significant challenges, especially with limited resources and a history of limited independent nursing studies.
• The busy nature of critical care environments complicates research endeavors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a successful research pathway for investigating the ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation) of patient care in critically ill individuals.
• Focus on developing a research trajectory for critical care nursing.

Main Methods:

• Initial studies concentrated on circulation, followed by a focused investigation into airway management.
• Airway management is crucial for preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia by mitigating aspiration of secretions.
• A series of descriptive, pilot, and interventional studies were performed, with findings informing subsequent research.

Main Results:

• Success in research was attributed to other 'ABCs': action, back to basics, collaboration, and discovery.
• Researchers must be self-motivated, proactive in skill development, and resource acquisition.
• Guiding principles for research success include generating ideas from clinical practice, fostering collaboration, and establishing partnerships.

Conclusions:

• Nursing research is inherently difficult but achievable with perseverance and adequate resources.
• Determination and resourcefulness are vital for nursing researchers to attain success in their studies.