Variables related to research utilization in nursing: an empirical investigation

The purpose of the correlational study was to identify variables which were related to utilization of research in the clinical area. A convenience sample of 59 nurses from a community hospital in the southwest part of the United States was utilized for the sample. The concepts of attitude, support and availability were identified through the literature and used as independent variables for this study. Scales were developed from past research and tested for validity and reliability. Results indicated that attitude and availability were related to research utilization (R = 0.65, P less than or equal to 0.00). In addition, the support of administrators was also important in determining research use. Results from this study can be used to develop strategies to increase research utilization.