An Evidence-Based Approach to Increasing Nurses' Publication Rates

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Scholarly Communication
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Writing for peer-reviewed journals is crucial for advancing nursing but publication rates are low.
• A baseline assessment at an academic medical center revealed low nurse publication rates.
• An evidence-based program was developed to enhance professional dissemination of scholarly work among nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate an evidence-based writing-for-publication program for nurses.
• To support nurses in disseminating their scholarly work through peer-reviewed publications.
• To address the low publication rate among nurses and foster knowledge advancement.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week workshop program was designed, including a kickoff session on publication processes and mentorship.
• Participants received regular feedback on manuscript drafts from mentors over four-week intervals.
• A wrap-up session facilitated peer feedback on completed manuscripts.

Main Results:

• Eighty-nine nurses participated across five cohorts, completing 29 manuscripts.
• Of the submitted manuscripts, 76% were accepted, 14% were under review, and 10% were recommended for resubmission elsewhere.
• 84% of participants expressed likelihood to write for publication again, and 96% reported improved writing skills.

Conclusions:

• A structured writing-for-publication program can effectively increase nurse manuscript submissions and acceptance rates.
• Continuous commitment to developing nurse authors across all generations is vital for advancing nursing knowledge.
• Nursing leaders and organizations must provide resources to support novice nurse authors in knowledge dissemination.