A Path Forward in Nurse-Led Research: Turning Priorities Into Actionable Items

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Health Services Research
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• The American Nurses Credentialing Center's Research Council identified key priorities for 2022, including disseminating a research agenda for practice-based research.
• These priorities aimed to promote nurse-led research, interprofessional collaboration, and equitable participation in research teams.
• However, global expressions from nurses highlight significant organizational and financial barriers hindering nurse researchers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To amplify nurses' voices and advocate for nurse-led, practice-based research.
• To address the perceived separation between academic research and clinical bedside nursing.
• To identify actionable strategies for overcoming barriers to nurse-led research.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of global nurse expressions regarding research challenges.
• Review of the American Nurses Credentialing Center's 2022 Research Priorities.
• Synthesis of perspectives on academic vs. practice-based research.

Main Results:

• Nurses worldwide report substantial organizational and financial constraints impacting research endeavors.
• A disconnect exists between academic research and the realities faced by clinical bedside nurses.
• There is a strong demand for nurse-led, practice-based research initiatives.

Conclusions:

• Global efforts in nursing research require reorientation towards nurse-led, practice-based approaches.
• Achievable, actionable items are needed to translate research priorities into practice.
• Equitable and inclusive participation of all frontline nurses in research is essential.