A research internship scheme for nurses and its wider implications for clinical managers

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Clinical Research
• Nursing and Midwifery

Background:

• Clinical research participation correlates with improved patient outcomes, staff morale, and retention.
• Clinical managers are crucial for supporting research engagement but often lack resources and awareness of benefits.
• A collaborative research internship scheme was implemented between NHS trusts and a university in 2021.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a research internship scheme for nurses and midwives.
• To evaluate the scheme's effectiveness and identify challenges.
• To discuss implications for clinical managers in developing a research culture.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative research internship scheme was established involving two London NHS trusts and a university.
• Nurses and midwives participated in training and research activities.
• An evaluation was conducted at one participating NHS trust.

Main Results:

• The internship scheme provided training and research opportunities for nurses and midwives.
• Some participants faced challenges balancing internship duties with clinical responsibilities, despite protected time.
• The evaluation provided insights into the scheme's impact and areas for improvement.

Conclusions:

• Supporting clinical staff in research activities can enhance morale and patient care.
• Addressing challenges such as protected time is essential for successful research internship schemes.
• Clinical managers require support and resources to effectively foster a research culture within healthcare settings.