"We're at a watershed": The positioning of PhD nurses in clinical practice

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore different perspectives on the positioning (i.e. the perceived rights and duties) of PhD nurses and how they contribute to clinical nursing practice.

Background: The number of PhD nurses is growing worldwide, but we only have little knowledge of what is expected of PhD nurses and what their actual impact is in the clinic.

Design: The findings of this article stem from a qualitative, explorative interview study.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with six PhD nurses, nine nurse colleagues and six clinical nurse leaders. Data collection took place from April - June 2016 in Central Denmark Region. Data were analysed using positioning theory.

Findings: The PhD nurses were positioned as responsible for implementing evidence-based practice in the clinic and in nursing culture as such. Emphasis was put on the importance of PhD nurses staying close to the clinic to do practice-based research of immediate effect for patient care.

Conclusion: The study reveals several positive effects of PhD nurses in the clinic but also problematizes the many and diverse duties they are expected to carry out.

Keywords: PhD nurse; clinical practice; evidence-based nursing; nurse education; positioning theory.