Practice-based nursing research: Evaluation of clinical and professional impacts from a research training programme

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To determine the clinical and professional impacts of nurses' and other clinicians' involvement in a research training programme.

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) can be supported by nurses' involvement in research. Registered nurses report common barriers to EBP and research, but training programmes have been shown to overcome some of those barriers and lead to successful research engagement and EBP enhancement.

Design: This mixed-methods evaluation study used a survey and interviews to explore the clinical and professional impacts of research training programme participation on nurses' and other clinicians' clinical practice, appreciation for EBP, interest in advanced education, future research involvement and dissemination activities.

Methods: The study adhered to the SQUIRE guidelines for quality improvement studies as part of the EQUATOR network (Enhancing the Quality and Transparency of Health Research). Survey invitations were sent to 126 clinicians who had participated in a research training programme. All were invited to complete the questionnaire and participate in an interview.

Results: Survey results and interview responses showed a positive impact. Participants reported examples of sustained practice changes, enhanced EBP, heightened interest in graduate studies, strong interest in future research engagement and a large number of dissemination activities, including publications and conference presentations.

Conclusions: The evaluation found that participation in a research training programme can have a positive clinical and professional impact on participants, including enhancing their appreciation for EBP and research, their interest in advanced education and meaningful dissemination of findings to improve patient care.

Relevance to clinical practice: As healthcare leaders seek to increase EBP to improve patient care, successful models for nurses' engagement in research and EBP are critically important. This research training programme is one promising model for supporting nurses' and other clinicians' engagement in EBP and research.

Keywords: evaluation research; evidence-based practice; health services research; nursing research; professional development; research in practice.