Scientific inquiry in nursing: a model for a new age

Abstract

Despite the acknowledged need for widespread and rapid scientific advancement in nursing, little systematic attention has been paid to the progenitor of research, the individual investigator. The nature of scientific problem solving as the fundamental process of research practice is explored, and a model of scientific inquiry is proposed. Variables in the model are discussed in relation to their potential effect on the inquiry process, and strategies that facilitate the practice of research are identified.