Evaluation of the joint nurse scientist role across academia and practice

Abstract

Background: Mapped with the guiding principles of academic-practice partnerships (APPs) outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, a joint nurse scientist role between a nursing school and acute care facility at a large academic health center was developed and characterized by a PhD-prepared nurse appointed in a research role across organizations. To date, eight faculty are now appointed across the School and four health systems.

Purpose: Describe outcomes, facilitators and vulnerabilities of the joint nurse scientist role.

Methods: Review of administrative records.

Discussion: Outcomes include the 1) conduct and dissemination of joint research, 2) translation of evidence into practice, 3) development of educational programs for health system nurses, 4) scholarly activities among health system nurses, and 5) improved visibility and valuation of the PhD-prepared nurse. Role facilitators include those previously reported for APPs, the joint nurse scientists' ability to broker opportunities across settings, and the evolving nature of the role. Role vulnerabilities pertain to the negotiation of workload, promotion, and institutional priorities.

Conclusion: The joint nurse scientist role fosters shared scholarly successes across academia and service.

Keywords: Academic-Practice Partnership; clinical scholarship; nursing research.