nursing research paper

Writing a Nursing Research Paper that Meets Professor's Requirements

As a nursing student, you will spend much time researching, reading, and writing papers. Many students find the entire process of writing research papers challenging.

Imagine on top of spending many hours in clinical practice shifts only to find yourself sparing more time researching and writing, not to mention the overwhelming information condensed in a few hours of in-class lecture sessions. Working shifts and studying while having family duties and obligations worsens it, and when done in a rush, you end up with subpar papers and average grades.

Even though many student nurses find writing research papers tricky and daunting, you can write a perfect paper that ticks all the checkboxes your professor uses to mark them and be sure to get an A+ grade on your nursing paper.

Our expert nursing research writers, who have written thousands of BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. papers, have compiled this comprehensive guide to help you write a strong nursing research paper that leaves a lasting impression on your professor.

Having marked many papers and supervised many theses, capstone projects, and dissertations, you can trust that the information herein is valuable and timely in your pursuit of nursing career success.

What is a Nursing Research Paper?

A nursing research paper is a scholarly and thesis-driven paper that a nursing student (at ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, or Ph.D. level) writes to comprehensively explore a specific nursing research topic either of their choice or one that the professor assigns.

To write a perfect research paper, the student has to provide concrete, reliable, and trustworthy evidence. In most cases, even professionals such as RNs undertaking clinical practice, nursing education training, clinical studies and evaluations, and nursing research can also write research papers published in journals or conferences to advance and disseminate nursing knowledge. The typical length of most nursing papers ranges from 5 pages to 20 pages, depending mainly on the complexity of the subject, the word count limits, and the requirements. Nurses and nursing students write research papers to share their insights as they learn more about nursing processes and practices. Nursing research papers are used to: document research, organize information, advance nursing scholarship, and improve the writing skills of nurses. Students in the USA, Australia, Japan, and Canada write their research papers in the American Psychological Association (APA) format, while those in Australia and the UK write them in Harvard formats. The research papers fall under three main categories:

• Analytical research papers. These papers present an analysis of the topic using evidence, facts, and examples.
• Argumentative research papers. These research papers are analytical but with a twist where the writer uses evidence to reinforce their opinion and persuade the reader.
• Expository research papers. This category of nursing research papers explains the subject matter using credible evidence such as examples, facts, statistics, and other pieces of evidence.

Structure and Format of a Nursing Research Paper

A simple nursing research paper, especially an expository or informative type, can have 5 paragraphs, like a typical essay. However, longer research papers have additional sections.

Scientific Nursing Research Paper Structure

Here is a breakdown of how a well-formatted and scientific nursing research paper should look like.

• Title Page. The title page comprises the research paper title, details of the student or professional writer, course details, details of the school or institution, and the date. The cover page is the first contact point with the reader. It is brief.
• Abstract. The abstract summarizes the nursing research paper. It is 200-250 words long and should be focused on what the reader expects. It is a condensed version of the paper, which is critical to help professors know what your paper is about. It should not have acronyms. Note that the word count of the abstract is not considered part of the research paper.
• The Introduction. The introduction should have an attention-getter or a hook that can be a statement, statistic, or fact. It should be 10% of the entire word count. It also has background information that details the nursing issue or topic you are exploring. It also comprises a well-thought-out thesis statement related to the topic. If you have a long paper, ensure that your problem and purpose statements are part of the introduction. It should also list your PICOT question .
• Literature Review. This is a critical section of the research paper. Here, you should explore other nursing scholars' thoughts and scholarly findings. Focus on peer-reviewed scholarly articles that address the same issue as your thesis statement or topic. Explore your topic's theories, theoretical frameworks, and other facts. Do it so well that your professor marvels at your research, organization, and writing prowess. Consider the levels of evidence as you choose selection criteria for the papers to include in your nursing literature review.
• Research Methodology. This section of the research paper details the data collection methods, such as ethnographic studies, secondary data collection, literature review, quasi-experimental research, correlational studies, descriptive research, ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, or experiments. Ensure that you state and give a rationale for your research design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods). If you are writing a quantitative paper, explain how you tested the hypotheses. Also, report the sampling frame and the sampling strategy.
• Results and Discussion. This section of the paper presents the findings. You can use visual aids such as charts and graphs for a quantitative research paper. If you are writing a qualitative research paper, present the evidence chronologically. When presenting the findings, avoid making definitive facts. Instead, ensure that the results suggest something is true or false, even when testing a hypothesis.
• Conclusion and Recommendations. The conclusion should be 10% of the entire word count. You should restate the thesis and give a summary of your entire paper. Explore the recommendations for future research on the topic.
• Ensure that your reference list is arranged alphabetically. The list should adhere to the formatting requirements (Harvard, ASA, or APA formats). Only use scholarly peer-reviewed references.

Format for a General Nursing Research Paper

If you are writing a non-scientific nursing research paper, you will only have three sections as follows:

• Introduction. The introduction paragraph should introduce the topic by providing an attention-getter, background information, and a thesis statement.
• Body of the paper . The body paragraphs should have strong topic sentences, supporting details (examples, evidence, and explanation), and concluding sentences. It should also portray a good use of transition words. You should analyze the topic and use evidence to support the arguments, and give enough explanation. Use in-text citations within the body paragraphs.
• Conclusion. End the paper by recapping the main points, reasserting the thesis statement, and signaling the end of the paper to give your readers good closure.

An excellent nursing research paper follows this structure as long as it is not research-based. The three-part approach is super recommended if you did not conduct any study. In most cases, when assigned to write those 5-12 pages of nursing school research papers, you will be using this format.

So, what are the steps for writing a good nursing research paper? Let’s find out in the next section.

The 6 Main Steps for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

Writing assignments are an essential training aspect for nursing students. No wonder professors will stress that you write essays, discussion posts, responses, or proposals well. They are doing so to prepare you for research roles somewhere in your nursing career.

According to our most successful research paper writers, writing a top-grade research paper involves decoding the instructions, selecting a good topic, planning, researching, writing, and polishing the paper.

Here is a breakdown of each step for clarity and deeper understanding.

Step #1: Understand the Prompt or Instructions

You can only perfect what you know! Therefore, you can begin the research writing process by reading, analyzing, and understanding the instructions. It is an essential pre-writing stage process where you carefully read the instructions.

Although it sounds obvious, most nursing students who write off-topic and subpar research papers jump into writing without reading to understand the instructions.

You need to skim through the instructions on the first attempt, then read keenly and critically as you take note of the scope of the assignment, the topic, and other things you must fulfill in the paper. Take note of the:

• The number of words.
• Type of research paper (argumentative, analytical, exploratory, or persuasive).
• The structure of the paper (thesis-driven or research/study-based (scientific) research paper.
• The deadline.
• Whether you need to draft an outline.
• Reading materials.
• Whether you need external sources.
• Which sources to use and how many?
• The theoretical constructions or conceptual frameworks.
• The age limit of the scholarly sources.

If you need further clarification, ensure that you ask your peers, professor, or a professional writer in time.

Step #2: Select a Good Nursing Research Topic

Compared to average students, top nursing students always remember to select a research topic they are comfortable handling. When you are confident with a topic, you can develop it without procrastinating.

Sometimes you are given a list of nursing research paper topics, issues, and ideas to consider. Other times, you come up with the topic and consult your professor/educator for approval.  

Choose topics related to patient safety, nursing processes, nurse staffing, nursing policies, nurse privileges, nursing legislations, nursing ethics, mental health, health promotion, chronic disease management, healthcare systems, health informatics, changes in healthcare, and working conditions.

Choose any nursing topic that resonates with your specialization interests. It should be manageable, relevant, and explorable.

Related Readings:

• Nursing informatics research topics
• Capstone project ideas and topics for BSN, MSN, and DNP students
• Mental health nursing topics
• Epidemiology nursing topics
• List of the best nursing research paper topics
• Evidence-based nursing topics and ideas
• Nursing ethical dilemmas

Step #3: Plan your Paper

Create a thesis statement for your research paper if it is thesis-driven rather than study-based or scientific (experimental). After writing the thesis, like any of our nursing assignment slayers, write a good outline using Roman numbers and numbers.

List the ideas you wish to have in your paper in chronological order, starting with the introduction, body, and concluding paragraphs. As you outline, do some preliminary research so that you develop arguments the right way.

Include the in-text citations in your nursing research paper outline to simplify the writing process.

Step #4: Research and Organize Resources

Doing in-depth research as you refine the draft would be appropriate because you know what you want the paper to look like. Use scholarly nursing databases for research and limit yourself to topic-related scholarly articles published within the last 5 years.

You can read the abstracts of the articles to determine if they are fit to use in your paper. If you find the best articles, list them using online citation management tools such as RefWorks, Zotero, EndNote, Citefast, or any of your choice.

Ensure to list them in the most appropriate formatting styles. Take notes and list the points and ideas in your outline. Do your research meticulously and ensure that you organize the process to avoid any confusion.

Step #5: Write the First Draft

With the research, synthesis, and outline, you are now left with the chance to put rubber on the road. Use the Pomodoro technique, where you spend stretches of 25 minutes of focused work and have minor 5-minute breaks.

Ensure you cover as much ground in your research paper as possible before three-quarters of the deadline. When writing the paper, and considering that you have the outline, you can start chronologically from the introduction to the appendices.

Most research paper writing pros prefer working on the body section and conclusion before writing the introduction and finalizing the abstract. Whatever works best for you, adopt it. When writing the first draft, focus on piecing together the information rather than perfection.

Ensure you research lightly as you write and assert your voice while giving the right in-text citations for every idea you paraphrase from a source to avoid plagiarism. Each body paragraph should only have one idea.

Step #6: Edit, Proofread, and Polish the Paper

The final step towards completing your nursing research paper is ensuring everything is in its rightful place. A polished research paper scores 90% and above, which is an A. Begin by reading the paper aloud to identify areas that do not make sense.

If there is a need, do not hesitate to rewrite an entire section so that you have the right flow of information.

Check the grammatical, spelling, and syntax errors and make necessary corrections. You should also check the tenses used in the paper. If you feel like polishing the essay is too much work, you are better off hiring a nursing paper proofreader/editor.

When you receive feedback from your educator or professor, address the changes and resend the paper for grading.

Related Reading: How to write an evidence-based nursing paper.

Valuable Tips to Consider as You Write Your Nursing Research Paper

Nursing schools and educators have their standards and guidelines for writing a research paper. Therefore, ensure that before everything else, you familiarize yourself and adhere to these instructions, which include word count and citation styles.

Do not assume anything when writing a paper. You should also access and understand suggestions from your school’s writing lab. Apart from these essential tips, also ensure that you follow the insights we give below:

• Write your paper using a formal tone. Do not use passive voice when writing the paper. Instead, use active voice.
• Your paper should have a good organization from the introduction to the conclusion.
• Whenever you borrow ideas from a scholarly source, ensure you cite them correctly.
• Have a well-thought-out thesis statement that clarifies your arguments.
• Create a complete outline during the early stages of writing. It gives you a roadmap to follow as you write the paper. Organize the ideas chronologically based on their strength and weaknesses.
• Have a plan and schedule to trace your progress with the paper.
• If you have a more extended deadline, contribute to your research paper daily.
• When writing the paper, start with the body, the conclusion, and the introduction last.
• If you are writing a study-based research paper, include the literature review, methodology, discussion, and conclusion sections per the IMRAD format. A general nursing research paper follows the essay structure: introduction, body section, and conclusion.
• Use peer-reviewed scholarly sources from CINAHL, PubMed, Nursing Reference Center, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and other nursing research databases with peer-reviewed articles. Credible sources mean your research paper has rigor since you have strong points.
• Proofread and edit the paper thoroughly to remove any mistakes to signal your seriousness to your professor. If possible, use professional editing services.
• Have a compelling conclusion that is elaborate, clear, and concise.
• Read your paper aloud to identify mistakes.
• Revise the paper, and do not fear rewriting an entire section.

When writing a research paper, adhere to the writing conventions. You should also read well and understand how to communicate through academic writing effectively. Your paper should document evidence that supports your arguments and topic.

Write concisely, coherently, and accurately. It is not all in vain; you are training for your future role as a nurse when you will write conference papers, white papers, essays, policy documents, letters, blog posts, and professional nursing articles.

Checklist for a Great Research Paper in Nursing

Now that you have written your paper, you must align a few things to make it the best your professor will read. Most nursing classes, especially at the graduate levels (MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. levels), have small class sizes, and the professors spend time reading the papers from start to end. This means that you should leave nothing to chance.

Nursing research asserts professional identity, ensures accountability in nursing decision-making, and expands nursing practice. You have to be meticulous when writing a research paper in nursing.

A good research paper demonstrates a complete understanding of nursing knowledge, topic exploration, advanced organization, proper formatting, and mature academic writing skills. The following checklist enlists some main aspects to countercheck before hitting the submit button.

• Have I followed all the instructions outlined in the assignment prompt or rubric?
• Does my paper have the right title page?
• Does the paper have a written title that resonates with the thesis and the research question?
• Is the introduction presenting an attention grabber, background information, and a signpost of the ideas in the paper?
• Is the thesis statement well-thought-out, clear, concise, and elaborate?
• Is the problem statement clearly stated?
• If it is a PICOT-based research paper, is the PICO question well-outlined?
• Does the paper touch well on the nursing issue that the topic needs it to address?
• Is there a logical flow of the paragraphs?
• Are the words in each paragraph balanced?
• Does the paper have correctly formatted headings and subheadings?
• Are the in-text citations done correctly and consistently?
• Does every paragraph in the body of the paper build on the thesis?
• Does the paper demonstrate a mature choice of words and uses nursing lingo?
• Is the literature review section comprehensive? Does it have a theoretical and conceptual framework or constructs?
• Are the data and information presented in the literature review current?
• Has the methodology section listed the sample, sampling strategy, data collection and analyses, and rationale for each?
• Does the discussion section interlink the concepts from the literature review with the findings?
• Does the conclusion offer good closure to the readers? Does it restate the thesis? Does it summarize the recommendations?
• Is the entire paper formatted correctly? Does it follow the formatting guidelines?
• Is the paper devoid of spelling, syntax, and mechanical mistakes?

If your answer to all these questions is a resounding YES, you are sure it will fetch your professor a good grade. Our nursing writers, most of whom are alumni from top nursing universities and colleges such as Chamberlain, Capella, Herzing, Vanderbilt, SFU, Rutgers, Yale, Duke, NYU, UCLA, University of Pennsylvania, University of Toronto, McGill, Ottawa, Queens, and other best colleges in the USA, UK, Canada, and many other places. Besides, they are nursing educators in different capacities, and a couple are nursing professors with big titles; you can trust the checklist to guarantee you an excellent grade.

Where to Get Help When Writing Research Paper

As a nursing student, writing a research paper is something you will most likely enjoy doing. However, unforeseen things happen, prompting you to search the internet for sites to help you do your nursing research paper. NurseMyGrade.com is one such place to pay a nursing writer to do your paper.

Expect a paper that meets all the requirements, is written by a human rather than AI software, and is uniquely tailored to your requirements.  Our rates are affordable, and our writers cover diverse fields. Apart from offering advice about research, writing, and formatting papers, we have resourceful writers whom we allow you to communicate directly with via our platform.

We also maintain high levels of secrecy because we care more about your privacy and confidentiality of your details. Not even your professor can tell you got help from our website because we advise on specific strategies to use the paper. We have assisted students in various levels of nursing education with their writing, and we can do yours too.

Get affordable, well-researched, formatted, and organized nursing research papers done for you today by filling out the order form. Nursing research papers are a chance to stand out. Let our professionals help you achieve your nursing school goals.

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Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

What is a nursing research paper.

• What They Include
• Choosing a Topic
• Best Nursing Research Topics
• Research Paper Writing Tips

Writing a research paper is a massive task that involves careful organization, critical analysis, and a lot of time. Some nursing students are natural writers, while others struggle to select a nursing research topic, let alone write about it.

If you're a nursing student who dreads writing research papers, this article may help ease your anxiety. We'll cover everything you need to know about writing nursing school research papers and the top topics for nursing research.  

Continue reading to make your paper-writing jitters a thing of the past.

A nursing research paper is a work of academic writing composed by a nurse or nursing student. The paper may present information on a specific topic or answer a question.

During LPN/LVN and RN programs, most papers you write focus on learning to use research databases, evaluate appropriate resources, and format your writing with APA style. You'll then synthesize your research information to answer a question or analyze a topic.

BSN , MSN , Ph.D., and DNP programs also write nursing research papers. Students in these programs may also participate in conducting original research studies.

Writing papers during your academic program improves and develops many skills, including the ability to:

• Select nursing topics for research
• Conduct effective research
• Analyze published academic literature
• Format and cite sources
• Synthesize data
• Organize and articulate findings

About Nursing Research Papers

When do nursing students write research papers.

You may need to write a research paper for any of the nursing courses you take. Research papers help develop critical thinking and communication skills. They allow you to learn how to conduct research and critically review publications.

That said, not every class will require in-depth, 10-20-page papers. The more advanced your degree path, the more you can expect to write and conduct research. If you're in an associate or bachelor's program, you'll probably write a few papers each semester or term.

Do Nursing Students Conduct Original Research?

Most of the time, you won't be designing, conducting, and evaluating new research. Instead, your projects will focus on learning the research process and the scientific method. You'll achieve these objectives by evaluating existing nursing literature and sources and defending a thesis.

However, many nursing faculty members do conduct original research. So, you may get opportunities to participate in, and publish, research articles.

Example Research Project Scenario:

In your maternal child nursing class, the professor assigns the class a research paper regarding developmentally appropriate nursing interventions for the pediatric population. While that may sound specific, you have almost endless opportunities to narrow down the focus of your writing. 

You could choose pain intervention measures in toddlers. Conversely, you can research the effects of prolonged hospitalization on adolescents' social-emotional development.

What Does a Nursing Research Paper Include?

Your professor should provide a thorough guideline of the scope of the paper. In general, an undergraduate nursing research paper will consist of:

Introduction : A brief overview of the research question/thesis statement your paper will discuss. You can include why the topic is relevant.

Body : This section presents your research findings and allows you to synthesize the information and data you collected. You'll have a chance to articulate your evaluation and answer your research question. The length of this section depends on your assignment.

Conclusion : A brief review of the information and analysis you presented throughout the body of the paper. This section is a recap of your paper and another chance to reassert your thesis.

The best advice is to follow your instructor's rubric and guidelines. Remember to ask for help whenever needed, and avoid overcomplicating the assignment!

How to Choose a Nursing Research Topic

The sheer volume of prospective nursing research topics can become overwhelming for students. Additionally, you may get the misconception that all the 'good' research ideas are exhausted. However, a personal approach may help you narrow down a research topic and find a unique angle.

Writing your research paper about a topic you value or connect with makes the task easier. Additionally, you should consider the material's breadth. Topics with plenty of existing literature will make developing a research question and thesis smoother.

Finally, feel free to shift gears if necessary, especially if you're still early in the research process. If you start down one path and have trouble finding published information, ask your professor if you can choose another topic.

The Best Research Topics for Nursing Students

You have endless subject choices for nursing research papers. This non-exhaustive list just scratches the surface of some of the best nursing research topics.

1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics

• Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties.
• Discuss the impact of evidence-based respiratory interventions on patient outcomes in critical care settings.
• Explore the effectiveness of pain management protocols in pediatric patients.

2. Community Health Nursing Research Topics

• Assess the impact of nurse-led diabetes education in Type II Diabetics.
• Analyze the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to healthcare services.

3. Nurse Education Research Topics

• Review the effectiveness of simulation-based learning to improve nursing students' clinical skills.
• Identify methods that best prepare pre-licensure students for clinical practice.
• Investigate factors that influence nurses to pursue advanced degrees.
• Evaluate education methods that enhance cultural competence among nurses.
• Describe the role of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and burnout among nurses.

4. Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

• Explore patient outcomes related to nurse staffing levels in acute behavioral health settings.
• Assess the effectiveness of mental health education among emergency room nurses .
• Explore de-escalation techniques that result in improved patient outcomes.
• Review the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in improving patient outcomes.

5. Pediatric Nursing Research Topics

• Assess the impact of parental involvement in pediatric asthma treatment adherence.
• Explore challenges related to chronic illness management in pediatric patients.
• Review the role of play therapy and other therapeutic interventions that alleviate anxiety among hospitalized children.

6. The Nursing Profession Research Topics

• Analyze the effects of short staffing on nurse burnout .
• Evaluate factors that facilitate resiliency among nursing professionals.
• Examine predictors of nurse dissatisfaction and burnout.
• Posit how nursing theories influence modern nursing practice.

Tips for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

The best nursing research advice we can provide is to follow your professor's rubric and instructions. However, here are a few study tips for nursing students to make paper writing less painful:

Avoid procrastination: Everyone says it, but few follow this advice. You can significantly lower your stress levels if you avoid procrastinating and start working on your project immediately.

Plan Ahead: Break down the writing process into smaller sections, especially if it seems overwhelming. Give yourself time for each step in the process.

Research: Use your resources and ask for help from the librarian or instructor. The rest should come together quickly once you find high-quality studies to analyze.

Outline: Create an outline to help you organize your thoughts. Then, you can plug in information throughout the research process. 

Clear Language: Use plain language as much as possible to get your point across. Jargon is inevitable when writing academic nursing papers, but keep it to a minimum.

Cite Properly: Accurately cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Nursing research papers will almost always implement APA style. Check out the resources below for some excellent reference management options.

Revise and Edit: Once you finish your first draft, put it away for one to two hours or, preferably, a whole day. Once you've placed some space between you and your paper, read through and edit for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Reading your essay out loud is an excellent way to check for the 'flow' of the paper.

Helpful Nursing Research Writing Resources:

Purdue OWL (Online writing lab) has a robust APA guide covering everything you need about APA style and rules.

Grammarly helps you edit grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Upgrading to a paid plan will get you plagiarism detection, formatting, and engagement suggestions. This tool is excellent to help you simplify complicated sentences.

Mendeley is a free reference management software. It stores, organizes, and cites references. It has a Microsoft plug-in that inserts and correctly formats APA citations.

Don't let nursing research papers scare you away from starting nursing school or furthering your education. Their purpose is to develop skills you'll need to be an effective nurse: critical thinking, communication, and the ability to review published information critically.

Choose a great topic and follow your teacher's instructions; you'll finish that paper in no time.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

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A comprehensive guide to writing a nursing research paper, rachel r.n..

• March 7, 2024
• How to Guides

Writing a nursing research paper is an essential skill for nursing students and professionals alike. It serves as a platform to contribute to the ever-expanding body of knowledge in the field, fostering evidence-based practice and promoting advancements in healthcare. This comprehensive guide aims to provide step-by-step instructions on how to craft a well-structured and impactful nursing research paper.

Are You Working on Research Paper?

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What You'll Learn

The Research Process

Here are the steps to writing a research nursing paper

1. Choosing a Relevant Topic

Selecting a pertinent and engaging topic is the first crucial step in writing a nursing research paper. Consider the following factors when choosing a topic:

• Personal Interest : Opt for a subject that sparks your interest or relates to your clinical experiences. For example, if you have a passion for pediatric nursing, you might choose a topic related to childhood obesity interventions.
• Relevance : Ensure the topic addresses current issues or gaps in knowledge within the nursing field. This could involve exploring emerging healthcare technologies, examining disparities in healthcare access, or evaluating the effectiveness of nursing interventions in specific patient populations.
• Feasibility: Assess the availability of resources and data needed to conduct a thorough investigation. Consider factors such as access to patient populations , research facilities, and funding opportunities when evaluating the feasibility of your chosen topic.

2. Conducting a Literature Review:

Before delving into your research, it is essential to review existing literature to identify gaps and establish the context for your study.

• Utilize academic databases: Search platforms like PubMed, CINAHL, and others to gather relevant articles.
• Critically analyze literature: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of previous studies to identify areas for further exploration. Look for patterns, inconsistencies, or gaps in the existing research that your study can address.
• Synthesize findings: Summarize key themes, methodologies, and gaps in the literature to guide your research question. This synthesis serves as the foundation for framing the significance of your study within the broader context of nursing research.

3. Formulating a Clear Research Question or Hypothesis:

A well-defined research question or hypothesis provides direction for your study and guides the development of your nursing research paper.

Clarity and specificity: Clearly state the problem you aim to address and be specific in your research question or hypothesis. For instance, if your topic revolves around improving patient adherence to medication regimens, your research question might be, “What factors influence medication adherence among patients with chronic illnesses?”

Align with literature: Ensure your research question builds upon existing knowledge and addresses identified gaps. Reference the findings from your literature review to demonstrate the relevance of your study and its potential contributions to the field.

4. Designing the Research Methodology:

Selecting an appropriate research methodology is crucial to gather valid and reliable data. Consider methodologies such as:

a. Quantitative or qualitative: Decide whether your study will involve quantitative measurements, qualitative analysis, or a combination of both. If your research question involves exploring patient experiences, qualitative methods such as interviews or focus groups may be appropriate.

b. Sampling: Define your target population and choose a representative sample size. Consider factors like age, gender, and medical history that align with your research objectives.

c. Data collection: Outline the methods and tools you will use to collect data, ensuring they align with your research question. Whether it’s surveys, interviews, observations, or a review of medical records, justify your choices based on the nature of your study.

5. Ethical Considerations:

Nursing research must adhere to ethical standards to protect participants and maintain the integrity of the study.

Informed consent: Clearly explain the study to participants and obtain their informed consent. Clearly outline the purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits of participation.

Confidentiality: Ensure the privacy and anonymity of participants throughout the research process. Safeguarding their identities and sensitive information is crucial to maintain trust and ethical standards.

6. Data Analysis and Interpretation:

Once data collection is complete, analyze the information using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods. a. Statistical analysis: Use statistical software to analyze quantitative data and draw meaningful conclusions. b. Thematic analysis: Identify themes and patterns in qualitative data, providing rich insights into your research question.

7. Writing the Nursing Research Paper:

Structure your paper following the typical components of a scientific research paper.

In nursing research papers, we usually use APA or Harvard formats because they are scientific. The title page is super important because it helps your professor quickly understand your paper. If it’s not done well, you might lose marks. T he title page , also called the cover page, should have your paper’s title, your names, course code and name, university names, your professor’s name, and the date of submission. Check out our examples to see how to set up this important part of your research paper.

The abstract is a short summary of your nursing research paper. It’s important, just like the title page, because it gives readers a quick overview. Keep it short, around 200-250 words, and focus on the main points. Don’t use acronyms or citations. Follow the guidelines for APA or Harvard formatting. It doesn’t count in the word limit unless the Rubric says it does. Include the purpose, contents, results, conclusions, and recommendations.

Introduction

The introduction is the first part of your nursing research paper, taking up about 10% of the word count. Start with an interesting hook for your topic. Provide background information, talk about the nursing issue, and state the main aim or thesis. Clearly outline what your paper will cover, and if it’s a PICO research paper, introduce the PICOT question here.

Literature Review

This section explores what other nursing scholars have said about your thesis statement or topic. Look at various sources about nursing theory, frameworks, and concepts. Develop your paragraphs well, cite ideas, and approach this section critically. For example, if your paper is about managing obesity, you can discuss how the Theory of Planned Behavior is used in interventions. Show good research, organization, and writing skills.

Research Methodology

Here, explain the methods you used to collect data, like qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods approaches. For qualitative research in nursing, consider ethnography, historical research, phenomenology, symbiotic interactionism, or grounded theory. Quantitative research involves crunching numbers. If you used secondary sources, mention them and explain your inclusion/exclusion criteria. If it’s a statistical paper, detail your analyses and the tools used (like R or SPSS).

Results and Discussion

Present your findings in this section without making definitive statements. The results should suggest whether something is true or not, especially when testing hypotheses. Discuss your findings using concepts and information from your literature review. Mention any limitations and include graphs, tables, or concept maps.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Summarize the research problem, methodology, and findings. Restate the thesis differently from the introduction. This part should be about 10% of the total word count. Connect your findings to the literature review and suggest future research directions.

Organize your references alphabetically in A-Z format following APA or Harvard guidelines. Make sure each reference is scholarly and used in your paper. Include links if needed. Double-check everything to meet the Rubric requirements.

8. Revision and Peer Review:

Before submitting your nursing research paper, thoroughly review and revise the content for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Share your draft with peers, mentors, or colleagues to gather constructive feedback. Address any feedback received and revise your paper for clarity, grammar, and style.

9. Submission and Publication:

Once satisfied with the final draft, submit your nursing research paper to a reputable journal or conference for peer review and potential publication.

Source Links

https://writersperhour.com/blog/term-paper-vs-research-paper

50 Potential Nursing Research Topics

• The impact of nurse-patient communication on patient satisfaction and outcomes.
• Exploring the effectiveness of telehealth in nursing care delivery.
• Assessing the prevalence and management of nurse burnout in different healthcare settings.
• The role of advanced practice nurses in improving primary care access and outcomes.
• Examining the effectiveness of simulation-based training in nursing education.
• Investigating the influence of cultural competence on patient care and health disparities.
• Exploring the use of artificial intelligence in nursing practice and patient care.
• Assessing the impact of nurse-led interventions on chronic disease management.
• Examining the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from paper to electronic health records in nursing.
• The role of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress among nursing professionals.
• Investigating the relationship between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes.
• Assessing the effectiveness of pain management protocols in postoperative care.
• Exploring the experiences and challenges of male nurses in the nursing profession.
• The impact of continuing education on nursing practice and patient outcomes.
• Examining the role of nurses in promoting vaccination and preventing infectious diseases.
• Investigating the factors influencing nurse retention and turnover in healthcare organizations.
• The effectiveness of nursing interventions in managing patients with mental health disorders.
• Exploring the role of nurses in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing chronic diseases.
• Assessing the implementation and outcomes of evidence-based practice in nursing.
• Investigating the ethical challenges in end-of-life care decision-making by nurses.
• The role of nursing in addressing the opioid epidemic and substance abuse.
• Examining the impact of nurse-led clinics on community health and access to care.
• Assessing the effectiveness of nurse-managed programs in improving maternal and child health.
• Exploring the perceptions and experiences of patients receiving care from nurse practitioners.
• Investigating the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in preventing hospital-acquired infections.
• The impact of interprofessional collaboration on patient outcomes in healthcare.
• Examining the relationship between nurse leadership styles and organizational culture.
• Assessing the effectiveness of nursing interventions in reducing falls among elderly patients.
• Exploring the challenges and opportunities of nursing care in rural and underserved communities.
• Investigating the role of nursing in promoting mental health and well-being.
• The impact of technology on communication and collaboration among nursing teams.
• Assessing the knowledge and attitudes of nurses towards LGBTQ+ patients in healthcare.
• Examining the role of nursing in disaster preparedness and response.
• Investigating the effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers.
• Exploring the impact of nurse empowerment on patient safety and quality of care.
• Assessing the use of patient-centered care models in nursing practice.
• The role of nursing in addressing health disparities among diverse populations.
• Examining the impact of nurse-led health promotion programs in schools.
• Investigating the role of nurses in promoting ethical decision-making in healthcare.
• Assessing the effectiveness of nursing interventions in managing chronic pain.
• Exploring the impact of nurse-led education programs on patient outcomes.
• The role of nursing in addressing the mental health needs of pediatric patients.
• Examining the effectiveness of nurse-managed transitional care programs.
• Assessing the impact of cultural competence training on nursing practice.
• Investigating the relationship between nurse staffing ratios and medication errors.
• The role of nursing in promoting a culture of safety in healthcare organizations.
• Exploring the experiences of immigrant nurses in the healthcare workforce.
• Assessing the impact of nurse-led interventions in promoting healthy aging.
• Examining the effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing hospital readmissions.
• Investigating the role of nursing in promoting health equity and social justice.

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How to Write a Quality Nursing Research Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

Nursing research papers play a vital role in advancing the field of healthcare and providing evidence-based practices . Whether you are a nursing student embarking on your first research paper or a seasoned professional seeking to contribute to the existing body of knowledge, understanding the process of writing a quality research paper is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the key steps and strategies to help you craft a well-structured and impactful nursing research paper.

1. Selecting a Topic for your Nursing Research Paper

Choosing the right research topic is crucial for a successful nursing research paper. A well-chosen topic not only reflects your interests but also addresses a significant healthcare issue. Consider selecting a topic that is specific, relevant, and feasible within the given time frame and available resources. Conduct a thorough literature review to explore existing knowledge gaps and identify areas for further investigation. Engage in discussions with mentors, colleagues, and healthcare professionals to gain insights and refine your research topic.

2. Developing a Research Question and Hypothesis

Once you have chosen a research topic for your nursing research paper, narrow it down and develop a clear research question. Your research question should be focused, specific, and answerable through empirical evidence . It serves as the foundation for your research and guides the entire study. Additionally, formulate a hypothesis that provides a tentative answer to your research question. The hypothesis should be concise, measurable, and based on existing knowledge or theories. Crafting a well-defined research question and hypothesis is essential for maintaining a clear direction throughout the research process.

3. Conducting a Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review is a cornerstone of a high-quality nursing research paper. It helps you understand the existing body of knowledge, identify research gaps, and provide a theoretical foundation for your study. Utilize academic databases, journals, and reputable sources to gather relevant literature. Analyze and critically evaluate the literature to support your research question and develop a theoretical framework for your study. Organize the literature review based on themes or concepts to present a coherent and logical flow of information. This review also helps you identify methodologies and tools used in similar studies, which can guide your research design and data collection.

4. Designing the Study

The research design is a crucial aspect of any nursing research paper. It determines the methodology, data collection, and analysis techniques. Consider whether your study will be qualitative or quantitative, observational or experimental, and identify the appropriate sample size and sampling method. Ensure ethical considerations and address any potential biases or confounding variables. Select and justify the most appropriate research design that aligns with your research question, available resources, and ethical standards. Consult with experts in research methodology if needed to ensure the robustness and validity of your study.

5. Collecting and Analyzing Data

Collecting reliable and valid data is vital in nursing research. Depending on your research design, employ appropriate data collection methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or secondary data analysis. Develop data collection instruments that are reliable, valid, and aligned with your research objectives. Ensure proper documentation and standardization of data collection procedures to maintain consistency. After data collection, analyze the data using suitable statistical or qualitative analysis techniques, based on your research design and research question. Apply appropriate statistical tests, interpret the results, and derive meaningful conclusions. If using qualitative methods, employ coding and thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes within the data.

6. Interpreting and Presenting Findings

Interpretation and presentation of research findings are essential to communicate the significance of your study. Analyze your data, interpret the results, and discuss their implications in the context of existing literature. Address any limitations or potential biases that may have influenced the results. Use clear and concise language, tables, figures, and charts to present your findings effectively. Ensure that your conclusions are supported by evidence and aligned with your research question and hypothesis. Discuss the implications of your findings for clinical practice, policy, or further research. This section showcases your ability to critically analyze and synthesize information and contributes to the overall impact of your research.

7. Writing the Research Paper

Writing a nursing research paper requires a structured and organized approach. Start with an abstract that summarizes your study concisely, including the research question, methods, findings, and implications. Structure your paper into sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Use appropriate headings and subheadings to enhance readability and facilitate easy navigation. Write in a clear, concise, and scholarly manner, adhering to the guidelines provided by your institution or target journal. Provide relevant citations and references to acknowledge the work of others and support your arguments. Revise and edit your paper multiple times to refine your language, ensure logical flow, and eliminate any grammatical or typographical errors.

8. Revising and Editing

Revision and editing are essential to ensure the quality and clarity of your nursing research paper. Review your paper for logical flow, coherence, grammar, and spelling errors. Seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, or writing centers to get a fresh perspective on your work. Consider their suggestions and make necessary revisions to strengthen your arguments and improve the overall quality of your paper. Pay attention to the organization of ideas, clarity of language, and consistency of formatting. Edit your paper for clarity, conciseness, and adherence to the guidelines. Take breaks between revisions to maintain a fresh perspective and identify any areas that may require further improvement.

Writing a quality nursing research paper requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and effective communication of your findings. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can navigate through the research process with confidence. Remember to choose a compelling topic, conduct a thorough literature review, design your study carefully, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present your findings in a clear and concise manner.

With these strategies, you can contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge, inform evidence-based practices, and make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare . Writing a high-quality nursing research paper is a rewarding experience that allows you to contribute to the ever-evolving field of nursing and improve patient outcomes.

Nursing Assignment Help

Are you a nursing student struggling with your research paper or other assignments? Look no further! We at Nursing Research Help offer comprehensive assignment help services tailored specifically for nursing students. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges faced by nursing students and is equipped to provide the support and guidance you need. Whether you need assistance with topic selection, literature review, research design, data analysis, or writing and editing your paper, we’ve got you covered.

Our services are designed to help you excel academically and submit high-quality assignments that meet the rigorous standards of nursing education. With our expertise and personalized approach, you can save time, reduce stress, and achieve the academic success you deserve. Don’t let assignments hold you back—take advantage of our specialized assignment help services and embark on a successful nursing career with confidence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in your academic journey.

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Online Research Guide for Nursing Students

• Conducting Online Research
• Research Tools

Evaluating Sources

• Organizing Research

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Effective online nursing research skills can make a tremendous difference for your academic success in nursing school and throughout your career. Medicine and nursing change rapidly, and knowing how to conduct nursing research online keeps your skills and knowledge current.

Successful research includes both how to use nursing literature search engines and how to analyze the information you find. This helps you distinguish between reliable information that supports evidence-based nursing and misleading information that can influence your ability to care for patients.

This guide can help you find and effectively use the best nursing research websites and other research tools, whether you need a writing guide for nurses , continuing education coursework, or just hope to increase your knowledge in the field.

Conducting Online Research for Nursing Students

You can conduct most of your nursing research online, but some sources may not be available online. For example, your school library may subscribe to print journals not published on the internet. Many important books only exist in print.

Your school or hospital librarian is an invaluable resource to help you find materials online or in print. If your school or hospital doesn’t have a specific book or article, the librarian might be able to get it through an interlibrary loan service.

You can use only online nursing research tools if the most significant publications on a topic are available online. Otherwise, consider using print resources too.

Refining Your Search Results

When conducting online research, you must filter out unreliable sources and locate search results relevant to your topic. Fortunately, Google searches and other nursing literature search engines have tools to help you narrow your research to get the most reliable results.

In addition to open web searches, you can use the specialty nursing literature search engines listed below.

Google Scholar

Google Scholar has special features to make it easier to find the most relevant professional literature on a topic. Besides letting you refine your search by date, it displays related articles or other articles by the author. If the piece is available in full-text online, Google Scholar links to the page. If not, you can search to see if your library has the article or can get you a copy.

Google Scholar also tells you how many other papers cite a particular source. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that an article has reliable and current information, it does demonstrate the article’s influence.

The search engine also offers tools to help you manage your research projects and write papers. You can create a citation in several standard formats and save an article to a list. You can make as many lists as you like, such as one for different topics or assignments.

If you want to follow a specific topic, refine your search to give you preferred results, and then select “create alert.” You will then receive emails with new articles as Google Scholar indexes them.

Online Research Tools

Google reigns as the most popular search engine, but many other online resources exist. Students may use several search engines and databases geared specifically toward academic searches. Many of these sites offer free or discounted services to students. Your school’s library may also provide access.

The list below describes some of the most common resources for academic research, including some sites that focus on online research for nurses.

General Academic Research Tools

• BASE : Bielefeld Academic Search Engine offers results in a variety of academic disciplines. About 60% of the indexed documents are available for free. Results must meet BASE’s high academic standards for relevance and quality.
• CGP : The Catalog of U.S. Government Publications allows users to search official documents published by the U.S. government, including current and historical sources.
• CIA World Factbook : The Central Intelligence Agency’s World Factbook provides information on 267 countries and other entities around the world. This information includes maps and data on each entity’s history, people, geography, government, and economy.
• ERIC : The U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences hosts ERIC. This database uses a formal review process to decide which scholarly articles, papers, reports, and other documents to include in its index.
• iSeek Education : This resource compiles scholarly materials from noncommercial providers, including university and government sources. The searchable service allows users to bookmark items they wish to refer to later.
• National Archives : This searchable catalog includes descriptions for 85% of the National Archives’ holdings, including documents, web pages, pictures, audio files, and videos. Users can also view more than two million digitized copies of government records.
• OCLC : The OAIster catalog pools open-access resources from libraries, museums, archives, and cultural heritage organizations.
• CORE : CORE collects open-access research materials from sources around the world and indexes them in a searchable database. The public can use CORE free of charge.

Nursing Research Tools

• CINAHL Complete : The Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature offers a large database of research material for nurses and students. The site provides full-text access to resources, including journals, care sheets, and continuing education modules.
• MedScape : Medscape provides the latest medical news, research updates, case studies, continuing education opportunities, and disease and drug information for healthcare professionals around the world.
• National Institute of Nursing Research : Part of the National Institutes of Health, the NINR provides support for nursing research. The website hosts information on research conducted through their programs.
• Nursing Reference Center : The Nursing Reference Center features various resources for nurses, including care sheets about diseases and treatment options, drug information, information on treating patients from diverse cultural backgrounds, patient handouts, and lessons about diseases and conditions.
• PubMed : PubMed is a searchable database operated by the U.S. National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health. The site provides abstracts and full-text articles from journals, books, and other publications about life science and medicine.
• Sigma Repository : The Sigma Repository boasts an open-access database of nursing research and practice materials created by nurses. Sigma Theta Tau International, the nursing honor society, sponsors this free resource.

When you conduct research on the web, you must evaluate the reliability of your sources. If your information comes from an untrustworthy source, the quality of your research will suffer and the data you gather may lead to incorrect conclusions.

When you need to determine an online information source’s reputation, you can ask yourself some questions to help evaluate its quality. The questions below include tips from Georgetown University and the University of Chicago Press.

Who Is the Author?

Find the name of the article’s author or creator. Then locate the author’s credentials to determine whether their education and experience qualifies them to speak as an authority on the topic. You also can search for the author’s other works or more information about them.

If the source does not list an author, look at the domain to see whether it belongs to a reputable entity.

What Is Its Purpose?

Look at the article and the hosting site. Who is the intended audience? Is the information for academics and experts or the general public? Why was it written and posted? Is it intended to inform or educate the reader, or does it attempt to persuade the reader to view a topic in a certain way? Is it meant to sell a product or service?

A noncommercial source that intends to educate the reader without persuasion is most likely to be reliable.

Does It Look Professional?

When you view the website and read the article, take note of any errors in grammar or spelling. The site’s content should appear clean and organized. Poorly organized content and errors in the text indicate unprofessionalism, as does the use of profanity.

If the site emphasizes images over text or appears to focus on selling products or services, it may not be a reliable source for scholarly information.

Is It Objective?

Academic sources should show objectivity and must not present opinions as hard data. Consider whether the information is fact or opinion. Does the author show any bias? Is the information officially endorsed or approved by an organization? If so, determine whether the organization takes an official position on the issue at hand.

Is It Current?

When researching science and medical topics, students must find the most current information. Scientific knowledge progresses rapidly, and new research appears frequently.

Check the publishing date listed on your source. If it is more than a few years old, look for more current sources on the same topic. If a website has not been updated recently, this also may indicate information is outdated.

What Sites Does It Link To?

The links featured in your source may provide clues about the information’s reliability. The links should relate to the site’s purpose or the topic at hand. In most cases, a source should link back to research which supports the text. Students may find this information within the text or in a references list.

Test the links to make sure they work. If the links are broken, the information may be old or outdated.

Organizing Your Research

You will most likely browse a large amount of information as you conduct research online. To avoid becoming overwhelmed, you must remain organized before, during, and after your search. Remember that you must cite all your sources accurately.

If you develop a consistent system for locating and organizing your information, your research efforts will be more efficient and accurate. Below are a few basic tips to help you manage and organize your online research.

Online Tools to Manage Your Research

• EasyBib : This tool helps you improve your writing, take notes, avoid unintentional plagiarism, and add citations in your choice of style. Options include MLA, APA, and Chicago. EasyBib offers basic services and MLA citations for free. Users pay a monthly fee for additional access.
• Endnote : This software package manages references and bibliographies. EndNote provides research tools and allows teams to share documents, files, and other materials. The software offers student pricing.
• Mendeley : Designed for science and technology research, Mendeley helps store and organize research documents and files. Mendeley manages citations and lets users connect with others in a research network.
• RefWorks : This web-based reference management tool stores the user’s reference database in an online portal. Some universities grant their students free access to RefWorks.
• Zotero : This free, open-source software helps users find research materials and organize their information. Zotero manages citations, documents, and other research materials.

Citing Online Resources for Nursing Students

When you write a research paper or create a research presentation, you must follow a consistent format and include a bibliography of all the sources you used. Several popular editorial styles exist. Science and social science disciplines, including nursing, most frequently use the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, commonly known as APA style .

Alternatively, some institutions require AMA style , created by the American Medical Association. The style you use depends on the institution you attend. These editorial styles establish a consistent format for researchers to follow when publishing their work. They cover aspects of writing, such as punctuation, accepted abbreviations, headings, and formatting for statistics and tables.

Style also dictates a specific format for listing citations, including the order in which the information must appear and the punctuation required. This formatting makes it easy for readers to retrieve sources that may interest them.

Several examples of APA style from the Purdue Online Writing Lab appear below. You can find an expanded list of such examples on the Purdue website.

Articles From Online Periodicals

What is a doi.

When an article is published electronically, the publisher assigns a unique digital object identifier (DOI) to it. The DOI provides a permanent identification code and internet link for the article. APA style recommends that you include the DOI in any citation for which it is available. See the examples below.

Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Date of publication). Title of article. Title of Journal, volume number , page range. doi:0000000/000000000000 or http://doi.org/10.0000/0000

Brownlie, D. (2007). Toward effective poster presentations: An annotated bibliography. European Journal of Marketing, 41 , 1245-1283. doi:10.1108/03090560710821161

Without DOI

Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Date of publication). Title of article. Title of Journal, volume number . Retrieved from https://www.journalhomepage.com/full/url/

Kenneth, I. A. (2000). A Buddhist response to the nature of human rights. Journal of Buddhist Ethics, 8 . Retrieved from https://www.cac.psu.edu/jbe/twocont.html

Newspaper Articles

Author, A. A. (Year, Month Day). Title of article. Title of Newspaper . Retrieved from https://www.homeaddress.com/

Parker-Pope, T. (2008, May 6). Psychiatry handbook linked to drug industry. The New York Times . Retrieved from https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/

Electronic Books

Last name, A. A. (n.d.). Title . Available from https://www.urlofebook.com/full/url/

Davis, J. (n.d.). Familiar birdsongs of the Northwest . Available from https://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio? inkey=1-9780931686108-0

The AMA Manual of Style details official guidelines for writing and citing medical research. The style is maintained by the American Medical Association. The examples below originate from the Arizona Health Sciences Library website and the USciences website .

No Author Name Provided

Name of organization. Title of specific item cited. URL. Accessed date.

International Society for Infectious Diseases. ProMED-mail Website. https://www.promedmail.org. Accessed April 29, 2004.

Author Name Provided

Author A. Title. Name of website. URL. Updated date. Accessed date.

Sullivan D. Major search engines and directories. SearchEngineWatch Website. https://www.searchenginewatch.com/links/article.php/2156221. Updated April 28, 2004. Accessed December 6, 2005.

Online Journal Article With Six or Fewer Authors — DOI Included

Author A. Title. Name of online journal. URL. Publication year;volume(issue):page numbers. doi.

Florez H, Martinez R, Chakra W, Strickman-Stein M, Levis S. Outdoor exercise reduces the risk of hypovitaminosis D in the obese. J Steroid Biochem Mol Bio . 2007;103(3-5):679-681. doi:10.1016 /j.jsbmb.2006.12.032.

Online Journal Article With Six or More Authors — DOI Not Included

Author A. Title. Name of online journal. URL. Publication year;volume(issue):page numbers. Access date.

Siris ES, Miller PD, Barrett-Connor E, et al. Identification and fracture outcomes of undiagnosed low bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: results from the National Osteoporosis Risk Assessment. JAMA. 2001;286(22):2815-2822. https://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/reprint/286/22 /2815. Accessed April 4, 2007.

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Nursing: How to Write a Literature Review

• Traditional or Narrative Literature Review

Getting started

1. start with your research question, 2. search the literature, 3. read & evaluate, 4. finalize results, 5. write & revise, brainfuse online tutoring and writing review.

• RESEARCH HELP

The best way to approach your literature review is to break it down into steps.  Remember, research is an iterative process, not a linear one.  You will revisit steps and revise along the way.  Get started with the handout, information, and tips from various university Writing Centers below that provides an excellent overview.  Then move on to the specific steps recommended on this page.

• UNC- Chapel Hill Writing Center Literature Review Handout, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Writing Center Learn how to write a review of literature, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• University of Toronto-- Writing Advice The Literature Review: A few tips on conducting it, from the University of Toronto.
• Begin with a topic.
• Understand the topic. 
• Familiarize yourself with the terminology.  Note what words are being used and keep track of these for use as database search keywords. 
• See what research has been done on this topic before you commit to the topic.  Review articles can be helpful to understand what research has been done .
• Develop your research question.  (see handout below)
• How comprehensive should it be? 
• Is it for a course assignment or a dissertation? 
• How many years should it cover?
• Developing a good nursing research question Handout. Reviews PICO method and provides search tips.

Your next step is to construct a search strategy and then locate & retrieve articles.

•  There are often 2-4 key concepts in a research question.
• Search for primary sources (original research articles.)
• These are based on the key concepts in your research question.
• Remember to consider synonyms and related terms.
• Which databases to search?
• What limiters should be applied (peer-reviewed, publication date, geographic location, etc.)?

Review articles (secondary sources)

Use to identify literature on your topic, the way you would use a bibliography.  Then locate and retrieve the original studies discussed in the review article. Review articles are considered secondary sources.

• Once you have some relevant articles, review reference lists to see if there are any useful articles.
• Which articles were written later and have cited some of your useful articles?  Are these, in turn, articles that will be useful to you? 
• Keep track of what terms you used and what databases you searched. 
• Use database tools such as save search history in EBSCO to help.
• Keep track of the citations for the articles you will be using in your literature review. 
• Use RefWorks or another method of tracking this information. 
• Database Search Strategy Worksheet Handout. How to construct a search.
• TUTORIAL: How to do a search based on your research question This is a self-paced, interactive tutorial that reviews how to construct and perform a database search in CINAHL.

The next step is to read, review, and understand the articles.

• Start by reviewing abstracts. 
• Make sure you are selecting primary sources (original research articles).
• Note any keywords authors report using when searching for prior studies.
• You will need to evaluate and critique them and write a synthesis related to your research question.
• Consider using a matrix to organize and compare and contrast the articles . 
• Which authors are conducting research in this area?  Search by author.  
• Are there certain authors’ whose work is cited in many of your articles?  Did they write an early, seminal article that is often cited?
• Searching is a cyclical process where you will run searches, review results, modify searches, run again, review again, etc. 
• Critique articles.  Keep or exclude based on whether they are relevant to your research question.
• When you have done a thorough search using several databases plus Google Scholar, using appropriate keywords or subject terms, plus author’s names, and you begin to find the same articles over and over.
• Remember to consider the scope of your project and the length of your paper.  A dissertation will have a more exhaustive literature review than an 8 page paper, for example.
• What are common findings among each group or where do they disagree? 
• Identify common themes. Identify controversial or problematic areas in the research. 
• Use your matrix to organize this.
• Once you have read and re-read your articles and organized your findings, you are ready to begin the process of writing the literature review.

2. Synthesize.  (see handout below)

• Include a synthesis of the articles you have chosen for your literature review.
• A literature review is NOT a list or a summary of what has been written on a particular topic. 
• It analyzes the articles in terms of how they relate to your research question. 
• While reading, look for similarities and differences (compare and contrast) among the articles.  You will create your synthesis from this.
• Synthesis Examples Handout. Sample excerpts that illustrate synthesis.

Regis Online students have access to Brainfuse. Brainfuse is an online tutoring service available through a link in Moodle. Meet with a tutor in a live session or submit your paper for review.

• Brainfuse Tutoring and Writing Assistance for Regis Online Students by Tricia Reinhart Last Updated Oct 26, 2023 81 views this year
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• Last Updated: Feb 21, 2024 12:05 PM
• URL: https://libguides.regiscollege.edu/nursing_litreview

A Complete Guide To Writing Nursing Paper For Medical Students

Medical students have to endure countless hardships during their tenure in the college. Among them, the difficult one is writing a nursing paper on a topic related to their field. It’s not just about composing words after going through the research. It relates to their future learning and demonstrating professionalism in their nursing career.

Don’t worry if this explanation seems daunting or a deal-breaker! Today, we will embark on a journey to understand this topic deeply from within. We will learn why these nursing topics are so complicated and how we can write them without any trouble. Furthermore, we will discuss the importance of evidence-based practice for nursing students. The bonus will be the medical topics that are sure to broaden the extent of your knowledge. Without further ado, let’s get ready!

Table of Contents

What Is a Nursing Paper? (What’s All The Fuss About)

A nursing paper is an assignment given to medical students to develop their understanding of clinical practices. They go through the topic under the strict guidelines from the American School of Nursing & Allied Health. By doing this, they collect vital information related to this field and equip themselves with practical knowledge prior to starting a professional career.

Since it’s a critical care profession that revolves around saving human lives, therefore it requires mistake-free decision-making. Every nursing professional must be equipped with nerves of steel because they cannot perform their job without it. Nursing assignments tend to challenge the student’s comfort zone and take them out of it. That’s why these learners require nursing paper writing service to complete their assignments appropriately.

Different Types of Nursing Papers

There are different types of nursing papers for medical students depending on the discipline they choose. Like medical science that has various branches, similarly, nursing has many types that are explained below.

• Pediatric Nursing
• Geriatric Nursing
• Medical Nursing
• Nephrology Nursing
• Hepatology Nursing
• Ophthalmology Nursing
• Endocrinology Nursing
• Neurology Nursing
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Orthopedic Nursing
• Pulmonology Nursing
• Oncology Nursing
• Radiology Nursing
• Dental Nursing
• Emergency Nursing
• Dermatology Nursing

How to Write a Nursing Research Paper?

It’s not easy to write a nursing paper without appropriate professional tips . Each word of nursing students is critically examined with a critical eye. They need to understand the subject and patient care that will be provided later in their profession. 

Let’s start learning the basics of writing a nursing assignment from scratch. It will be the best guide you’ll ever get in your career.

Understand the Prompt and Requirements

The first step that every student overlooks is not understanding the assignment prompt. A half-hearted look at the essay prompt is bad for your grades. If a student doesn’t understand or read what the assignment or their professor wants from them, it’s impossible to make it as required from them.

Secondly, every assignment has some requirements, such as making it on a specific disease or patient type. Similarly, your professor might want to assess your knowledge on the latest nursing guidelines or new major breakthroughs in patient care, etc. Here’s how you can improve your practices by following these steps:

• Don’t just read your prompt but chew on it. Read at least three times to have knowledge from all perspectives.
• Ask your professor promptly before you start your assignment blindly
• Evaluate your skills in comparison with the demands of the topic
• In case where you feel it will overwhelm you, ask your professor to change the subject.
• Many students who have pre-existing phobias such as hemophobia should avoid such topics that discuss blood or anything related to its types. 
• If you’re more interested in patient education than direct patient care, then you should discuss this with your professor to assign you topics related to that discipline.

Understanding the requirements also helps your professor to make an accurate judgment about your work. Since your task is about how you’ll cope with real-world pressure when helping or caring for patients, you must demonstrate your best skills at your subject. 

Choose a Nursing Research Paper Topic

The second step is choosing a topic that helps you present your stance on a subject. Whether it’s a topic you’ve been given or choose, it has to justify your skills and capabilities as a certified nurse or medical practitioner. Your subject should be broad and can accommodate new research or findings to modify guidelines or challenge the existing ones.

In picking a topic, students must remember to do this process by targeting a niche that helps them navigate in one direction rather than all over the place. Subject selection is difficult if you’re doing it on your own, especially for new students. It’s a time-consuming one. To overcome your shortcomings in this part, you should brainstorm for the topics that excite not only you but also your audience.

Secondly, for subject selection, you can explore new books, medical journals or articles related to nursing and patient care. Since patient care is a discipline that’s evolving continuously, therefore choosing a topic that talks about best nursing practices may take the crown. Here we will present an example of a topic related to nursing that may help you in this process:

Nursing care in Type-1 Diabetics

Having a topic that has plenty of research available will help you broaden your investigation into a multi-faceted one. If you choose a topic that can only accommodate narrow or single-sided research, it’s better to choose a new one. Your subject is your hallmark so you must choose one that helps you expand your knowledge base and skill set. After the selection of the topic, you should move on to the research section.

Start Your Investigation

Research in nursing paper is pivotal to your success. To start your investigation into your topic, you must take a deep dive into reading books to gather credible sources. A research can be divided into two or three sections depending on the nature of the investigation and requirements. Here we will discuss the research methods that students will employ in making their nursing papers .

Research Methods For Nursing Papers

The first step for students is to gather primary sources of research methods. This part includes reading books, journals, and articles directly related to your topic and its outcomes. Since it’s the most valuable part of your investigation, you should give it ample time for appropriate evidence collection. Primary research sources are the ones that are written by doctors or physicians, medical experts etc. Adding these pieces of evidence makes your assignment paper strong and authentic.

In cases where it’s impossible to acquire primary data, you may gather secondary research sources. Secondary sources or evidence is the one that is based on primary evidence, reviews, interviews and expert’s opinion are its examples.

Sometimes your topic requires you to add secondary evidence to support primary research or evidence. This is known as consolidating your arguments in academic practices. So it’s essential to add both research sources in your nursing paper.

For higher education in nursing subjects where they are working alongside medical professionals, adding tertiary sources of research is a plus. Your three-way research supports your arguments and covers all the logic to strengthen your stance on the subject.

After you collect primary, secondary and tertiary sources of research, organize them according to their category. This way you’ll know where to use these evidences and understand their effective usage.

Develop Your Thesis Statement

Researching provides you with ground for developing your thesis statement . Your thesis sentence is your short research-based answer on your research question. Without doing a good research, you won’t be able to compose it. After having sufficient information, you may narrow down the answer into a few lines. Your entire paper will be based on it. In making a thesis statement, do remember the following points:

• It should be between one or a maximum two lines
• Make it using persuasive words so your readers can grab the core idea without going through the entire content
• Place your thesis statement in the introduction paragraph
• Your entire paper must be based on your premise statement. Every argument and evidence should point to it.

After developing a thesis statement, you may start working on your paper’s content. A thesis sentence example may look like this if you’re working on your nursing paper.

“IDF (International Diabetes Federation) and ADA (American Diabetes Association) both agree that Type-2 Diabetics have three-fold risk of developing “Nephropathy” within five years of diagnosis”.

By following the above example, you can easily make a premise statement for your paper.

Write the Introduction Paragraph

The introduction part is where you need to make a difference. It’s the first writing part of your paper that will be seen and read by your professors and peers. Therefore, it must be good and thought-provoking. A nursing essay’s introduction contains three parts, a hook sentence, background information and a thesis statement. These parts of the intro’s outline are essential and help you present your opinion on the topic.

A hook sentence is the first sentence at the start of the paper and captures your reader’s attention quickly. It can be a quote, fact, historical information or thought-provoking statement. Its primary job is to make your readers stay on the page so they feel excited about the information you added in the paper.

Background information is where you provide information related to your topic’s history. Here you must inform your audience about the existence of the problem and the need for a solution. With historical context, it’s easy for your readers to understand the issue and show interest in finding its solution.

The last part is a thesis statement that we already talked about and it will be placed after providing a background to your readers. Let’s have a look at a nursing paper introduction example on “Diabetes”.

“According to the IDF (International Diabetes Federation) 90% of diabetics are suffering from CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease). From 1812 diabetes was classified as a disease but there was no information available related to its treatment and onset. In 1979 the classification and its mechanism was understood by physicians in America and the UK. Now diabetes is the leading cause of ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) around the world with more than 10 million deaths every year”.

Add Your Arguments in Body Paragraph(s)

The body part is where you must add your arguments and its supporting evidence. Your academic challenges start here and end here. An immaculate body paragraph guarantees your dominance over the subject under discussion. Medical students need to structure their papers in a specific, organized form that helps them convey their opinions.

Academic learners may start the body paragraph of their nursing assignment with a topic sentence that summarizes the entire content in one line. By reading this sentence, your audience knows what’s inside the paragraph and its content.

Key Points to Remember while composing body section

• Topic sentence should start your paragraph and must be relatable to your thesis statement.
• After writing this sentence, break it down and explain each point with evidence.
• Evidence that you’ve collected from books, journals, articles or online videos must be mentioned here. You must back your argument with this evidence collected from the sources mentioned above.
• Presenting evidence is not as important as analyzing it and proving your point. You might want to challenge the findings. Hence you must present your analysis on it.
• If you have plenty of evidence, add them one by one and comment on them similarly.
• Use transitions to connect two different ideas or continuation of your narrative.

Have a look at a mock example of a nursing research paper for a better understanding:

“Since the 1960s diabetes has caused a rapid increase in mortality and comorbidity in patients. On average, diabetics live 15 to 20 years less than non-diabetics. ADA (American Diabetes Association) conducted a study in 2001 that provides mean results that prove Diabetics live 8 years less than non-diabetics. Diabetes is the biggest reason for MI (Myocardial Infarction) and ACD (Acute Coronary Disease).

Moreover, Diabetes costs American insurance companies more than 25$ Billion every year in treatments. With continuous evolution in diagnostics and biotechnology in detecting early onset, diabetes is spreading rapidly. IDF (International Diabetes Federation) has predicted that by 2030, there will be a 12% increase in patients suffering from diabetes.

While many healthcare governing bodies like WHO, IDF, EASD and ADA are doing their best, it’s still not enough. UKPDS and ADVANCE-ON studies have shown quantitative results in which the majority of diabetics have no or less information regarding their disease. These results highlight the importance and value a “Diabetes Educator” can play in spreading valuable information to patients.

The benefits of a medical check-up with your physician are important, but a home visit by a diabetes educator can help in overcoming this pandemic. In France, it’s mandatory for patients to have a weekly home appointment with an educator. That’s a primary reason France has seen a 13% decline in hospitalization of diabetics in 2013.

Based on the above discussion, we can safely conclude that Diabetes is a global pandemic. Healthcare bodies are doing their best to curb its damages by issuing new guidelines and approval of new medicines such as “Semaglutide” , “DPP4” inhibitors and “Sulfonylureas”.  Along with physicians, diabetes educators can prevent the severity and further complications of this disease.

Add a Conclusion

A conclusion summarizes the paper’s discussion in one paragraph by a few techniques that we will mention here. To start a nursing assignment’s conclusion, you must restate your thesis statement and provide a connection between the intro, body and its ending. 

Secondly, a summary of the main discussion provides your audience with an overview of the entire story. Even if they missed an important point of the topic, they can read it in the summary of the main points. A conclusion provides you an opportunity for a last chance to persuade your readers and convince them of your stance. 

Common mistakes that might make your concluding paragraph powerless are mentioned below:

• Using repetitive words, same as used in the above paragraphs.
• Don’t force your audience but persuade them through evidence and their significance.
• Use new words but don’t change your narrative because changing the narrative will also change the context.
• A closing statement should not be your thesis statement but your personal opinion based on your research. Avoid repetition in making this part redundant.

An example of a mock conclusion

“In this paper we have seen multiple results that point to premature deaths in diabetics regardless of the medication used. Diabetes does result in complications like nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, macro and micro vascular complications. Role of primary care physicians, endocrinologists and diabetes educators is more important than anyone else. By making mandatory home visits, diabetes educators can help in managing diabetes and informing patients on the consequences of this disease.” 

Student attendants can follow this example and effortlessly write amazing research in nursing paper.

Choosing Appropriate Citation Style

The last part of writing a nursing research paper is choosing the appropriate citation style. This format style guides you on how to cite sources you’ve collected in APA or MLA. The most commonly used citation format is APA (American Psychological Association) and then MLA (Modern Language Association).

Nursing Papers Unveiled: Impact and Significance

Students need to understand the academic importance of nursing papers. These assignments played a significant role in their medical understanding and development of professionalism. Let’s discuss this topic thoroughly:

Importance of Nursing Papers in Student’s Life

Medical assignments are the most important factor in a student’s life. They help develop thoughts and provide opportunities to research and understand disease and its treatment. An assignment for medical nursing students plays the following role in their lives.

• Providing hands-on experience in understanding the subject matter from a practitioner’s point of view.
• It provides them with in-depth information on a particular topic and lets them brainstorm.
• Promotes medical knowledge that will be pivotal in their clinical practices and patient care.
• Enhancing problem solutions without wasting time.
• Understanding the critical needs of patients and managing them appropriately.
• Preparing students beforehand so they perform better in real-world or healthcare practice.
• Finding better treatment prophylaxis and helping in the continual improvement of medical care.
• Working with Medical Specialists and learning from their experiences

These are some of the important roles these medical assignments play in students’ lives.

Exploring Trending Nursing Paper Topics

If you’re searching for the best subjects for your nursing assignment, end your search here. Thoroughly check this list and choose any one of your likings that fulfills the criteria.

20+ Interesting Nursing Paper Topics

• Managing patients in an oncology ward
• Treatment for ACS (Acute Coronary Syndrome)
• How to care for a first-degree burn patient?
• Metabolic acidosis in CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) patients
• Five basic rules of blood transfusion
• Treatment prophylaxis for skin lesions
• Protocols for Covid-19 patients
• Use of PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) in medical facility
• Fundamentals of Dialysis Center
• DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) and its protocols of treatment
• Snake bites and use of anti-venom in standing urgent care and medical emergency
• Food poisoning and its treatment
• Supervision of cannabis usage in patients suffering from cancer
• Managing patient care in remote areas
• AIDS and patient care
• Orthopedic patient care and mobility issues
• Misuse of drugs by medical staff
• Responsibilities of nursing staff
• Sexual relationships between nurses 
• Clinical malpractices and how to avoid it
• Inaccurate physician’s assessment and tackling it 
• Rapid plasma glucose checkup
• Treating patients of STD (Sexual Transmitted Disease)
• Needs of rape victims in a healthcare facility
• Psychological support to patients 

Check this out, we have written 200 Nursing topics to help you better understand.

These carefully curated topics will help you find your niche in medical nursing assignments. Help yourself by choosing anyone and make a powerful impact on your class.

Integrating Evidence-Based Practice in Your Paper

It’s vital for students to establish evidence-based practice in nursing papers and create an effective plan to implement them in their work. There are many ways you can achieve the best results by following them:

• Take guidelines from CMDT (Current Medical Treatment & Diagnosis).
• Regularly visit the website of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) for new practice guidelines.
• Apply for membership in the Nursing and Allied Health Resources Section. You can get authentic resources of practice and take notes of them for using them in your assignment.
• Read CDC (Center for Disease Control) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) guidelines on different disease treatment protocols and latest trials.

You can easily apply evidence-based practice in nursing papers by visiting these sources.

Nurturing Ideas: Crafting Pediatric Nursing Papers

Pediatrics is a field of medical science that deals with treating diseases that affect children up to the age of 16 years. It’s the same as treating general patients who are adults but treatment protocols here change due to the less potent immune systems of children and neonates. Similarly, pediatric nursing papers are the backbone of innovation and new drug introduction. Nursing students who like to practice in the pediatric department need to work twice as hard as in the general medicine department.

Additionally, pediatric nursing papers present new challenges, and students must be able to withstand them. A small mistake can have catastrophic outcomes. Hence students are required to do 6 months of supervision work with trained nurses before they are allowed to practice alone.

Guide to Geriatric Nursing Papers

Similar to pediatrics, geriatrics nursing papers are equally challenging. In medical science, geriatrics deals with patients older than 60 or 65 years. These patients require special care because of their age and vulnerability to getting sick quickly due to weaker immune systems.

To make geriatric nursing papers with absolutely no mistakes, students must spend a few hours in this speciality. Students may take notes from their ward visits, review each case and brainstorm for the best treatment and care solutions. Students are more likely to adopt best practices by doing this every day.

Ethics in Nursing Papers: Navigating Moral Dilemmas

Composing medical assignments challenges your skills and knowledge and offers a view for moral perspectives. There are many ethical considerations in nursing papers that students must adhere to. These reservations include the following points:

• Always use scientific data from reputable sources.
• Never claim anything without properly identifying the nature and results of the research.
• Only use sources after getting prior authorization to use them in your nursing paper.
• Patient care always comes first, regardless of the nature or conflicts in medical treatment.
• Always acquiring and using patient data with signed and attested papers for research purposes and informing them of all the intricacies.
• Never copy data or details of other students’ work to use in your research paper unless your professor allows it.

Nursing learners must adhere to these ethical considerations in nursing papers. Following these principles and moralities serve their profession well and make them honest in their work.

Avoid These Mistakes While Writing Your Research Paper on Nursing

Students make many mistakes when they start a research paper on nursing. Some of the common ones are mentioned below:

• Using irrelevant data
• Not doing thorough research
• Not having enough understanding of the disease
• Making assumptions on disease prognosis without evidence
• Using proprietary research without authorization
• Selecting a topic out of discipline or nature of scope
• Using plagiarized content
• Adding disputed research with dubious record
• Non-adherence to academic rules and guidelines provided by your professor

Abstract Writing for Nursing Papers

An abstract is your summary of the entire research, it’s a concise 300 to 600 words section. Nursing paper abstracts are sometimes lengthier than typical research papers. Here is an example of this section:

“Diabetes causes various types of disease that range from macro and micro vascular ones to metabolic. This research paper has acquired data from IDF and EASD and came to a conclusion that more than 80% of patients suffer premature deaths and renal failures. The data acquisition method is quantitative with retrospective diagnosis and diagnostic tests such as eGFR, Random Blood Serum and Fasting Blood Serum Testing kits in use. Majority of the patients have elevated serum glucose level 240 mg/dl or above. eGFR of 92% patients was between 60ml/min that puts them on stage 3 CKD. It’s evident that diabetes causes mortality and renal failure.”

It’s hard for students to compose nursing paper abstracts from scratch. This mock example will help them in the long term.

Perfecting Your Nursing Paper: Editing and Proofreading

Editing and proofreading is the last thing you must consider when making last-minute changes to your content. Polishing your nursing paper helps you present your opinion clearly and concisely without vague statements.

Writing a nursing paper is only possible when students know all the medical details of this profession. Our guide provides you with sufficient medical details related to this subject. Read it carefully, and you’ll be able to create amazing assignments for medical class. This expert’s guide helps to overcome the gaps in this field by allowing students to jump-start the learning process.

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Nursing Research Paper

Sample Nursing Research Paper. Browse other research paper examples and check the list of nursing research paper topics for more inspiration. If you need a research paper written according to all academic standards, you can always turn to our experienced writers for help. This is how your paper can get an A! Also, check out our custom research paper writing service for professional assistance. We offer high-quality assignments at reasonable rates.

This sample nursing research paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted nursing profession, examining its historical development, theoretical foundations, and the current state of nursing education and practice. The paper delves into the evolution of nursing roles, the impact of significant figures in the field, and the progression towards advanced nursing practices. It also scrutinizes the ethical and legal frameworks that govern nursing, highlighting the importance of these considerations in daily practice. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges and opportunities that the future holds for nursing, including technological advancements, changes in healthcare delivery, and the ongoing development of nursing as a profession. Through a synthesis of scholarly literature, this paper aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the critical role nurses play in healthcare and the dynamic nature of nursing as it adapts to meet the changing needs of society.

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This sample nursing research paper seeks to clarify the domain of nursing within the broader context of healthcare, charting its historical progression and delineating the contemporary role of nurses within healthcare systems. Nursing, traditionally rooted in care and compassion, has evolved into a complex, evidence-based discipline integral to healthcare delivery (Alligood, 2017). Its domain extends beyond bedside care into realms of research, policy, and education, reflecting a breadth of influence on patient outcomes and healthcare efficacy.

The historical trajectory of nursing is rich and varied, with its modern form shaped significantly by the pioneering work of figures such as Florence Nightingale, whose emphasis on sanitary conditions during the Crimean War set a precedent for the integration of environmental factors in patient care (Dossey, 2010). As the profession has developed, so too have the educational and regulatory frameworks that support it, transitioning from informal apprenticeships to advanced degree programs and licensure requirements (Judd & Sitzman, 2014).

In contemporary healthcare systems, nurses function as the linchpin of patient services, providing not only direct patient care but also engaging in health promotion, disease prevention, and advocacy across a variety of settings. Their roles have expanded to include leadership positions where they influence healthcare policies and contribute to interdisciplinary teams aimed at improving healthcare quality and accessibility (Institute of Medicine, 2010). The role of nurses continues to adapt, driven by changes in healthcare needs, advances in medical knowledge, and shifts in societal expectations.

More Nursing Research Papers:

• Nursing Approaches to Pain Management
• Nursing Interventions for Chronic Illnesses
• Geriatric Care Challenges in Nursing
• The Role of Nursing in Mental Health Treatment
• Occupational Health and Safety for Nurses
• Emergency Nursing Procedures and Protocols
• Oncology Nursing and Patient Support
• Nursing Ethics in Genetic Counseling
• The Impact of Nursing on Hospital Readmissions
• Trauma and Critical Care Nursing Practices

Historical Context of Nursing

Influential figures have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of nursing. Florence Nightingale, often revered as the pioneer of modern nursing, introduced principles of hygiene and sanitation during the Crimean War, dramatically reducing mortality rates (McDonald, 2001). Her subsequent establishment of the first secular nursing school at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London set the foundation for formal nursing education. Another seminal figure, Clara Barton, known for her role in founding the American Red Cross, emphasized the importance of nursing in public health and disaster response (Pryor, 1988). These pioneers not only advanced nursing practice but also elevated the status of nursing to a respected profession.

The emergence and development of nursing education and professional standards have further defined nursing as a critical component of the healthcare system. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the establishment of nursing schools that not only imparted technical skills but also instilled a professional ethos. The American Nurses Association, formed in 1911, and the International Council of Nurses, established in 1899, began setting professional standards and advocating for the rights of nurses and the nursing profession worldwide (Dock & Stewart, 1938). As the 20th century progressed, nursing education expanded to universities, embracing scientific research and evidence-based practice, which has continued to elevate the profession’s standards and scope of practice.

Theoretical Foundations of Nursing

The theoretical underpinnings of nursing serve as the scaffolding for the profession, offering guidance and a framework for nursing practice, research, and education. Florence Nightingale’s Environmental Theory, which emphasizes the importance of the patient’s environment in healing, laid the groundwork for modern nursing theory (Nightingale, 1860). Subsequent nursing theories have expanded on this foundation, integrating concepts from health, personhood, environment, and nursing itself. For instance, Virginia Henderson’s Need Theory focuses on the nurse’s role in assisting patients to achieve independence and wholeness through the fulfillment of basic human needs (Henderson, 1966).

The utilization of these theories in clinical practice is not merely academic; it directly influences patient care. Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, for instance, centers on the relationship between patient and nurse and proposes that caring can promote health better than a simple medical cure (Watson, 1979). This theory has been employed in various healthcare settings, shaping patient-nurse interactions by fostering a holistic approach to care that encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The progression from basic nursing practice to advanced practice is also deeply intertwined with theoretical knowledge. Advanced practice nurses, including nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse anesthetists, draw upon a rich theoretical foundation to inform their decision-making and practice. For example, Patricia Benner’s Novice to Expert Theory outlines the stages of clinical competence, providing a framework for the continual growth and development that characterize the journey from novice nurse to expert practitioner (Benner, 1984). This theoretical model not only guides nurses in their personal professional development but also underscores the value of experience and education in delivering high-quality, nuanced patient care.

In essence, nursing theories are not static constructs but are dynamic and integral to the ongoing development of nursing as a science and an art. They provide a lens through which nurses can understand their practice, contribute to patient outcomes, and advance the field of nursing.

Nursing Education and Professional Development

Educational pathways and licensing for nurses.

The educational journey for nurses is a cornerstone of the healthcare profession, ensuring that the individuals caring for patients possess the necessary knowledge and skills. This journey typically begins with foundational programs that lead to initial licensure. Prospective nurses may choose between several educational pathways, such as diploma programs, which historically were the most common route, associate degree programs (ADN), which offer a balance of time-efficiency and thorough preparation, and bachelor’s degree programs in nursing (BSN), which have become increasingly favored in recent years (Institute of Medicine, 2010). The BSN programs, in particular, are gaining prominence due to research indicating that a higher level of education among nursing staff is correlated with better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and improved quality of care (Aiken et al., 2014). Following the completion of these academic programs, graduates must successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN for registered nurses) to practice as licensed professionals. This examination serves as a critical gatekeeper, ensuring that all practicing nurses meet a standardized competency level to provide safe and effective patient care.

Ongoing Education and Areas of Specialization within Nursing

The field of nursing is one characterized by lifelong learning, with ongoing education seen as both a professional responsibility and a personal commitment to excellence in patient care. Advanced practice nurses (APNs), including nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives, often require a master’s degree (MSN) or doctoral degrees (DNP or PhD) to specialize and practice independently or in advanced roles (Institute of Medicine, 2010). Specialized areas such as pediatrics, gerontology, oncology, and cardiac care not only require advanced knowledge but also specific clinical skills that are often acquired through additional certification programs and clinical practice hours. These specialized roles are integral to the healthcare system, providing targeted care that addresses the specific needs of diverse patient populations. The demand for specialization is anticipated to grow, particularly as healthcare becomes more complex and the population ages, necessitating a workforce adept in specialized care (Buerhaus et al., 2017).

Influence of Professional Nursing Organizations on Career Advancement

The role of professional nursing organizations is pivotal in fostering a nurse’s career development. These organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI), and the International Council of Nurses (ICN), provide members with access to a wealth of resources that are essential for professional growth and development. They offer opportunities for continuing education, professional networking, and leadership development, all of which are critical for career advancement (Matthews, 2012). In addition to educational benefits, these organizations advocate for the profession’s interests, influencing policy and legislation that affect nursing practice and healthcare delivery. Active participation in these organizations can elevate a nurse’s professional profile, open doors to leadership positions, and contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession as a whole.

In conclusion, nursing education and professional development are essential components of a robust healthcare system. As the demands of healthcare evolve, so too must the educational and professional development opportunities available to nurses. Ensuring that nurses have access to quality education and ongoing professional development is critical not only for their personal career advancement but also for the provision of high-quality patient care.

Ethical and Legal Considerations in Nursing

The practice of nursing is deeply entrenched in ethical and legal principles that guide the profession in providing safe, compassionate, and competent care to patients. Nursing ethics, a subset of bioethics, involves dilemmas and decisions nurses must navigate in their daily practice, often relating to issues such as patient autonomy, informed consent, confidentiality, and the allocation of healthcare resources (Fry & Johnstone, 2002). Nurses are commonly faced with ethical issues like end-of-life care decisions, handling cases of potential abuse, and respecting patients’ wishes even when they conflict with the family’s desires or the healthcare team’s opinions (ANA, 2015).

Legal responsibilities in nursing practice are equally important, as nurses must operate within the boundaries of the law to protect their patients, themselves, and their employers. In the United States, for instance, nurses must adhere to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which governs the confidentiality and security of patient health information (Annas, 2003). Furthermore, nurses are legally obligated to report any suspected abuse or neglect and must maintain a high standard of care to avoid negligence claims.

The critical nature of ethical decision-making and adherence to legal standards in nursing cannot be overstated. Ethical decision-making models can assist nurses in systematically approaching difficult decisions, allowing them to consider all aspects of a situation before taking action (Butts & Rich, 2013). The American Nurses Association’s Code of Ethics provides a foundational framework for nurses to carry out their responsibilities in a manner consistent with quality in nursing care and the ethical obligations of the profession (ANA, 2015).

In essence, the convergence of ethics and law in nursing practice serves as the bedrock upon which the integrity of the profession stands. It is imperative for nurses to continually educate themselves on ethical principles and legal requirements, which are ever-changing as societal norms evolve and new health care laws and regulations emerge.

Nursing Practice and Patient Care

Nursing practice encompasses a broad range of responsibilities that vary significantly across different healthcare environments. In hospitals, nurses are involved in direct patient care, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and collaborating with physicians to provide comprehensive care plans (Blegen, Goode, & Spetz, 2013). In community settings, nurses may focus more on health promotion and disease prevention, conducting screenings, and educational programs. In long-term care facilities, nurses often manage chronic conditions, support rehabilitation, and provide end-of-life care. The scope of practice is also influenced by state laws and licensure requirements, which delineate the level of autonomy a nurse has in performing procedures and making clinical decisions (Huston, 2013).

Nursing care methodologies are guided by the principles of evidence-based practice, which involves integrating clinical expertise with the best available evidence and patient preferences (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011). This approach ensures that nursing interventions are not only scientifically sound but also tailored to individual patient needs. For instance, patient-centered care models emphasize the importance of understanding the patient’s experience and values, leading to personalized care plans that can result in higher patient satisfaction and better adherence to treatment recommendations.

The impact of nursing on patient care outcomes is well-documented. Research has consistently shown that higher staffing levels of nurses with baccalaureate education are associated with lower rates of hospital-acquired conditions, such as infections, falls, and pressure ulcers, and lower patient mortality rates (Aiken et al., 2014). Furthermore, the presence of advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners, has been associated with improved management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, leading to better patient outcomes (Kleinpell et al., 2014).

In conclusion, the scope of nursing practice is diverse, adapting to the unique demands of various healthcare settings. Nursing care methodologies grounded in evidence-based practice are fundamental to delivering high-quality care. The positive effects of nursing on patient care outcomes underline the importance of investing in a well-educated nursing workforce and supporting nurses in their practice to ensure optimal patient care.

Advanced Nursing Practice

Responsibilities of advanced practice nurses (apns).

Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) are registered nurses who have achieved advanced levels of education and training. Their responsibilities extend well beyond those of a registered nurse (RN) and are characterized by a higher degree of clinical autonomy and expertise. Nurse Practitioners (NPs), one of the four primary APN roles, provide a full spectrum of healthcare services, including the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic illnesses. Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) offer expertise in specialized areas such as oncology, pediatrics, or geriatrics, and focus on improving health care systems and outcomes. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) provide anesthesia and related care before, during, and after surgical procedures, while Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) offer primary care for women, including gynecological and obstetric services (American Association of Colleges of Nursing [AACN], 2006).

APNs are expected to lead initiatives to improve health care quality and patient safety. They are involved in developing and implementing evidence-based practices, conducting research, and contributing to health policy. In primary care settings, NPs often serve as patients’ primary healthcare provider, coordinating care, counseling on preventive health measures, and managing overall patient wellness. This level of responsibility has proven particularly vital in rural and underserved urban areas, where APNs frequently serve as the most accessible health care providers (Stanley, 2005).

The Role of APNs in Healthcare Delivery and Patient Outcomes

The contribution of APNs to healthcare delivery is substantial, with research consistently demonstrating positive patient outcomes under their care. Studies have shown that patients under the care of NPs often experience lower hospital readmission rates, shorter hospital stays, and higher satisfaction with care. Similarly, CNSs have been shown to significantly improve patient outcomes through their expert interventions and system changes in specialty and acute care settings (Begley et al., 2010).

The role of APNs extends into the management of chronic diseases, where their patient-centered approach and emphasis on education and self-care have resulted in improved management of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory diseases. Their unique blend of clinical expertise and holistic care aligns well with contemporary healthcare delivery models that emphasize patient engagement and chronic disease management (Kaplan & Brown, 2017).

Regulatory Considerations for APNs

The regulatory framework for APNs is complex and varies by jurisdiction. In the United States, for example, the scope of practice for APNs is determined at the state level, leading to a patchwork of regulations that can vary widely. Some states grant “full practice” status, allowing APNs to evaluate patients; diagnose, initiate, and manage treatments; and prescribe medications independently. Other states have “reduced” or “restricted” practice, requiring collaboration, supervision, or team management by another health provider, such as a physician (Pearson, 2015).

Ongoing debates regarding the scope of practice for APNs often center on patient safety, access to care, and the utilization of the full capabilities of APNs. Proponents of expanding APN practice authority argue that such measures are essential to address the shortage of primary care providers, especially in underserved areas. Conversely, opponents express concerns about ensuring consistent quality of care across diverse healthcare settings (Auerbach et al., 2012).

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, it is likely that the roles and regulations governing APNs will also change. The future may see a greater harmonization of scope-of-practice laws to reflect the growing body of evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of APN care. Professional organizations like the AACN and the American Nurses Association (ANA) continue to advocate for the removal of practice barriers for APNs, emphasizing the need for healthcare policy to adapt to the modern realities of healthcare delivery and to optimize the contributions of these skilled professionals.

In summary, Advanced Practice Nurses hold crucial roles in the healthcare delivery system, with their advanced clinical skills and education significantly impacting patient care outcomes. As the demand for high-quality healthcare increases, the responsibilities and autonomy of APNs are likely to expand, necessitating a regulatory environment that supports their full contribution to patient care.

Challenges and Opportunities in Nursing

The nursing profession, while deeply rewarding, is not without its challenges. Contemporary issues in nursing span a variety of complex and interrelated themes, from addressing the nursing shortage to managing the stress and burnout associated with increasingly high patient loads and administrative duties (Kovner, Brewer, & Djukic, 2009). The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted these challenges, placing unprecedented demands on nurses and the healthcare system at large.

Despite these challenges, the future of nursing is ripe with potential for innovation and growth. Technological advancements are rapidly transforming healthcare, and with it, the nursing profession. Telehealth, electronic health records, and advanced medical devices are creating new realms of practice and opportunities for improving patient care. Nurses are poised to play a crucial role in the integration and optimization of these technologies within healthcare delivery (Risling, 2017).

The prospects for professional growth and leadership within nursing are also expanding. There is a growing recognition of the need for nurses to occupy decision-making roles in healthcare policy and administration. Leadership programs and doctoral education, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, are preparing nurses to lead change in healthcare, ensuring that nurses have a voice in shaping the policies and practices that affect their profession and the care of their patients (Institute of Medicine, 2010).

Furthermore, the push towards interprofessional education and collaborative practice models is creating new avenues for nurses to lead in the coordination of patient care. As patient advocates and care coordinators, nurses are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap among various healthcare disciplines, contributing to more holistic, patient-centered care (Institute of Medicine, 2010).

Nurses are also expanding their roles in public health, community outreach, and global health initiatives, addressing broader social determinants of health and working to reduce health disparities. The expertise of nurses in health promotion, disease prevention, and emergency preparedness is increasingly vital in the face of global health challenges such as pandemics, climate change, and population aging (Kovner et al., 2009).

In conclusion, while nursing faces a set of substantial challenges, the profession is also presented with numerous opportunities for innovation, growth, and leadership. The future will likely see nurses stepping into more diverse roles, leveraging technology to improve patient care, and taking on greater leadership in health policy and system design. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the nursing profession will remain an indispensable pillar, adapting to meet the changing needs of patients and communities worldwide.

Global Nursing and Healthcare

Nursing’s role in global health is both vast and essential, encompassing a wide range of activities from direct patient care to participation in policy development and implementation. Nurses are often at the forefront of international health initiatives, working with communities to address health concerns, improve access to care, and reduce health disparities. Their involvement is crucial in areas such as infectious disease control, maternal and child health, and non-communicable disease management. Global health nursing not only refers to the work done by nurses within their own countries but also includes their contributions on an international scale, such as through humanitarian relief efforts or health education programs in low-resource settings (Benton, Ferguson, & Pérez, 2016).

International nursing standards and practices are developed to ensure a consistent and high-quality level of nursing care across different countries and healthcare systems. These standards, often set by professional nursing organizations like the International Council of Nurses (ICN), guide the education, licensure, and practice of nurses globally. They serve as a framework for the delivery of culturally sensitive and evidence-based care and are integral to the advancement of the nursing profession worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) also contributes to setting global standards for nursing and midwifery, recognizing the critical role these professionals play in achieving international health goals (World Health Organization, 2020).

Cultural competence in nursing is increasingly recognized as a critical component of healthcare delivery in a globalized world. As populations become more diverse, nurses must be equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide care that respects cultural differences and values. This includes understanding how cultural backgrounds can influence health beliefs, practices, and patient interactions. Developing cultural competence involves a combination of education, self-awareness, and experiential learning, and is an ongoing process. Culturally competent nurses are better able to establish trust with patients, leading to improved health outcomes and patient satisfaction (Campinha-Bacote, 2011).

In summary, the impact of nursing on global health is profound and multifaceted. Nurses contribute significantly to healthcare delivery in diverse cultural contexts, and their role in the international healthcare landscape continues to expand. As they advocate for and implement global health initiatives, nurses are also instrumental in setting international standards and practices. Moreover, cultural competence remains a critical skill for nurses as they navigate the complexities of a global patient population. The future of global nursing is one of increased interconnectivity, cultural understanding, and collaboration across borders to meet the health challenges of the 21st century.

Nursing Leadership and Administration

Leadership theories applicable to nursing.

Leadership within nursing is not just a positional role but a pivotal function that influences healthcare delivery at all levels. Various leadership theories have been adapted to the nursing context to promote effective management and guide professional practice. Transformational leadership, which fosters an inspiring vision and encourages team members to exceed their own interests for the sake of the group or organization, is particularly resonant in nursing (Doody & Doody, 2012). This leadership style aligns well with the collaborative nature of healthcare, encouraging nurses to take initiative and contribute innovatively to patient care. Similarly, servant leadership, which emphasizes the leader’s role as a caretaker who prioritizes the needs of others, including team members and patients, is another model that has proven effective in nursing settings. It promotes a people-first approach, crucial in the patient-centered environment of healthcare.

Management of Healthcare Teams and Resources by Nurses

Nurse leaders are responsible for the management of healthcare teams, often navigating complex dynamics to ensure cohesive and efficient functioning. Effective team management involves conflict resolution, delegation, communication, and advocacy. Nurse administrators also play a critical role in resource management, which includes staffing, budgeting, and ensuring that the clinical setting is equipped to provide high-quality care (Marquis & Huston, 2015). They must be adept at balancing fiscal responsibility with the ethical imperative to provide the best possible patient care, which can involve making tough decisions about resource allocation in a healthcare landscape often characterized by scarcity and competing needs.

Strategic Planning for Nursing Quality Improvement

Strategic planning in nursing is essential to foster quality improvement and advance healthcare goals. Nurse leaders are integral to this process, as they help to set objectives, outline strategies, and implement plans that aim to improve patient outcomes and care delivery processes. Quality improvement in nursing can encompass a wide array of initiatives, from reducing hospital-acquired infections to improving patient satisfaction scores or streamlining discharge processes. Through the use of quality improvement models such as Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles or Six Sigma, nurse leaders can systematically analyze current practices, identify areas for improvement, and measure the impact of implemented changes (Sherwood & Barnsteiner, 2012).

In summary, nursing leadership and administration are critical to the functioning and advancement of healthcare services. Nurse leaders and administrators must be well-versed in leadership theories that can be applied effectively within healthcare environments. They are tasked with the important responsibilities of managing diverse healthcare teams, efficiently utilizing resources, and leading strategic initiatives for quality improvement. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the roles of nurse leaders and administrators become increasingly vital in shaping the future of patient care and nursing practice.

Technology and Innovation in Nursing

The integration of information technology into healthcare has had a transformative effect on the nursing profession. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have become a standard in modern healthcare facilities, significantly impacting the way nurses manage and record patient care. EHRs enhance communication between healthcare providers, improve access to patient information, and facilitate more accurate and efficient documentation (Hebda & Czar, 2013). Moreover, information technology has streamlined many processes, such as medication ordering and lab results retrieval, reducing the potential for errors and allowing nurses more time for direct patient care.

Telehealth has emerged as a rapidly expanding sector within nursing, propelled by advances in technology and the need for accessible healthcare. Telehealth nursing allows patients to receive care remotely, increasing access for those in rural or underserved areas. It also enables continuous patient monitoring and management of chronic conditions, improving patient outcomes while reducing hospital visits and readmissions (Rutledge et al., 2017). For nurses, telehealth has opened new roles and responsibilities, including serving as telehealth coordinators or specialists, requiring them to develop new skill sets for the effective delivery of remote care.

Innovation in nursing care is continually advancing, with new technologies being applied to improve patient outcomes and nursing workflows. Wearable health devices and sensors can now provide real-time data on patient vitals, allowing for immediate interventions when necessary. Robotics in nursing, although still in its early stages, is beginning to assist in tasks ranging from patient transport to surgery, potentially revolutionizing the future of nursing practice. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) applications in nursing are being explored for their ability to analyze vast amounts of health data to assist in clinical decision-making (Topol, 2019).

In conclusion, technology and innovation are driving significant changes in nursing practice, offering opportunities to enhance patient care and improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery. As the adoption of these technologies continues to grow, nursing education and professional development programs will need to evolve to equip nurses with the necessary competencies to thrive in a technologically advanced healthcare environment.

Public Health and Community Nursing

Community health nursing is a vital branch of nursing that focuses on the health needs of entire populations. It operates on the principles of social justice, equity, and the social determinants of health, aiming to provide and improve access to care, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. This practice is characterized by a holistic approach that considers the multifaceted aspects of health, including physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Community health nurses work in various settings, from schools and community centers to homes and neighborhood clinics, delivering care that is culturally sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of the community (Maurer & Smith, 2013). They engage in comprehensive care that includes health education, advocacy, and policy development to facilitate environments that promote good health.

Nurses play an integral role in public health initiatives, often serving as the primary link between healthcare systems and communities. They are involved in designing and implementing programs that target major public health concerns such as infectious diseases, obesity, substance abuse, and mental health. Their involvement is not limited to the provision of direct care but also includes policy advocacy and collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations to address health disparities and influence health policy (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2015). Public health nurses may also participate in emergency preparedness and response, playing critical roles in managing and mitigating the effects of natural disasters, epidemics, and bioterrorism threats.

The strategies employed by nurses in disease prevention and health promotion are grounded in evidence-based practice and public health science. Nurses conduct screenings and immunization clinics, provide counseling and education on healthy lifestyle choices, and support chronic disease management programs. They also utilize community assessment techniques to identify health risks and develop targeted interventions that can prevent disease and promote health across populations (Allender, Rector, & Warner, 2014). By focusing on prevention, nurses contribute to the reduction of healthcare costs and the burden of disease, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of the communities they serve.

In conclusion, public health and community nursing are essential components of the healthcare system, emphasizing prevention, health promotion, and the well-being of populations. Nurses in this field are advocates, educators, and leaders in health initiatives, committed to improving community health and shaping health policies. As society continues to face complex health challenges, the role of public health and community nurses will remain critical in fostering healthy and resilient communities.

Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice

The role of research in nursing practice development.

Research in nursing is pivotal for the development and enhancement of nursing practice. It forms the backbone of clinical decision-making, ensuring that nursing care is based on the latest and most reliable evidence. Engaging in research activities empowers nurses to validate and refine existing knowledge and to discover new insights into patient care, disease management, health promotion, and prevention (Polit & Beck, 2017). Moreover, nursing research drives the profession forward by fostering a culture of inquiry and lifelong learning among nurses. It enables practitioners to stay abreast of advancements in healthcare, thereby continually improving practices and patient care outcomes. This dedication to research also helps elevate the nursing profession by demonstrating the complexity and scientific rigor involved in nursing practice, which is critical for gaining recognition and respect from interdisciplinary team members and stakeholders.

Research Methods in Nursing

Nursing research encompasses a variety of methods tailored to the specific questions being addressed. Quantitative research methods, such as experimental and quasi-experimental designs, provide a means to test hypotheses and establish causal relationships. Surveys and epidemiological studies are also common quantitative methods that allow for the examination of trends, attitudes, and the prevalence of health-related issues within populations. On the other hand, qualitative research methods, including phenomenology, grounded theory, and ethnography, enable researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the human experience related to health, illness, and nursing care (Creswell & Creswell, 2017). These methodologies can reveal the complexities of patient behaviors, the meanings individuals ascribe to health experiences, and the social context of health and illness.

Mixed-methods research, which combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches, has gained popularity in nursing research. This methodological approach provides a comprehensive perspective, allowing for the exploration of multifaceted health phenomena. It enables nurse researchers to address research questions with a broader scope, enhancing the depth and breadth of understanding required to inform practice. By employing a mixed-methods approach, researchers can corroborate findings across different methods, increasing the validity and reliability of the results (Creswell & Creswell, 2017).

Application of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

The application of evidence-based practice (EBP) is a hallmark of modern nursing care. EBP involves a systematic process of appraising and incorporating the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences. It is an ongoing, dynamic process that requires the ability to ask relevant clinical questions, search for and critically appraise the literature, implement appropriate interventions, and evaluate outcomes (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011). The use of EBP allows nurses to provide care that is not only scientifically justified but also aligned with the values and needs of patients, resulting in higher quality and more personalized care.

Nursing education programs now emphasize the importance of EBP, equipping future nurses with the skills needed to integrate research findings into their clinical practice. Furthermore, many healthcare organizations have developed EBP guidelines and protocols to standardize care and ensure that all patients receive the most effective treatments. Nurse leaders and managers play a critical role in fostering an organizational culture that values EBP, by providing resources, facilitating training, and encouraging the dissemination and implementation of research findings.

Healthcare organizations that prioritize EBP often establish dedicated roles or departments focused on research and quality improvement. These departments work to translate research findings into practice, develop policies, and evaluate the impact of care interventions on patient outcomes. They also collaborate with academic institutions and research organizations to conduct clinical trials and other research studies within the clinical setting.

Challenges and Future Directions in Nursing Research and EBP

Despite the recognized value of EBP, there are several challenges to its full integration into nursing practice. These include a lack of time, limited access to research resources, and insufficient training in research methods and critical appraisal skills. Addressing these barriers is crucial for the advancement of nursing practice and requires a concerted effort from educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and the nursing profession itself.

The future of nursing research and EBP is promising, with advancements in technology providing new avenues for research dissemination and education. Online databases, digital libraries, and mobile applications are making research findings more accessible than ever before. Virtual reality and simulation technologies offer innovative ways to educate nurses on EBP and to evaluate the impact of care without risking patient safety.

As nursing continues to advance as a research-based profession, it is likely that more nurses will engage in research activities and contribute to the body of knowledge that underpins nursing practice. The integration of EBP into all levels of nursing care will continue to be a priority, ensuring that patients receive care that is not only compassionate and patient-centered but also empirically sound.

In summarizing the central themes of this comprehensive examination of nursing, it is clear that the nursing profession serves as a linchpin within the health sector. From the historical context to the modern evolution of nursing practices, this paper has underscored the dynamic and essential role that nurses play in patient care and the broader healthcare system. Nurses not only provide hands-on care but also engage in critical thinking, leadership, and advocacy that shape healthcare delivery and policy (Institute of Medicine, 2010).

The scope of nursing practice, as discussed, has expanded far beyond its traditional boundaries, now encompassing advanced practice roles, a commitment to public health, and a central role in global healthcare initiatives. Nurses are at the forefront of integrating evidence-based practice into clinical settings, ensuring that patient care is guided by the best available evidence and patient values. The profession has risen to the challenge of embracing technological advancements and innovations, from telehealth to sophisticated health informatics systems, which have revolutionized the way nursing care is delivered and documented (Huston, 2013).

Looking to the future, nursing is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and influence. As the demands of healthcare evolve with an aging population, emerging global health threats, and complex chronic health conditions, the need for skilled, compassionate, and innovative nurses is more pronounced than ever. The profession must continue to advocate for advanced education, research opportunities, and practice environments that enable nurses to practice to the full extent of their education and training.

Nursing’s future will also be characterized by a continued emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, as patient care becomes more integrated and team-based. Nurses will undoubtedly take on leadership roles in these teams, utilizing their expertise in patient care coordination and holistic care to improve health outcomes and patient experiences (American Nurses Association, 2015).

In conclusion, the field of nursing is not static but continually advancing, driven by research, technological innovations, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. As this paper has demonstrated, nursing is central to the health sector, and its future trajectory is one of greater impact, with the potential to shape the face of healthcare in the years to come.

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The Importance of Nursing Research

Nursing research has a tremendous influence on current and future professional nursing practice, thus rendering it an essential component of the educational process. This article chronicles the learning experiences of two undergraduate nursing students who were provided with the opportunity to become team members in a study funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research. The application process, the various learning opportunities and responsibilities performed by the students, and the benefits and outcomes of the experience are described. The authors hope that by sharing their learning experiences, more students will be given similar opportunities using the strategies presented in this article. Nursing research is critical to the nursing profession and is necessary for continuing advancements that promote optimal nursing care.

Throughout the 21st century, the role of nurse has evolved significantly. Nurses work in a variety of settings, including the hospital, the classroom, the community health department, the business sector, home health care, and the laboratory. Although each role carries different responsibilities, the primary goal of a professional nurse remains the same: to be the client's advocate and provide optimal care on the basis of evidence obtained through research.

Baccalaureate programs in the United States prepare students for entry-level nursing positions. The focus is to care for individuals throughout the human life span. Knowledge is acquired from textbooks, classroom and Web-based instruction, simulation, and clinical experiences. The goal of all programs is for students to graduate as safe, entry-level professionals, having received a well-rounded exposure to the nursing field. Students are exposed to evidence-based nursing practice throughout their curriculum; however, the allocated time for nursing research is often limited. Many programs require only one 3-credit hour course for nursing research. This amount of time is limited, despite the broad spectrum of nursing research and its influence on current and future nursing care.

Research is typically not among the traditional responsibilities of an entry-level nurse. Many nurses are involved in either direct patient care or administrative aspects of health care. Nursing research is a growing field in which individuals within the profession can contribute a variety of skills and experiences to the science of nursing care. There are frequent misconceptions as to what nursing research is. Some individuals do not even know how to begin to define nursing research. According to Polit and Beck (2006) , nursing research is:

systematic inquiry designed to develop knowledge about issues of importance to nurses, including nursing practice, nursing education, and nursing administration. (p. 4)

Nursing research is vital to the practice of professional nursing, and the importance of its inclusion during undergraduate instruction cannot be overemphasized. Only with exposure and experience can students begin to understand the concept and importance of nursing research.

The purpose of this article is to describe undergraduate students’ experiences of becoming aware of and participating in a federally funded research study from the National Institute of Nursing Research. As a part of funding for the study, which was an AREA award ( A cademic R esearch E nhancement A ward, R15 mechanism), there were designated opportunities for student involvement. The primary aim of the research study was to investigate the effects of gene-environment interactions on risk factors of preclinical cardiovascular disease in a cohort of 585 young adults who all had a positive family history of cardiovascular disease (i.e., essential hypertension or premature myocardial infarction at age 55 or younger in one or both biological parents or in one or more grandparents), verified in the medical record. Specific genes examined included cytochrome P-450, family 1, subfamily A, polypeptide 1; cytochrome P-450 2A; glutathione S-transferase mu 1; and glutathione S-transferase theta 1. Cardiovascular-dependent measures were diastolic blood pressure, endothelium-dependent arterial vasodilation, left ventricular mass indexed for body size, systolic blood pressure, and total peripheral resistance. The effects of ethnicity and gender were also explored.

Learning Opportunity

The learning process began with the principal investigator (M.S.T.) of the study visiting the junior class (class of 2007) of baccalaureate students at the Medical College of Georgia. This particular student group was chosen due to their academic standing because they would have the chance to take full advantage of learning directly from a nurse researcher for one full year before graduation. The principal investigator briefly presented and discussed the growing field of nursing research, the advancements made by nursing research, and the critical role of nursing research to nursing practice. The principal investigator also presented an overview of the funded research study and extended an invitation to students to apply for two part-time positions on the grant that were designed specifically for nursing student involvement. Students recognized the excellent opportunity and were intrigued with the future possibilities. They understood this option was unique and appeared to be a great pathway for becoming an active participant in learning the nursing research process through involvement in an official nursing research study.

The principal investigator established objective criteria for the application process. The criteria included writing a maximum 1-page essay sharing the reasons why the students wanted to join the research project as a team member and also sharing their personal and professional goals for involvement in the study. Many students were interested; thus, it was a very competitive process. The principal investigator reviewed the essays and selected approximately 10 prospective individuals for an interview. The interview was an extension of the essay. At the interview, the principal investigator further described the positions, provided a detailed overview of the grant, and had the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the student candidates. The students were encouraged to ask questions to further understand the expectations of the prospective opportunity. The interview also provided the students with increased exposure to the study's goal and more familiarization with the expectations of the funded positions.

After the interview process was completed, two individuals were selected, per the grant specifications. The selected individuals described the interview process as a positive experience that helped solidify their desire to become involved in the research study. The principal investigator emphasized that this job opportunity was designed to be a learning experience in which the students would be guided through the entire research study process and become members of a multidisciplinary team. Time responsibilities for each student included approximately 6 hours per week. The principal investigator communicated clearly that the nursing baccalaureate program was the first priority for the students, and thus provided a flexible work schedule.

Research Study Experience

The students began working in early april 2006. The first step in the work experience included 6 weeks of funded orientation. This was their first exposure to the research process; thus, it was important for the students to be provided with a strong foundation. Orientation included attending a team meeting and being introduced to the members of the multidisciplinary team (i.e., biostatistician, cardiologist, geneticists, nurse researcher, and psychologist, all of whom served as co-investigators, and the genetic laboratory personnel); reviewing the grant application; completing the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) (2000) ; completing the Roche educational program on genetics; and touring the worksite facilities. Reviewing the grant gave the students a better understanding of the specific aims and objectives of the study and the intended procedures of the genetic laboratory work in which the students would be involved. The complexity of the grant required the principal investigator to further explain and clarify specific details. The CITI training, which is required by the institution's Office of Human Research Protection, was completed online and took approximately 5.5 hours. The CITI program was presented in a tutorial format, and satisfactory completion of numerous quizzes was required. The task was tedious and time consuming, but valuable and essential, as it increased the awareness of the established codes of conduct for research. At the conclusion of the CITI training, the students understood the necessary policies and procedures for maintaining security and confidentiality of human subjects, the legal and ethical issues regarding the research process, and the essential procedures for research conduct.

Although the students had a basic understanding of genetics, they completed the Roche Genetics Education Program (2004) to gain a deeper understanding. The program was direct and easy to navigate and was excellent for all learning styles, as it contained both visual and auditory explanations. The explanations covered both basic and complex genetic concepts. Through the use of the genetics program, the students were able to comprehend abstract genetic details and to further understand the importance and influence of genetics on personal health. To conclude the orientation process, students were taught basic laboratory procedures, such as polymerase chain reaction and restrictive enzyme digestion, which were used to perform genotyping for the study. After these procedures had been observed several times, the students were given the opportunity to acquire hands-on experience with these laboratory techniques. Each of these components of the orientation process provided the students with the needed foundation for becoming involved in the research study.

After approximately 2 months of orientation, the students were ready to begin working in the genetics laboratory. One of the primary responsibilities of the students would be to further learn and become confident with genotyping techniques. The laboratory was shared among research personnel of several funded studies, with various research experiments being conducted concurrently. The students, under the supervision of the principal investigator and geneticist (H.Z.), also worked with experienced research assistants to perform the genotyping. The students maintained a daily log describing the laboratory genotyping procedures and experiments, and these logs were reviewed at team meetings. Although the actual procedure for polymerase chain reaction seemed straightforward, the students quickly learned that quality control must be used. Sometimes during genotyping, the DNA samples did not produce results. The students discovered that there are numerous contributing factors to successful polymerase chain reaction, such as quality of DNA templates, primer specifications, temperature settings, gel conditions, pipette measuring accuracy, and general laboratory techniques. Even the slightest error could result in permanent DNA sample loss, major experiment failure, or DNA sample contamination.

The students met with the research team members frequently to discuss and troubleshoot potential solutions and problem solve techniques that would foster improving the success rate and productivity of the genotyping. From the laboratory experience, the students learned that every detail must be considered and addressed precisely and meticulously when conducting experiments. Sometimes the process became frustrating, but the students soon discovered that patience and persistence were the most important attributes for a laboratory researcher to possess. The laboratory experience was an excellent hands-on learning opportunity. The students no longer viewed research as strictly information gathered from a journal or textbook, but rather as a physical act that required extreme concentration, dedication, and determination.

After spending numerous months in the laboratory performing the required genotyping, the students had the opportunity to be exposed to another role of a nurse researcher. They performed literature reviews regarding the study. Although the students had written papers in their nursing school program that required literature citations, they were not familiar with all of the library resources available to them. In no time, the students learned which library and online resources had the most validity and what would be the most relevant to their study. The literature search results provided the students and principal investigator with information on new studies that had been conducted on gene-environment interactions regarding tobacco smoke exposure and cardiovascular disease. From the literature review experience, the students learned the importance of being selective and time efficient. Often when a search was first begun, thousands of articles were listed, but the students learned the importance of narrowing the searches to the specific areas of focus. After the students completed their searches, they met with the principal investigator, who provided direction on the articles identified as the most relevant to the study.

The students continued working with the principal investigator during data review, analysis, and preparation of dissemination of the results (i.e., the publishing process). They helped to prepare an abstract submission of the study presented at an international meeting ( Tingen et al., 2007 ). They also helped with the preparation of manuscripts of the study results. By the conclusion of their work experience, the students will have been exposed to and participated in the entire research process.

Benefits and Outcomes

From the students’ perspectives, this opportunity was extremely beneficial. Prior to this experience, the students were not familiar with nursing research. Their original perception of research was that it was conducted by people with chemistry, biology, biochemistry, and genetic degrees in laboratories at major universities. They now realize that nursing and research can be combined and that optimal nursing care is dependent on the latest research findings. In addition, the students believe this opportunity has been beneficial in learning that nurse researchers are valuable to nurses in other settings. For example, one of the long-term goals of this research study is to develop appropriate interventions for children who are more susceptible to and at risk for the harmful effects of tobacco smoke due to their genetic heritage. The information obtained by a nurse researcher can be disseminated to nurses who work directly with the individuals to whom the research applies. Practice that has shown to be effective through research allows nurses to better advocate for patients and provide the best possible care. Although the majority of nurses who provide patient care will be consumers of nursing research, implementing evidence-based nursing practice is crucial to provide optimal nursing care. Information from nursing research has the potential to directly impact the care provided to patients in all health care settings.

Now that the students have had the opportunity to become more familiar with nursing research through involvement as team members, they recognize that their future professional possibilities are endless. Nursing research is an emerging and growing field in which individuals can apply their nursing education to discover new advancements that promote evidence-based care. They learned the research process and the important roles that each team member plays during the study phases of conception, design, implementation, analysis, and dissemination. Each aspect of the research process is important and contributes to the overall success of the study.

The students also discovered the benefit of trying new things. Prior to this experience, they had little exposure to the research process and nursing research. Consequently, they had to be receptive to learning and recognize that acquiring new knowledge was a gradual process. At times, the students felt anxious because all aspects were new, but they realized that without trying, they would never advance and feel comfortable with the research process. As the students reflected, they thought this was an excellent growing experience professionally, scholastically, and personally. In addition, this opportunity benefited the students’ peers through discussions and their sharing of work responsibilities, the research process, and the importance of evidence-based practice. As future nurses, the students are strong proponents of nursing research, and this experience has also broadened their horizons regarding future professional growth and opportunities. In addition, they have a better understanding of the importance of scientific evidence to support their clinical practice. As a result, the students thought that a stronger emphasis should be placed on nursing research in undergraduate baccalaureate education and that more students should have the opportunity to participate as team members in nursing research studies.

The students were almost one full year into nursing school and thought they had learned about all of the possibilities for their futures when they were first presented with this learning opportunity. They knew their future options were numerous and included working in acute care and community settings. They also realized they could further their education and pursue graduate degrees to include a master's degree and become an administrator, educator, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, or nurse practitioner, or potentially pursue a doctorate. They did not know there was an emerging and growing field in which their nursing education could be applied and furthered—the area of research and the role of becoming a nurse researcher. Prior to this experience, students perceived their possibilities for a professional career in nursing were tremendous. Now by being involved in the entire process of conducting a federally funded research study, they realized their future professional possibilities are limitless.

The authors of this paper hope that by sharing their experience, they will encourage both nursing faculty and nursing students to not only introduce the research process into the nursing curriculum, but also to consider making nursing research a tangible and more integrated process. They think that a more beneficial approach to the introduction of research may be achieved through incorporating research-related content into each nursing course throughout the educational process. This could be conducted in addition to the current curriculum plan of many schools of nursing that require a single and concentrated 3-hour research course with a goal of research becoming a positive experience for students that is enthusiastically received as a new learning opportunity. In addition, students who are involved as team members in a funded research study may be provided with scheduled classroom opportunities for making progress reports to their peers. Also, the students could field questions regarding the research project and their experiences. These activities may foster increased learning and interest about research among the students’ classmates.

As nursing students are the future members of the nursing profession, and for the profession to continue to advance, nursing research must be the foundation of comprehensive, evidence-based clinical practice. This may only occur with increased exposure to nursing research. Therefore, it is critical that the future members of the nursing profession be exposed to, develop an appreciation for, and become more involved in nursing research, and thus incorporate its outcomes into the delivery of optimal professional nursing practice.

Acknowledgments

The lead author was awarded a grant (NR008871) from the National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Nursing Research.

• Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative [April 14, 2006]; Office of Human Research Protection. The Medical College of Georgia. 2000 from http://www.mcg.edu/Research/ohrp/training/citi.html .
• Polit DF, Beck CT. Essentials of nursing research: Methods, appraisal, and utilization. 6th ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; Philadelphia: 2006. [ Google Scholar ]
• Roche Genetics Education Program [May 10, 2006]; Education. 2004 from http://www.roche.com/research_and_development_r_d_overview/education.htm .
• Tingen MS, Ludwig DA, Dong Y, Zhu H, Andrews JO, Burnett AH, et al. Tobacco smoke exposure and genetics: Youth at risk for cardiovascular disease.. Proceedings of the 13th Annual Meeting of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco.2007. p. 39. [ Google Scholar ]

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• Research article
• Open access
• Published: 09 November 2005

A qualitative study of nursing student experiences of clinical practice

• Farkhondeh Sharif 1 &
• Sara Masoumi 2  

BMC Nursing volume  4 , Article number:  6 ( 2005 ) Cite this article

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Nursing student's experiences of their clinical practice provide greater insight to develop an effective clinical teaching strategy in nursing education. The main objective of this study was to investigate student nurses' experience about their clinical practice.

Focus groups were used to obtain students' opinion and experiences about their clinical practice. 90 baccalaureate nursing students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery) were selected randomly from two hundred students and were arranged in 9 groups of ten students. To analyze the data the method used to code and categories focus group data were adapted from approaches to qualitative data analysis.

Four themes emerged from the focus group data. From the students' point of view," initial clinical anxiety", "theory-practice gap"," clinical supervision", professional role", were considered as important factors in clinical experience.

The result of this study showed that nursing students were not satisfied with the clinical component of their education. They experienced anxiety as a result of feeling incompetent and lack of professional nursing skills and knowledge to take care of various patients in the clinical setting.

Peer Review reports

Clinical experience has been always an integral part of nursing education. It prepares student nurses to be able of "doing" as well as "knowing" the clinical principles in practice. The clinical practice stimulates students to use their critical thinking skills for problem solving [ 1 ]

Awareness of the existence of stress in nursing students by nurse educators and responding to it will help to diminish student nurses experience of stress. [ 2 ]

Clinical experience is one of the most anxiety producing components of the nursing program which has been identified by nursing students. In a descriptive correlational study by Beck and Srivastava 94 second, third and fourth year nursing students reported that clinical experience was the most stressful part of the nursing program[ 3 ]. Lack of clinical experience, unfamiliar areas, difficult patients, fear of making mistakes and being evaluated by faculty members were expressed by the students as anxiety-producing situations in their initial clinical experience. In study done by Hart and Rotem stressful events for nursing students during clinical practice have been studied. They found that the initial clinical experience was the most anxiety producing part of their clinical experience [ 4 ]. The sources of stress during clinical practice have been studied by many researchers [ 5 – 10 ] and [ 11 ].

The researcher came to realize that nursing students have a great deal of anxiety when they begin their clinical practice in the second year. It is hoped that an investigation of the student's view on their clinical experience can help to develop an effective clinical teaching strategy in nursing education.

A focus group design was used to investigate the nursing student's view about the clinical practice. Focus group involves organized discussion with a selected group of individuals to gain information about their views and experiences of a topic and is particularly suited for obtaining several perspectives about the same topic. Focus groups are widely used as a data collection technique. The purpose of using focus group is to obtain information of a qualitative nature from a predetermined and limited number of people [ 12 , 13 ].

Using focus group in qualitative research concentrates on words and observations to express reality and attempts to describe people in natural situations [ 14 ].

The group interview is essentially a qualitative data gathering technique [ 13 ]. It can be used at any point in a research program and one of the common uses of it is to obtain general background information about a topic of interest [ 14 ].

Focus groups interviews are essential in the evaluation process as part of a need assessment, during a program, at the end of the program or months after the completion of a program to gather perceptions on the outcome of that program [ 15 , 16 ]. Kruegger (1988) stated focus group data can be used before, during and after programs in order to provide valuable data for decision making [ 12 ].

The participants from which the sample was drawn consisted of 90 baccalaureate nursing students from two hundred nursing students (30 students from the second year and 30 from the third and 30 from the fourth year) at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery). The second year nursing students already started their clinical experience. They were arranged in nine groups of ten students. Initially, the topics developed included 9 open-ended questions that were related to their nursing clinical experience. The topics were used to stimulate discussion.

The following topics were used to stimulate discussion regarding clinical experience in the focus groups.

How do you feel about being a student in nursing education?

How do you feel about nursing in general?

Is there any thing about the clinical field that might cause you to feel anxious about it?

Would you like to talk about those clinical experiences which you found most anxiety producing?

Which clinical experiences did you find enjoyable?

What are the best and worst things do you think can happen during the clinical experience?

What do nursing students worry about regarding clinical experiences?

How do you think clinical experiences can be improved?

What is your expectation of clinical experiences?

The first two questions were general questions which were used as ice breakers to stimulate discussion and put participants at ease encouraging them to interact in a normal manner with the facilitator.

Data analysis

The following steps were undertaken in the focus group data analysis.

Immediate debriefing after each focus group with the observer and debriefing notes were made. Debriefing notes included comments about the focus group process and the significance of data

Listening to the tape and transcribing the content of the tape

Checking the content of the tape with the observer noting and considering any non-verbal behavior. The benefit of transcription and checking the contents with the observer was in picking up the following:

Parts of words

Non-verbal communication, gestures and behavior...

The researcher facilitated the groups. The observer was a public health graduate who attended all focus groups and helped the researcher by taking notes and observing students' on non-verbal behavior during the focus group sessions. Observer was not known to students and researcher

The methods used to code and categorise focus group data were adapted from approaches to qualitative content analysis discussed by Graneheim and Lundman [ 17 ] and focus group data analysis by Stewart and Shamdasani [ 14 ] For coding the transcript it was necessary to go through the transcripts line by line and paragraph by paragraph, looking for significant statements and codes according to the topics addressed. The researcher compared the various codes based on differences and similarities and sorted into categories and finally the categories was formulated into a 4 themes.

The researcher was guided to use and three levels of coding [ 17 , 18 ]. Three levels of coding selected as appropriate for coding the data.

Level 1 coding examined the data line by line and making codes which were taken from the language of the subjects who attended the focus groups.

Level 2 coding which is a comparing of coded data with other data and the creation of categories. Categories are simply coded data that seem to cluster together and may result from condensing of level 1 code [ 17 , 19 ].

Level 3 coding which describes the Basic Social Psychological Process which is the title given to the central themes that emerge from the categories.

Table 1 shows the three level codes for one of the theme

The documents were submitted to two assessors for validation. This action provides an opportunity to determine the reliability of the coding [ 14 , 15 ]. Following a review of the codes and categories there was agreement on the classification.

Ethical considerations

The study was conducted after approval has been obtained from Shiraz university vice-chancellor for research and in addition permission to conduct the study was obtained from Dean of the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery. All participants were informed of the objective and design of the study and a written consent received from the participants for interviews and they were free to leave focus group if they wish.

Most of the students were females (%94) and single (% 86) with age between 18–25.

The qualitative analysis led to the emergence of the four themes from the focus group data. From the students' point of view," initial clinical anxiety", "theory-practice gap", clinical supervision"," professional role", was considered as important factors in clinical experience.

Initial clinical anxiety

This theme emerged from all focus group discussion where students described the difficulties experienced at the beginning of placement. Almost all of the students had identified feeling anxious in their initial clinical placement. Worrying about giving the wrong information to the patient was one of the issues brought up by students.

One of the students said:

On the first day I was so anxious about giving the wrong information to the patient. I remember one of the patients asked me what my diagnosis is. ' I said 'I do not know', she said 'you do not know? How can you look after me if you do not know what my diagnosis is?'

From all the focus group sessions, the students stated that the first month of their training in clinical placement was anxiety producing for them.

One of the students expressed:

The most stressful situation is when we make the next step. I mean ... clinical placement and we don't have enough clinical experience to accomplish the task, and do our nursing duties .

Almost all of the fourth year students in the focus group sessions felt that their stress reduced as their training and experience progressed.

Another cause of student's anxiety in initial clinical experience was the students' concern about the possibility of harming a patient through their lack of knowledge in the second year.

One of the students reported:

In the first day of clinical placement two patients were assigned to me. One of them had IV fluid. When I introduced myself to her, I noticed her IV was running out. I was really scared and I did not know what to do and I called my instructor .

Fear of failure and making mistakes concerning nursing procedures was expressed by another student. She said:

I was so anxious when I had to change the colostomy dressing of my 24 years old patient. It took me 45 minutes to change the dressing. I went ten times to the clinic to bring the stuff. My heart rate was increasing and my hand was shaking. I was very embarrassed in front of my patient and instructor. I will never forget that day .

Sellek researched anxiety-creating incidents for nursing students. He suggested that the ward is the best place to learn but very few of the learner's needs are met in this setting. Incidents such as evaluation by others on initial clinical experience and total patient care, as well as interpersonal relations with staff, quality of care and procedures are anxiety producing [ 11 ].

Theory-practice gap

The category theory-practice gap emerged from all focus discussion where almost every student in the focus group sessions described in some way the lack of integration of theory into clinical practice.

I have learnt so many things in the class, but there is not much more chance to do them in actual settings .

Another student mentioned:

When I just learned theory for example about a disease such as diabetic mellitus and then I go on the ward and see the real patient with diabetic mellitus, I relate it back to what I learned in class and that way it will remain in my mind. It is not happen sometimes .

The literature suggests that there is a gap between theory and practice. It has been identified by Allmark and Tolly [ 20 , 21 ]. The development of practice theory, theory which is developed from practice, for practice, is one way of reducing the theory-practice gap [ 21 ]. Rolfe suggests that by reconsidering the relationship between theory and practise the gap can be closed. He suggests facilitating reflection on the realities of clinical life by nursing theorists will reduce the theory-practice gap. The theory- practice gap is felt most acutely by student nurses. They find themselves torn between the demands of their tutor and practising nurses in real clinical situations. They were faced with different real clinical situations and are unable to generalise from what they learnt in theory [ 22 ].

Clinical supervision

Clinical supervision is recognised as a developmental opportunity to develop clinical leadership. Working with the practitioners through the milieu of clinical supervision is a powerful way of enabling them to realize desirable practice [ 23 ]. Clinical nursing supervision is an ongoing systematic process that encourages and supports improved professional practice. According to Berggren and Severinsson the clinical nurse supervisors' ethical value system is involved in her/his process of decision making. [ 24 , 25 ]

Clinical Supervision by Head Nurse (Nursing Unit Manager) and Staff Nurses was another issue discussed by the students in the focus group sessions. One of the students said:

Sometimes we are taught mostly by the Head Nurse or other Nursing staff. The ward staff are not concerned about what students learn, they are busy with their duties and they are unable to have both an educational and a service role

Another student added:

Some of the nursing staff have good interaction with nursing students and they are interested in helping students in the clinical placement but they are not aware of the skills and strategies which are necessary in clinical education and are not prepared for their role to act as an instructor in the clinical placement

The students mostly mentioned their instructor's role as an evaluative person. The majority of students had the perception that their instructors have a more evaluative role than a teaching role.

The literature suggests that the clinical nurse supervisors should expressed their existence as a role model for the supervisees [ 24 ]

Professional role

One view that was frequently expressed by student nurses in the focus group sessions was that students often thought that their work was 'not really professional nursing' they were confused by what they had learned in the faculty and what in reality was expected of them in practice.

We just do basic nursing care, very basic . ... You know ... giving bed baths, keeping patients clean and making their beds. Anyone can do it. We spend four years studying nursing but we do not feel we are doing a professional job .

The role of the professional nurse and nursing auxiliaries was another issue discussed by one of the students:

The role of auxiliaries such as registered practical nurse and Nurses Aids are the same as the role of the professional nurse. We spend four years and we have learned that nursing is a professional job and it requires training and skills and knowledge, but when we see that Nurses Aids are doing the same things, it can not be considered a professional job .

The result of student's views toward clinical experience showed that they were not satisfied with the clinical component of their education. Four themes of concern for students were 'initial clinical anxiety', 'theory-practice gap', 'clinical supervision', and 'professional role'.

The nursing students clearly identified that the initial clinical experience is very stressful for them. Students in the second year experienced more anxiety compared with third and fourth year students. This was similar to the finding of Bell and Ruth who found that nursing students have a higher level of anxiety in second year [ 26 , 27 ]. Neary identified three main categories of concern for students which are the fear of doing harm to patients, the sense of not belonging to the nursing team and of not being fully competent on registration [ 28 ] which are similar to what our students mentioned in the focus group discussions. Jinks and Patmon also found that students felt they had an insufficiency in clinical skills upon completion of pre-registration program [ 29 ].

Initial clinical experience was the most anxiety producing part of student clinical experience. In this study fear of making mistake (fear of failure) and being evaluated by faculty members were expressed by the students as anxiety-producing situations in their initial clinical experience. This finding is supported by Hart and Rotem [ 4 ] and Stephens [ 30 ]. Developing confidence is an important component of clinical nursing practice [ 31 ]. Development of confidence should be facilitated by the process of nursing education; as a result students become competent and confident. Differences between actual and expected behaviour in the clinical placement creates conflicts in nursing students. Nursing students receive instructions which are different to what they have been taught in the classroom. Students feel anxious and this anxiety has effect on their performance [ 32 ]. The existence of theory-practice gap in nursing has been an issue of concern for many years as it has been shown to delay student learning. All the students in this study clearly demonstrated that there is a gap between theory and practice. This finding is supported by other studies such as Ferguson and Jinks [ 33 ] and Hewison and Wildman [ 34 ] and Bjork [ 35 ]. Discrepancy between theory and practice has long been a source of concern to teachers, practitioners and learners. It deeply rooted in the history of nurse education. Theory-practice gap has been recognised for over 50 years in nursing. This issue is said to have caused the movement of nurse education into higher education sector [ 34 ].

Clinical supervision was one of the main themes in this study. According to participant, instructor role in assisting student nurses to reach professional excellence is very important. In this study, the majority of students had the perception that their instructors have a more evaluative role than a teaching role. About half of the students mentioned that some of the head Nurse (Nursing Unit Manager) and Staff Nurses are very good in supervising us in the clinical area. The clinical instructor or mentors can play an important role in student nurses' self-confidence, promote role socialization, and encourage independence which leads to clinical competency [ 36 ]. A supportive and socialising role was identified by the students as the mentor's function. This finding is similar to the finding of Earnshaw [ 37 ]. According to Begat and Severinsson supporting nurses by clinical nurse specialist reported that they may have a positive effect on their perceptions of well-being and less anxiety and physical symptoms [ 25 ].

The students identified factors that influence their professional socialisation. Professional role and hierarchy of occupation were factors which were frequently expressed by the students. Self-evaluation of professional knowledge, values and skills contribute to the professional's self-concept [ 38 ]. The professional role encompasses skills, knowledge and behaviour learned through professional socialisation [ 39 ]. The acquisition of career attitudes, values and motives which are held by society are important stages in the socialisation process [ 40 ]. According to Corwin autonomy, independence, decision-making and innovation are achieved through professional self-concept 41 . Lengacher (1994) discussed the importance of faculty staff in the socialisation process of students and in preparing them for reality in practice. Maintenance and/or nurturance of the student's self-esteem play an important role for facilitation of socialisation process 42 .

One view that was expressed by second and third year student nurses in the focus group sessions was that students often thought that their work was 'not really professional nursing' they were confused by what they had learned in the faculty and what in reality was expected of them in practice.

The finding of this study and the literature support the need to rethink about the clinical skills training in nursing education. It is clear that all themes mentioned by the students play an important role in student learning and nursing education in general. There were some similarities between the results of this study with other reported studies and confirmed that some of the factors are universal in nursing education. Nursing students expressed their views and mentioned their worry about the initial clinical anxiety, theory-practice gap, professional role and clinical supervision. They mentioned that integration of both theory and practice with good clinical supervision enabling them to feel that they are enough competent to take care of the patients. The result of this study would help us as educators to design strategies for more effective clinical teaching. The results of this study should be considered by nursing education and nursing practice professionals. Faculties of nursing need to be concerned about solving student problems in education and clinical practice. The findings support the need for Faculty of Nursing to plan nursing curriculum in a way that nursing students be involved actively in their education.

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Nursing Case Study Jessica’s Suicide

This essay about a nursing case study investigates the tragic suicide of Jessica, a young patient with a history of severe depression and anxiety. It critically examines the factors contributing to her death, emphasizing the need for vigilant mental health care and responsive adjustments in treatment based on a patient’s changing emotional state. The analysis points out failures in communication within the healthcare team and inadequate family involvement, suggesting that better informed support networks could prevent similar crises. The essay advocates for integrated care approaches, including psychological, psychiatric, and social support, to enhance patient-centered care and potentially save lives. This reflective analysis underscores the importance of training and awareness in healthcare settings to better manage and support patients experiencing mental health challenges.

How it works

Suicide is a critical public health issue that necessitates comprehensive understanding and sensitive intervention, particularly within the healthcare setting. This analysis delves into a poignant nursing case study centered around Jessica, a young patient who tragically ended her life. By examining Jessica’s case, we aim to shed light on the complex interplay of mental health challenges and the healthcare strategies that could potentially mitigate such devastating outcomes.

Jessica, a 24-year-old female, had been battling severe depression and anxiety for several years.

Her medical history reveals multiple previous attempts at suicide, each coinciding with periods of extreme emotional distress. Jessica’s situation underscores a critical aspect of mental health care: the necessity for vigilant, ongoing assessments and interventions tailored to individual patient histories and circumstances.

Upon her last admission to the hospital, Jessica appeared particularly withdrawn and despondent. Nursing notes indicated that she expressed feelings of hopelessness and a decreased interest in engaging with both staff and her own family members. Despite these clear warning signs, the response from the healthcare team was not sufficiently tailored to her acute need for intensive psychological support. This case points to the first significant lesson: the importance of responsive care adjustments based on a patient’s evolving emotional and psychological state.

One pivotal factor in Jessica’s care was the communication between her nurses and the broader psychiatric team. Effective communication in healthcare settings is crucial and can often be the deciding factor in preventing a crisis. For Jessica, the lapse in conveying critical information about her worsening depressive state and potential suicidal ideation might have contributed to the lack of timely interventions. Therefore, enhancing communication protocols within hospital settings could serve as a preventive measure, ensuring that all team members are aware of a patient’s current mental health status and are acting accordingly.

Additionally, Jessica’s case highlights the role of family involvement in managing mental health crises. It appears that her family was not fully aware of the gravity of her condition nor the potential for imminent risk. Increasing family engagement and education about mental health conditions could bridge this gap, providing a support system that is more attuned and responsive to the patient’s needs.

In addressing these issues, healthcare providers can learn from Jessica’s case to better manage similar situations. Implementing routine and more detailed psychological evaluations can help identify at-risk individuals before a crisis occurs. Training for nursing staff in recognizing the subtleties of mental health deterioration and the importance of assertive communication can also be crucial.

Furthermore, integrating multidisciplinary approaches that include psychological, psychiatric, and social support can create a more holistic care model. Such integration ensures that patients like Jessica receive not only medical treatment but also comprehensive psychosocial support, potentially alleviating the sense of isolation and despair that can lead to suicide.

Finally, healthcare institutions must foster an environment where mental health care is prioritized and where all staff members are equipped with the necessary tools and training to effectively intervene. This requires ongoing education and awareness programs that emphasize the complexities of mental health issues and the critical role of tailored, patient-centered care.

Jessica’s tragic outcome serves as a somber reminder of what might happen when systemic and individual care components fail to adequately align with the needs of those at risk. Through this case study, we learn the invaluable lessons of vigilance, communication, and an integrated approach to mental health within the nursing profession. It is only through such committed efforts that we can hope to prevent such losses in the future and better support our patients through their most challenging times.

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