Authors

  1. McLaughlin, Maureen Kirkpatrick PhD, RN
  2. Speroni, Karen Gabel PhD, RN
  3. Kelly, Katherine Patterson PhD, RN
  4. Guzzetta, Cathie E. PhD, RN, FAAN
  5. Desale, Sameer MS

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe program requirements and scholarly outcomes for registered nurse (RN)-led research in US hospitals.

 

BACKGROUND: Magnet(R) recognition emphasis on evidence-based practice and research has stimulated the growth of hospital-based nursing research programs. Hospital policies stipulating whether RNs can lead studies as principal investigators (PIs) varied among members of a regional nursing research consortium.

 

METHODS: Members of the consortium conducted a national survey of hospitals regarding their requirements for RN-led research and associated scholarly outcomes.

 

RESULTS: Most (87.1%) of the hospitals (N = 160) reported no minimum educational requirements for nurses to be PIs. Mentoring, training, and peer review/approval requirements differed between Magnet and non-Magnet hospitals. On average, hospitals reported an annual total of 4 studies initiated, 4 disseminated via podium or poster presentation, 1 published, and 2 funded.

 

CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study provide a prototype and benchmark information for nursing administrators planning to establish, evaluate, and/or expand nursing research programs.