Nursing research is spelled with the phonetic transcription /ˈnɜːrsɪŋ ˈrɛsɜːrtʃ/, according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable /ˈnɜːrsɪŋ/ represents the long "ur" sound, while the second syllable /ˈrɛsɜːrtʃ/ includes the soft "s" sound and the "sh" sound as well. Nurses who conduct research use methods such as surveys, interviews, and experiments to gather data that can be used to improve patient care and advance the field of nursing.
Nursing research can be defined as a systematic methodical investigation that seeks to generate new knowledge and expand the understanding of the nursing profession. It is a crucial component of evidence-based practice, aimed at improving the quality of patient care, developing nursing theories, and influencing policy and practice guidelines in the healthcare field.
Nursing research involves a systematic process of inquiry that is guided by scientific methodologies. It encompasses the identification of research questions, formulation of hypotheses, collection and analysis of data, and interpretation of findings. The data can be gathered through a variety of methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, and experiments, ensuring the reliability and validity of the research.
The primary objectives of nursing research are to identify gaps in knowledge within the nursing profession, evaluate the effectiveness of healthcare interventions, explore the experiences and perspectives of patients, families, and healthcare providers, and develop evidence-based guidelines for nursing practice. By conducting research, nurses are able to contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge, improve healthcare outcomes, and provide evidence-based care that is founded on the best available evidence.
Nursing research plays a vital role in the continuous professional development of nurses, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and critical thinking. It empowers nurses to question existing practices, challenge assumptions, and contribute to the generation of new knowledge that is essential for improving patient care and healthcare outcomes.
The word "nursing" originated from the Old English word "nurisunge", which meant "nourishment" or "effort to foster growth". The term "research" is derived from the Middle French word "recerche", which means "search closely", or from the Old French word "recherche", meaning "to search".
When used together, "nursing research" refers to the systematic investigation and study of phenomena related to nursing care, patients' experiences, and healthcare practices, with the goal of enhancing evidence-based nursing practice. The term emerged in the early 20th century, as nursing science began to establish itself as a distinct field within the broader healthcare landscape.