What influences specialist palliative care nurses working in a community setting to engage with research?

AIMS

The aim of this research was to understand what influences specialist palliative care nurses working in a community setting to engage with research.

METHODS

Qualitative research using interviews with community based clinical nurse specialists (CNS).

FINDINGS

A total of five themes were identified: research negativity and enthusiasm, clinical focus, audits, organisational support and keeping up to date.

CONCLUSION

Except for audit activity, CNS do not view the research pillar as an integral part of their clinical role. Previous research education may not give the CNS the breadth of research skills that they require. The advance professional apprenticeship may resolve these education issues. Managers and organisations need to prioritise EBP skills; supporting nurses with both education and EBP mentors to develop these skills. Nurses require ongoing time to engage with research activity and use these skills to improve both their own clinical practice and those who use them as a research resource.