Nursing's search for scientific knowledge.

This analysis describes the characteristics of nursing research today, and identifies trends and changes in research over the past three decades. A sample was drawn from four nursing research journals of 137 substantive studies, 14 published in 1952-53, 20 in 1960, 40 in 1970, and 63 in 1980. The analysis revealed that over this period nursing research (1) increased substantially in amount; (2) became more clinically focused; (3) demonstrated a greater theoretical orientation; and (4) became more sophisticated and sound in methods employed. Among the limitations noted were insufficient conceptualization and the failure to build a cumulative science. Suggestions are offered for future research.