Nursing students and clinical nurses’ perception of research and the role of the clinical research nurse

Background: The nursing profession has made great strides during the last century. Roles such as the clinical research nurse (CRN) have been developed and research is widely recognised as a vital component of the healthcare field. Hospitals involved in clinical nursing research can improve patient outcomes, increase staff and patient satisfaction and reduce hospital costs. Aim: The aim of this literature review is to analyse nurses and nursing students’ perception towards research, with focus on the available career progression for nurses in research. Method: A comprehensive search of literature on ASSIA, CINAHIL, PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases was conducted to obtain relevant articles related to the perception of nurses and nursing students towards research. Results: A total of 31 articles were selected for analysis following review. Three key themes were identified: nurses’ perception towards research; nursing students’ perception towards research; and career progression and job satisfaction. Conclusions: Involvement in research has helped nurses integrate evidence-based practice into their work. This has helped empower nurses to make positive change and develop their skills and knowledge. Unfortunately, research is still considered by many to be a ‘doctor’ field, and nurses have various difficulties accessing funding and education. Research education is vital to building the basic principles of nursing research and creating a positive attitude and perception around research. A change in culture is required to standardise research into university education, increase students’ perceptions and confidence in research, and help nurses incorporate valid evidence-based recommendations into practice.