BACKGROUND: In spite of the growing body of literature, the reality of getting research into practice remains problematic. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to establish contemporary levels of research awareness among nurses in Ireland. POPULATION, SAMPLE, SETTING: A random sample of 234 registered nurses (RNs). METHODS: A self-report survey Research Awareness Questionnaire (RAQ) was used to collect data in March 2005. RESULTS: Most agreed (92%) that research can improve patient care and 93% agreed that it is the way forward to change clinical practice. Most nurses' perceived research as being integral to their role. However, 71% of the nurses within the present study indicated that they had insufficient support and encouragement from peers and professionals. Similarly, 69.2% indicated insufficient support from management. CONCLUSIONS: Consistent with other countries, nurses in Ireland have a positive attitude towards evidence-based nursing but face many obstacles which include a lack of time, support, knowledge and confidence. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Nurse managers have a vital role in the use and dissemination of research among staff. It is imperative that nurse managers have clinical expertise, research awareness training, and awareness to promote research-based practice and attempt to provide positive role modelling in addition to protected time for research efforts.
BACKGROUND: In spite of the growing body of literature, the reality of getting research into practice remains problematic. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to establish contemporary levels of research awareness among nurses in Ireland. POPULATION, SAMPLE, SETTING: A random sample of 234 registered nurses (RNs). METHODS: A self-report survey Research Awareness Questionnaire (RAQ) was used to collect data in March 2005. RESULTS: Most agreed (92%) that research can improve patient care and 93% agreed that it is the way forward to change clinical practice. Most nurses' perceived research as being integral to their role. However, 71% of the nurses within the present study indicated that they had insufficient support and encouragement from peers and professionals. Similarly, 69.2% indicated insufficient support from management. CONCLUSIONS: Consistent with other countries, nurses in Ireland have a positive attitude towards evidence-based nursing but face many obstacles which include a lack of time, support, knowledge and confidence. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Nurse managers have a vital role in the use and dissemination of research among staff. It is imperative that nurse managers have clinical expertise, research awareness training, and awareness to promote research-based practice and attempt to provide positive role modelling in addition to protected time for research efforts.