Module Title: Historical Perspectives of Nursing Research

By

GLENN A. GUIRA, PhD, RN, LPT

Associate Professor

Module Overview
This module delves into the essential roles of nurses in research, tracing the evolution of
nursing research over time, and exploring the various paradigms that guide nursing research
methodologies. By the end of the module, students will have a comprehensive understanding of
the pivotal role nurses play in advancing healthcare through research and the changing landscape
of nursing research paradigms.

Module Duration: Week 2

Module Objectives:

By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

1. Trace the historical evolution of nursing research, highlighting key milestones, influential
studies, and notable contributions that have shaped the field over time.
2. Understand the progression of nursing research practices and their impact on healthcare
delivery and patient outcomes.

Module Outline:

Week 2: Roles in Nurses in Research

Lesson 1: Roles in Nurses in Research

Overview of various roles nurses assume in research, including investigator, collaborator,

data collector, and participant advocate.

Nurses play multifaceted and crucial roles in the realm of research, contributing their
expertise and insights to advance scientific knowledge and improve healthcare practices. Within
the context of research, nurses take on diverse responsibilities that collectively contribute to the
success of studies, the generation of evidence, and the enhancement of patient care. The
following is an elaborate overview of the various roles, nurses assume in research:

1. Investigator: As investigators, nurses actively engage in the design, planning, and

implementation of research studies. They identify research questions, formulate
hypotheses, and develop research protocols that align with healthcare needs and
 priorities. Nurses' clinical expertise helps shape research methodologies that are practical
and relevant to patient care. Throughout the research process, nurse investigators ensure
that ethical considerations, patient safety, and research integrity are maintained. They
collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to collect, analyze, and interpret data,
contributing insights that bridge the gap between research and clinical practice.

2. Collaborator: Nurses collaborate with researchers, clinicians, and other healthcare

professionals to foster interdisciplinary teamwork and ensure that research projects
address complex healthcare challenges. Collaboration enables nurses to contribute their
practical insights, clinical knowledge, and patient-centered perspectives to research
endeavors. By working collaboratively, nurses help create well-rounded research
initiatives that consider various dimensions of patient care, thereby enhancing the overall
quality and impact of the research outcomes.

3. Data Collector: Nurses often play a pivotal role in data collection, ensuring the accurate
and systematic gathering of information from patients, participants, or healthcare settings.
They administer surveys, conduct interviews, perform clinical assessments, and
document observations—all while adhering to established research protocols. Nurses'
attention to detail, clinical expertise, and patient rapport contribute to the reliability and
validity of the collected data. Rigorous data collection, carried out by nurses, forms the
foundation for generating meaningful insights and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

4. Participant Advocate: In the role of participant advocate, nurses prioritize the well-being
and rights of research participants. They ensure that participants fully understand the
study's purpose, procedures, and potential risks, and they obtain informed consent before
participation. Throughout the study, nurses advocate for participants' rights, safety, and
dignity, addressing any concerns or questions that may arise. By upholding ethical
standards, nurses play a critical role in maintaining the trust and cooperation of
participants, which is essential for the success and ethical conduct of research studies.

Ethical considerations in nursing research roles, including patient privacy and

informed consent.

Ethical considerations are a critical aspect of nursing research roles, ensuring that studies
are conducted with integrity, respect for participants' rights, and a commitment to the well-being
of individuals involved. Nursing research involves various roles, including investigators,
collaborators, data collectors, and participant advocates. Each role comes with specific ethical
responsibilities to ensure the ethical conduct of research. Here are the different ethical
considerations in nursing research roles:

1. Investigator Ethics:
 Research Integrity: Investigators have a responsibility to ensure that research is
conducted with honesty and transparency, avoiding data fabrication or manipulation.
 Conflicts of Interest: Investigators must disclose any potential conflicts of interest that
could affect the objectivity and validity of research outcomes.
  Equitable Access: Researchers should ensure that research opportunities are accessible to
diverse populations and do not discriminate based on factors such as age, gender, or
socioeconomic status.

2. Collaborator Ethics:
 Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaboration requires respectful communication and
mutual understanding among researchers from various disciplines, each bringing unique
expertise to the research.
 Attribution and Credit: Collaborators should receive appropriate credit for their
contributions to the research, reflecting their intellectual and practical input.
 Shared Responsibilities: Collaborators must share the ethical responsibilities of the study,
ensuring that ethical guidelines are followed collectively.

3. Data Collector Ethics:

 Informed Consent: Data collectors, often nurses, are responsible for obtaining informed
consent from participants, explaining the study's purpose, procedures, potential risks, and
benefits.
 Confidentiality: Data collectors must ensure participants' privacy and confidentiality by
de-identifying data, storing it securely, and preventing unauthorized access.
 Non-Coercion: Data collectors must ensure that participants are not coerced or unduly
influenced to participate in the research and that participation is voluntary.

4. Participant Advocate Ethics:

 Informed Decision-Making: Participant advocates, often nurses, must prioritize
participants' autonomy by providing clear and understandable information about the
research and its implications.
 Participant Well-Being: Advocates should monitor participants' physical and emotional
well-being throughout the research, addressing any adverse effects promptly.
 Protection from Harm: Advocates have an ethical duty to prevent harm to participants
and to intervene if participants experience any negative consequences as a result of their
involvement in the research.

5. Vulnerable Populations:
 Children, Elderly, and Mentally Impaired: Special considerations are needed when
involving vulnerable populations, ensuring their understanding, assent (if applicable), and
protection.
 Prisoner and Institutionalized Individuals: Ethical considerations include obtaining
voluntary participation and ensuring that research benefits outweigh any potential harm.

6. Data Management and Reporting:

 Data Integrity: Researchers must accurately collect, record, and report data without
altering or omitting information to fit desired outcomes.
 Publication Ethics: Researchers should follow guidelines for proper citation, plagiarism
avoidance, and transparent reporting of results.
7. Research Review and Oversight:
 Institutional Review Board (IRB): Ethical approval from IRBs ensures that research
meets ethical standards and protects participants' rights before initiating the study.
 Ethical Review: Researchers should conduct ethical reviews throughout the research
process to assess any unforeseen ethical dilemmas and take corrective actions if
necessary.

In summary, ethical considerations in nursing research roles encompass a wide range of

responsibilities, from obtaining informed consent and protecting participant privacy to
maintaining research integrity and respecting interdisciplinary collaborations. Upholding these
ethical principles ensures that nursing research contributes positively to healthcare knowledge
while prioritizing the rights and well-being of all individuals involved.

Lesson 2: Evolution of Nursing Research: Historical Perspective

Trace the historical development of nursing research from its early stages to present-day.

The historical development of nursing research has undergone significant transformation,

evolving from informal observations to systematic and evidence-based inquiries. This journey
reflects the growing recognition of nurses' crucial role in advancing healthcare knowledge and
improving patient outcomes. Here's a brief overview of the historical development of nursing
research:
Early Stages: Observations and Documentations (19th Century). Florence Nightingale:
Often regarded as the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale emphasized the
importance of data collection and observation in healthcare. Her work during the Crimean War
demonstrated the value of systematic record-keeping and analysis of patient outcomes.

Emergence of Nursing Education (Late 19th to Early 20th Century). Isabel Hampton
Robb: Robb played a significant role in establishing nursing education standards. She advocated
for nursing as a scientific discipline and emphasized the importance of research to improve
patient care.
Mid-20th Century: Formalization of Nursing Research (1950s-1960s): This period saw
the emergence of nursing research journals and organizations, providing platforms for sharing
research findings and fostering collaboration among nurse researchers.

Hildegard Peplau: A pioneer in psychiatric nursing, Peplau emphasized the importance of

theory development and research in nursing practice.

1960s-1970s: Shift towards Evidence-Based Practice. Virginia Henderson: Known for

her definition of nursing, Henderson's work influenced the move towards evidence-based
practice, emphasizing the need for research to guide nursing interventions.

Early Evidence-Based Practice: Nurses began incorporating research findings into their
clinical practice, bridging the gap between research and patient care.
 1980s-1990s: Advancement of Research Methods and Education. Increased Research
Focus: Nursing research gained momentum with the development of research methodologies
specific to nursing, including qualitative approaches.

Growing Academic Emphasis: Nursing education started to emphasize research skills,

leading to increased numbers of nurse researchers and doctoral programs.

Late 20th to Early 21st Century: Technological Advancements and Global Impact
Technological Integration: The advent of technology facilitated data collection, analysis, and
communication, accelerating the pace of nursing research.

Global Collaboration: Nursing research became more global, with cross-cultural studies
and international collaborations contributing to a broader understanding of healthcare challenges.

Present-Day: Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Complex Research

Interdisciplinary Research: Nursing research increasingly involves collaboration with other
healthcare disciplines, contributing to holistic patient care and multidisciplinary solutions.

Complex Research Topics: Nursing research now addresses complex issues such as
healthcare disparities, chronic disease management, patient safety, and the impact of nursing
interventions on patient outcomes.

The historical development of nursing research reflects an evolution from anecdotal

observations to rigorous scientific inquiries that guide evidence-based nursing practice. Today,
nursing research continues to evolve, embracing new technologies, diverse research
methodologies, and interdisciplinary collaborations to address the dynamic challenges of modern
healthcare.

Exploration of landmark studies and contributions that shaped the field of nursing
research.

The field of nursing research has been shaped by landmark studies and significant
contributions that have advanced nursing knowledge, informed practice, and transformed patient
care. These studies have paved the way for evidence-based nursing and have highlighted the vital
role of nurses in improving healthcare outcomes. Here are some exploration and discussions of
landmark studies and contributions that have shaped the field of nursing research:

1. The Hawthorne Studies (1924-1932): Conducted by Elton Mayo and his colleagues, the
Hawthorne Studies were a series of experiments aimed at investigating the relationship
between working conditions and productivity. While not exclusively a nursing study,
these studies highlighted the importance of human factors, communication, and social
influences in the workplace. This paved the way for understanding the significance of the
nurse-patient relationship and the impact of interpersonal interactions on patient
outcomes.
2. The Clinical Research of Virginia Henderson (20th Century): Virginia Henderson's
contributions to nursing research emphasized the development of nursing theories and
 evidence-based practice. Her work on defining the role of nursing and focusing on
patients' basic needs laid the foundation for patient-centered care and guided nursing
interventions. Henderson's research underscored the significance of a holistic approach to
patient care and the importance of research-driven nursing practice.
3. The Patient Classification System by Faye Abdellah (1960s): Faye Abdellah's research
focused on improving patient care through systematic data collection and classification.
Her Patient Classification System categorized patients based on their needs, enabling
nurses to allocate appropriate care resources. This marked the beginning of evidence-
based nursing interventions and resource allocation, highlighting the practical application
of research findings in nursing practice.
4. The Practice-Based Evidence in Nursing (P-BEIN) Project (1990s): Led by Marlene
Kramer, the P-BEIN project aimed to bridge the gap between research and practice by
collecting data on clinical decision-making. This study highlighted the importance of
nurses' clinical expertise and judgment, complementing evidence-based practices with
practical knowledge gained through experience. The project underscored the need to
integrate research evidence with the art of nursing practice.
5. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) Reports (2000s): The IOM released a series of reports
addressing the need to improve the quality and safety of healthcare. The "To Err Is
Human" report highlighted the importance of patient safety and error prevention,
sparking a movement towards evidence-based approaches to reduce medical errors and
improve patient outcomes. These reports emphasized the critical role of nursing in patient
safety and quality improvement initiatives.
6. The Magnet Recognition Program (1980s-Present): While not a single study, the Magnet
Recognition Program highlights the significance of nursing research in promoting
excellence in patient care. Developed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center
(ANCC), the program recognizes healthcare organizations that prioritize nursing
research, evidence-based practice, and nurse-led initiatives to improve patient outcomes.
7. The Role of Nurses in Pandemics (COVID-19 Pandemic): The ongoing COVID-19
pandemic has underscored the critical role of nurses in research and healthcare. Nurses
worldwide have been actively involved in conducting studies related to patient care,
vaccine administration, mental health support, and more. The pandemic has demonstrated
the agility and adaptability of nursing research to address emerging healthcare challenges.

Discussion on how nursing research has evolved in response to changes in healthcare

practices and technologies.

Nursing research has evolved in response to dynamic changes in healthcare practices and
rapid advancements in technology. These changes have necessitated shifts in research priorities,
methodologies, and approaches to address emerging healthcare challenges and capitalize on the
potential of new technologies. The evolution of nursing research in response to changes in
healthcare practices and technologies can be explored through the following discussion:

1. Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Integration: Changes in healthcare practices have driven

the integration of evidence-based practice in nursing. As healthcare professionals strive to
provide the best possible care, nursing research has shifted towards generating evidence
that informs clinical decisions and interventions. Nursing research now focuses on
 producing studies that directly impact on patient care and contribute to the development
of clinical guidelines and protocols.

2. Technological Integration: Advancements in healthcare technologies have expanded the

scope of nursing research. The incorporation of electronic health records (EHRs),
telehealth, wearable devices, and data analytics has provided nurses with access to vast
amounts of patient data. Nursing research now involves utilizing these technologies to
gather real-time data, monitor patient outcomes, and inform evidence-based
interventions. Researchers leverage technology to streamline data collection, improve
accuracy, and enhance research efficiency.

3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Changes in healthcare practices have prompted increased

interdisciplinary collaboration. Nurses now collaborate with professionals from various
healthcare disciplines, contributing their expertise to research teams addressing complex
healthcare challenges. Nursing research has evolved to embrace multidisciplinary
perspectives, integrating insights from medicine, psychology, social work, and other
fields to develop comprehensive solutions.

4. Focus on Prevention and Health Promotion: Healthcare practices have shifted towards
prevention and health promotion, influencing nursing research priorities. Researchers
now explore preventive interventions, health education strategies, and community-based
initiatives to address population health needs. Nursing research has evolved to support
disease prevention, early detection, and interventions that empower individuals to
maintain optimal health.

5. Patient-Centered Care and Cultural Competence: The emphasis on patient-centered care

and cultural competence has reshaped nursing research. Research now examines patient
preferences, cultural influences, and individualized care plans. Nursing research has
evolved to provide insights into tailoring interventions that respect patients' values,
preferences, and cultural backgrounds, resulting in more effective and meaningful
healthcare experiences.

6. Implementation Science: The integration of research findings into practice has gained
prominence through implementation of science. Nursing research now focuses not only
on generating evidence but also on identifying effective strategies to translate that
evidence into routine clinical care. Researchers explore barriers and facilitators to
evidence implementation, leading to more successful adoption of evidence-based
practices.

7. Global Health and Health Disparities: Changes in healthcare practices have drawn
attention to global health disparities. Nursing research has expanded its focus to address
healthcare inequities, social determinants of health, and access to care. Researchers
explore strategies to reduce disparities and improve health outcomes for underserved
populations, contributing to global health initiatives.

Assignment:
 Discuss the reason why do would like to pursue your research title you proposed.

References:

Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2017). Nursing research: Generating and assessing evidence for
nursing practice. Wolters Kluwer.

LoBiondo-Wood, G., & Haber, J. (2017). Nursing research: Methods and critical appraisal for
evidence-based practice. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Grove, S. K., Burns, N., & Gray, J. (2018). The practice of nursing research: Appraisal,
synthesis, and generation of evidence. Elsevier Health Sciences.