Introduction to

Nursing Research
KIRTI BHARADWAJ
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR-STATISTICIAN

CENTRAL RESEARCH FACILITY

 Agenda
Introduction to Nursing Research
A. Introduction & Need for Nursing Research
• Definition of research
• Definition of nursing research
• Need and significance in modern nursing
B. Areas of Research in Nursing
C. Terms Related to Research
D. Activity/Discussion
 Introduction & Need for Nursing Research
• The word research is composed of two words ‘Re’ and
‘Search’. Re means once again, a new, a fresh. Search means
to look for something or examine closely, to look for
information.
• Therefore research means close and careful examination of
facts and their relationships to discover new knowledge.
• A systemic and scientific process to answer to questions
about facts and relationship between facts.
• It is an activity involved in seeking answer to unanswered
question.
• Nursing research is a vital component of the healthcare
system.
• It allows nurses to investigate practices that can improve
patient care.
• Understanding the significance of nursing research is
essential for future healthcare providers.
Research is a systematic and methodical investigation
into a specific topic, field, or question designed to
discover new knowledge, validate existing theories,
or find solutions to specific problems. It involves careful
investigation using structured methods and established
scientific principles to explore questions, gather
evidence, and draw meaningful conclusions. It seeks
to discover new facts, establish or develop principles, or
validate
Systematic Inquiry existing knowledge
Research involves a structured through
and organized approach various
to investigating a question
methodologies.
or problem.

Seeking New Knowledge It aims to discover, interpret, and expand our understanding of the world around
us.
 Definition of Research
• Research is a systematic investigation conducted to establish facts and
gather new knowledge.
• It involves careful planning, execution, and analysis to answer specific
questions.
• This process is crucial in many fields, including nursing, to ensure
evidence-based practices.

Definition of Nursing Research

• Nursing research refers to systematic inquiry that generates new
knowledge to improve nursing practices and enhance patient care
outcomes.
• It focuses on understanding patient behaviors, health conditions, and
nursing interventions.
• This type of research is essential for bridging gaps in nursing knowledge.
• Research is fundamental to modern nursing practices as it leads to
improved patient outcomes.
• It helps in the development of best practices and protocols.
• Furthermore, it bridges the gap between theory and practice, making
nursing more effective.
Importance of Research

1. Research answers critical questions that

inform decision-making across various fields,
including science, economics, and social
studies.

2. It provides the foundation for informed

policies and practices, ensuring that actions
taken are based on solid evidence.

3. Engaging in research fosters a culture of

inquiry and critical thinking, which is essential
for academic growth and professional
development.
Key Characteristics of Researc
1 Empirical Evidence 2 Objectivity
Research relies on Researchers strive for
observable data and facts impartiality and avoid
to support its conclusions. bias in their
investigations.

3 Systematic Process 4 Critical Thinking

Research follows a It encourages analytical
structured and replicable thought, questioning
process, ensuring assumptions, and
consistency and evaluating evidence.
reliability.
Purposes of Research
Expand Knowledge Solve Problems
Research aims to push the It can help find solutions to
boundaries of human real-world issues and
understanding and explore improve the quality of life.
new frontiers.

Improve Practices Promote Innovation

Research informs better It fuels creativity and drives
decision-making, policy advancements in
development, and practice technology, medicine, and
in various fields. other areas.
Improve Patient Outcomes
1. Research identifies effective interventions that
enhance patient health.

2. It provides evidence to support clinical decisions.

3. Research-based protocols lead to safer healthcare

practices.

Develop Best Practices

1. Research informs the development of evidence-
based nursing protocols.
2. It helps standardize care across different
healthcare settings.
3. Research encourages continuous improvement
and innovation in nursing.
Bridge the Theory-Practice Gap
1. Research translates theoretical
knowledge into real-world nursing
practices.
2. It promotes the application of
scientific principles in patient care.
3. Evidence-based findings help to
align nursing theory with clinical
realities.
Role of Nurses in Research
Nurses play a crucial role in both conducting and utilizing research
to improve patient care. Their insights and experiences on the front
lines help shape research questions and guide investigations.
Additionally, nurses advocate for the implementation of evidence-
based findings in clinical settings.
Areas of Research in Nursing
Nursing research spans various fields, addressing
multiple aspects of healthcare. Each area offers
unique insights and challenges that contribute to the
overall improvement of nursing practices.
Understanding these areas is essential for a
comprehensive view of nursing research.

Clinical Nursing
1. Research focuses on direct patient care
practices.
2. Key areas include pain management and
wound care.
3. Enhancements in clinical outcomes are a
primary goal.
Community Health
1. Research addresses public health concerns and
community needs.
2. It promotes health education and preventive
measures.
3. Community-based interventions are guided by
research findings.
Education and Curriculum
1. Research plays a role in improving nursing
education.
2. Curriculum development is informed by best
practices.
3. Innovative teaching strategies are explored
through research.
Nursing Administration and Leadership
1. Research contributes to effective management
practices.
2. Leadership strategies are shaped by evidence
and data.
3. Nurses in administrative roles utilize research for
decision-making.
Mental Health Nursing
1. Research enhances practices in mental health
care.
2. It addresses the stigma associated with mental
illnesses.
3. Evidence-based interventions improve patient
support.
 Terms Related to Research
Variables (Independent, Dependent)
Variables are crucial components of research that help establish relationships
between different factors. Independent variables are those manipulated by
the researcher, while dependent variables are the outcomes measured.
Understanding these terms is fundamental to analyzing research studies.

Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a testable statement that predicts the relationship between
two or more variables. It guides the research process by providing a clear
focus for investigation. A well-formed hypothesis is essential for effective
research design.
Population and Sample
In research, the population refers to the entire group of individuals that the
researcher is interested in studying. The sample is a smaller group
selected from the population to participate in the research. Understanding
the difference between these terms is essential for research validity.

Data Collection Methods

Data collection methods are techniques used to gather information for
research purposes. Common methods include surveys, interviews,
observations, and experiments. The choice of method depends on the
research question and design.
Reliability & Validity
Reliability refers to the consistency of a research study's results
over time, while validity assesses whether the research truly
measures what it claims to measure. Both concepts are critical for
establishing the credibility of research findings. Understanding
these principles helps in evaluating the quality of research.
Activity/Discussion
Think about a clinical problem you faced
during your clinical experience. How could
research help in solving this issue? Share
your thoughts and insights with the class to
foster discussion about the role of research
in nursing.