Access, Utilization, and Implementation of Research Among Rehabilitation Nurses: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed to understand rehabilitation nurses’ perceptions of research information, related barriers, and avenues for future research, specifically in those caring for individuals with burn injury, spinal cord injury, or traumatic brain injury.DesignQualitative semistructured interviews were conducted.MethodsEighteen interviews were conducted. A thematic network approach identified codes and developed basic, organizing, and global themes.ResultsResearchers identified factors that facilitated research uptake, determined organizational structures that support research culture, and described nurse engagement with literature.ConclusionsAlthough participants desired to engage with the research literature, they identified barriers including time constraints, heavy workloads, and lack of access. To facilitate research uptake, research must be easily accessible, be easily digestible, and include clinical practice recommendations. Research must expand its scope to address issues relevant to the rehabilitation population.Clinical RelevanceOur findings may be used to drive improvements in research competence, facilitate knowledge translation, and support evidence-based practice among rehabilitation nurses.